Blackheads are small "plugs" that develop in the pores of the skin. Blackheads are also called open comedomes. A blackhead is a type of acne vulgaris. It is caused by excess oils that have accumulated in the sebaceous gland 's duct. Blackheads are typically caused by excessive oil and makeup, which can facilitate the multiplication of the bacterium propionibacterium acnes, the predominant anaerobe of the normal skin flora. The substance found in these bumps mostly consists of keratin and modified sebum (an oily secretion of the sebaceous gland ), which darkens (resembling dirt) as it oxidizes. Blackheads are the slightly different sibling of zits, and like zits, squeezing them can be addictive. Composed of the same oil, or sebum, that contributes to the production of pimples, blackheads result from a building up of this oil in pores the difference in appearance is the esult of the blackhead's exposure to the air, the reaction of which with the oil causes the trademark black color of these blemishes.

Black heads do not discriminate based on age; you can get blackheads as an adolescent as well as an adult. They are most common in teenagers but can occur at any age, even in infants. Unfortunately, this can be a continual problem that few people know how to deal with. This black top of the oil plug is then forced closer to the surface of skin by the oil hardening beneath it. This then causes the blackhead to be visible. Treatment for whiteheads and blackheads depends on the severity of the condition. While blackheads are more easily obscured by makeup, they can seem less offensive to the sufferer, and as a result, less damaging to squeeze. But squeezing is not good for blackhead. It leaves a permanent scar on skin and also infection will occurTreatment may include lotions or gels placed on blemishes or sometimes entire areas of skin, such as the chest or back (topical medications).

How to get rid of blackheads

1.Avoid greased products, including oil-based makeup and overly thick creams.

2.Don't use soap or other harsh cleansers on your face.

3.Exfoliate often using a product that contains beta hydroxy acids or alpha hydroxy acids, which can penetrate the skin and clear pores thoroughly.

4.Certain medications, such as birth control pills, can actually cause skin breakouts.

5.Avoid oily foods. Instead, eat foods high in beta-carotene, like carrots, cantaloupe, and other yellow-orange fruits and veggies.

6.If you have blackheads, don't pick at or squeeze them.

7.Applying beta hydroxy acid to the face on a regular basis has been shown to help get rid of blackheads.

Juliet writes articles for http://www.health-disease.org/ and http://www.healthatoz.info/