BLACKHEADS ON THE NOSE
Where do blackheads on the nose come from?
Blackheads are a form of acne called comedonal acne. It is acne without inflammation. They appear on the nose as small black or brown pimples. People with oily skin are more likely to experience blackheads.
The most visible area is when they appear on the nose but they can also appear on the forehead and chin . This is called the T-zone of the face.
The skin is equipped with pores that allow exchanges with the outside world (to emit sebum, which serves to lubricate and protect the skin, for example). When these pores become clogged with dead cells, dust, or excess sebum, they cause inflammation at the pore level. A tiny pimple called a comedo will form.
Blackheads should not be confused with enlarged pores. Enlarged pores are simply pores that are particularly large and visible to the naked eye. They should not be a cause for concern or concealed with suitable makeup.
Closed comedones
The pore is completely closed. Closed comedones will create white acne pimples measuring 1 to 3 mm. The white liquid is actually sebum.
Open comedones
Open comedones will create black spots measuring 1 to 3 mm in size. The liquid present is also sebum, but as it is exposed to air, it oxidizes and turns brown, then black.
Prevalence in the population
10 to 20% of the population is affected by blackheads. These microcysts are particularly prevalent among adolescents because their skin produces a large amount of sebum due to hormonal fluctuations. However, blackheads can occur at any age.
Blackheads are particularly common on the nose and face because this is where the body produces the most sebum. However, blackheads or whiteheads can also appear on the neck, back, and stomach.
Blackheads are not dangerous and should not be painful.
Recurring ideas about blackheads
Blackheads should be purged by crushing them with your fingernails.
This is false! By doing this, you risk creating a lesion in the skin and creating an open door for bacteria (staphylococci, etc.). You also risk pushing the blackhead deeper into the skin and worsening the problem. Finally, this practice damages the skin cells and blood vessels, which will age faster.
Poor diet
There has been extensive research on the link between diet and blackheads, but none has proven the involvement of any particular food. Suspected foods include fatty foods, alcohol, and fast-acting sugars. Smoking is also suspected of causing blackheads.
Lack of hygiene
Blackheads are not due to poor hygiene. Many people think this because blackheads look unsightly, but this appearance is simply due to the oxidation of the melanin contained in the sebum produced by the body.
Makeup protects against blackheads
False! Makeup can exacerbate blackheads by clogging pores. It’s important to use creams and makeup that are compatible with acne-prone skin.
How to remove blackheads on the nose?
Use a comedone extractor
This small instrument will help extract the blackhead. It is important to thoroughly disinfect the skin before and after use, as well as the utensil.
Gentle cleansers for acne-prone skin
These cleansers help remove excess sebum. They should be applied after sweating or once or twice a day.
Use a non-comedogenic moisturizer
This type of moisturizer does not clog skin pores.
Don’t keep your makeup on at night
Even if you have suitable makeup, it is recommended to remove it in the evening before going to sleep. It is also recommended to remove your makeup before exercising or doing physical activity.
Do not touch, rub or scratch your face
In fact, by doing this, you bring back all the bad bacteria that could be on your hands and under your nails. Wash your hands before touching your face.
Other skin problems
Blackheads should not be confused with other skin problems that can appear on the nose:
Papules
These are large red bumps caused by inflammation on the surface of the skin.
Pustules
These are large yellow bumps that indicate an ongoing infection. White blood cells create pus, which destroys invading bacteria and viruses.
The nodules
These are painful subcutaneous pimples. They create inflammation and a lump under the skin. If they are pierced, they create an abscess.
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