Blackheads and Enlarged Pores

What creates a blackhead?

Pores are a natural part of the skin; blackheads are the superficial plugs that may form within them. Pore dilation begins with faulty exfoliation of cells lining the interior gland-cells are too "sticky" leading to microscopic plugs. 

Sebaceous glands continue to produce sebum that accumulates behind the plug. Protracted pooling of skin oils serves to both nourish bacteria ( like P. acne's and S. epidermis).

Dead skin cells, oils and bacteria choke the follicular opening, expanding the diameter of the pore. Blackheads - medically termed "open comedones" - are an all too common outcome. Plugs within the pores composed of sebum, cellular debris and bacteria congest the gland and expand the pore. Contact with airflow allows oxygenation to take place, turning the plugs black, further heightening visibility.


Extractions

During your facial, your aesthetician will most likely extract blackheads and whiteheads if they are present. For extracting blackheads, a special technique by hand is use to prevent scarring from occurring. Your aesthetician may use a comedone extractor, which is a metal instrument to aid in deep or hard to reach extractions.
After your extractions, your aesthetician will calm the skin and apply a toner or cool water to close down the pores. 

Extractions of whiteheads are a lot different than blackheads. Since there is a layer of skin over the comedone, it is unable to be extracted by hand or using a comedone extractor. Your skin care specialist or physician might use a sterile needle to break open the skin and squeeze out the debris that is left behind

Steam
Facial steam causes the skin to perspire allowing the pores to open up and breathe. Dirt, oil, and grime, which can easily clog pores and lead to breakouts, blackheads and other imperfections, are deeply cleansed as the steam penetrates the face. The facial steam is equally beneficial in relieving stress and cold symptoms.