White Blackheads Definition, Reason, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention
Understanding
White blackheads occur due to blockage of skin pores by excess oil, piles of dead skin cells, and bacteria trapped in the skin pores. Unlike blackheads or blackheads, whiteheads or whiteheads remain closed in the skin layer so they are not exposed to the outside air.
Blackheads are basically small spots or bumps that are very small in size and resemble pimples that arise due to excess oil production and clog pores. Overall, there are several types of comedones – including whiteheads and blackheads.
It’s similar to blackheads in general – hormonal changes, teenage age, family history, and stress are all factors that increase a person’s risk of developing whiteheads. By avoiding these risk factors, the formation of whiteheads can be avoided.
Symptoms
White comedones are characterized by the presence of white or skin-colored spots which generally stand out when touched. Most of the time, blackheads are deep in the skin and you’ll find them when you press a pore in your skin.
Like other types of blackheads, whiteheads generally don’t cause pain or discomfort.
Reason
The initial formation of whiteheads is caused by excess oil production in the skin. Normally, excess oil will be removed through the pores. But because of the accumulation of dead skin cells, excess oil remains in the pores, accumulates, and eventually clogs the pores.
If this oil pile is located inside and is not exposed to free air, the color remains white or skin color. This is what is called a whitehead or also known as a whitehead.
Excess oil that accumulates and eventually clogs pores can be caused by many things. Starting from the consumption of drugs such as steroids, the use of certain chemical products such as cosmetics, to the consumption of certain foods such as foods with high-fat content.
In addition, the presence of whiteheads can also be triggered due to hormonal changes. These changes are generally influenced by the development of a person’s age and life cycle – from menstruation, and pregnancy, to menopause.
Diagnosis
Determination of the diagnosis of whiteheads can be done based on a physical examination. White blackheads are clearly visible in the form of very small spots or bumps that are located right in the pores. These spots are the same color as the skin.
Blackheads that are infected with bacteria can develop into pimples. If not treated, acne can expand or grow to a large enough size, which is called a node.
Treatment
Treatment of whiteheads can be done by improving skin hygiene. Clean and wash your face at least twice a day. Use soap that suits your skin type – whether it’s oily skin, dry skin, or normal skin.
You can also consult and ask for help from a skin specialist. The doctor will help you by providing the appropriate therapy and type of drug. The drugs given can be in the form of topical drugs, corticosteroids, or antibiotics.
Meanwhile, several types of therapy that can help keep the skin clean and free of blackheads include microdermabrasion, chemical peels, or treatments using manual methods that can be done by a doctor.
Microdermabrasion aims to clear blockages in the pores that cause blackheads to appear. Meanwhile, chemical peels aim to remove dead skin cells that can clog pores and trigger blackheads.
Prevention
To prevent the emergence of whiteheads, keeping the skin clean is an absolute requirement that must be considered. Clean the skin and objects that stick to the skin a lot. For example cell phones, helmets or cosmetic equipment on a regular basis.