Blackheads

A close-up image like this can be surprising: several dark, enlarged openings and plugs are visible around the outer ear, with surrounding skin appearing irritated and covered with material that may be oil, keratin, or dried skin debris.

While the image alone cannot establish a diagnosis, the appearance may be consistent with severely clogged pores, enlarged open comedones, or other keratin-filled skin lesions. Some unusually large blackhead-like openings can also resemble a condition known as a dilated pore of Winer.

Why Do These Openings Become So Dark?

Blackheads form when a pore becomes filled with oil, dead skin cells, and other material while remaining open to the surface. The exposed contents react with oxygen, creating the characteristic dark appearance.

Importantly, the black color does not simply mean the pore is filled with dirt. Aggressive scrubbing usually does not solve the problem and can further irritate the skin.

Could These Be Very Large Blackheads?

One possibility for a particularly large, deep-looking opening is a dilated pore of Winer. Cleveland Clinic describes this as an enlarged blackhead-like pore that can contain a dark plug made from accumulated keratin and sebum. It is generally benign, although a healthcare professional should confirm what a particular lesion is.

However, multiple lesions around the ear can have different causes, so it would be inappropriate to diagnose them from a photograph alone.

Why Professional Extraction Matters

The image appears to show a professional examination or extraction rather than ordinary home skincare. That distinction is important.

Dermatologists can use sterile instruments to remove persistent blackheads and whiteheads. Large or deeper lesions may require a different procedure, particularly if there is inflammation, pain, infection, or a cyst-like structure.

Trying to dig into these openings with needles, tweezers, or other objects at home can injure the skin and increase the risk of infection or scarring.