Whiteheads VS Blackheads: What's The Difference And How To Treat Them

We all get our share of whiteheads and blackheads every now and then. They pop out of nowhere and refuse to leave as quickly as they arrive. Treating them early often becomes difficult until you know what causes whiteheads and blackheads.

What makes blackheads different from whiteheads and any other type of acne? Most importantly, how do you get rid of these pesky pimples and get the clear skin you’ve been wishing for? All of your questions can be answered if you know what you are dealing with in the first place. Here’s a complete guide to know what is the basic difference between white and blackheads, what causes them and the treatment options available.

Whiteheads VS Blackheads: Understanding The Difference

Credits: Health

As the name suggests, blackheads are black dots whereas whiteheads are white dots on your skin. Both are classified as a type of acne called comedonal acne. When the mixture of sebum, the oily material that protects our skin, and the dead skin cells become trapped under the surface, it gives rise to comedone acne, which comes in the form of either whitehead or blackhead.

A whitehead is known as a closed comedone white blackhead is called the open comedone. The blackhead is stretched open, exposing the trapped oil and dead skin cells to air, which then oxidises it and turns the contents black, on the other hand, with whiteheads, the pores have so much space, that the body continues to produce oil and dead skin cells, so that the pore opens and appear whitish in colour.

Credits: Ozmedica

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Whiteheads VS Blackheads: Causes

Now that we know that both whiteheads and blackheads contain the same substance (it’s just a different colour because of the air) then what causes both types of acne? Well, they are also caused by the same conditions. Blackheads and whiteheads appear when hormones produce more oil and dead skin than the pores can handle. Increased hormone production happens the most in teenagers and young adult years. As the hormone is regular, the oil production is regulated too and pores stay clear.

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Treatment For Whiteheads And Blackheads

Credits: Everyday Health

Both whiteheads and blackheads can be treated with Over-the-counter (OTC) products and products that contain benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. Both help to remove oil and dead skin cells that clog your pores. You can find these ingredients in creams and face wash at your nearby drugstore.

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