Stripping for your nose?
A number of different websites state that blackheads (also known as open comedones) are clogged pores or hair follicles that collect sebum (the natural oil that the glands on our face make), dirt, skin cells and bacteria.
However, blackheads are under your skin and need to be extracted.
Then, how do they get clogged if they are under the skin??!
According to medical news today, here are some fast facts about blackheads:
Fast facts about blackheads
Blackheads are made of oxidized melanin and not trapped dirt.
Squeezing or scrubbing at blackheads can make them worse.
To reduce blackheads, avoid oil-based skin care products, humid environments, tight clothes, and skin products that contain alcohol.
They tend to appear when hormones lead to the increased production of sebum, an oily substance, by the glands under the skin.
According to Papri Sarkar, a dermatologist in Massachusetts, “[Blackheads] are more likely to form on the nose because the nose has lots and lots of oil glands than the rest of the body.”
They keep coming back because your nose — with all of its oil glands — will continue to excrete oil.
What can help?
Cleansing: Special scrubs for gently exfoliating the face can help. (No hard scrubbing) It helps increase cell turnover and get rid of the blackheads. Make sure not to dry out your skin too much as your glands will just secrete more oil. Try our mint scrub »
Skin Acid: Dr. Sarkar recommended using a topical acid, like our 15% or 10% mandelic acid. It helps to slowly peel away dead skin cells. Mandelic acid’s antibacterial properties are extremely helpful in treating acne. It also helps to regulate sebum (oil) production and in turn decrease the occurrence of breakouts. Our 15% serum is amazing!
Eating habits: Several studies suggest that following a healthy diet can help. The number one food or supplement is Omega 3. According to Skinography, the website of one of the most respected Holistic Facialists and Educators in New Zealand, it can regulate hormones such as testosterone that trigger the overproduction of sebum (oil). Secondly, its essential fatty acid EPA is converted in the body to powerful anti-inflammatory and antibacterial substances, soothing the inflammatory response. Foods that contain Omega 3 are flax seed, walnuts, chia seeds and seafood. Add some walnuts or flax to your morning cereal.