What Is in a Blackhead

What are blackheads? Share on Pinterest Blackheads are pockets of oxidized melanin on the surface of the skin. Blackheads are a type of comedo. Comedones occur when the pores in the skin become plugged with dead skin cells and an oily, protective substance known as sebum.

What is the hard stuff that comes out of a blackhead?

It’s mostly made up of sebum (oil that your skin produces) and dead skin cells. This substance typically collects in pores around your nose and chin. That’s because the pores here tend to be bigger, and the oil remains in the pore lining until you squeeze them.

Is it okay to squeeze out blackheads?

‘You should absolutely not squeeze blackheads. Squeezing a spot can push the inflammation deeper and this can cause scarring of the skin,’ she says. Squeezing a spot can push the inflammation deeper and this can cause scarring of the skin.