Also referred to as clogged pores, clogged follicles, and open comedones, blackheads are perhaps the most recognizable form of acne. They're named "blackheads" because of their dark color, which occurs because they've been exposed to the air. They range in size from small to quite large and can be tricky to prevent and remove.

"Blackheads behave like bottle-cork plugs," explained Dr. Craig Kraffert, a board-certified dermatologist and the president of Amarte Skincare. "Blackheads occur when skin scales and skin oils congeal to form plugs in the ducts leading from oil glands deep in the skin to the skin surface."

Because of their hue and rough texture, they're very difficult to cover up. For that reason, prevention and extraction are key.

I particularly like the Amarte Daily ExfoliPowder ($37) for post-workout, because the plant-seed-based exfoliants will effectively remove any particles congealing at the surface but are gentle enough for daily use so you could use it every day.

— Dr. Craig Kraffert