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Blackheads
Blackheads are small, dark spots (about the size of a pinhead) caused by discoloration of the surface of a small plug in the opening of a follicle (pore). Blackheads are open and dark in color. Blackheads are follicles that have a wider than normal opening. They are filled with plugs of sebum and sloughed off cells and have undergone a chemical reaction resulting in the oxidation of melanin. This gives the material in the follicle the typical black color. This black color is due to melanin pigment and not dirt. Squeezing a blackhead often leads to irritation. Blackheads can be more numerous on the face and shoulders than red bumps filled with pus. Good consistent skin hygiene can help improve this condition.