Blackheads are small bumps that appear on your skin due to clogged hair follicles. These bumps are called blackheads because the surface looks dark or black. Blackheads can usually be treated with over-the-counter acne products.
Blackheads are a common type of acne that form when hair follicles become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and other debris.
They appear as small, dark spots on the surface of the skin, typically on the face, but can also occur on the back, chest, neck, and shoulders.
Unlike whiteheads, which remain closed, blackheads are open to the air, causing their dark appearance due to oxidation.
Blackheads develop when the sebaceous glands in the skin produce excess oil, which mixes with dead skin cells and accumulates in hair follicles. The open nature of blackheads exposes the trapped material to oxygen, resulting in the dark coloration that distinguishes them. While they may seem like dirt lodged in the pores, their coloration has nothing to do with cleanliness but rather the chemical reaction of oxidation.
Blackheads are influenced by several factors, including hormonal changes, genetics, and lifestyle choices such as diet and skincare habits. For example, increased hormone levels during puberty or menstruation can stimulate more oil production, making teenagers and young adults more prone to blackheads. Moreover, wearing heavy makeup or using oily skincare products can further contribute to pore blockage, exacerbating the issue.
To address blackheads, adopting a consistent and non-comedogenic skincare routine is key. Cleansing the skin twice daily to remove oil and impurities, exfoliating regularly to prevent buildup, and using treatments with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide can help manage blackheads effectively. Additionally, avoiding the temptation to squeeze or pick at blackheads is crucial, as doing so can cause irritation, scarring, or infection. With patience and proper care, blackheads can be minimized, leaving the skin clearer and healthier.
Blackheads are a mild type of acne that usually form on the face, but they can also appear on the following body parts:
- back
- chest
- neck
- arms
- shoulders
Acne affects nearly 50 million Americans and is the most common skin disorder in the United States, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.
