They might be darker in color, but they’re not your run-of-the-mill blackheads.
But don’t fret; they’re not so difficult to treat.
What are sebum plugs, and why do they happen?
But it’s when there’s too much sebum that it becomes a problem.
These oily bumps have a multitude of names with slightly different profiles.
Sebum plugs versus blackheads.
Simply put, sebum plugs are the foundation for blackheads and whiteheads.
Meaning, blackheads and whiteheads are later iterations of sebum plugs once they become inflamed.
“A blackhead or whitehead is a form of acne,” says board-certified dermatologistAmy Ross, M.D.
Consider them the prerequisite for zits.
How to treat sebum plugsthe do’s and don’ts.
Annoying, yes, but sebum plugs are not cause for alarm.
First things first: Know your topicalsspecifically, your chemical exfoliants.
Since sebum plugs are because of oil, your best bet will be BHAs.
Don’t: Squeeze them.
Do: Apply topical retinoids.
Topical retinoidsare another tried-and-true remedy for treating sebum plugs.
That’s what makes them great for inflammatory and comedonal (aka, pore-clogging) acne.
