Blackheads Manchester | HydraFacial Cheshire

What are Blackheads?

Blackheads, known medically as open comedones, are a type of acne that form when hair follicles become clogged with dead skin cells, sebum (an oily substance produced by sebaceous glands), and other debris. Unlike whiteheads, which are closed comedones, blackheads have an open surface. The open pore allows oxidation, which turns the material inside black or dark. This colour is not due to dirt but rather the reaction of the clogged material with oxygen in the air.

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What CausesBlackheads?

With blackheads Manchester & Cheshire patients will find there several factors that can contribute to their formation:

Excess Sebum Production: Overproduction of sebum can clog pores.
Hormonal Changes: Hormones, particularly androgens, can increase sebum production. This is common during puberty, menstruation, and pregnancy.
Bacteria: The presence of bacteria on the skin, particularly Propionibacterium acnes, can exacerbate acne, including blackheads.
Dead Skin Cells: Inefficient shedding of dead skin cells can cause blockages in hair follicles.
Cosmetics and Skin Care Products: Using oil-based cosmetics or skin care products can contribute to clogged pores.
Diet: Some studies suggest that certain dietary factors, like high glycaemic index foods, might influence acne severity, though this is still debated.
Medications: Some drugs, such as corticosteroids and androgens, can worsen acne.

How Can I PreventBlackheads?

Preventing blackheads involves maintaining a proper skincare routine and lifestyle adjustments:

Cleanse Regularly: Use a gentle cleanser to remove excess oil and dirt from your face twice daily.
Exfoliate: Regular exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells that can clog pores. Use products containing salicylic acid or glycolic acid.
Use Non-Comedogenic Products: Choose skin care and makeup products labeled "non-comedogenic," which means they are less likely to clog pores.
Moisturize: Even if you have oily skin, it's important to keep your skin hydrated with an oil-free moisturizer.
Avoid Touching Your Face: Touching your face can transfer oils and dirt, leading to clogged pores.
Diet and Hydration: Maintain a balanced diet and stay hydrated. Avoid high sugar and high dairy products if they seem to trigger your acne.
Manage Stress: Stress can increase oil production and exacerbate acne.

What is theTreatment for Blackheads?

At CLNQ in Cheshire & Manchester blackheads can be managed and reduced using several types of treatments:

Topical Treatments: Over-the-counter treatments containing salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or retinoids can be effective.
- Salicylic Acid: Helps exfoliate the skin and clear clogged pores.
- Benzoyl Peroxide: Kills bacteria and helps reduce oil production.
- Retinoids: Promote cell turnover and prevent clogged pores.
Prescription Medications: In severe cases, our skin doctor at CLNQ may prescribe stronger topical treatments or oral medications like antibiotics or hormonal therapy.
Professional Treatments: We can perform procedures like chemical peels, microdermabrasion, or laser therapy.
- Chemical Peels: Use acids to remove the top layer of skin, promoting new skin growth.
- Microdermabrasion: Uses fine crystals to exfoliate the skin and remove the top layer.
- Laser and Light Therapy: Reduce oil production and kill bacteria.
Extraction: Manual removal of blackheads by a professional using a specialized tool.

Does A HydraFacial Help With Blackheads?

HydraFacial is a popular, non-invasive skin treatment that can effectively address blackheads. It combines cleansing, exfoliation, extraction, hydration, and antioxidant protection simultaneously. Here's how it helps with blackheads:

Cleansing and Exfoliation: The HydraFacial device uses a vortex-like action to cleanse and exfoliate the skin, removing dead skin cells and excess oil that can lead to blackheads.
Acid Peel: A mild chemical peel loosens dirt and debris from pores without causing post-treatment scaling.
Extraction: The device's suction technology effectively extracts blackheads and other impurities from clogged pores.
Hydration: The treatment infuses the skin with hydrating serums that contain antioxidants, peptides, and hyaluronic acid, which help keep the skin balanced and healthy.

The HydraFacial can be a beneficial treatment for those struggling with blackheads, providing immediate and noticeable results with minimal discomfort and downtime. Our team of therapists offer Hydrafacial at our clinic in central Manchester.

What is the Extraction of Blackheads?

At our offices in Manchester & Cheshire blackhead extraction is a process where a professional manually removes blackheads from the skin using specific tools. Here’s how it’s typically done:

1. Preparation

The skin is cleansed and sometimes steamed to soften the blackheads and open up the pores.

2. Sterilization

All tools used are sterilized to prevent infection.

3. Extraction Tool

A comedone extractor, a small metal tool with a loop on the end, is commonly used. The loop is placed around the blackhead, and gentle pressure is applied to extract the clogged material.

4. Post-Extraction Care

After extraction, the skin is usually treated with an antiseptic to prevent infection. A soothing mask or treatment might be applied to calm the skin.

Conclusion

Blackheads result from clogged hair follicles filled with dead skin cells and sebum. While several factors contribute to their formation, including excess oil production and hormonal changes, a consistent skincare routine can help prevent them. Treatments range from over-the-counter topical solutions to professional procedures like HydraFacial and extractions. Book your consultation with our team to review your skin and find bespoke solutions to address your concerns.

Blackheads in Manchester and Cheshire