This week, a new question in Ask Seasonly : "I've got white filaments on my nose, how can I get rid of them?". Together, we decipher the difference between sebaceous filaments and blackheads, and give you our tips for reducing their appearance. If you'd like to ask us a question for next week, click HERE.
Sebaceous filaments and blackheads are often confused, yet they differ significantly. Blackheads can be treated as an occasional problem, while sebaceous filaments are a natural feature of the skin and can be minimized but not eliminated. In terms of color, blackheads are dark, brown or even black, while sebaceous filaments have a light, gray or even yellowish hue. During extraction, sebaceous filaments release a column of sebum, while blackheads have a lumpy, plug-like appearance.
What is a sebaceous filament?
Sebaceous filaments are naturally present in every pore of the skin, resembling small canals, and serve to transport sebum to the skin's surface to nourish the cutaneous barrier and hydrolipidic film. Sebaceous filaments are therefore common to everyone, although they are more visible in people with combination or oily skin, as their pores are generally larger. Unlike blackheads, which are made up of dead cells and bacteria mixed with sebum that oxidize on the skin's surface, sebaceous filaments resemble microscopic whiteheads.
How can I reduce the appearance of sebaceous filaments?
While there's no need to extract them, it is possible to use a gentle exfoliant with fruit acids (AHAs) every week to rid the skin of impurities. For combination to oily skin, we also recommend using a daily lotion enriched with zinc and niacinamide to purify the skin, tighten pores and reduce the appearance of sebaceous filaments.
It's important to remember, however, that sebaceous filaments are completely natural, as they are essential to the proper functioning of the skin. So be careful not to strip your skin too much to remove them, as you risk creating an imbalance that will cause your skin to produce even more sebum.
Our facialists' advice
Remember to double-cleanse your face in the evening to avoid clogged pores and oxidized sebum. To refine skin texture and reduce pore size, we recommend using a gentle peeling mask every week, adapted to your skin type and sensitivity.
