Do blackheads always need to be extracted?
Disease description:
My friend is 23 years old this year. Recently, she has developed many pimples on her face, some of which contain white material. Should we squeeze them out? Do blackheads and whiteheads always need to be extracted?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Liu Wan
Comedones typically do not require manual extraction. Medically, comedones represent an early stage of acne and are classified into two types: open (blackhead) and closed (whitehead) comedones. Open comedones resemble the initial “bud” stage of acne; therefore, extraction is generally discouraged. In contrast, firm, closed whitehead pimples containing pus indicate maturation—such lesions represent suppurative (pus-forming) infections. Timely drainage of the pus facilitates removal of toxins, bacteria, and necrotic debris, reduces harmful irritation, and promotes healing. Patients presenting with such symptoms are advised to follow a light, bland diet and maintain local hygiene.
