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What are the differences between acne, closed comedones, and blackheads? Finding the source can create flawless skin!

Written by ZH    19 Nov,2024

   Smooth and delicate skin is the dream of many people. However, when facing the mirror, those stubborn acne, closed comedones, and blackheads always make people frustrated. However, to have flawless and radiant skin, it is crucial to understand these skin conditions and the difference between them.

Misunderstanding one of them may lead to ineffective treatment and long-term skin problems. What are the differences between them? How to find the real solution? Today, we will take a deep look at these common skin problems and learn how to solve them from the root to restore your skin's radiance!

What are acne, closed comedones, and blackheads?

1. Acne

Acne, also known as pimples or acne, is an inflammatory skin problem. It usually appears as a red and swollen protrusion, sometimes accompanied by white or yellow pus heads.

The formation of acne is mainly due to the excessive secretion of sebaceous glands, which breeds a large number of bacteria after the pores are blocked, and eventually causes inflammation. There are many types of acne, including whiteheads, blackheads, cystic acne, etc., each with different severity and treatment methods.

2. Closed comedones

The official name of closed comedones is closed comedones, which are an inconspicuous skin problem. The surface looks smooth but feels granular. Closed comedones usually have no redness or obvious inflammation. They are "hidden" under the skin and are commonly found on the forehead, chin and cheeks.

The causes of closed comedones are mostly related to abnormal metabolism of oil and keratin and improper use of skin care products. If not treated in time, closed comedones may develop into acne.

3. Acne

Acne can be divided into open comedones (blackheads) and closed comedones (whiteheads). Blackhead comedones are oxidized and appear black because the pores are exposed to the air, while whitehead comedones are covered by the skin and are not exposed to the air.

Acne is the early manifestation of acne, and improper treatment may develop into more serious inflammatory acne.

What are the differences in their causes?

Although acne, closed comedones, and blackheads seem to be related, the causes of these problems are different.

1. Causes of acne

Excessive oil secretion: Excessive oil clogs pores and creates a breeding ground for bacteria.

Bacterial infection: For example, Propionibacterium acnes overgrows in the pores, stimulating inflammatory reactions.

Hormone fluctuations: During puberty, menstrual period, and stress, the level of androgen in the body rises and stimulates the sebaceous glands.

Tips: With proper treatment, it may disappear quickly, but if it is opened too early, it may leave dark spots or scars.

2. Causes of closed comedones

Keratin accumulation: Abnormal metabolism of epidermal cells causes the stratum corneum to be too thick, blocking pores.

Unsuitable skin care products: Using too thick skin care products or cosmetics can easily lead to closed pores.

Inadequate cleaning: Incomplete makeup removal, pores are "buried" by makeup and dirt.

Tips: Don't pick or squeeze! Disturbing closed comedones often lead to the formation of scars or inflamed comedones.

3. Causes of acne

Combination of sebum and dead skin cells: The "mixture" formed by sebum and dead skin cells fills the pores.

Environmental pollution: Dust and dirt in the air adhere to the skin, further worsening the condition of the pores.

Tips: It will be reduced after proper treatment, but if it is broken, it may leave black spots or scars.

How to scientifically distinguish between acne, closed comedones and blackheads?

When observing the skin in front of the mirror, you may wish to start from the following aspects:

Redness and swelling: Acne is usually accompanied by inflammatory redness and swelling, while closed comedones and blackheads are not obvious.

Surface touch: Closed comedones feel like small particles, and blackheads may be more subtle.

Color expression: Blackheads are black, while whiteheads are relatively invisible.

If it is difficult to judge, it is recommended to seek professional diagnosis from a dermatologist to avoid incorrect care.

Find the source and create the key to flawless skin!

1. Scientific cleaning to reduce pore blockage

Whether it is acne, closed comedones or blackheads, cleaning is the first step in skin care. Choose a mild amino acid cleanser and cleanse once in the morning and evening to ensure that there is no oil and dirt residue on the skin surface.

2. Gentle exfoliation to keep pores unblocked

For closed comedones and acne, it is particularly important to properly remove the accumulated old dead skin cells. It is recommended to choose products containing glycolic acid or salicylic acid and perform chemical exfoliation 1-2 times a week to dissolve the "blockage" in the pores in a gentle way.

3. Pay equal attention to oil control and moisturizing

For oily skin, using refreshing oil-control products can reduce oil secretion, but don't ignore moisturizing at the same time. Water-oil balance is the basis of healthy skin.

4. Avoid using irritating products

Whether it is closed comedones or acne, overly irritating skin care steps will only make the problem worse. Stay away from alcohol, high-concentration fragrances and inferior cosmetics to reduce the burden on the skin.

5. Seek a professional dermatologist

Whether it is acne, closed comedones or acne, please seek medical attention in time in severe cases and receive treatment from a professional dermatologist.

Lifestyle habits cannot be ignored!

1. Eat a healthy diet

Reduce the intake of sugar, greasy food and dairy products, and eat more foods rich in vitamin A and zinc to help skin repair.

2. Get enough sleep

Staying up late can disrupt hormone secretion and worsen skin problems. Make sure you get 7-8 hours of sleep a day to allow your skin to repair itself.

3. Regulate your emotions

Excessive stress is an important cause of acne. Try to reduce stress through meditation, exercise and other methods to keep your body balanced inside and outside.

Solve from the source and be your own skin management master!

Everyone's skin problems have unique causes and manifestations. Know the difference between acne, closed comedones and blackheads. From cleaning to maintenance, from habits to treatment, improving skin conditions in all aspects is the key to achieving perfect skin.

Remember, perfection is not the goal - a healthy and happy complexion is what really matters.

Don't let these "small problems" become "big troubles" in life by paying attention to the root causes of skin problems and making wise decisions. As long as you find the root cause of the problem and take the solution that suits you, you can get rid of skin troubles and have flawless and translucent skin!

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