A close-up image like this can be startling at first glance. The skin around the ear appears irritated and contains several dark, enlarged openings that are being examined by a professional wearing protective gloves.

Although dramatic-looking skin images often attract attention online, the appearance of dark plugs or enlarged pores does not automatically mean there is an infection or another serious disease. Several different skin conditions can produce similar-looking spots, and an accurate diagnosis requires an in-person examination.

What Are Those Dark Spots?

One possibility is open comedones, commonly known as blackheads. These occur when a pore becomes blocked by a mixture of oil, dead skin cells, and other material.

The dark color isn’t necessarily dirt. When the material inside an open pore is exposed to air, oxidation can cause it to appear dark.

Comedones can occur on areas beyond the nose and forehead, including the cheeks, jawline, neck, and areas around the ears.

Why Can the Pores Look So Large?

When a pore remains blocked for a long period, the opening can become noticeably enlarged. Repeated accumulation of sebum and dead skin cells may make the area appear more prominent.

Some people also develop dilated pores, which can remain visible even after the material inside has been removed.

The skin around the opening may also become irritated if someone repeatedly squeezes or picks at it.