What is a blackhead commonly referred to as?

A blackhead is commonly referred to as an open comedo. This term describes a type of acne lesion that appears when hair follicles become clogged with sebum (oil) and dead skin cells. In the case of blackheads, the surface of the clogged pore is open, allowing the contents to oxidize and turn dark, which gives it the black appearance. This characteristic distinguishing feature is essential in understanding the basic pathology of acne and how different forms of comedones develop.

The other terms listed refer to different types of skin conditions. An inflamed follicle pertains to a type of acne that is more severe and typically results in papules or pustules, caused by inflammation and infection. A seborrheic cyst is a sebaceous cyst filled with sebum, which is a different condition that can occur in the skin but is not synonymous with blackheads. A closed comedo, often referred to as a whitehead, occurs when the hair follicle is clogged but remains closed to the surface, resulting in a white or flesh-colored bump rather than a darkened one. Understanding these distinctions is vital for proper diagnosis and treatment in aesthetic practices.