Whiteheads vs Blackheads: Know the difference between Blackheads and Whiteheads
If you, too, experienced acne at some point in your life, you had most likely experienced one of these two most common acne types: whiteheads and blackheads.
But what is a whitehead? What’s a blackhead? What makes them distinct from one another? Knowing all these will help you know what you’re experiencing. The better you know about your skin condition – whether it’s a blackhead or whitehead – the better treatment you can get.
If you’re unaware of these acne types but want to learn about whiteheads vs. blackheads, this is the article for you. So, read till the end.
What Is Blackhead
A blackhead is a type of acne that affects your skin by causing dark spot formation on the surface. Your skin will appear like some dark dot or dirt is stuck on it. Melanin oxidation is one of the primary causes of blackheads.
It is a chemical reaction that occurs when sloughed-off cells or sebum accumulates and fills the pores. Blackheads can occur in any skin part – but it mostly occurs in the nose, and chin area.
What Is Whitehead
Now that you know ‘what is blackhead,’ let’s take a look at its sibling - whiteheads. These are other protruding forms of acne that appear when bacteria, oil, or dead skin cells block your skin pore. They usually appear like a sealed, covered white bump on the middle of your face.
You may have closed comedones – another cause for whitehead – when the skin pores are blocked completely. These will result in small white or yellow bumps on the skin’s surface.
Whiteheads Vs. Blackheads: Difference Between Blackheads And Whiteheads
Although both are common forms of acne, the difference between them is in the way they develop and appear on the skin. Here is a table representing every key difference between blackheads and whiteheads in a detailed manner. So, check it out.
Whiteheads |
Blackheads |
Happens when a clogged hair follicle doesn’t open due to skin cells and oil. |
Happens when open pores are clogged by oil, debris, and dead skin cells. |
Yellow or white in color |
Turns black in color when comes in contact with air |
Consist of closed pores |
Consist of open pores |
How To Reduce Blackheads
When it comes to blackhead removal, things need a bit more attention. Although exfoliators and cleansers both help with whitehead and blackhead removal, you need to learn how to reduce blackheads with attention to these extra details:
- To remove blackheads, incorporate exfoliants like AHAs into your skincare regime.
- To prevent the occurrence of blackheads before they even form, use products marked as non-pore-clogging or non-comedogenic.
- If too much oily skin is the reason behind your blackheads, apply a face mask with clay on your skin. Make it a daily routine for some days. This will help in faster absorption of the excessive oil that can trigger the blackheads.
Also read: Salicylic Acid for Blackheads
How To Reduce Whiteheads
Here are a few tips that will assist you in learning how to reduce whiteheads effectively and quickly:
- If you use makeup often, ensure you clean up the product off your face before bed every night.
- Always cleanse your face thoroughly every night and morning.
- Avoid touching or popping the whiteheads as it may leave a scar mark.
- Use Overnight Acne Spot Corrector for quick resolution from both blackheads and whiteheads.
Also read: How to apply acne spot corrector and what are its benefits?
Key Takeaway
With this in-depth comparison guide on whiteheads vs. blackheads, you must have got all the insights about these two types of acne. Some ways to treat and reduce these acne conditions are washing the face regularly, skin exfoliation, and avoiding popping the acne.
If all these tips don’t seem to work, you can always rely on the acne-reduction products from our collection. We at The Pink Foundry offer some of the most powerful, effective, and result-oriented acne removal products.
No matter your skin type, our anti-acne products will complement your skin and give the best results. Explore our range of anti-acne products and pick the one that meets your budget and current skin condition needs.