Blackheads are dark in color, are raised and painless

• They are most commonly seen on the face, but may also appear on the upper back and shoulders

Formation of a plug at the opening of hair follicles, due to dead skin cells or oils collection in the opening.

• When skin around the clogged pore opens, air enters and oxidizes the skin debris and oils, turning it black.

Risk factors include:

• Increased production of sebum
• Accumulation of the Propionibacterium acnes bacteria on the skin
• Inadequate shedding of dead cells leading irritation in the hair follicle
• Hormonal changes as seen in adolescence, during the menstrual cycle or while on birth control pills
• Consumption of drugs containing corticosteroids, lithium, or androgens

• Cleanse and defoliate your skin regularly
• Stress can act as a trigger, so get adequate rest
• If you have oily skin, use oil absorbing products; removing excess oil using blotting paper. Using clay mask once a week is also helpful
• Use moisturizer daily
• Avoid over washing
• Do not pick existing blackheads