Before we dive in, let me just say you are a total queen. Your hair is stunning and your skin? Flawless, like you just stepped off a magazine cover. However, the next time you find yourself peering into a magnifying mirror to scrutinize every pore, remember two important things. First, no one you truly value in your life—aside from a toddler with zero sense of personal space—is going to get that close to your face. So, let go of that obsession with your skin at 10x magnification; no one will notice the tiny flaws you’re fretting over.
Second, those little spots on your nose that you think are blackheads? Most likely, they aren’t. So stop treating them as if they are. Sure, squeezing them might seem satisfying, but have you noticed how quickly those pores clog back up? That’s because they’re not pimples, so stop treating them like they are. Let’s explore what you really need to know.
If you’re curious about blackheads, their causes, and various acne treatments, be sure to check out our post about subclinical acne, comedonal acne, and more on this topic.
What Exactly Are Blackheads?
You’re not alone in wondering. In fact, blackheads and tips on their removal are searched for over half a million times each month! Blackheads form when a pore gets clogged with excess oil and dead skin cells. If the pore stays open, the skin cells at the surface are exposed to oxygen, which causes them to turn black. Contrary to popular belief, blackheads aren’t caused by dirt, and while popping them might feel gratifying, you’re probably doing more harm than good.
Now, let’s pause for a moment to talk about Dr. Emily Jones, aka Dr. Skin Savior, and why you aren’t her when you’re standing in front of your bathroom mirror. Her popular show tends to glamorize popping blackheads and pimples, often using specialized tools. But we can’t stress this enough: unless you’re a dermatologist, you’re likely causing more damage than good by going on a popping spree on your nose. Even Dr. Jones herself warns against this, especially when it comes to cystic acne.
Thinking back to all those pore strips you used to rip off in your teens, or even just yesterday? Sorry, but those aren’t your friends either. The adhesive on those strips can cling to your pores, leading to spider veins, broken capillaries, and a red, flaky complexion. They can also tear your pores, exacerbating the very issue you’re attempting to fix.
So, What Are Those Dark Spots on My Nose?
Let’s clear up the confusion about those little dots you’ve been eyeing. What you see on your nose are most likely sebaceous filaments. If you squeeze one and a hard, yellowish substance comes out—or perhaps a long string of white gunk? That’s still just sebaceous filaments.
These filaments are essentially pores filled with sebum, which is necessary for keeping your skin moisturized. Now, you might stumble upon the term “comedo” while researching blackheads and sebaceous filaments. A comedo is simply a clogged hair follicle or pore; it can be either open (blackhead) or closed (whitehead). So yes, “comedo” and “blackhead” are often used interchangeably.
The difference between comedones and sebaceous filaments can be confusing since they look similar. However, sebaceous filaments help oil flow to the skin and don’t actually clog pores. When too much sebum combines with dirt and dead skin, that’s when you end up with comedones (blackheads or whiteheads).
What If You Really Do Have Blackheads?
Removing blackheads isn’t overly complicated; it boils down to good facial hygiene. First off, wash your face twice a day. It may sound simple, but consistency is key—even on those late nights when you think, “I’ll just skip it.”
Also, remember that sun exposure can worsen blackheads, which is why sunscreen is essential. You may be wondering why you’d apply an oily lotion on breakout-prone skin, but there are plenty of oil-free options available for all skin types.
To effectively clear or prevent blackheads, incorporate an acid exfoliant into your routine daily, and opt for a physical exfoliant a couple of times a week. This will help to slough off dead skin cells, preventing clogged pores and enhancing your skin’s overall texture.
What Not to Do with Your Blackheads
Your pores naturally produce sebum to keep your skin hydrated. When you extract it or use products high in alcohol, your body thinks it needs to produce even more sebum. So, if you’re oily-skinned, this can exacerbate your issues. Instead, keep your skin properly moisturized to balance oil production.
You might feel the urge to pick at those sebaceous filaments, but don’t! Squeezing or using tools can stretch your pores, leading to long-term consequences. A stretched pore doesn’t go back to normal and can become a permanent issue, often leading to more clogged pores and skin problems.
And those peel-off masks that are all the rage on social media? Dermatologists agree they’re too harsh for your delicate facial skin. Don’t fall for the hype.
In light of the popularity of Dr. Skin Savior, remember that not everyone with an extractor is a skincare expert. Stop the squeezing, toss the tools, and invest in a good skincare routine. If you notice anything unusual, consult a skincare professional and remember to nurture your skin. After all, it’s the only one you’ve got—unless your name is Arya Stark.
For additional guidance on this topic, check out our blog post for more insights.
Summary
In summary, stop obsessing over your skin with a magnifying mirror. The spots you see on your nose are likely sebaceous filaments, not blackheads, and treating them like blackheads can lead to more issues. Maintain a good skincare routine and avoid harsh treatments to keep your skin healthy.