We know how frustrating it can be to have closed comedones or whiteheads on your face. Since we’ve experienced the same thing, we understand what a hassle this can be and so have conducted extensive research to uncover effective treatment options for clearing them up quickly and naturally.
In this article, you’ll find useful information about recognizing and treating closed comedones such as prevention tips and suggested topical treatments. Plus, you’ll also discover helpful factoids like the importance of chemical exfoliants in keeping clogged pores from forming!
Have only got few minutes? Don’t worry! This article is short but full of essential facts that could help clarify your doubts on dealing with blackheads within no time. Let’s dive right in!
UNDERSTANDING CLOSED COMEDONES (WHITEHEADS)
Closed comedones, more commonly known as whiteheads, are small plugged pores typically found on the forehead, chin or otherwise areas of the face prone to oil production. Unlike open comedones (blackheads) which have oxidized sebum on their surface and appear darker in color due to a combination of pigment and dirt, closed comedones appear flesh-colored due to them being completely blocked with dead skin cells and excess oil.
These lesions can remain dormant until they become red, swollen or further irritated by skincare products or picking at it agitation. The most effective treatment for closed comedones involve clearing out the pore of its content before scarring can form from inflammation—to prevent new ones forming, keeping the pores clean is vital.
A gentle skincare routine often helps clear up these bumps within weeks; think using gentle exfoliants like alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxy acids(BHAs), adding retinoids into your routine accelerate cell turnover while non-comedogenic products help avoid blocking your pores again in the future.
Over-the-counter ingredients like benzoyl peroxide also address breakouts while salicylic acid can unclog oily congested skin too—do not squeeze any bumps you may experience.
Steadily increase medication strength over time if necessary however keep an eye out for irritations such as flakiness & dryness so that you adjust accordingly; seeking professional help might be advisable as medications prescribed directly by a dermatologist will be stronger should more severe cases arise but always follow directions precisely given by them nonetheless.
Surgical treatments such as dermabrasion are available too although results vary depending on severity whilst covering all bases means understanding what works best for you specifically would wind up maximizing whatever approach used so proceed at your own pace accordingly.
IDENTIFICATION AND CAUSES
Closed comedones, also known as whiteheads, are often confused with pimples. The main difference between the two is that closed comedones occur when a pore becomes completely blocked with both dead skin cells and excess oil instead of just having bacteria trapped in the pore like in the case of pimples.
Closed comedones form when our sebaceous glands produce too much sebum (skin oil) which gets stuck along with any dirt or debris and forms a “plug” within your pores giving it its characteristic white appearance.
Excess oil production caused by hormones, environmental factors such as pollution, stress levels, diet choices and lifestyle habits can all contribute to the development of closed comedones.
Genetics may play a role too since some people may be more prone to developing this kind of acne due to their genetic makeup. It’s important to note that although closed comedones make an appearance on nearly everyone at certain times during their life, they do not cause scarring so if treated correctly your skin will remain clear but you might experience some redness around where it was once located for about 24 hours after treatment has taken place.
PREVENTION AND SKINCARE TIPS
Start taking preventive measures to keep your skin healthy and avoid the formation of closed comedones. Find out more about what works best for you!
Use gentle exfoliants like AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) or BHAs (Beta hydroxy acids).
AHAs and BHAs are gentle exfoliants that can help clear closed comedones, improve skin’s condition, as well as address specific concerns. AHAs work to break down the bonds between dead cells on the surface of your skin to reveal brighter looking complexion. This helps reduce enlarged pores and fine lines. On the other hand, BHAs are best for oily or blemish-prone skin due to their ability to penetrate deeper into your pores; helping reduce any built up debris accumulated from excess oil production, making it ideal for anyone with more stubborn congestion due to acne-prone or combination type skins. When used consistently these acids offer a fantastic alternative for you if choosing not use harsher treatments like retinoids or benzoyl peroxide!
Use retinoids in your routine to speed up cell turnover.
Retinoids, a form of vitamin A, are widely used in skincare as anti-aging compounds. When applied topically on the skin they can reduce fine lines and wrinkles, as well as help to unclog pores by increasing skin cell turnover.
Retinoids work by increasing the rate at which new cells replace old ones causing them to become more fragile and allowing dirt and oil to be removed from clogged pores easier. The increased turnover also helps promote healthier looking skin with an improved texture. Regular use of retinoids will give your routine an extra edge for effectively treating closed comedones!
Use benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid on breakouts.
Benzyl peroxide and salicylic acid are two of the most common ingredients used in treating acne breakouts. The former helps clear out clogged pores by killing acne-causing bacteria, while the latter works to exfoliate dead skin cells that can contribute to closed comedones. When used together, both benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid are ideal for improving a wide range of skin types.
Use non-comedogenic products.
When selecting skin care and makeup, it helps to opt for products that are oil-free and labeled “noncomedogenic” which means they won’t block your pores. When possible look for cleansers with hydrating ingredients like glycerine or hyaluronic acid as this makes sure the skin isn’t stripped of its natural oils after being washed.
Additionally, when choosing moisturizers try to check the label if it is water-based since thick creams might be too greasy that can lead to breakouts. Keeping one’s face clean by washing regularly is important for reducing acne formation, so find a gentle facial cleanser designed specifically for acne-prone skin.
Lastly, use non-comedogenic sunscreen when outdoors especially between 10 am and 2 pm — these times tend to experience the highest levels of ultraviolet ray exposure
Don’t squeeze your bumps!
Skins with closed comedones (whiteheads) are often tempted to pop or squeeze them, however this is highly discouraged. When you forcefully try to remove them, there’s a risk of increasing the inflammation which can cause more harm than good and result in scarring.
Keeping your hands off whiteheads will make it possible for proper treatment products to penetrate deep into the skin without making matters worse. Squeezing these bumps also has the potential of lower self-esteem due to scarring and discoloration on the skin.
By taking preventive measures such as using gentle exfoliants like AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) or BHAs (Beta hydroxy acids), retinoids in your routine to speed up cell turnover, benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid on breakouts, and non-comedogenic products – you have a much greater chance at clearing blemished skin faster and avoiding unnecessary damage from forceful squeezes!
TOPICAL TREATMENTS FOR CLOSED COMEDONES
Treating closed comedones requires more than just changing skin care habits. Topical medications are usually needed to clear symptoms and achieve results. These can range from over-the-counter products to prescription drugs, depending on the severity of your condition.
Gentle exfoliants like AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) or BHAs (Beta hydroxy acids) can be used occasionally in order to help shed dead skin cells that clog pores. Primarily, these should be used as part of a prevention routine in combination with noncomedogenic products – those that have been formulated specifically not to cause breakouts.
Benzoyl peroxide is a silver bullet product for many types of acne due to its antibacterial effects; however it also dries out the skin so when using this ingredient ensure you’re moisturizing your face correctly afterwards!
Finally, there are tailored creams and gels available at drugstores for treating comedonal acne which contain ingredients such as salicylic acid and retinoids—these help speed up cell turnover so new healthy layers of skin replace existing blocked pores with ease!
MEDICATIONS FOR SEVERE CASES
When it comes to severe cases of closed comedones, topical treatments alone may not be enough. Oral antibiotics, hormonal therapies and in extreme cases isotretinoin can help clear up the skin while managing the underlying cause of the acne.
Oral antibiotics work by reducing inflammation and bacteria on the surface of skin which can reduce breakouts. Hormonal therapies such as birth control pills for female patients are used to manage hormone fluctuations that contribute to acne breakouts.
Isotretinoin is an option typically reserved for people with debilitating cystic or nodular forms of acne; this medication works by reducing sebum production and helps keep pores from becoming clogged with dead skin cells.
All medications need to be monitored closely under doctor supervision because they have potential side effects like dryness, redness or irritation when taken long term.
SURGICAL TREATMENTS AND PROCEDURES
Conclusion
The good news is that there are many effective treatment options for closed comedones, ranging from over-the-counter treatments to prescription medications. It’s important to remember that treating comedonal acne involves more than just spot treatments — healthy skincare habits and dietary changes may be necessary as well.
Gentle yet effective exfoliants like AHAs and BHAs can help clear away dirt and dead skin cells while benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid can fight breakouts. To treat severe cases of closed comedones, prescription medications such as retinoids may be recommended by a dermatologist.
And in case of stubborn bumps that don’t respond to creams or gels, surgical procedures might also provide relief. Ultimately, the best way to get rid of your closed comedones is with consistent care for your skin: maintain regular exfoliation; use gentle cleansers; use noncomedogenic products; stay hydrated; regulate stress levels; keep a balanced diet full of nutrients—and give yourself enough time each night to cleanse properly before bed!
At Clique Clinic, we believe in the power of individuality. Your journey is yours alone, and our tailored approach ensures that each treatment plan is as unique as you are. Your goals, your features, your beauty – amplified.
Contact us now to schedule your personalised consultation and take the first step towards a more confident you.
Source URLs
https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/comedonal-acne
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/comedonal-acne
https://clearstemskincare.com/blogs/skin-care-learning-center/how-to-get-rid-of-closed-comedones
https://www.skin-beauty.com/blog/comedonal-acne-how-to-get-rid-of-closed-comedones/
https://www.skincare.com/skin-concerns/acne/how-to-get-rid-of-closed-comedones
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21792-hormonal-acne
https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/acne/how-to-remove-a-comedo
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK459173/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3225139/