There’s no doubt about it: blackheads can be a pain to deal with. These dark little spots seem to pop up on your nose, cheeks and foreheads – and sometimes, even your back!
Known as open comedones, blackheads are the result of clogged hair follicles filled with accumulated sebum, bacteria and skin cells. When the mixture in the pores are exposed to the air, they oxidise and the surface turns black. Unlike pimples, blackheads are noninflammatory and do not contain pus.
But why do they appear on specific parts of the face? And what makes certain areas of your body more prone to blackheads? Let’s take a look below.
Blackheads on the face
Ever wondered why you keep seeing those pesky blackheads on your nose? That’s because the T-zone, which is made up of your forehead and nose, tends to produce more oil than the rest of your face. These areas have more oil glands than the rest of the face.
Blackheads are also more likely to form on your cheek because it can gather a lot of debris and dirt, especially if you’re constantly touching your face out of habit. If you have oily skin, you may also be more prone to clogged pores and blackheads due to excess oil on the surface of your face.
Blackheads on the body
When it comes to your back, blackheads can spring up for a number of reasons. For instance, clogged pores on the back can become irritated by the clothes you wear. Sweat and heat, combined with pressure and friction on the skin, can allow bacteria, dead skin cells and excess oil to work their way in and clog your pores. This can happen especially if your clothes are too tight and you start to perspire.
If you’ve just ended a workout, walking around with sweaty skin can also make your back more prone to blackheads – so, it’s best to avoid skipping the showers! Alternatively, you can also use facial and body wipes. It goes without saying that your activewear should also be washed thoroughly.
At times, hair products that are not fully rinsed off can also clog the pores on your back. Whether you’re washing or conditioning your hair in the showers, ensure that they are rinsed away so they won’t linger on your back and cause blackheads.
Keep your skin clear and clarified
Fight the blackheads on your face and body with exfoliating cleansers that clear sebum and debris from deep inside the pores. Certain face products can also be used for the body – be sure to check the label first! Ingredients like Salicylic Acid (a powerful BHA) help to unclog any excess oil and impurities, decongesting your pores for smoother skin.
Follow it up with a moisturiser to balance the skin’s barrier and keep dryness at bay. In fact, dry skin can increase the build-up of dead skin cells. Choose a lightweight, oil-free and non-comedogenic formula that won’t clog your pores while providing your skin the hydration it needs.
Include our Adonis Oxy Clear Essence Set in your skincare routine to fight pesky blackheads and regulate sebum production! Exclusively curated for the humid climate in Singapore, it works effectively to control oily skin and clear the pores of hardened sebum oils.
Enjoy a FREE Auras Facial (worth $180) when you purchase the set at only $78 (price before GST)! This facial package includes our signature deep cleansing step to remove dead skin and sebum, and nourish your skin for a glowing complexion. Plus, redeem 3 complimentary blackhead mask sachets to combat your comedone problems! You can also get a professional extraction done with our blackhead removal treatment – get in touch at Adonis to learn more!