Blackhead extraction videos continue to attract millions of viewers worldwide. The image above appears to show several enlarged blackheads (also called open comedones) on the nose being professionally extracted. While these videos are fascinating to watch, they also highlight a very common skin condition that affects people of all ages.
In this guide, we’ll explore what blackheads are, why they become so large, how dermatologists safely remove them, and the best ways to prevent them from coming back.
What Are Blackheads?
Blackheads are small clogged pores filled with a mixture of:
- Excess skin oil (sebum)
- Dead skin cells
- Dirt and debris
- Keratin buildup
Unlike whiteheads, blackheads remain open to the air. When the trapped material is exposed to oxygen, it oxidizes and turns dark, creating the familiar black appearance.
Despite their color, blackheads are not caused by poor hygiene or dirt inside the skin.