Blackheads & Sebaceous Filaments

Sebaceous filaments are often mistaken for blackheads because they both look like dark spots on the skin, but there is a subtle difference between the two. Sebaceous filaments are a visible build up of sebum and debris in the pores and are a common skin concern, experienced by most of us. Whereas blackheads are a type of acne, and are dark coloured bumps on the surface of the skin and look like a dark spec of dirt. Sebaceous filaments are not a type of acne and appear in normal skin and are smaller and more ‘waxy’ when extracted. Blackheads are more well known than sebaceous filaments, so you may hear the terms used interchangeably for ease, however they are different.

There is nothing you can do to completely prevent blackheads or sebaceous filaments, however you can reduce them by introducing a professionally recommended chemical exfoliant into your skincare routine to control oil production, getting regular exfoliation treatments in clinic, and getting the blackheads professionally extracted. Please do not try to remove them at home, as this will likely cause more damage, scarring and you will not get the desired result you are looking for.

All of our facial treatments include professional blackhead (and sebaceous filament) extractions to effectively and safely remove congestion and we recommend monthly treatments to prevent a build up.