Tis the Season for Blackheads

The dreaded blackheads. They’re a pesky form of acne that seems to come and go from specific areas of the face as well as other parts of the body. Ultimately, they serve to cloud a complexion, and if they didn’t exist, skin texture and tone would go from irritated to incredibly clear.

Are Blackheads Seasonal?

For some, blackheads develop more frequently during certain times of the year, leading to the question: Are blackheads seasonal? It’s a great question and the only thing better than the question is the answer. Are blackheads seasonal? Yes and no.

What Causes Blackheads?

In order to better understand what may cause blackheads to develop more frequently during certain seasons, it is good to understand how blackheads develop in the first place. Contrary to popular belief, blackheads are not an indication of poor hygiene. Blackheads are a form of acne, and in that sense, they are more than just a clogged pore. In fact, they have more in common with whiteheads than most realize.

When dead skin cells combine with the P-acne bacteria from the skin’s surface and sebum from the skin’s sebaceous gland, they serve to clog a pore and follicle, resulting in acne. This is how all acne is formed—whiteheads, blackheads and even the severe cystic acne. The difference in whiteheads and blackheads lie in the pore opening at the surface of the skin. Blackheads have larger openings, allowing for air to enter the pore and oxidize the acne clog, which also contains skin melanin, giving it the darker aesthetic. This is generally referred to as an open comedome. They are often extracted within acne facials, and many people choose to squeeze them and pick at them. Though this may seem effective, it isn’t how they should be treated.

What Seasons Should I Worry About Blackheads?

Blackheads can certainly become more severe with seasons. One of the main reasons has to do with perspiration, as well as clothing. Tight restrictive clothing, as well as heavy clothing in the winter months can result in rubbing off of more dead skin cells, yet these skin cells often stick to the skin due to sweat and clothing. This is how blackheads can become a seasonal issue. The same can be said for wearing hats, or winter accessories such as a scarf. The forehead, chin, ears, cheeks, jaw line and even nose can become more susceptible to blackheads during these times. In direct opposition, the summer months can also present problems, due to perspiration, and being “trapped” in work clothes or a uniform for hours at a time. If properly treated, seasonal blackheads don’t have to become a problem.

Treating Blackheads

Treating blackheads is as simple as treating most forms of acne. A quality acne cleanser, preferably with a potent ingredient such as benzoyl peroxide, will help to exfoliate away the dead skin cells, while attacking the bacteria that are trying to work its way into the pores.

Benzoyl peroxide aids in both the shedding of the skin, as well as creating an oxidized, anti-bacterial environment on the surface of the skin. Following a cleansing with an astringent or skin toner will help to constrict the pores, protecting them from the intrusion of bacteria and dead skin cells. Finally, a quality acne cream, once or twice a day will help to reduce present blackheads, while preventing new ones from developing.