Acne is a common complaint for most teenagers and some adults. The University of Maryland Medical Center, or UMMC, states that nearly 17 million Americans have this skin condition. It starts during puberty for most of them and may clear up or persist into adulthood. There are actually several different pimple types, one of which is known as a blackhead.
Definition
A blackhead is a type of pimple that often happens during acne outbreaks. Blackheads start out as microcomedones, or blocked hair follicles on the skin, the Acne.org information website explains. The microcomedones eventually become blackheads or whiteheads, both of which are noninflammatory skin lesions. Blackheads have a surface opening, and they get their name because the skin oil inside of them oxidizes and turns dark. It is visible in the opening as a dark pimple head. Whiteheads have no opening so there is no dark spot.
Cause
Blackheads occur in the same way as other pimples. The skin naturally produces oil and sheds dead cells. Sometimes there is too much oil, which mixes with the cells to stop up the pores. This usually happens on the face, and it is especially common in teenagers because of hormonal changes, according to UMMC, but adults can get blackheads and other lesions, too.
Effects
Blackheads usually disappear naturally when their contents are released, Acne.org explains, but sometimes they develop into inflammatory acne. This happens if the hair follicle wall gets ruptured. It can happen spontaneously or be triggered by touching, picking or squeezing the blackhead. The area floods with white blood cells and becomes an inflamed papule. Over time the cells work their way to the skin's surface and the pimple turns into a pustule. If it collapses or explodes, Acne.org warns that it can inflame the surrounding area and cause deep nodules or cysts.
Treatment
Consistent acne treatment can prevent blackheads or keep them from progressing into papules and pustules. Topical acne medication is readily available at pharmacies and department stores. The American Academy of Dermatology states that effective ingredients include benzoyl peroxide, resorcinol, salicylic acid or a combination of alcohol and acetone. Sulfur is sometimes combined with these ingredients.
Warning
Acne cysts are serious and usually leave permanent scars, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. It is important to keep blackheads from reaching the inflammatory stage and developing into cysts. Doctors can prescribe strong creams and oral medication for patients who do not get relief with store-bought products. MayoClinic.com warns against rough facial scrubbing, and acne sufferers should not try to pop blackheads because it often makes them worse instead of relieving them.
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