Health Library
Blackheads
Open comedones
Blackheads are tiny, dark spots on the skin. They are caused by a small plug in the opening of a follicle (pore). Blackheads are also called open comedones. They are one type of acne, often on the face, chest and back.
Related conditions include:
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Considerations
Blackheads can be treated with creams that contain salicylic acid or tretinoin. They can be removed by a skin doctor.
Related Information
AcneWhiteheads
References
Dinulos JGH. Acne, rosacea, and related disorders. In: Dinulos JGH, ed. Habif's Clinical Dermatology: A Color Guide in Diagnosis and Therapy. 7th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 7.
James WD, Elston DM, Treat JR, Rosenbach MA, Neuhaus IM. Acne. In: James WD, Elston DM, Treat JR, Rosenbach, MA, Neuhaus IM, eds. Andrews' Diseases of the Skin: Clinical Dermatology. 13th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 13.
BACK TO TOPReview Date: 10/20/2022
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