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What causes blackheads?
Most of the time blackheads, also called comedones, are seen in people with acne . In this condition, overproduction of oil blocks the sebaceous ducts.
Another common cause of blackheads is ultraviolet damage from the sun or tanning beds. Injury of the sebaceous ducts traps oil which normally exits onto the skin. This also explains the dryness seen in ultraviolet damaged skin.
Contact with certain chemicals including isopropyl myristate, propylene glycol and some dyes (which may be found in cosmetics) are known promoters of blackhead formation.
Androgenic steroids like testosterone can lead to blackheads and acne.
Smokers may develop numerous blackheads. This is just one cause of premature aging .
Workers and their family members who are exposed to chlorine such as PCBs, dioxins in pesticides and herbicides can develop blackheads and a severe form of acne called chloracne.
A rare cause of blackheads is an inherited condition called porphyria.
Can blackheads be treated medically?
Yes, there are prescription medications available to dissolve the blackheads. See your dermatologist who will be able to diagnose your underlying condition and provide the appropriate treatment. Picking or at-home attempts to remove blackheads will not be successful because the sebaceous ducts are deep in the skin. Scarring is a frequent consequence of picking and other blackhead removal techniques.
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