Although blackheads are not necessarily caused by poor skin hygiene, these darkened little oil specs can make the skin look and feel rough, oily, and dirty. We have countless skin products and methods of removal, but what should we really be looking for when choosing products, ingredients, and services?
In this article we will focus on defining the ‘blackhead’. From selecting the right ingredients to DIY pore cleansing techniques, our tips will help you minimize and control blackheads.
What is a blackhead?
Blackheads are quite simply clogged hair follicles in the skin. These tiny follicles can become clogged due to enlargement and/ or years of buildup.
Our hair follicles are a type of pore found throughout the body, except for the palms and soles. They are most visible in areas with higher oil production or areas where the oil collects throughout the day such as the creases of the nose.
A combination of waste.
Waste can include dead cells, oil, makeup, dirt, etc.
This particular type of pore consists of a tube-like structure in the skin that sprouts hair, excretes oil, and retains a combination of waste within the its tiny canal. This combination includes dead cells, oil, makeup, dirt, and basically anything that can melt into the pores. Over time the debris can become solidified when neglected by being left inside the pore.
Loss of elasticity.
Adding to the cause is the loss of skin elasticity. Over time the opening of the pores can become weakened. This can be due to underlying skin condition, skin trauma, or pressure from buildup. Once the pores have lost their ability to contract it becomes difficult to regain this elasticity without resorting to advanced skin therapy such as LASER or IPL.
Dead keratin, not dirt!
Blackheads may vary in colour, diameter, and depth. However, they all have the same characteristic opening that can be easily spotted. The dark pinpoint that we see at the surface of the skin, is actually a result of dead keratin cells being exposed to the open air (oxidized). This reaction causes a browning similar to the effect caused by leaving cut fruit such as a banana or an apple open to the elements. Contrary to popular belief, the dark tip is not dirt!
Blackheads are different from whiteheads due to the opening being present and the causes vary. If a blackhead becomes infected it can then transition into a pustule aka a “pimple”. Improper extraction and/ or excess pressure are most commonly the cause of infection.
Now that you’re familiar with the composition of a blackhead, let’s move on to some solutions and prevention, and DIY techniques for extraction.
Dérmica offers dermaplaning in Edmonton along with other skincare services.
How does it work?
The technician gently grazes a medical-grade scalpel edge over the surface of the skin. This process delivers a fine shave that removes the dull surface skin and vellus facial hair.
What will it do for myskin?
The process brightens the complexion, evens skin tone, and leaves the skin feeling supple and smooth.
Can clients with beards or coarse hair growth get a dérmaPLANE treatment ?
In our professional opinion, dérmaPLANE is not recommended as a means of hair removal for clients with bearded (dense/coarse) hair growth pattern, or as treatment for the skin underlying.
Can I have a dérmaPLANE treatment if I am pregnant?
Yes. The service is considered to be superficial and therefore does not compromise the pregnancy or health of the mother’s skin.
There are typically no side effects from the procedure.
Does it get rid of dark spots?
Yes.This process is most effective when combined with the AHA BOOST or Retinol / Vit C BOOST. The dérmaPLANE process will clear the surface of the skin allowing for deeper penetration of the acid BOOST and target specific conditions.
Can it treat acne?
In our professional opinion, we do not recommend dérmaPLANE as a primary means of treating acne. The risk outweighs the potential benefit when compared to other more effective methods of acne treatment. Try our Treatment Selection Guide to see our recommendations.
When will I notice my results?
The results of dérmaPLANE are seen immediately following the procedure. The goal is to leave the skin feeling softer and looking radiant. Contrast is most evident when comparing the appearance before and after service, in those who have major build up and visible hair growth.
Are there any side effects?
There are typically no side effects from the procedure. Your skin may feel slightly exposed and sensitive for 1-2 hours following. It is recommended that with any professional skin care service extended sun exposure is avoided for a minimum 24-hour period.
Your skin should be at a resilient state therefore, we ask that you refrain from using strong products or having other procedures on your skin prior to your dermaplaning service.
Stop using AHA/ BHA/ Retin A/Vitamin A/Hydroquinone 24 hours prior to your service. These products may cause the skin to become sensitized. If you are using prescribed topicals, consult with your doctor.
Avoid waxing and shaving for at least 2 weeks prior to your appointment.
Arrive with a clean face if possible. Eye makeup and lip colour are fine.
Remove facial jewelry otherwise these areas may need to be avoided.
How long will I be in my appointment?
dérmaPLANE alone requires 45 minutes – 1.15 hours of service. If you are a new guest to dérmica, you will need about 5 minutes to fill your intake form. Be mindful of parking and traffic in the community.
What is the after care?
Makeup is to be avoided for a 24-hour period as this can clog the pores and introduce bacteria. As with any professional skin care service, we recommend the use of quality products in order to preserve and prolong your dermaplaning results.
Vascular lesions are due to conditions such as Rosacea, couperose skin, sensitized skin, or skin trauma. These types of conditions are characterized by frequent, consistent redness, and visible redness and broken capillaries. They are most commonly found in the facial and neck area. If left unchecked these conditions can worsen, or mutate the skin’s texture. The following sensitive skin care tips will help you prevent flare-ups.
TIPS on how to calm your skin.
1. Avoid applying heat to the skin. For example: hot showers, heating fan in your vehicle, extended sun exposure.
2. Limit alcohol (especially red wine 😵) consumption when your are already experiencing a skin flush.
3. Use fragrance free and gentle products on your skin.
5. Use soothing mask 2-3 times/ week to hydrate and calm your skin.
6. Keep your moisturizer in the door compartment of your fridge for added cooling effect.
Environmental factors to consider
Weather
Protect skin from sun, wind, and excess temperatures (something we all experience living in Canada). We cannot emphasize how important using sunscreen daily is, even during winter! Throughout the winter months, cover your cheeks and face with a scarf. Wash the scarf/scarves regularly. If possible, replace the scarf every day or every other day to prevent breakouts.
Looking for a gentle care line for your sensitive skin? We recommend the CALM SKIN SET.
We offer mild “boost” peels that can be added to other services or deep peels that use medium to strong skin acids.
PEELS
Located in Edmonton, Dérmica offers chemical peels deliver varying depths of chemical exfoliation through the application of enzymes or hydroxy acids such as: Alpha Hydroxy (AHA) or Beta Hydroxy (BHA).
Peels are customized depending on the current condition of the skin and desired results. Conditions that can be treated include: pigmentation, acne, fine lines, dry skin, and more. There is a recommended downtime of 2-7 days depending on the depth of the peel.
BOOST Mild Peels
BOOST peels are classified as mild skin acids. BOOSTS can be used to pre-treat the skin before transitioning into stronger skin peels. They are great for seasonal maintenance and can be added to a Facial service to amplify results. Downtime: 24 – 48 hours.
AHA (10-20%)
$ 55
Relieves dry skin, reduces fines lines and pigmentation.
BHA (10-20%)
$ 55
Cleanses and decongests oily skin.
Enzyme
$ 55
Exfoliating peel ideal for all skin types and maintaining healthy skin.
Retinol & Vit C
$ 65
Brightens the complexion and softens the skin texture of the skin.
Deep Peels (20 – 85%)
Deep peels are classified as medium to strong skin acids. They range from 20% – 85% potency and can be layered for maximum effect. They are ideal for pre-treated skin and provide deeper resurfacing of the skin. May cause visible shedding and flaking. Downtime: 3-10 days
Complexion Refining
$ 145
Relieves dry skin, reduces fines lines and pigmentation.
Acne Treatment
$ 145
Cleanses and decongests oily skin.
Anti-Aging
$ 145
Delivers powerful exfoliation and promotes rejuvenation of skin cells.
Dry Skin Relief
$ 145
Relieves coarse/ flaking skin and boosts hydration levels.
Purchase a treatment package! Receive 15% OFF when you purchase a series of 6 treatments.
PLEASE REVIEW THE CRITERIA BEFORE BOOKING YOUR PEEL.
Recommended sessions: 4-8
Downtime required: 1-7 days
Time frame: 15-30 minutes
Pre-treatment protocols:
Must not currently be on or have used Accutane or any other oral prescription acne medications in the past 12 months
If currently using any products containing AHA/BHA/Retin A/Vitamin A on the area being treated, you must discontinue usage 2 weeks prior to procedure
Must wait a minimum of 1 week from last tanning session
Contraindications:
Diabetes
Pregnancy
Skin cancer (remission under 2 years)
Use of photosensitive medication and herbs
Active infection of Herpes Simplex in treatment area
Active skin infection
Potential side effects:
Discomfort
Fragile skin
Edema (swelling)
Erythema (redness)
Visible shedding
PROFESSIONAL SKINCARE AT HOME
Professional treatments should go hand in hand with clinical grade skincare products that will help to maximize results. This is why we offer 15% OFF all Glo Skin Beauty products in-store with any of the treatments above.
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Achieve your skin goals by pairing your skincare with dérmica treatments.
Try our Treatment Selection Guide. Our easy-to-use, digital guide makes selecting the correct treatment for your skin type and concerns a breeze! Our Skin questionnaire allows us to understand your skin type and concerns. Based on your answers, we recommend treatments to address your skin concerns and help you make informed decisions.
