If you feel like you’re fighting a never-ending battle with acne and blackheads, you’re not alone. Many people deal with the visible effects of clogged pores, which frequently manifests into tiny black dots that tend to show up on the nose, cheeks, chin, and forehead.

However, often, what you see in the mirror is not actually a problem with blackheads, but rather, naturally-occurring sebaceous filaments. This is a skin feature everyone has, and it’s commonly confused with blackheads. The professional dermatologists at Pure Skin by Maggie in Honolulu, HI, get a number of questions from clients wondering how to distinguish between the two. Below, they explain the differences.

Blackheads

Blackheads develop when pores become clogged with dirt, dead skin cells, cosmetics, sebum, and other impurities. They turn a black shade of color due to oxidization when exposed to light and air. They are also typically raised and frequently accompany an acne breakout. With the right treatment, dermatologists can often help eliminate blackheads permanently.

Sebaceous Filaments

On the other hand, sebaceous filaments don’t have anything to do with acne and are a normal part of skin function. They are free-flowing secretions and are usually greyer in color. Unlike blackheads, filaments are smooth to the touch and only become visible when the lining of pores fill with sebum. Another major difference is that nothing can be done to get rid of sebaceous filaments.

Understanding how blackheads differ from sebaceous filaments will help you select the right skin care products for your face. It will also save you the frustration of trying to get rid of something that is meant to be part of your skin. If you’re unsure whether you have blackheads or sebaceous filaments, a dermatologist at Pure Skin by Maggie will be happy to help you figure it out. Contact them at (808) 358-4697 to schedule an appointment, or visit their website to view a menu of skin treatments they offer.