Some mornings you may find blackheads after you enter the bathroom and wash your face.

You might notice a tiny dark spot or two on your nose.

However, no matter how diligent you are with your skin, sometimes things happen.

Woman looking in the mirror at blackheads

If you start to notice more and more blackheads popping up, it could mean a few things.

According toHealthline, they’re called blackheads because the center of the mark usually looks dark or black.

If you get them confused with large or clogged pores, you’re not alone.

Woman with drawn-on blackheads

Or unless it gets as bad as, for example, this55-year-old blackheadthat was seen onDr.

Warning: that blackhead is pretty gross!

She toldAllurethat what is getting trapped is more likely dead skin cells and oil, not dirt.

woman looking at blackheads in bathroom mirror

So, there’s no need to over-wash your hands and face!

See, it’s not only dirt that might be behind your blemishes!

Acnesbacteria, the primary bacteria responsible forcausing acne, and inflammation."

Woman in front of mirror looking at blackheads

Basically, blackheads form when an open hair follicle becomes clogged with oil or dead skin cells.

Blackheads and other forms of acne commonly happen during puberty or other hormonal changes.

This is the difference between blackheads and other blemishes

Not all blemishes are one and the same.

woman looking at blackheads

As mentioned blackheads are dark and are the result of an open, clogged hair follicle (viaHealthline).

Blackheads are known as open comedones while whiteheads are known as closed comedones.

These types of acne lookverydifferent from blackheads or whiteheads, and treating them usually involves some kind of prescription.

Woman with back acne like blackheads

You might get blackheads confused with clogged pores, too.

Definitely don’t have a go at pop these (viaRefinery29)!

These can definitely get worse if you wear clothing or makeup over these areas (viaHealthline).

concerned-looking woman

Many consider skin to be a good indicator of what’s going on with your health.

Be sure to talk to your doctor if you’re concerned.

However, frequently booking appointments to get extractions to treat your blackheads might not be the best idea.

Treating blackheads takes time

“If not done correctly, they can cause permanent scarring,” she said.

So, while extractions can be a super satisfying process, overdoing it could do some serious damage.

Mahto specifically recommends avoiding ingredients like petroleum, shea butter, glycerin, and any oil-based products.

Woman exfoliating in the mirror

Tackling them needs to be an ongoing process."

Examples of physical exfoliants include using a face cleansing brush or a face scrub with granules in it.

“If you are exfoliating acne or oily-prone skin, once a week is fine.”

woman using blackhead pore strips

This is something youneeda professional for!

If you have blackheadsandsensitive skin, you should probably stay away from pore strips altogether.

Does the blackhead vacuum really work?

a nose with blackheads

Take the blackhead vacuum, for instance.

You’re supposed to turn on the gear and slide the circular tip across your pores.

If you want to opt for something slightly stronger, look for ingredients that will break down blackheads.

woman applying face mask to get rid of blackheads

According toWebMD, retinol is also known for improving skin’s tone and color.

Be right back making an appointment with our doctors now!

However, asWebMDpointed out, science has still not confirmed connections between food and acne.

Retinoids can be good for fighting blackheads

There also hasn’t been much research into the connection between food and blackheads.

Still, it’s a good idea to eat less fast food anyway!

Instead, opt for a consistent skincare routine with the recommended products.

Fast food might increase your risk for acne

If you have any questions about the health of your skin,always talk to a dermatologist.

woman looking blackheads in mirror