What Are Closed Comedones? Causes, Treatments & Skincare Tips

Published: May, 2025

Ever wondered what those annoying skin-coloured bumps on your forehead are? If you’ve noticed they don’t seem to go away, you might be dealing with closed comedones, commonly known as whiteheads.

Closed comedones are reddened bumps caused by clogged pores. Unlike blackheads, they stay covered by a thin layer of skin, making them harder to remove. In this article, we’ll explain what closed comedones are, how they differ from open comedones, what causes them, how to treat them, and answer some common questions.

Comedones are small bumps (papules) on your skin that form when pores become clogged with excess sebum (oil) and dead skin cells. These blockages typically occur on the forehead, chin, and cheeks – areas where oil glands are more active. Comedones are considered a non-inflammatory type of acne and are one of the earliest signs of breakouts.

There are two main types of comedones: open comedones (commonly known as blackheads) and closed comedones (commonly known as whiteheads).

Closed comedones are small, white or flesh-coloured bumps that form beneath the surface of the skin. They develop when pores become clogged but remain covered by a thin layer of skin, trapping the blockage underneath. As a result, they appear as smooth, raised spots. Whiteheads can range in colour from skin-toned to creamy white. Unlike inflamed pimples, closed comedones do not contain pus and cannot be popped.

People with oily or combination skin are more likely to develop closed comedones.

The main difference between open and closed comedones is whether the pore is exposed to air. Open comedones, or blackheads, form when the clogged pore remains open. When melanin (the pigment responsible for skin’s colour) in the trapped debris reacts with oxygen, it oxidises and turns dark. This is why blackheads appear black on the surface.

Closed comedones, or whiteheads, form when the clogged pore remains covered by skin. This prevents oxidation and keeps the blockage a light or neutral colour. 

Closed comedones are caused by excess oil (sebum), dead skin cells, and bacteria building up inside hair follicles. Contributing factors include hormonal fluctuations, heavy or comedogenic skincare products, poor cleansing routines, and excessive oil production. These blockages create a perfect environment for acne to develop beneath the skin’s surface.

Other factors that can lead to closed comedones:

• High dairy consumption
• A diet high in fats and sugars
• Overhydrated skin, often caused by using the wrong moisturiser
• High humidity
• Laser therapy or chemical peels
• Harsh or abrasive soaps and skincare products
• Picking at the skin or popping comedones which can cause follicle injury

An effective skincare routine, lifestyle adjustment, and sometimes professional treatment can help to get rid of closed comedones. The goal is to unclog pores, regulate oil production, and prevent future build-up. Here are the most effective treatment options:

Use a gentle cleanser to remove excess oil and dirt without stripping the skin. Eucerin DERMOPURE CLINICAL Intense Correcting Cleansing Gel is a non-comedogenic face wash formulated with 6% Ampho-Tensides, which gently yet effectively remove excess sebum, dirt, and makeup without drying the skin. This cleansing gel is ideal for blemish-prone skin and for helping to treat closed comedones. 

Alongside cleansing, using the right moisturiser is essential for managing closed comedones and keeping your skin healthy. 

Eucerin DERMOPURE CLINICAL Mattifying Fluid is a lightweight, oil-free moisturiser designed for oily and blemish-prone skin. It contains Salicylic Acid, a gentle exfoliant that helps unclog pores and prevent new breakouts. 

The formula also mattifies the skin to reduce excess shine and soothes irritation and redness, making it a great choice for everyday use. If you have mild to moderate acne, this moisturiser is ideal for you.

*In a self-assessment study, 80 men and women with acne-prone skin, aged between 15 and 40, applied Eucerin DERMOPURE CLINICAL Mattifying Fluid twice a day (am and pm) for eight weeks and recorded the following results.

If you are undergoing medical treatment for acne, Eucerin DERMOPURE CLINICAL Hydra Repair Soothing Cream is a moisturiser suitable for providing intense hydration. This non-greasy cream can help alleviate side effects of treatment, such as skin dryness and irritation. 

The cream contains ceramides to support the skin’s protective barrier, SymSitive* to calm irritation, and Licochalcone A to soothe the skin. While it is particularly beneficial during acne treatment, it can also be used when not undergoing medical therapy if your skin is dry and blemish-prone. 

*Registered trademark of Symrise AG, Germany

Using exfoliation products can help with closed comedones because they work to remove the buildup of dead skin cells and excess oil that clog pores. Exfoliants, such as Salicylic Acid (BHA) or Glycolic Acid (AHA) penetrate the skin and help to:

• loosen and shed dead skin cells, 
• dissolve oil inside pores, 
• improve cell turnover
• reduce inflammation

Eucerin DERMOPURE CLINICAL Oil Control Scrub is an oil-free facial scrub combines Lactic Acid with natural micro-particles to gently exfoliate the skin. It works by removing dead skin cells and unclogging pores, which are the key steps in treating and preventing closed comedones. You can use the scrub for both face and body; it is also designed to cleanse without over-drying the skin. It's particularly beneficial for oily and blemish-prone skin not currently undergoing medical acne treatment.

If you have a mild to moderate acne, Eucerin DERMOPURE CLINICAL Overnight Peeling Treatment is an ideal leave-on serum that can help to treat and prevent closed comedones. It features a 10% Hydroxy Complex, a blend of Glycolic Acid, Salicylic Acid, and Polyhydroxy Acid. These ingredients work synergistically to exfoliate the skin, unclog pores, and reduce blemishes. The formula also includes Licochalcone A to soothe irritation and reduce inflammation. It's also can be used during pregnancy, but it's not recommended for use alongside medical acne treatments.

Eucerin DERMOPURE CLINICAL range offers several other products specifically formulated to help unclog pores, reduce excess oil, and soothe blemish-prone skin. These products are non-comedogenic, meaning they won’t block pores, and are designed to address the root causes of closed comedones.

In addition to maintaining an effective skincare routine, simple lifestyle changes can make a big difference in preventing closed comedones (whiteheads). Try incorporating these habits into your daily routine:

• Avoid heavy or pore-clogging makeup: Opt for oil-free, non-comedogenic makeup and always remove it thoroughly before going to bed to prevent clogged pores.
• Shower after exercising: Sweat mixed with oil and dirt can clog pores, especially after a workout. Make sure to shower and cleanse your face as soon as possible.
• Keep pillowcases and towels clean: Change your pillowcase at least twice a week and avoid reusing face towels to minimise bacteria and oil buildup.
• Don’t touch or pick at your face: Touching your face can transfer bacteria and oils from your hands, increasing the risk of inflammation, scarring, and clogged pores.
• Eat a balanced diet: Reduce your intake of sugar, dairy, and processed foods, as these may trigger breakouts in some individuals. Focus on eating more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats.
• Stay hydrated: Drinking enough water daily helps maintain skin hydration and supports overall skin health.

In some cases, treating closed comedones also involves professional treatment such as:

• Microdermabrasion: A mechanical exfoliation technique that helps remove dead skin cells and clear surface-level congestion.
• Facial extraction: A procedure performed by a trained aesthetician to safely remove comedones.
• Laser or light therapy: Treatments that may help reduce oil production and kill bacteria on the skin.
• Comedones extraction: A dermatologist uses comedone extractor, a special tool, to physically remove blackheads and whiteheads from the skin.

Closed comedones are common and treatable with the right skincare. Focus on non-comedogenic products, gentle exfoliation, and simple lifestyle changes. With consistency, and help from a dermatologist if needed, you can reduce and prevent whiteheads for clearer skin.