The Truth About Blackheads and Your Skin
BLACKHEADS
One of the most common skin issues that I see when clients come for service, is that they have a fair amount of Blackheads.
In truth, most of my clients are unaware of the severity of the blackheads and the condition of their skin. Oftentimes clients tell me how healthy their skin is - that is until the end of the session when I show them the many blackheads I removed.
I’ve discovered that most people don't really know what a blackhead is, what causes them to appear on the skin or the proper way to prevent them from forming.
WHAT ARE BLACKHEADS? Blackheads are small bumps that appear over your skin, which are caused by clogged hair follicles. They tend to appear on your face, but can be found on your body, including the neck, chest, back, arms, legs and buttocks. In healthy skin, sebaceous glands, in each hair follicle, act like a wick. The “wick” takes the oils from the sebaceous glands to the skin’s surface, making the skin soft and hydrated. PREVENTION: WHAT CAUSES BLACKHEADS Blackheads occur when hair follicles become clogged. The primary cause for blackhead formation is improperly cleansing the skin (i.e. wrong products for your skin type or skin condition). Another contributor to this skin nuisance is the lack of exfoliation to rid the skin of dirt, debris and dead skin cells. Finally, poor hygiene is sure to cause this skin condition. To prevent the formation of blackheads, you should wash your hair, change your pillowcases, sheets and hair bonnets frequently. You should also try to use noncomedogenic make up, cleansers, lotions, moisturizers & sunscreens. Avoid exfoliating product that are too abrasive and hash so that is does not irritate the skin while removing dead skin cells from your face to help reduce blackheads. MY APPROACH - HEALTHY SKIN Educating my clients on a good home skincare regimen is my top priority. The average person will probably get a professional treatment at least once a month; therefore, they will need to be consistent with their at home care. Cleansing the skin twice daily with the right products is key! Professional treatments bi-monthly or once a month will keep your skin in optimal condition.