Sebaceous filaments versus blackheads: what's the difference?

Sebaceous filaments are often mistaken for blackheads. Indeed, they present in the same way and are visible in the same areas. It happens that the tip of the seborrheic filaments darkens slightly, which is explained by the oxidation of the fatty acids that make up the sebum that covers it when in contact with air, thus resembling blackheads.

Firstly, the sebaceous filament is a natural structure around hair follicles, whereas a blackhead is a skin disorder resulting from the obstruction of pores by the formation of a cluster of oxidised sebum and dead cells. Furthermore, the open comedones are located on the skin's surface, while sebaceous filaments are embedded deeper into the skin without blocking anything.

Finally, you can also distinguish them by conducting a small test. When blackheads are extracted (which is generally best avoided), they appear as a dark plug. Conversely, if you squeeze a sebaceous filament, it releases a column of waxy sebum, sometimes accompanied by a dark tip.

While unsightly, sebaceous filaments are not considered imperfections per se, they are not bothersome, nor do they have any pathological value. Therefore, there is no reason to try to remove them manually, as this risks inflaming the skin by pressing on this area and promoting the proliferation of bacteria within the weakened pore, leading to the eruption of a spot.

Furthermore, even if you attempt to extract or squeeze them, this will lead to their rapid return within 30 days, or even much sooner if you have oily skin. However, it is possible todiminish their appearance by adopting a suitable skincare routine by controlling sebum production and minimising pore congestion.

How to diminish the appearance of sebaceous filaments?

To make them less noticeable, it is necessary to adopt a suitable skin cleansing and care routine:

1. Morning and evening, wash your face with a gentle cleanser to regulate sebum production and unclog pores from the mixture of dead cells, pollution particles, dust, makeup residues... For instance, you might want to use a purifying cleansing gel with zinc to rid the skin of excess sebum, especially if you have oily skin;

2. Then apply a purifying toner with salicylic acid. Unlike AHA which are water-soluble, this liposoluble exfoliant has the ability to dissolve excess sebum that clogs the pores. This BHA works deep within the pores to unclog them ;

3. Hydrate your skin daily with a moisturiser suitable for your skin type. Ideally, opt for a zinc-based cream if you have oily skin to limit sebum production;

4. In addition, it is recommended to gently exfoliate your skin weekly and apply a purifying mask made from green clay and black charcoal for its astringent effect. The green clay and charcoal will absorb excess sebum, effectively unclog pores and tighten them.