Regardless of the difference between blackheads and whiteheads, you probably don't want them on your skin. Unfortunately, the American Academy of Dermatologists (AAD) has determined that almost 85 percent of all people will have acne at some point in their lives. These unsightly little black and white spots usually appear on the face, chest or back, but can turn up anywhere on your body. The good news is that they are both treatable conditions, though patience may be required.
Identification
Whiteheads appear as raised white spots on the skin's surface. Sometimes, they are not even visible. Whiteheads are more commonly associated with pimples. Blackheads will appear either as a brown or black spot on the skin, and are more likely to be level with the skin's surface. The color of blackheads is caused by melanin in the sebum oxidizing when it comes into contact with outside air. Blackheads are often mistaken for dirt on the skin.
Causes
Blackheads and whiteheads both begin as microcomedones, according to the website Acne.org. This condition occurs when oil gets blocked on its way to the surface, fostering the growth of bacteria. From this stage, the microcomedones become comedones, either blackheads or whiteheads. When the oil remains trapped underneath the skin, it leads to a whitehead. If the pore opens at the surface, a blackhead is created. Left untouched, both forms of acne may eventually drain their contents to the surface and dissolve.
Considerations
It may be tempting to squeeze a blackhead or a whitehead, even though you've likely been told to leave them alone. Consider the fact that blackheads and whiteheads are non-inflamed skin conditions. Touching or picking at them can lead to an inflamed skin condition such as papules, which is large bump, or pustules, or sacs of pus, which can grow larger than the original comedone. As shown on Acne.org, these forms of acne can then become growths called cysts or nodules, which are much more difficult to treat and heal.
Misconceptions
Although dermatologists understand that blackheads and whiteheads are caused by blocked pores, they do not always know why some people are more prone to acne than others. What they do know is that acne is not caused by diet or poor hygiene. According to the AAD website Skin Physicians.com, scientific studies have failed to come up with a link between what people eat and the severity of their acne. Dermatologists have also discovered that scrubbing the skin too hard can make acne worse, not better.
Solution
Although blackheads and whiteheads look different, treatment is often similar for both types. The AAD recommends using products that contain benzoyl peroxide, which is available over the counter or in prescription strength. Apply the treatment to clean skin, using a gentle motion. The last step, and possibly the most difficult, is to wait for a period of 4 to 12 weeks. Keep in mind that these medicines do not work for everyone and may come with unwanted side effects.
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