A blackhead is a clogged pore that remains open at the surface. It is an acne lesion. Its dark colour does not mean the skin is dirty: scrubbing harder is more likely to irritate it. Sebum and cells that build up in the follicle contribute to the formation of comedones.
Blackheads on the Nose
If blackheads on your nose bother you, avoid squeezing or piercing them. Doing so can worsen inflammation and leave scars.
Recognizing Closed Comedones
When the pore opening is closed, the comedone may form a small white or skin-coloured bump. This closed opening distinguishes it from a blackhead. Milia are different: they are small cysts containing keratin. If you are unsure what a bump is, have it examined before trying to remove it.
Gentle Daily Care
Wash your face with a gentle cleanser up to twice a day and after sweating. Use your fingertips, without a brush or abrasive scrubbing. Irritating products or changing your skin care routine too often can complicate treatment. These habits complement treatment; they do not guarantee that comedones will disappear.
Treatments to Limit Comedone Formation
Removing a blackhead and limiting the formation of new comedones meet two different needs. Treatments applied to the skin, including some retinoids or salicylic acid, can help unclog pores. Improvement may take several weeks or months, and maintenance treatment may be needed. The choice depends on the lesions and on how well you tolerate treatment: using more irritating products does not necessarily speed up results. An occasional extraction does not replace this ongoing care.
What Extraction Can Do
A dermatologist may consider extraction for some persistent blackheads or closed comedones. It uses sterile instruments and is generally not the first choice. Comedones can return after removal, so extraction does not replace ongoing care.
Ask Us About Blackheads
Frequently Asked Questions
What about blackheads on the back?
Blackheads can also appear on the back alongside inflamed pimples. Avoid squeezing them or scrubbing with an abrasive brush. Loose, breathable clothing limits friction, especially when you sweat. If the lesions become deep or painful, or leave scars, have them assessed: it is then no longer only a matter of removing a few comedones.
Sources2 references
Sources7 references+
- How to treat different types of acne — distinguishes comedones from other types of acne lesions. (opens in a new tab)
- Comedonal acne — explains open and closed comedones and their management. (opens in a new tab)
- Pimple popping: Why only a dermatologist should do it — explains the risks of manipulating pimples and the limitations of extraction. (opens in a new tab)
- Milium — distinguishes a milium from a closed comedone. (opens in a new tab)
- Acne: Tips for managing — describes skin care habits that help avoid aggravating acne. (opens in a new tab)
- Acne — provides guidance on acne lesions and reasons for assessment. (opens in a new tab)
- Back acne: How to see clearer skin — explains everyday care and self-care limitations for back acne. (opens in a new tab)
When to Request an Assessment
Seek medical advice if the lesions persist despite care, become deep or painful, leave scars or affect your well-being. Skin that is hot and swollen may also need to be assessed. If other pimples are present, the acne may be examined as a whole.
