Acne Closed Comedo

An Acne Closed Comedo is a type of non-inflammatory acne, which can appear on any oil-producing area of the body, yet commonly develops on the face, neck, chest, back and forearm regions. The common name for an Acne Closed Comedo is a whitehead. Whiteheads typically appear as small, white-colored bumps, or pimples on the skin. The bumps develop after trapped bacteria and sebum form a blockage beneath the skin's surface. A whitehead is considered an Acne Closed Comedo because the lesion does not break the skin's tissue. Many Acne Closed Comedones, like whiteheads, are often invisible to the naked eye. Most can be easily drained with proper care through the skin surface. If left alone, whiteheads and other Acne Closed Comedones, like pimples, are prone to regression, and usually eliminate themselves through the skin's surface over time.

CAUSE:

Acne Closed Comedones and other forms of common, non-inflammatory acne are caused by a blockage of keratin and sebum in follicles (pores) due to overactive sebaceous glands. Sebaceous glands are responsible for the production of sebum, naturally occurring oil within the body. Any enlargement of the glands, or increase in sebum and dead skin cells can affect the onset of Acne Closed Comedones. Hormonal activity in the adrenarche stage of maturing adrenal glands is a common cause of certain non-inflammatory acne seen in young adults during puberty. An accumulation of bacteria in the pores, skin irritation or scratching, stress, hereditary factors and other forms of hormonal activity, such as menstrual cycles, also play a crucial role in the development of Acne Closed Comedones.

TREATMENT:

Acne Closed Comedo treatments often consist of simply changing one's skincare regimen of facial washes, makeup or lotions. Avoid using harsh over-the-counter products, such as astringents, for they can irritate and dry the skin. Do not pick blemishes and beware of unnecessary and constant touching of the face, as the oil on your fingertips can collect just as easily on your face. Topical acne medication is effective, as well as skincare products with antimicrobials and topical retinoids. Antibiotics are often used for severe cases of acne outbreaks.

Acne Closed Comedones and other forms of common to severe acne are often treated with a number of minimally invasive, medical aesthetic procedures, including: IPL PhotoFacial, LED Blue Spectrum, Isolaz, Beta-Hydroxy Acid Peels (BHA), Alpha-Hydroxy Acid Peels (AHA), Microcurrent and Microdermabrasion with infused Salicylic acid.