Blackheads and pimples are two different skin conditions, but both fall under the label of "acne" because they have the same cause. They are very common and can affect people of all ages. Acne is most common in young adults and occurs in nearly 85 percent of people ages 12 through 25 years, according to Princeton University Health Services.
Cause
Blackheads and pimples are caused when the sebaceous glands produce too much oil, which combines with dead skin cells to form plugs in the hair follicles. This plug allows bacteria to thrive and grow. As the bacteria multiply, the body sends white blood cells to the follicles to fight the infection. This combination of events causes the follicles to bulge and produce the bumps associated with acne. When a plug pushes through the skin and comes in contact with air, it oxides, turns black and becomes a blackhead. If a plug and accompanying infection spread through the wall of the follicle into the surrounding skin, a pimple forms.
Identification
A blackhead can be identified easily because it looks like an embedded black pocket on the skin. Pimples appear as bumps on the skin. They may look red and swollen.
Misconceptions
Because blackheads look like dirt embedded in the pores of the skin, it is easy to assume they are clogs of dirt and grime. However, blackheads are not caused by dirt blocking the pores, so scrubbing the skin won't make them go away but may cause irritation that makes them worse.
Solution
The common over-the-counter treatments for pimples and blackheads are products that contain salicylic acid, sulfur, Retin-A, benzoyl peroxide or azelaic acid, according to Brown University Health Services. Severe cases of acne may require treatment by a dermatologist.
Prevention
Wash your face twice daily using a gentle soap so you don't further irritate your skin. Avoid using lotion, sunscreen or cosmetics that are oil based. Choose products that have the words "noncomedogenic" or "water based" on the label.
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