Blackheads form when oil mixes with dead skin

The skin naturally sheds dead cells as part of its renewal process. These cells, combined with natural oil, sometimes collect inside the pore. When the pore remains open at the surface, the material inside reacts with air and darkens. This creates the small dark spots known as blackheads.

Many people assume blackheads are caused by dirt, but this is not entirely accurate. The dark color comes from oxidation, which is a natural reaction between the material inside the pore and the air. This means that blackheads can appear even when someone maintains a consistent cleansing routine. Knowing this helps remove the idea that blackheads are linked to poor hygiene.