Have you ever noticed small light or dark colored spots on your face, especially on the nose and chin area? Many people mistake these spots for blackheads, but actually, they might be sebaceous filaments. Although they may seem similar, sebaceous filaments have an important function in keeping the skin moisturized. This article will discuss the difference between sebaceous filaments and blackheads, as well as the best way to take care of our skin! Let’s take a closer look!

What are Sebaceous Filaments?

Sebaceous filaments are natural structures found within the pores of the skin. They are made up of oil (sebum) and dead skin cells that surround the hair follicles. Their main function is to help move oil from the sebaceous glands to the surface of the skin. This is what keeps our skin naturally moisturized!

Normally, sebaceous filaments are invisible, but in people with oily skin or larger pores, they can become more obvious. Their color tends to be light yellow or light gray, and they don’t turn black unless they undergo oxidation, which can lead to blackheads.

Are Sebaceous Filaments the Same as Blackheads?

There is so much misunderstanding between these two types of skin conditions, people like to think that they are the same thing. But no, sebaceous filaments are different from blackheads. Blackheads form when sebum, dead skin cells, and bacteria build up and clog the pores. When the top of the clogged pore is open and exposed to air, the sebum inside oxidizes and turns black or what we know as blackheads.

Instead, sebaceous filaments function more as oil transporters and are not the result of a clogged pore. While they can develop into blackheads, this condition is usually harmless and part of the skin’s natural mechanism. So, don’t get it wrong Sereni-Trees!

How to Distinguish Sebaceous Filaments from Blackheads?

Here are some key differences between sebaceous filaments and blackheads:

1. Color: Sebaceous filaments are usually light or gray in color, while blackheads are black due to oxidation.
2. Size and Shape: Blackheads are usually larger and look like small, more defined bumps. Sebaceous filaments, on the other hand, are thinner and often more scattered.
3. Function: Sebaceous filaments function as part of the skin’s natural system to maintain oil balance, while blackheads are pores that are clogged with excess sebum, dead skin cells, and bacteria.

Why should Sebaceous Filaments not be squeezed?

Many people feel tempted to squeeze out this skin condition in the hope of getting clearer skin. However, we don’t recommend this! Here are some of the reasons why:

• The pore will fill up again: After we squeeze, the pore will refill with sebum in no time.
• Risk of infection: Pore-pulling can lead to the spread of bacteria to other areas of the face, which can cause acne. Especially if we use dirty hands!
• Potential scarring: Squeezing too hard or too often can cause permanent damage to the skin, including scarring and enlarged pores.

After seeing these 3 reasons, it’s clear that we shouldn’t squeeze them! After all, it’s not detrimental and is actually good for our skin.

How to deal with blackheads?

Unlike sebaceous filaments, blackheads can and should be treated. Some effective methods to treat blackheads include:

• Salicylic Acid

Salicylic acid is a popular ingredient in acne treatments that works by exfoliating the skin and keeping the pores clear. It is available in various forms, including facial cleansers and toners. Its regular use can help prevent blackheads.

• Glycolic Acid

Glycolic acid is a type of alpha hydroxy acid that helps remove dead skin cells without drying out the skin. It helps prevent the buildup of dead skin cells and sebum, so pores don’t get clogged.

• Retinoids

Retinoids are derivatives of vitamin A that help speed up skin cell regeneration. They work by reducing the formation of blackheads and acne, and improving skin texture.

• Face Mask

Masks containing activated charcoal or clay (kaolin or bentonite) help draw out dirt, oil and bacteria from the skin. Regular use of masks can help clean pores and prevent blackheads.

• Professional Care

If you have an intractable blackhead problem, treatment by an esthetician or dermatologist may be a solution. Some commonly used methods include pore vacuum and microdermabrasion treatments.

Alternatively, you can use natural ingredients. For example, Sweet Almond Oil and Olive Oil can help maintain oil balance in the skin, preventing pores from being clogged with excess sebum. Licorice Root and Niacinamide can help even out skin tone and reduce hyperpigmentation often caused by acne or inflamed blackheads. Vegetable Glycerine moisturizes and keeps pores clean, while Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant that protects skin from damage that can aggravate blackheads. Curious about the efficacy of these natural ingredients? Try Serenitree’s brightening body lotion first!

Serenitree Blackhead Prevention

Instead of dealing with them, it’s better to prevent blackheads. To avoid blackheads, it’s important to maintain a good skincare routine. Here are some prevention tips that you can try:

• Wash your face regularly: Wash your face twice a day with a gentle cleanser. If your skin tends to be oily, consider using products that contain salicylic acid.
• Exfoliate the skin: Exfoliate your skin once a week to remove dead skin cells that can clog pores.
• Use a face mask: Use a face mask once a week to keep your pores clean.
• Healthy diet: Eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables can help maintain healthy skin from within.
• Consult a dermatologist: Visit a dermatologist regularly to evaluate the skin condition and get appropriate treatment.

Sebaceous filaments may look like blackheads, but they play an important role in keeping your skin moisturized. As annoying as it may seem, it’s best not to try to squeeze sebaceous filaments, as this can lead to other skin problems such as infection and scarring. Instead, it’s better to take care of your skin so that problems like blackheads don’t arise. Hope this article helps, Sereni-Trees!