Things To Know About Closed Comedones Treatment

Whiteheads, or closed comedones, are a type of non-inflammatory skin blemish created by accumulating dead skin cells and oil in the skin’s pores. Manual extraction or an over-the-counter or prescription lotion can assist in removing the clog and restoring your skin’s natural beauty.

Closed comedones are discussed in this article, along with their symptoms, causes, and effective and safe treatment.

Indications of Closed Comedones

Tiny pimples can be seen all over the skin where there are closed comedones. They are neither crimson nor heated. They typically blend in with the skin’s natural tone. Certain whiteheads can produce a white head because the underlying plug causes the skin to stretch.

Closed comedones are more common on the face, neck, chest, and back since these areas have the highest concentration of sebaceous glands.

However, when the plug pulls through the follicular opening, open comedones (blackheads) form. The plug turns black because of oxidation, which occurs when the pin is exposed to air. It is not uncommon for closed and open comedones to coexist on the same skin patch.

Cause and Risk Factors of Comedones 

Pores in the skin, also known as hair follicles, become clogged with comedones when natural skin oils (called sebum) combine with dead skin cells (called keratinocytes).

Whiteheads that are not inflammatory and have a smooth surface are called closed comedones, which form when the plug is encased by overlaying skin. Closed comedones can develop into abscesses if bacteria infiltrate the follicle or the follicle wall breaks.

Comedones are more common in some populations. Some people are more likely to develop comedones and acne than others due to factors such as their age, biological sex, lifestyle choices, and heredity.

The presence of persistent comedones characterizes comedonal acne. Acne vulgaris, the most common acne, is more common in those with stubborn comedones, hence the moniker.

Due to the increase in adolescent and teenage sex hormones, comedones are more prevalent throughout these years.

In addition, comedones can form when estrogen levels fluctuate (like during menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause) or when testosterone production is inhibited (as it is while using anabolic steroids).

Comedones and comedonal acne risk is also increased by other factors, such as:

• Soaps and skin care products that are too harsh or abrasive
• Isopropyl myristate and propylene glycol-based skin care products
• Pomade-based hair gels are greasy and sticky
• Skin that has been over-moisturized or is constantly exposed to high humidity levels
• High-sugar, high-fat, high-milk-product diets
• Smoking cigarettes

Known Treatments

Closed comedones are frustrating, but they can be treated. If your acne is minor, try an OTC treatment before using prescription medicines.

Manual Extractions

Only a dermatologist or esthetician should perform blemish extractions, as they are exact and can cause scarring if done incorrectly. This is especially true because whiteheads are often embedded deep under the skin. They may bleed or even scar if you squeeze or otherwise mistreat them.

Comedones can be extracted by a dermatologist or an esthetician using either their fingers or a comedone extractor.

Although extractions can help your skin look better, they won’t prevent future closed comedones from appearing. You’ll still need therapy to ensure they don’t return.

Over-the-counter Treatments 

To hasten the removal of dead skin cells and aid in the removal of excess sebum, you can use an over-the-counter acne cream, gel, or ointment containing benzoyl peroxide, adapalene (0.1 differin gel), salicylic acid, or glycolic acid. This can aid in preventing congested pores.

Sometimes, it takes time for OTC medicines to have an effect. Sometimes, improvement may not be noticeable for up to eight weeks.

Prescription Medicine 

You may want to consult a dermatologist for prescription drugs if you have several closed comedones or have been dealing with them for a long time.

Usually, your dermatologist will start you off with a topical retinoid. Choices could involve:

• Differin 0.3 (adapalene)
• Retin-A (tretinoin)
• Tazorac (tazarotene)

These vitamin A-based treatments can remove debris from clogged pores and prevent further buildup. They help soften and smooth the skin as a bonus.

Azelaic acid is a topical antiseptic that your dermatologist may recommend (though you may be able to find it without a prescription, depending on the concentration). Contraceptive medications may help women with comedonal acne, too.

Natural Remedies

Some people prefer using natural alternatives to avoid the potentially damaging effects of chemical treatments for comedones.

Although there isn’t much proof that these treatments work, many people swear by natural topical cures like:

• Witch Hazel 
• Honey 
• Aloe Vera
• Green Tea Extract 
• Ginseng Extract 
• Tea Tree Oil

In Summary 

Whiteheads, or closed comedones, are small lumps on the skin. They result from dry skin buildup and sebum inside the skin’s pores.

OTC acne medicines are effective for treating closed comedones. If the condition worsens, a dermatologist may recommend topical treatments to remove the comedones and prevent their return. A manual extraction by a dermatologist or esthetician can also make your skin appear less bumpy.