Blackheads (clinically recognized as an open comedo, plural comedones) are yellowish or blackish bumps or filling in the skin (usually the face). A blackhead is considered as a kind of acne vulgaris. Opposite to the widespread principle that it is triggered by poor sanitation, blackheads form when there is an excess in oils that build up in the sebaceous gland duct. The matter obtained within these blackheads is typically made up of keratin as well as sebum. Sebum is an oily discharge of the sebaceous gland. Obstructed hair follicles imitate light intermittently to create the "black" tinge in the blackheads. Therefore, the obstruction possibly will not automatically appear black when taken out of the pore, still may retain a new yellow-brown tint as an effect of melanin. On the contrary, a "whitehead" (mistaken as pimple otherwise a clogged (closed) comedo) is made of similar matter, sebum, but it has an opening that allows air to reach it, thereby giving it its white color. 

Blackheads are frequently eliminated by hand, or taken out, for the period a facial therapy. Initially, you can remove blackheads by lightly steaming your face. Your dermatologist may exfoliate your skin before blackheads are extracted. The next step is wrapping your fingers with cotton or tissue the applying mild force on the blackhead. A few specialists may also utilize a tiny metal called "comedo extractor."

Blackheads usually don’t require extraction (the body can do this by itself, with no any problems), but you can use acne drugs to speed up the process. Acne drugs that have salicylic acid, or the use of exfoliants and topical retinoids, can help remove the blackheads. They may also be taken out with the use of a comedone extractor or blackhead strip. A blackhead strip is a tape-like strip (looks like a band aid) that is stuck on the nose and taken out almost ten minutes after, removing the blackheads below with it. It is advised not to use your own fingertips to remove you blackheads. Improper method can create your spots worse, instead well again. Serious incidents may need oral treatment.