what causes whiteheads

what causes whiteheads

2 weeks ago 3
Nature

Whiteheads are caused primarily by clogged hair follicles or pores on the skin. Sebaceous glands produce oil (sebum) to lubricate the skin and hair. When too much sebum combines with dead skin cells, it creates a plug that blocks the follicle opening. This closed blockage forms a white bump beneath the skin's surface, known as a whitehead. The closed nature of the pore prevents oxidation, so the content remains white or yellowish instead of turning black like in blackheads. Hormonal changes, especially during puberty, increase sebum production and contribute significantly to whitehead development. Other contributing factors include bacterial growth inside the plugged pores, stress, lifestyle habits, and the use of comedogenic beauty products that clog pores. Whiteheads commonly affect areas with many oil glands, such as the face, neck, chest, and back. Avoid squeezing whiteheads to prevent irritation, infection, or scarring. Treatments include exfoliating to remove dead skin cells, using products with salicylic acid, and maintaining a non-comedogenic skincare routine.

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