Blackheads vs. Whiteheads: What’s the Difference?

Blackheads vs. Whiteheads: Acne is a prevalent skin condition that can leave unsightly blemishes. Blackheads and whiteheads are two of the most common types of acne. Both are equally undesirable and bothersome. So then, what is the difference between the two? Keep reading to know the difference between blackheads and whiteheads, causes, tips to get rid of them, etc.

What is a blackhead?

It is a clogged pore filled with sebum and dead skin cells. Blackheads are partially open at the skin’s surface, which exposes the sebum to oxygen, turning it black due to oxidization. It is what gives blackheads the black-dotted appearance.

Causes of blackheads

• The build-up of acne bacteria (Propionibacterium) on your skin
• Irritation of hair follicles due to irregular shedding of dead skin cells
• Hormonal changes
• Excess sebum production

What is a whitehead?

A whitehead is also a tiny, round, clogged pore on your skin’s surface. But unlike a blackhead, it is completely sealed and is not exposed to air and, therefore, remains white.

Causes of whiteheads

• Excess sebum production
• Excessive sweating
• Hormonal changes
• Pollution
• Pimple-popping
• Genes

Difference between blackheads and whiteheads

The main difference is that blackheads are partially open at the surface, while whiteheads are entirely sealed. Here are a few more differences between the Blackheads vs. Whiteheads.

• Whiteheads are small, yellow/white breakouts that do not turn into pimples. Blackheads, however, may turn into zits if not removed.
• Whiteheads are white because they are not exposed to air. However, blackheads appear black due to the oxidization of sebum when exposed to oxygen in the air.

How to remove blackheads?

• Start with a charcoal facewash and pore clarifying face serum containing salicylic acid to remove blackheads. Salicylic acid exfoliates your skin while controlling excess oil.
• Remove makeup before going to bed, and nourish your skin with a retinol serum.
• Exfoliate your skin gently once or twice a week to clean build-up and dead skin cells from your face.

How to remove whiteheads?

• You can add pore strips to your skincare routine for immediate whitehead removal.
• Use an anti-acne face mask once a week to prevent whiteheads.

With this, we hope that you know how to win the battle of the mini-breakouts! Both Blackheads vs. Whiteheads are formed due to bacteria, dead skin cells, sebum, and grime clogging your pores. We suggest you use skincare products containing salicylic acid twice a day to keep the pesky breakouts at bay.

But remember not to overdo the washing because you’ll produce more oil, leading to more breakouts. Also, not too many fast food meals and soft drinks! for more skincare check our latest blog.