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URL of this page: //medlineplus.gov/ency/imagepages/2088.htm

Blackheads (comedones) close-up

Blackheads (comedones) close-up

Overview

Blackheads, or open comedones, are common in acne. Clogged hair follicles reflect light irregularly to produce this black hue.

Review Date 10/20/2022

Updated by: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Clinical Professor, Department of Family Medicine, UW Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.