Whether you call them craters, pizza pie faces, zits or volcanoes, any form of acne is irritating at best and a true medical concern at worst. Blackheads and pimples are two forms of acne that can pop up on any part of the body that has large sebum or oil glands. This means blackheads and pimples can be found on the face, neck, chest, back or shoulders. Blackheads and pimples look different but their cause and treatment are similar.
Blackheads
A blackhead is a form of acne that is open and inflamed at the surface of the skin. This is because the opening of the hair follicle is clogged with sebum secretions, bacteria or dead skin cells. It's called a blackhead because it appears dark. The sebum contains melanin, a pigment that is sensitive to color change when it hits the air, making the acne appear dark and earning it the name "blackhead." Since the pore stays open, air is able to get in and cause the "black" appearance. Blackheads are not caused by dirt and may take longer to clear than other forms of acne.
Pimples
Pimples are what most people think of when it comes to acne but they are just one kind. Pimples are areas that are inflamed and look like raised, red bumps. They are the result of the wall of a plugged hair follicle breaking near the surface of the skin. Pimples can also result from a pore opening and sebum, bacteria and dead skin cells getting under the skin. They can be a sign of infection.
Causes
Some factors lead to a higher likelihood of having blackheads and pimples. Examples of factors that make blackheads and pimples more likely are skin producing too much sebum or an irregular cycle of sloughing off dead skin cells leading to irritated hair follicles. Hormones are a factor in the appearance of blackheads and pimples, especially in teens, people who are experiencing stress, women in the days right before their period and pregnant women. Genetics have their role as well. Those with parents who had bad acne are more prone to developing it too.
Treatment
Most blackheads and pimples can be treated with over-the-counter products that come in gel, lotion, cream or soap form. Products that contain benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid are common and help dry up the sebum, kill bacteria and shed off the affected skin. These products should continue to be used after the blackhead or pimple goes away to prevent a new breakout. Prescription options are available when over-the-counter treatments don't work. Retinoid, adapalene and tazarotene creams are applied once a day. They help prevent the hair follicle from getting plugged and aid cell regeneration. When blackheads and pimples are moderate to severe, oral antibiotic treatment is an option to reduce bacteria and inflammation.
Prevention
Blackheads and pimples can be prevented by not letting the sebum build up. One way is to wash your face twice a day with mild soap and water. Wash gently as scrubbing too hard can irritate acne and cause more problems. Use cosmetic products that are labeled as oil free or noncomedogenic, meaning they are less likely to clog pores. Take all makeup off before bed and throw out old makeup when it reaches its expiration date. Avoid touching your face, as that transfers oil and pollutants from your hands. Shower after working out and wear loose-fitting clothes to prevent blackheads and pimples on the body.
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