Blackheads - What Do They Look Like, Treatment And Prevention
4 min read
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If the sight of teensy, black bumps on your T-zone makes you worried sick – this is the right page for you. What may look like dirt trapped in the pores is acne, also dubbed blackheads. Non-inflammatory in nature, blackheads mainly occur when excess sebum, dead cells, or impurities get trapped in the hair follicles. In this blog, we help you with the right products and treatments to combat these pesky blackheads. So, keep reading -
What Do Blackheads Look Like And Why?
As discussed in the introduction, blackheads look like just dirt trapped in your pores. These nasty legions are, infact, crammed with dead cells, impurities, sebum, keratin, and more. But have you ever wondered why these bumps look brown or black from the outside? There is a simple explanation behind it.
Blackheads have bigger openings on the skin's surface (as opposed to whiteheads). These openings allow oxygen molecules to enter and oxidize the melanin for the black hue.
What Causes Blackheads?
Before we learn about the solutions, let’s get well-versed in the many causes of blackheads -
1. Excess sebum production: Excess sebum production can clog the pores, leading to the formation of blackheads. This is the reason why blackheads are very common with oily skin folks.
2. Clogged pores and dead cells: The never-ending oil slick on the face attracts dirt, grime, and other impurities all day. This buildup along with dead cells clogs the pores, resulting in blackheads.
3. Hormonal imbalance: Your skin may produce unregulated sebum due to hormonal imbalances. When this excess oil plugs the pores on your face, it results in tiny black bumps appearing all over.
4. Comedogenic products: Another reason for blackheads is the use of certain skincare. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, we recommend avoiding comedogenic creams and formulas.
5. Your diet: You are what you eat. Indulging in high-glycemic foods, trans fats, and sugar triggers the sebaceous glands which can lead to clogged pores.
Treatment For Blackheads
If you’re struggling with recurring blackheads, here’s how you can treat them -
1. Over-the-counter Treatments with Salicylic Acid and Retinol: The easiest yet effective way to erase blackheads is by using OTC treatments with Salicylic Acid or Retinol. We know that Salicylic Acid is oil soluble in nature. It expels every morsel of oil, dead cells, and grime from the pores to ensure a smooth, even surface. Similarly, Retinol facilitates the healthy renewal of skin cells to prevent clogged pores – banishing blackheads completely.
2. Chemical peels: If you have a severe episode of blackheads that cannot be curbed using OTC treatments – might we recommend opting for chemical peels? The process uses a high concentration of Lactic or Glycolic Acid to exfoliate the dermis, reducing blackheads significantly.
3. At-home remedies: For a mild case of blackheads, you can try at-home remedies! Slather a clay mask to extract pesky blackheads in less than 15 minutes. Results? Gorgeous, glowing skin without the hassle of a salon.
Prevention Of Blackheads
For people with oily or acne-prone skin, blackheads can be easily prevented using the following steps.
1. Following a consistent skincare routine: We know that blackheads occur due to excess sebum and buildup clogging your pores. To avoid this, use an effective, oil-control cleanser that doesn’t strip the skin. Follow up with a Niacinamide or Hyaluronic acid-based serum to lock hydration into the skin. For those unaware, the lack of hydration cues the sebaceous glands into overdrive mode, leading to more oiliness than before.
2. Exfoliate Regularly: Apart from cleansing, include exfoliation in your weekly skincare routine. The process involves shedding dead cells, grime, and excess oil to reveal a smooth, soft surface minus the blackheads. For this job, we recommend Foxtale’s AHA BHA Exfoliating Serum.
3. Lifestyle changes: Additionally, you can undertake some lifestyle changes for smooth, even skin. Ditch high-glycemic, trans fats, and other such food sources only to load up on vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and healthy carbs. Practice mindfulness to keep stress at bay. Quit habits like drinking or smoking that take a toll on your skin’s health.
Busting Some Myths Related To Blackheads
Skincare myths can derail your efforts for great skin. To stay ahead of the game, we are busting some misconceptions about blackheads. This will allow you to tackle these black bumps head-on!
1. Blackheads are caused by dirt: This is a very common misconception amongst people. To dispel all clouds of confusion, blackheads are caused by sebum and dead cells clogging the pores.
2. Popping blackheads will remove them: Maybe temporarily. But popping blackheads isn’t an efficient way to remove them. It only pushes the sebum and dead cells deeper into the skin, making the problem worse.
3. Blackheads are localized to the nose: While blackheads are most common on the nose, they can occur anywhere on the face – in and around the areas where the sebaceous glands are overactive.
Conclusion
Blackheads are formed when excess sebum and dead cells clog the pores. When oxygen enters these legions, it oxidizes melanin resulting in a black hue. To combat blackheads, you can use OTC treatments, clays masks or a professional chemical peel (in case of a severe episode).
Skincare for Teens: Building a Routine to Combat Acne and Oiliness
Whiteheads - Causes, Treatment, Prevention & More
Passionate about beauty, Srishty’s body of work spans 5 years. She loves novel makeup techniques, latest skincare trends, and pop culture references. When she isn’t working, you will find her reading, Netflix-ing or trying to bake something in her kitchen.
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Whiteheads - Causes, Treatment, Prevention & More
7 min read
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Have you ever had tiny, white-ish yellow bumps sticking out of your skin – especially around the T-zone? These closed comedones are aptly called whiteheads. A type of non-inflammatory acne, whiteheads occur when dead cells and surplus sebum clog the pores on your skin. But since their openings on the skin’s surface are a lot smaller, whiteheads don’t facilitate melanin oxidization – a stark contrast from pesky blackheads.
If you also struggle with whiteheads too much, this is the right place to be! This blog explores the many reasons for whitehead, ways of prevention, and best product for treatment. So, keep scrolling ahead -
What Causes Whiteheads?
To use the right product or procedures for whiteheads on the face, you need to be well-versed in its triggers -
1. Excess oil production: Whiteheads are most common in folks with oily skin. The surplus amount of sebum leads to clogged pores, a.k.a. whiteheads. This type of closed comedone also occurs on the combination skin – in and around the T-zone, the chin, and the forehead.
2. Clogged hair follicles due to dead cells: Your skin sheds thousands of dead cells every hour. However, the never-ending oil slick (for people with oily or acne-prone skin) traps this buildup in the pores, often resulting in whiteheads.
3. Hormonal fluctuation: Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy, mensuration, and even puberty flag the sebaceous glands into an overdrive mode. The copious amount of sebum produced as a result often plugs the pores, resulting in yellowish-white bumps on the face.
4. Genetics and skin type: Several individuals may experience excessive skin oiliness or clogged pores solely due to genetics. So, if your parents were susceptible to whiteheads, chances are that you will be too.
5. Environmental factors and humidity: Hot and humid weather makes the sebaceous glands work overtime, resulting in excess grease all over the face. This sebum attracts mounds of dirt, grime, and other impurities which clog the pores – resulting in whiteheads.
6. Certain skincare products: By now, it's clear that oily skin is more prone to clogged pores. To avoid this problem in day-to-day life, be extremely cautious while picking skincare products. Check the label for the non-comedogenic value marker at all times.
Treatments For Whiteheads
Since we have explored the different whitehead triggers, here are some treatments to consider -
1. OTC Treatments
Since whiteheads occur due to clogged pores, the use of topical treatments with Salicylic Acid, Benzoyl Peroxide, and Retinol do the trick. These active ingredients exfoliate the dissolve and expel dirt, excess sebum, and dead cells while upholding your skin’s overall health.
2. Antibiotics
In case OTC treatments aren’t helping, your dermatologist may prescribe stronger medications (such as clindamycin, adapalene, etc.) or oral medication).
3. Professional treatments
For severe episodes of whiteheads, you can seek professional treatments under your dermatologist’s guidance. Some of these include
Chemical peeling: It uses high concentrations of Glycolic Acid or Lactic Acid to exfoliate the skin’s outermost layer – banishing whiteheads in the process.
Microdermabrasion: A professional sands your skin to shed its top few layers, effectively reducing the appearance of whiteheads.
4. Home remedies
If the whiteheads on your face are sporadic and mild, we recommend trying some home remedies.
- Tea tree oil: This natural ingredient reduces sebum and deeply cleanses the pores, alleviating whiteheads for smooth skin.
- Witch hazel: Witch hazel possesses astringent and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a great remedy for whiteheads.
What Are Some Do’s And Don’ts For Treating Whiteheads
To obliterate whiteheads completely, here’s a list of dos and don’ts you should abide by-
1. Don’t pop the whitehead: While it may seem tempting never pop or squeeze the whitehead as it pushes the bacteria deeper into the skin. Counterproductive to efforts for good skin, popping these closed comedones may lead to aggravated skin.
2. Do hydrate your skin: Topical hydration is crucial to keep whiteheads at bay. For those unaware, the lack of hydration cues the sebaceous glands into overdrive mode, leading to more greasiness. Results? More whiteheads
3. Don’t touch your face unnecessarily: Refrain from touching your face repeatedly as it transfers harmful bacteria, excess sebum, and dirt from one part to the other.
4. Do use gentle cleanser: In pursuit of shine-free skin, don’t commit to harsh cleansers. These products with SLS and parabens dehydrate the skin, resulting in overactive sebaceous glands, and eventually more whiteheads.
Prevention Of Whiteheads
For folks with oily or acne-prone skin, here’s a guide to prevent whiteheads from appearing-
1. A proper skincare routine: The easiest and most effective way to keep whiteheads at bay is by following an appropriate skincare routine. Start with
- Cleansing to remove grime, dead cells, and excess oil from the pores. Look for a Benzoyl Peroxide or Salicylic Acid Face Wash that gently exfoliates the skin without making it dry.
- Exfoliate with an AHA BHA serum 2 to 3 times weekly. The concentrated formula will dissolve the most stubborn buildup to prevent whiteheads.
- To curb the overproduction of sebum, don’t forget to moisturize. Use a gel-based and lightweight moisturizer that keeps your skin's hydration intact and the microbiome balanced.
2. Using non-comedogenic products: Whether you’re buying skincare or makeup, ensure that the formula doesn’t clog your pores.
3. Don’t touch or rub your face: As discussed earlier, touching your face repeatedly transfers dirt, sebum, and harmful bacteria from one part of the skin to another. This can aggravate the whiteheads on your face or trigger new ones.
4. Regularly change pillowcases and towels: If your skin is susceptible to whiteheads, we recommend changing pillowcases and towels every few days. This little step prevents the buildup of bacteria and dead cells on your face, banishing pesky whiteheads.
5. Managing your stress: Excess stress in your day-to-day life stimulates sebum, increasing the chances of whiteheads. Therefore, for your skin and overall well-being, we recommend practicing yoga and mindfulness regularly.
Lifestyle Changes To Reduce Whiteheads
1. Stick to a balanced diet: To prevent excess sebum production and whiteheads, avoid high glycemic, trans fats, and carbohydrates. Instead, load up on vitamins, minerals, healthy fats, and antioxidants.
2. Focus on hydration: Ensure adequate and regular hydration – both internal and external. We recommend 8 glasses of water daily and opting for high-performance serums with Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerine, and other humectants.
3. Regular physical activity: To achieve clear, radiant skin – commit to a weekly workout schedule. Physical activities like running, jogging, and swimming get the blood pumping to your skin for that naturally flushed look. Moreover, regular exercise helps maintain the sugar levels in your body, ensuring regulated sebum production by the sebaceous glands.
Myths And Misconceptions About Whiteheads
Rampant myths and misconceptions can hamper your efforts for good skin. To stay ahead of this problem, this section busts popular whiteheads-related myths -
Myth 1: Popping whiteheads makes them go away quickly: Absolutely not. Popping whiteheads pushes the harmful bacteria deeper into the skin, aggravating the situation at hand.
Myth 2: Whiteheads serve as an indication of poor hygiene: Not at all! Whiteheads can occur due to a gamut of reasons like overwashing, over-exfoliation, use of comedogenic products, and more.
Myth 3: Whiteheads always turn into acne: This is a very common misconception – whiteheads are a form of non-inflammatory acne that often abate before turning into pimples.
When To See A Dermatologist For Whiteheads
We recommend seeing a board-certified dermatologist when -
1. Whiteheads are persistent and recurring
2. Whiteheads turn into nasty acne
3. You have worrisome scars and depressions on your face
Conclusion
The yellowish-white bumps on your skin are aptly dubbed whiteheads. This type of non-inflammatory acne is formed when sebum, dead cells, and impurities clog the pores on your face. Additionally, whiteheads can also occur due to non-comedogenic skincare products, hormonal fluctuations, and environmental factors. To obliterate these whiteheads and achieve clear, radiant skin, you rely on home remedies, professional treatments, and a rigid skincare routine.
FAQs
1. Can whiteheads go away on their own?
Yes! In most cases, whiteheads go away on their own. For a severe episode, we recommend consulting with a board-certified dermatologist.
2. Are whiteheads contagious?
No, whiteheads aren’t contagious.
3. How long do whiteheads typically last?
Whiteheads usually clear within 5 to 7 days.
Blackheads - What Do They Look Like, Treatment And Prevention
Acne: Types, Causes, Treatment, and Prevention
Passionate about beauty, Srishty’s body of work spans 5 years. She loves novel makeup techniques, latest skincare trends, and pop culture references. When she isn’t working, you will find her reading, Netflix-ing or trying to bake something in her kitchen.
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Acne: Types, Causes, Treatment, and Prevention
6 min read
IN THIS ARTICLE
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Acne is a prevalent concern that leads to bumps and redness on the skin. It occurs when excess sebum binds pollutants, dirt, and dead cells to the skin’s surface, leading to clogged pores. Furthermore, when harmful bacteria begin thriving in these lesions, it triggers swelling – aggravating the breakout.
While acne is common on the face, back, arms, shoulders, and neck – in this blog, we will be only focusing on facial breakouts. We start by helping you identify the type of acne and brace you with the right treatments to keep them at bay.
What Are The Different Types Of Acne
Acne or Acne Vulgaris looks different for different individuals. To employ the right product or treatment for clear skin, you need to first identify the nature of the eruption. Here’s how you can do the same -
1. Non-inflammatory acne
a. Whiteheads: These yellowish-white bumps are formed when sebum and dead cells clog the pores on your face. Also dubbed ‘closed comedones’, these bumps have smaller openings on the skin’s surface that don’t permit air to enter.
b. Blackheads: Similar to whiteheads, blackheads occur when dead cells, and oils clog the pores on your face. However, these bumps have bigger openings on the dermis which allow oxygen to enter and oxidize melanin – resulting in the black hue.
2. Inflammatory acne
a. Papules: These are tiny, inflamed bumps that are tender to touch.
b. Pustules: Pustules resemble papules in their appearance. They have pus-filled centers and are painful to touch.
c. Nodules: Nodules are big, painful lumps that form underneath the skin. They occur when clogged pores become further inflamed and often lead to scarring.
d. Cystic: Inarguably the most severe form of acne, cystic eruptions are deep-seated, pus-filled, and require immediate attention for healing.
Quick Summary: Which Product Suits Your Acne?
What are the Causes of Acne Breakouts?
Several reasons ranging from hormonal imbalances to an individual’s diet can lead to acne. Ahead, we list the most common triggers to help you nip the problem in the bud .
1. Hormonal imbalances: Hormonal fluctuations due to menstruation, PCOS, and even pregnancy can lead to an increase in sebum production. Results? More acne outbreaks.
2. Genetics: Some individuals may be genetically predisposed to oily or acne-prone skin. So, if your parents had acne through their teens, chances are that you will too.
3. Skincare habits: The lack of a full-fledged skincare routine can also lead to acne. So, ensure that you adhere to a cleansing-treating-moisturizing ritual twice a day.
4. Diet: The consumption of trans fats, sugary foods, or anything with high glycemic also flags off the sebaceous glands into overdrive mode, resulting in recurring acne episodes.
5. Wrong skincare/makeup: Additionally, using comedogenic skincare or makeup products can also lead to bumps and inflammation. To prevent this problem, we recommend patch-testing every new formula in your vanity.
6. External factors like pollutants: Pollutants, grime, and impurities may stick to your skin due to its excess sebum content. This unwarranted buildup, more often than not, clogs the pores for acne formation.
Myths Vs Facts About Acne Causes
To streamline efforts for clear, radiant skin, here are some acne myths that you should shun.
Myth 1: Acne is a sign of poor personal hygiene
Cleansing is indispensable for the overall health of your skin. However, only dirt doesn’t cause acne. These angry, inflamed bumps appear when dead cells and excess sebum clog the pores. So, no! Acne is not a sign of poor personal hygiene.
Myth 2: Acne is only a teenage problem.
This is one of the biggest myths that people buy. While you are most susceptible to acne in your teen years, it is a concern that can affect you way beyond that too. In fact, adult acne continues to affect approximately 15% of the women population.
Myth 3: All makeup products cause acne
False, this is a myth. There are several makeup products formulated for oily and acne-prone skin. Browse through the product’s label before making a purchase.
Myth 4: Stress has an impact on your skin
No, this is a myth. Stress is one of the biggest culprits of acne. Excessive stress in your day-to-day life can trigger the sebaceous glands into overdrive mode, leading to acne.
How to Treat Your Acne
Depending on the severity of acne, here are some treatment options you can seek
1. OTC Treatments
Ingredients like Salicylic Acid, Benzoyl Peroxide, Retinol in topical treatments help exfoliate the skin to alleviate acne. For folks with acne-prone skin, these gels (lotions or spot treatments) also unclog pores to prevent breakouts altogether.
2. Oral antibiotics
Oral medications like Doxycycline, Minocycline, Tetracycline also help keep acne at bay. Before you start the course, however, we recommend consulting with your physician/a board-certified dermatologist.
In case of severe case of acne, you can opt for the following professional treatments under your dermatologist’s guidance-
1. Chemical peels: This process uses a high concentration of Glycolic Acid or Lactic Acid to exfoliate the skin’s surface. Results? Clear skin sans the pimples!
2. Laser therapy: Blue light therapy (or CO2 fractional laser) treats acne-causing bacteria to reduce bumps and inflammation on the skin.
3. Microneedling: Microneedling is an efficient method to remedy post-acne skin. It entails creating small punctures in the skin which triggers Collagen production – filling acne scars and depressions.
How to Prevent Acne and Keep Your Pores Clear
If you have innately oily or acne-prone skin, here are some prevention tips to swear by
1. Daily skincare routine: Adhere to a daily skincare routine comprising the following steps
- Cleansing: Use a gentle, pH-balancing face wash to remove dirt, grime, and other impurities from the pores. Opt for formulations with Salicylic Acid or Niacinamide that cut excess sebum for a balanced microbiome.
- Treating: Once your skin is clean, apply the Niacinamide Serum. This serum is a game-changer for acne prevention. It works by regulating the sebaceous glands to stop excess oil production before it can clog your pores. Additionally, it minimizes the appearance of large pores and strengthens the skin barrier, making your skin less reactive to acne-triggering pollutants.
- Moisturizing: Once the serum infuses into your skin, use a non-comedogenic, gel-based moisturizer to lock the treatment for best results. We recommend Foxtale’s Oil Balancing Moisturizer for this job. Niacinamide at the heart of this formula soaks excess sebum and prevents clogged pores for a balanced microbiome.
- Sun protecting: For your AM routine, a broad-spectrum sunscreen is non-negotiable. To prevent acne or oiliness on the skin, try matte sunscreen. The featherlight formula ensures an even skin while averting harmful UV rays.
2. Your diet: Opt for a balanced diet with low-glycemic foods, omega 3 fatty acids, antioxidants, zinc, probiotics, and plenty of water.
3. Practice mindfulness: As we have seen earlier, stress and acne go hand-in-hand. Therefore, to avoid future breakouts, we recommend practicing mindfulness with meditation, exercise or yoga. Any kind of physical activity not only elevates skin health but also amps up your mental well-being.
When Should You See A Dermatologist For Your Acne?
You should see a dermatologist for your acne when -
1. Home remedies do not reduce your pimples.
2. You are struggling with severe acne, redness or inflammation.
3. If you have deep scars or depressions on your skin post-acne.
Related Articles:
1. Step-by-Step Skincare Guide to Achieving Acne-Free Skin
2. How To Treat Acne Without Drying Your Skin
3. Different Types of Pimples and How to Treat Them
4. Know the Causes And Treatments of sudden Acne Breakouts
Conclusion
Acne is one of the most prevalent skin concerns across the world. It occurs when dead cells and sebum clog the pores, leading to the formation of bumps. Furthermore, when harmful bacteria occupy these lesions, redness and inflammation appear on the skin. Acne is broadly classified into whiteheads, blackheads, pustules, papules, nodes, and cystic lumps.
FAQs
1. Can diet really cause acne?
Ans. Yes, consuming high-glycemic food, trans fats, and excess sugar can cue the sebaceous glands into overdrive mode, resulting in acne.
2. Is acne curable or just manageable?
Ans. Acne is curable on most skin types. For people with innately acne-prone skin, certain topical treatments and medications help minimize breakouts for the most part.
3. Can acne scars be removed permanently?
Ans. Yes. If you have deep scarring, we recommend seeking professional treatments like microneedling, chemical peels, and laser therapy under your dermatologist’s recommendation.
4. What is the best stage to start acne treatment?
Ans. The best stage to start acne treatment is as soon as you notice a breakout. Treating the acne or inflammation early on reduces the risk of scarring.
5. How long does it take for acne treatments to work?
Ans. Most acne treatments take 4 to 6 weeks to show significant results. Skin cells take about 28 days to renew, so you must be consistent through at least one full cycle.
Whiteheads - Causes, Treatment, Prevention & More
Acne vs. Acne Scars: How Niacinamide Tackles Both
Passionate about beauty, Srishty’s body of work spans 5 years. She loves novel makeup techniques, latest skincare trends, and pop culture references. When she isn’t working, you will find her reading, Netflix-ing or trying to bake something in her kitchen.
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Acne vs. Acne Scars: How Niacinamide Tackles Both
6 min read
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Painful bumps, redness, inflammation – people with acne know the struggle too well. However, it doesn’t end here. In case of severe acne like nodules and cystic lumps, one is more likely to experience post-breakout scarring. For those unaware, acne scarring begins when your skin is trying to heal itself and can hamper an individual's confidence.
If you too have acne and/or scarring, place your trust in Niacinamide for your daily routine. This skincare workhorse flattens nasty bumps while fading depressions over time. If you're wondering how the Vitamin B3 derivative achieves this feat, you have landed on the right page. Keep reading this blog. But before we get to the cheat sheet, let’s delve into the problem.
What Is Acne?
Acne occurs when sebum and dead cells clog the pores on your face. Furthermore, when bacteria occupy these legions and grow, it leads to redness and swelling. Acne or acne vulgaris can look different for different individuals. Scroll ahead for acne's varied types-
1. Whiteheads: These yellowish bumps occur when dead cells and oils plug the pores on your skin’s surface. However, due to their smaller openings, air doesn’t enter these comedones.
2. Blackheads: Just like whiteheads, clogged pores lead to blackheads too. The difference? Blackheads have bigger openings on the skin’s surface – allowing air to enter and oxidize melanin for the dark hue.
3. Papules: These are tiny, pale bumps that are tender to touch.
4. Pustules: While these bumps resemble papules, they are filled with pus, making them painful to touch.
5. Nodules: These are lumps formed deep within the skin due to clogged pores. Nodules often result in scarring on the face.
6. Cystic Acne: The most severe form of acne, Cystic lumps hardly heal on their own – demanding immediate medical attention.
- Related Article: Detailed Guide on Acne Breakout
Understanding Acne Scars
To reiterate, acne scars set in right after the inflammation subsides on your face. They occur post pimples, nodules, or cystic lumps have healed. To minimize the risk of scarring, we recommend treating acne breakouts right away. Also, a word to the wise –popping pimples can make scars or depressions deeper seated.
To address acne scarring, one must understand its different types
1. Atrophic scars: Atrophic scars are further divided into 3 categories
a. Ice-pick scars: These are narrow holes in the skin – often occurring because of cystic acne.
b. Boxcar scars: These depressions are wider, more defined, and have an angular edge.
c. Rolling scars: These scars have a rolling, wave-like appearance and occur when your skin is damaged at a deeper level.
2. Hypertrophic scars
In rare cases, hypertrophic scars occur when your skin overproduces Collagen during the healing stage.
3. Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation
While PIH doesn’t technically fall under the scar category, it does appear as discoloration after acne heals. These spots and patches can be brown, red, or purple depending on an individual’s skin tone.
Niacinamide: The Skincare Hero
Niacinamide is a form of Vitamin B3 that is found in nuts, fish, and poultry. The water-soluble active is artificially infused in a gamut of products like face wash, serum, moisturizer, and even sunscreen. Perfect for all skin types -Niacinamide upholds overall skin health by preventing TEWL, boosting barrier health, and promoting healing. In the upcoming sections, we learn how Niacinamide addresses acne and scarring.
- Related Article: Detailed Guide on Niacinamide
Does Niacinamide Help with Acne
Topical application of Niacinamide helps with acne in the following ways -
1. It cuts excess sebum to maintain a balanced and healthy microbiome – minimizing breakouts in the process.
2. Niacinamide can also be summoned during the 'acne prevention stage' as it prevents clogged pores.
3. Packed with anti-inflammatory properties, Niacinamide soothes redness and swelling -- making it the perfect fit for acne-prone skin.
-Related Reads: Science of niacinamide acne care
Does Niacinamide Remove Acne Scars
Yes. Niacinamide helps with acne by controlling extra oil, reducing inflammation, and making the skin barrier stronger. This lowers the likelihood of fresh breakouts over time.
Niacinamide for scars and depressions helps in the following ways-
1. As we know, Niacinamide is an efficient brightening agent. It fades PIH or Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation by curbing melanin distribution across the skin cells.
2.. Topical application of Niacinamide stimulates Collagen production to ensure an even skin texture. It also promotes healthy cellular renewal, doubling down on efforts for reduced scarring.
3. Additionally, Niacinamide bolsters the skin barrier (a.k.a. the lipid barrier) to prevent further breakouts and scarring. This sturdy barrier ensures water retention in the skin for a healthy recovery process.
Niacinamide for Acne & Acne Scars: Quick comparison
How To Use Niacinamide In Your Daily Routine
Now that you’re well-versed in the benefits of Niacinamide for acne and scarring – it's time to incorporate a product into your routine. Here are a few things you should bear in mind
1. If you’re a beginner, pick a serum concentration between 10 to 15%.
2. Do conduct a patch test before using the Niacinamide serum on your face. This intermediate step reduces the risk of flare-ups.
3. Start using the Niacinamide serum once or twice in your weekly skincare rotation. You can amp up the frequency if your skin responds well.
4. Apply the Niacinamide serum only after cleansing your face. A gentle, pH-balancing cleanser removes dirt, grime, and dead cells from the pores, ensuring better absorption (and therefore, better efficacy of your treatment).
5. Use a light hand to apply the serum on your face.
6. Once the treatment absorbs into the skin, use a light, gel-based moisturizer to lock the formula.
7. As active ingredients can cause photosensitivity in some individuals, don’t skimp on sunscreen. People with oily or acne-prone skin can try Foxtale’s Mattifying Sunscreen. This broad-spectrum sunscreen ensures formidable sun protection while bestowing a matte finish on the skin.
How Long Until You See Results?
Skin needs time to respond, but the right formulas can help speed things up. Here’s a realistic timeline of what you can expect with consistent use:
- Mild acne marks: If you have mild acne blemishes, most regular serums will show visible improvement in about 4 to 6 weeks. Depending on your skin type and routine, a well-made 12% Niacinamide serum can show early apparent results as soon as 2 to 3 weeks.
- Stubborn pigmentation: Dark patches that are deeper or older take longer to remove. If you use this product regularly and protect your skin from the sun, you should see a big difference in 6 to 8 weeks. It's important to be consistent here; missing days slows down outcomes.
Conclusion
Acne such as nodules, cystic lumps, and pimples often leave angry scars. These marks or depressions appear when your skin is in self-healing mode and can impact your confidence. Luckily, skincare workhorse Niacinamide addresses both acne and scars with its application. It prevents clogged pores, cuts excess sebum, soothes inflammation, boosts Collagen production, and ensures healthy cellular renewal – making it the perfect remedy for acne-prone skin.
Related Article:
1. Azelaic acid for redness and spots
2. pairing niacinamide with tranexamic acid
3. Treating dark spots and pigmentation
Passionate about beauty, Srishty’s body of work spans 5 years. She loves novel makeup techniques, latest skincare trends, and pop culture references. When she isn’t working, you will find her reading, Netflix-ing or trying to bake something in her kitchen.
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Fragrance-Free
12% Niacinamide Clarifying Serum
Deletes 7 signs of acne & acne marks
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₹ 645
GLOW20
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