Comedones.
Whiteheads and Blackheads.

What Are Skin Comedones?

Comedones are whiteheads and blackheads. They are the beginning stages of acne that can evolve into more serious forms of acne conditions. They are most common among teenagers and adults that experience unusually oily skin which makes them more prone to acne. Read more about what causes acne.

Hair follicles (skin pores) are connected with sebaceous glands that produce "sebum" which is natural skin oil that moisturizes skin and hair. Dead skin cells can make their way into the pores where they combine with the sticky oil to clog the follicle. This is called a "soft plug" which does not permit the sebum to reach the skin's surface. The continuous production of oil enlarges the follicle causing bumps.

These inflamed bumps trap bacteria within or below the plug which summons white blood cells to the area to fight infection. Comedones are then created. Blackheads are referred to as open comedones, and whiteheads are called closed comedones. Blackheads have direct contact with the air which causes the sebum to oxidize and appear dark in color. This gives rise to tiny black bumps on the skin surface. Whiteheads have a thin layer of cells on top of them that blocks contact with air which prevents sebum oxidation. This causes small white or clear bumps to form on the skin.

Getting Rid of Whiteheads and Blackheads.

A consistently good acne care regimen can reduce the number of comedones. Proper cleansing is important to remove excess oil and sebum, but too much cleansing can stimulate oil production which can make the problem worse. The best approach is to clean once or twice a day with a mild, non-drying soap such as Neutrogena or Dove. Some dermatologists recommend applying 2.5% benzoyl peroxide after cleansing. This helps to exfoliate dead skin cells and bacteria that derive nourishment from the sebum in the comedones. When these bacteria are present it sets up an inflammatory reaction that can lead to more serious and painful cystic acne lesions.

The prescription product Retin-A can be effective for many people with skin comedones other acne levels. It works by increasing cell turnover which helps to keep the follicles from becoming clogged with sebum.. A dermatologist can prescribe Retin-A, but be prepared. It can cause skin irritation at first and it takes a while to see results.

Extractions of Comedones.

You should not squeeze blackheads or whiteheads. This can irritate the problem by forcing acne deeper into the skin. Dermatologists and licensed estheticians have the proper extraction tools and skills to make extractions with minimal irritations.

Professional Treatment.

Formally trained and licensed estheticians are qualified to treat these less serious types of acne with acne facials, microdermabrasion and other treatments. For more serious forms of acne that reside deep into the layers of skin that can cause permanent scarring may best treated by a dermatologist.