Sebaceous filaments represent a structure from your skin that helps oil get to the surface. Sebaceous filaments are filled up with sebum, and many times they can cause enlarged pores.
These will become more visible, causing the extended, more visible pores to be confused with blackheads. However, you must know that they are not the same thing. Sebaceous filaments are pores filled with sebum, while blackheads are part of a skin condition called acne. Even if they are not the same affection, there are times when these structures can create pimples or blackheads.
To better understand the difference between blackheads and sebaceous filaments and how to spot each of the two, read the article below.
What causes enlarged pores?
The sebaceous filaments are like channels that bring sebum to the surface of your skin. These are pores that stretch until they become more visible. They are smooth and can be caused by excessive sebum production combined with sun exposure. Also, when your skin lacks collagen or when you are ageing, these pores will become more noticeable.
Enlarged pores are not something you can remove, like pimples or blackheads. However, there are some products or treatments that can shrink them. You should not be worried about these extended pores. They are a natural structure, and their presence will not harm you in any way. Also, they do not represent a sign of infection or that your skin is not clean enough.
Where are sebaceous filaments often found?
They are often found on the nose, and chin, especially on very oily parts of your body. Sometimes, these structures appear when you have thick follicles. Therefore, you might experience them on other body parts besides your face, including the breast and chest area.
Are sebaceous filaments normal?
Yes, it is normal to have them. They become enlarged for people who have oily skin. They are an oil build-up that, most of the time, contains bacteria and the hair follicle. Everyone has these pores, and they have a more yellow or grey color when they are clogged. Having them doesn’t place you at risk, and all doctors agree they are only a cosmetic thing.
Why do sebaceous filaments smell?
They are filled up with sebum. This oil is naturally produced by your body to moisturize not only your skin but also your scalp. Sebum that is produced by the sebaceous glands has no smell. However, when bacteria are involved, you might notice a bad odor.
Can enlarged pores cause pimples?
It would be best if you did not confuse sebaceous filaments with acne. However, when they get filled up with sebum, they become visible, and sometimes they can create whiteheads or blackheads.
Will sebaceous filaments ever go away?
No, you cannot get rid of these glands. They are part of everyone’s skin. Even if you professionally extract them, they will appear again.
Sebaceous filaments vs. blackheads
There is a huge difference between blackheads and sebaceous glands. However, most of the time, the two create confusion because, at first glance, they look the same. To be able to differentiate the two, you should take a look at their structure, appearance, and colour.
The blackhead represents a blockage that doesn’t allow the oil to exit the pore. On the other side, we have the sebaceous glands that are like a tube that allows the sebum to get to the skin’s surface.
As for the color, the blackhead has a very dark-colored spot on the pore. This happens because it is oxidized when getting in contact with air.
Treatment for sebaceous filaments
One of the best treatments for these pores is HydraFacial. Among the best perks of this treatment is the fact that it combines six facials into one.
The HydraFacial MD technology uses a patented Vortex-Fusion delivery system to exfoliate, extract and hydrate your skin.
When you have a Hydrafacial treatment, we gently cleanse and peel your face. We use glycolic and salicylic acid to exfoliate your skin and make your face look brighter.
Our technology will gently remove blackheads, clogged pores, and oil responsible for congestion. For the last step of the treatment, our goal is to rejuvenate your skin and get it hydrated. In order to maximize the freshness of your skin, we use antioxidants and hyaluronic acid. The treatment is ideal when you are struggling with redness, acne, or pigmentation. Also, it delivers amazing results against wrinkles and fine lines.
How to care for sebaceous filaments at home?
First of all, if you want your face to look brighter, with smaller pores, you will need to exfoliate your skin more often. We recommend you use salicylic acid or glycolic acid. These are OTC products that you can easily find. You will need to find the best creams and serums that boost your collagen production and remove dead skin cells. However, take precautions because extra exfoliating your skin might cause irritation. Also, this process might trick your skin into believing that your type is no longer oily but dry. In this case, it will produce even more sebum.
Even if it seems hard, one of the best things you can do is not to squeeze enlarged pores. We know how tempting that sounds, but this is not a solution to get rid of this unwanted skin problem. Once you squeeze the pores and get out the sebum, it will quickly refill them. In fact, the best thing you can do is to stop picking your face, whether you have clogged pores or acne. By doing this, you might hurt your skin without achieving anything.
Where can I treat enlarged pores?
Enlarged pores are a cosmetic thing. When they enlarge, they have a more visible aspect that we don’t like. Therefore, Skinglow Clinic comes to your aid with therapies and treatments that will make your skin look absolutely wonderful. If you are searching for one of the best places in London to minimize those enlarged pores, we are here to help.
We have more than 20-years of experience in skincare aesthetics. Our clinic is a lovely space where you will feel relaxed and comfortable. Here, you will get HydraFacial treatment that will rejuvenate your skin and make your pores look smaller.
Moreover, our skincare specialist will help you develop a skincare routine that you can follow at home. This will help you prevent clogged pores and will be suitable for your skin type. We use advanced technology and the best products on the market. This way, you will find yourself in a safe space, surrounded by experts who will make your skin truly glow.
If you want to find out more about these glands and the way you can minimize the pores, contact us.
Also, you can pay us a visit at 216 Kensington Park Rd, Notting Hill.
