"What causes blackheads?" a curious teen asked during her first facial. With enthusiasm Kasey explained that blackheads are caused by the skin producing more oil than it needs and it has nowhere to go so it widens the pore and then oxidizes (turns black) when the air hits it.
Our skin needs oil--oil is good, but like with most things too much is not necessarily better. So, why does the skin produce more oil than it needs? Hormone imbalance caused by stress, chemicals found in processed foods, junk foods, pesticides, antibiotic-laced dairy products, lack of rest, impure water, are some of the major reasons.
When out of balance, the skin becomes dehydrated and oil production increases to counteract it. And then acne develops when the natural sloughing of dead skin slows or stops, trapping oil and bacteria, and therefore causing infection, i.e. pimples. And, by the way, this condition can be exacerbated by using harsh drying agents in an effort to “get rid” of the oil. Using a quality moisturizer appropriate for oily skin is a must.
It’s exciting to think that as Americans get more and more educated to the importance of eating locally grown, pesticide and antibiotic-free foods, and realize that relaxation and rest are key for everyone, we could see a generation of acne-free teens and adults in our future!
Our teen clients are lucky that they have an adult in his/her life to bring them to a professional to learn about how to care for their skin and relax. I wish I had that when I was a kid!
Remember, Healthy is Beautiful®
2019 Reads
5 years ago
