Both pimples and blackheads are types ofacneblemishes, but these blemishes develop differently and are treated differently, too.
Blackheads vs. Pimples: Inflammation
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One of the differences between a blackhead and a pimple is inflammation.
DermNet /CC BY-NC-ND
Pimples are a throw in of inflamed blemish.
Pimples are red and swollen.
They often hurt, but not always.
Image: BSIP/UIG / Getty Images
Some pimples stay small, but others can get fairly large.
They are typically flat, aren’t red or swollen, and they don’t hurt.
There are actually many different types of pimples.
Image: BSIP/UIG / Getty Images
As it progresses, a papule may develop a white or yellow pus-filled top.
If it does, it’s now called anacne pustule.Not all papules turn into pustules, though.
Pustules are sometimes called “whiteheads.”
In fact, there are many different skin issues that cause white bumps on the skin.
Some blackheads are more brown than black.
Blackheads look like well-defined dark dots on the skin.
Have a “freckle” appear that has never been there before?
Look closely; it’s probably a blackhead.
Some blackheads are super tiny, so small you’re free to barely see them.
Other blackheads can get quite large, several millimeters in diameter.
The technical name for a blackhead isopen comedo.
Pimples develop when a plug of oil and dead skin cells become trapped in the pore.
This plug stops up the pore opening.
Your skin’ssebaceousglands continue to do what they’re designed to do: create oil for your skin.
The oil is pumped into the pore.
Add in some normal skin bacteria (Propionibacteria acnes)and the follicle becomes irritated and engorged.
Voila!A pimple has formed.
The difference is that the plug develops at the skin’s surface, not deeper within the pore.
It’s actually the plug of your skin’s oil that you’re seeing.
The same thing happens with blackheads.)
Blackheads typically don’t become red and swollen because they rarely lead to a break in the follicle wall.
Blackheads vs. Pimples: How They’re Treated
Pimples and blackheads have similar prevention and treatment.
Plenty of pimple-busting products and medications are available.
For minor breakouts, over-the-counter acne medications should do the trick.
More stubborn or widespread acne can be treated with prescription acne medications that you get from your healthcare provider.
Some of the most common treatments for inflamed breakouts are:
Should I Pop a Pimple?
Don’t pop inflamed pimples.
This won’t help them to heal any faster but can causeacne scars.
Pore stripsare another way to treat blackheads, although the results are temporary.
They just get the top portion rather than the entire blackhead.
Mild blackheads can be treated with OTC products.
Prescription medications are best to treat more entrenched comedonal acne.
Options for treating blackheads include:
Pimples vs. Blackheads: Can They Be Prevented?
Summary
Pimples and blackheads have some key differences.
Everyone gets occasional pimples and blackheads.
These random blemishes generally heal quickly and aren’t a big concern.
If you’re dealing with constant pimples and blackheads, give your healthcare provider a call.
They can help you find treatment options for getting breakouts under control.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, there is a difference between acne and pimples.
The wordacneis used to describe multiple different skin issues due to pore blockage, which includes pimples.
Each throw in of acne has its own method of treatment.
That said, a blackhead can also get irritated if you make a run at remove it.
Blackhead removal is safe when performed by a healthcare provider, specifically a dermatologist.
Reaching out to a professional for help is the best option for blackhead and pimple removal.
Trying to get rid of them yourself can make it worse.
Some blackheads will go away on their own if they aren’t very deep.
If they are deep in your skin, they won’t go away unless they’re removed.
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