Not Blackheads: What Those Dots on Your Nose Really Are
🐝 Not Blackheads: What Those Dots on Your Nose Really Are
If you’ve ever leaned into the mirror and noticed tiny grayish dots on your nose or chin, you might’ve immediately thought: Ugh, blackheads.
But here’s the truth: those aren’t always blackheads. In fact, they’re often something completely normal called sebaceous filaments.
Let’s clear this up with some gentle skincare truth-telling.
✨ What Are Sebaceous Filaments?
Sebaceous filaments are natural structures in your pores that help carry sebum (your skin’s natural oil) to the surface. They’re especially visible on the nose, chin, and forehead. They can look like tiny gray or tan dots—but they’re not clogged, infected, or dirty.
🧴 Think of them as your skin’s oil-delivery system.
❌ So… Not Blackheads?
Correct. Blackheads are clogged pores—sebum and dead skin trapped and oxidized, turning dark. Sebaceous filaments, on the other hand, are uniform, always there (no matter how much you extract), and part of healthy skin.
Trying to “get rid” of sebaceous filaments is like trying to get rid of your hair follicles. Not necessary—and not possible.
💧 How to Support Your Skin Instead
You don’t need to scrub or squeeze! Instead, aim to keep pores clear without overdoing it. Here’s what I recommend:
Gentle exfoliation with enzymes or low-strength acids (like mandelic or lactic)
Clay masks once a week to absorb excess oil
Oil cleansing to dissolve buildup without stripping
A good hydrating routine to balance oil production
🐝 My go-to is this enzyme mask once a week and a soft oil cleanser like this one.
🧡 Final Thoughts
Sebaceous filaments are not flaws. They’re functional and totally normal. Once you understand the difference, it becomes easier to treat your skin with patience, not punishment.
So next time you look closely in the mirror, remember: your skin is doing exactly what it’s supposed to. And that’s beautiful.
🌼 Affiliate Note:
Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase (at no extra cost to you). I only share products I personally use, love, or would recommend to clients in my spa studio. Your support helps keep Bee Well Living going — thank you! 💛
