Blackheads vs. Whiteheads: What’s the Difference?

You will often hear or read about blackheads and whiteheads when the topic of acne comes up. However, many people are often confused about what these terms mean and what the difference is between them. In short, both blackheads and whiteheads are types of comedones, or clogged pores. The differences lie in how they form and what they look like on your skin. Here, we go into detail about blackheads vs. whiteheads, including what they are, what causes them, and how to both treat and prevent them.

Comedones are clogged hair follicles, or pores, and happen when oil, dirt, and dead skin cells become trapped inside of pores. There are two types of comedones: open (blackheads) and closed (whiteheads).

It is important to note that comedones, or clogged pores, are not the same as a pimple. Clogged pores on their own do not have inflammation and therefore are not red or swollen. A pimple, on the other hand, occurs when a clogged pore becomes inflamed, typically due to C. acnesbacteria, leading to redness, swelling, and sometimes pain or tenderness. 

Many factors can contribute to both blackheads and whiteheads. Some of the most common reasons for clogged pores include:

• Excess oil on the skin. The sebaceous glands secrete sebum, or oil, through the hair follicle to lubricate and protect the skin. When too much oil is secreted, it can clog pores and lead to blackheads and whiteheads. 
• Dead skin cell buildup. Your skin constantly renews itself by shedding dead skin cells (keratinocytes) in a process called desquamation. If this shedding process is abnormal, dead skin cells can accumulate inside the follicle instead of sloughing off properly.
• Hormonal changes. Changes in certain hormones, such as increased androgens, can cause an increase in sebum production, which can lead to clogged pores.
• Certain skin care products. There are many comedogenic, or pore-clogging, skin care ingredients. Using products with these ingredients may lead to blackheads and whiteheads. Some skin types tolerate  comedogenic ingredients  better than others, which is why it is so important to know your skin type when shopping for products. 
• Diet and lifestyle. Studies have shown that diets high in sugar and dairy, particularly skim milk, can contribute to clogged pores and acne (3). Additionally, certain lifestyle factors, such as not removing makeup and washing your face before bed, can lead to clogged pores.

Blackheads are a type of comedone, or clogged pore, called “open comedones.” They are referred to as “open” because the opening of the pore is not covered by skin. This exposure to air allows the material inside the pore to undergo a chemical reaction called oxidation – a process similar to how a cut apple turns brown when exposed to air. Thus, the “black” color you see is not dirt, but rather a result of this oxidation process.

Whiteheads are another type of comedone, but are called “closed comedones” because the opening of the pore is covered by a thin layer of skin and is therefore not exposed to the air like with blackheads. This is why whiteheads remain flesh-colored, whereas blackheads appear to be darker.

Because whiteheads are “closed,” they can be harder to extract than blackheads and more commonly turn into inflamed pimples, especially if you attempt to “pop” or extract them. 

Both blackheads and whiteheads are caused by clogged pores, so they can be treated in much the same way. Although it can be tempting to try to extract them yourself, avoid attempting this, as it can push debris further into your pores and can cause inflammation and damage to the surrounding skin. Instead, use exfoliating ingredients that are right for your skin type.

Some of the best ingredients for blackheads and whiteheads are listed below. However, keep in mind that the best choice for you will depend on which of the 16 skin types you are.

• Salicylic acid.  Salicylic acid  (SA) is a type of beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that can clear pores, reduce inflammation, and target acne-causing bacteria. Because it has a low pH, however, SA is generally best for oily skin.
• Glycolic acid. A type of alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), glycolic acid helps to exfoliate the skin and remove dirt and oil from clogged pores. This ingredient is generally a better option for dry skin types than salicylic acid. 
• Retinoids.  Retinoids  promote skin cell turnover, which reduces the amount of dead skin cells on the surface that could otherwise become trapped inside of pores.
• Niacinamide. Also known as vitamin B3,  niacinamide  has strong anti-inflammatory properties and can help to reduce excess sebum on the skin (4). 
• Benzoyl peroxide. Benzoyl peroxide (BP) has traditionally been used as an acne treatment ingredient because it kills acne-causing bacteria. However, recent studies have revealed that this ingredient may convert into benzene , a toxic chemical, under certain conditions. Until more research is done, you may choose to talk to your dermatologist about other treatment options for clogged pores and acne, such as retinoids. 

As noted above, the best skin care products for clogged pores will depend on your unique skin type.

Some of the best cleansers for clogged pores for dry skin types include:

Some of the best cleansers for clogged pores for oily skin include:

Fortunately, there are many things you can do to prevent or minimize blackheads and whiteheads on your skin:

• Wash your face with a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser. This is especially important at night before bed.

• Exfoliate with appropriate exfoliating ingredients for your skin type.

• Avoid comedogenic ingredients in makeup, skin care, and personal care products.

• Minimize touching your face to prevent transferring bacteria.

• Manage stress to keep hormones balanced.

• Eat a balanced diet rich in antioxidants and low in processed sugars.

• Change pillowcases and towels frequently to reduce oil buildup.

Blackheads and whiteheads are both caused by clogged pores, but they differ in appearance. Blackheads are open and oxidized, while whiteheads remain closed under the skin. Both can be managed with ingredients like salicylic acid, retinoids, and benzoyl peroxide. By maintaining a consistent skin care routine and avoiding pore-clogging products, you can keep your skin clear and prevent new breakouts.

1. Baumann L. Antiaging Ingredients in Ch. 37 of Baumann's Cosmetic Dermatology Ed 3. (McGraw Hill 2022)
2. Baumann, L. Ch. Cosmeceuticals and cosmetic Ingredients (McGraw Hill 2015)
3. Penso L, Touvier M, Deschasaux M, Szabo de Edelenyi F, Hercberg S, Ezzedine K, Sbidian E. Association Between Adult Acne and Dietary Behaviors: Findings From the NutriNet-Santé Prospective Cohort Study. JAMA Dermatol. 2020 Aug 1;156(8):854-862. doi: 10.1001/jamadermatol.2020.1602. PMID: 32520303; PMCID: PMC7287950.
4. Draelos ZD, Matsubara A, Smiles K. The effect of 2% niacinamide on facial sebum production. J Cosmet Laser Ther. 2006 Jun;8(2):96-101. doi: 10.1080/14764170600717704. PMID: 16766489.