If you’ve ever leaned in close to the mirror to examine tiny white or gray spots on your nose or chin, join the sebaceous filaments club. Harmless and often barely noticeable sebaceous filaments aren’t commonly discussed in skin care since there’s often more pressing issues like hormonal acne or giant blackheads. However, some people feel self conscious about their sebaceous filaments being more noticeable than others, and we’re here to help with insight from experts.
Featured experts
- Kenneth Beer, MD is a board-certified dermatologist in West Palm Beach, FL
- Julie Russak, MD is a board-certified dermatologist in New York dermatologist
What are sebaceous filaments?
“Sebaceous filaments are threadlike structures that are produced in sebaceous glands,” says West Palm Beach, FL dermatologist Kenneth Beer, MD. They’re nothing nefarious, just tiny, natural structures that line the pores, notes New York dermatologist Julie Russak, MD. “Made up of sebum, dead skin cells and bacteria, they help guide oil along the hair follicle to the skin’s surface, aiding in hydration and protection.”
What is the difference between a sebaceous filament and whiteheads or blackheads?
You might get frustrated with sebaceous filaments and confuse them with whiteheads or blackheads but they’re not one in the same. “The main difference is in their composition and appearance,” says Dr. Russak. They’re “light gray or clear and sit flat against the skin.” On the other hand blackheads and whiteheads are clogged pores and tend to be more noticeable and raised, she notes. Additionally, Dr. Beer notes that the clogged pores often tend to be plugged at the surface while sebaceous filaments are not.
How can I get rid of sebaceous filaments?
First of all, you don’t necessarily need to get rid of them since they’re totally normal and harmless, but if they’re bothering you there are a few tricks you can try.
Over-the-counter products
Dr. Russak notes that sebaceous filaments can become more visible with more oily skin. In this case, she recommends “topical treatments with retinoids or alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) to promote cell turnover and minimize pore size by dissolving the oil inside the pore.” Gentle exfoliation and masks can also help temporarily reduce their appearance,” she adds.
“For over-the-counter products look for science-backed products from medical-grade skin-care lines that target the appearance of sebaceous filaments by reducing oil buildup and refining pore appearance,” says Dr. Russak. “These products are clinically formulated for both efficacy and safety, with active ingredients that address pore visibility and oil regulation while enhancing skin clarity and smoothness.”
Dr. Russak recommends SkinCeuticals Blemish + Age Defense Serum ($110), which “combines salicylic acid with glycolic acid to unclog pores, reduce oil production and smooth skin texture. It’s designed for adult skin with both breakouts and visible signs of aging, making it great for managing sebaceous filaments without drying out the skin.” For a retinod-based product she suggests Skinbetter Science AlphaRet Clearing Serum ($140) as it provides gentle yet effective exfoliation to keep sebaceous filaments in check. Lastly, she reccommends using Revision Skincare Pore Purifying Clay Mask ($56) once a week “to purify the skin and help prevent the buildup that can enlarge pores.”
In-office treatments
We recommend chatting with your board-certified dermatologist about sebaceous filaments since there are some in-office options. Both Dr. Beer and Dr. Russak note that lasers could be a beneficial tool. Dr. Beer advocates for Isolaz while Dr. Russak recommends Clear + Brilliant, Pico or a combination of the two. Both “are effective in minimizing the appearance of pores by targeting the skin’s texture and boosting collagen production,” says Dr. Russak. “When used in tandem or as part of a tailored treatment plan, they can yield impressive, long-lasting improvements in pore size and overall skin smoothness.” Additionally Dr. Beer notes that a really deep facial, chemical peels or prescription Tretinoin can also be useful tools in reducing the appearance of sebaceous filaments.
Can I prevent sebaceous filaments?
Dr. Beer says if you’re trying to prevent them from existing altogether you’ll probably need some new parents with different genes. However, there are some ways to reduce sebum production thereby making them less noticeable. Accutane is one option. “Low dose Accutane has become very popular among celebrities and dermatologists who use this drug in a supervised protocol that keeps skin looking perfect,” he says.
“To keep sebaceous filaments less noticeable, maintain a skin-care routine that balances oil production and normalizes the microbiome of the skin,” advises Dr. Russak. “Cleansers with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide can help control sebum. Regular gentle exfoliation and moisturizing support balanced skin, reducing excess buildup. Maintaining a healthy skin barrier key.”
