Where do you see the most blackheads? If you’re like 90% of the guys we talk to every day, the answer is easy: Your nose. And there’s a good reason for this.
Pores exist everywhere on your body, but the pores that produce the most oil are largely concentrated around your nose, forehead, and cheeks. More oil means a higher likelihood of blackheads.
Blackheads form when oil, dead skin, and bacteria combine to produce a sticky substance that completely plugs pores, oxidizes, and turns black. While blackheads can be a common characteristic of oily skin, they’re also commonly confused with another, much friendlier, skin trait called sebaceous filaments.
The main difference between blackheads and sebaceous filaments is that blackheads are considered a form of acne, while sebaceous filaments are not. Blackheads are complete pore blockages that are likely to turn into whiteheads, while sebaceous filaments are a naturally occurring and necessary protective aspect of the skin. That said, if sebaceous filaments become too large, they become visible and that’s when our self-consciousness starts getting the best of us.
While you can’t (and actually shouldn’t) remove sebaceous filaments entirely, you can greatly minimize the one thing we all hate about them—their appearance.
Here’s how.
Pore strips—the ones you tear off like a band-aid—are capable of ripping sebaceous filaments right out of your pores. Success, right? Wrong. You need some of that oil to protect your pore from bacteria that can cause serious breakouts. Removing sebaceous filaments entirely will leave your skin vulnerable to things that look a hell of a lot worse than a minuscule grey dot.
Non-comedogenic means the product is formulated without pore-clogging ingredients. While many manufacturers will print this on their label, they’re not always accurate so it’s best to have an expert review it.
Good toners are formulated with exfoliating Alpha-hydroxy acids that travel deep inside your pores to help regulate oil production. Incorporating a toner into your skincare regimen will ensure you keep the oil you need and clear the oil you don’t.
