Sebaceous Filaments vs Blackheads

Sebaceous filaments are a normal part of your skin, while blackheads are a type of acne. Both can appear as dark spots on your skin, but they differ in structure, color, and treatment. 

Sebaceous filaments

Blackheads

Appearance

Usually gray, light brown, or yellow

Dark-colored bumps that look like dirt

Structure

Thin, hair-like structures that line pores

Clogged pores with a plug of sebum at the top

Treatment

Exfoliation can help reduce their appearance

Can be treated with salicylic acid, glycolic acid, and retinoids

How to tell them apart

• Squeeze a sebaceous filament and a white or yellow waxy substance may come out. 

• 
  

  

  Blackheads vs Sebaceous Filaments

  Squeeze a blackhead and a dark plug may come out.