Whiteheads (Closed comedone): symptoms, photos, AI analysis ⚠️ ICD-10: L70 | ICD-11: ED80

A closed comedone is a small skin-colored or whitish bump that forms when a hair follicle (pore) becomes blocked with sebum and dead skin cells. In simple terms, it is a “white bump” under the skin without inflammation and without a black dot on the surface.

Unlike blackheads, these lesions are covered by a thin layer of skin, so the trapped material does not come into contact with air and does not darken. Closed comedones are not an inflammatory condition on their own, but they can be an early stage of acne.

This condition is not contagious. Comedones can appear at any age, but they are most common in teenagers and young adults.

What to do if suspected

If you notice small, firm bumps on the skin that do not become inflamed but do not go away, it is worth paying attention.

The first step is to see a dermatologist, especially if the number of lesions increases.

Additionally:

• in cases of multiple breakouts, an overall skin assessment may be needed
• if there is significant cosmetic concern, a cosmetologist may help
• sometimes hormonal or metabolic evaluation may be required

Important:

• do not try to squeeze closed comedones
• do not use harsh skincare products
• do not ignore an increasing number of lesions

Consulting a specialist helps prevent progression into inflammatory acne.

How the disease looks

Closed comedones have a fairly characteristic appearance.

They look like:

• small bumps under the skin
• skin-colored or whitish elements
• round or oval formations

Features:

• no black dot in the center
• smooth skin surface
• soft, indistinct borders
• firm texture when pressed

Sometimes a white content may be slightly visible through the skin.

They most often appear on the face, but can also occur on the scalp, neck, and trunk.

Below in the article you can view real photos to better understand what the condition looks like.

Main symptoms

Closed comedones usually do not cause noticeable symptoms.

Typical features:

• no pain
• no itching
• small, firm bumps on the skin
• single or multiple distribution

The main concern is usually cosmetic appearance.

Causes of the disease

Closed comedones develop due to disruption of normal skin processes.

External factors:

• incorrect skincare routine
• inappropriate cosmetics
• skin damage (including UV exposure)
• smoking

Internal factors:

• increased sebum production
• slower skin cell turnover (impaired shedding)
• genetic predisposition
• hormonal or metabolic factors

In simple terms: the skin does not shed properly, and sebum cannot escape, forming a “plug”.

How the disease develops

Normally, the skin constantly renews itself — old cells shed and sebum reaches the surface freely.

When this process is disrupted:

• skin cells accumulate and stick together
• a thick layer forms that blocks the pore
• sebum continues to be produced but cannot exit

As a result, a closed comedone forms — a small cyst under the skin.

If inflammation develops inside it, it may turn into a regular pimple.

Forms and types

Comedones are of two types:

• closed — no black head, located under the skin
• open — with a black head on the surface

Multiple closed comedones may be considered an early (non-inflammatory) form of acne.

When to see a doctor

You should see a dermatologist if:

• the number of comedones increases
• they persist for a long time
• inflammatory lesions appear
• skin appearance worsens

Also important:

• if lesions are traumatized
• if their appearance changes
• if new sensations develop

Treatment

Treatment depends on the number and severity of comedones.

If there are few lesions

Sometimes no treatment is required — the skin may improve on its own.

If needed, comedones can be gently removed by a specialist.

If there are many comedones

Main treatment principles:

Skin care

Selection of gentle, non-comedogenic products.

Exfoliation

Procedures that help skin renewal (e.g., peels).

Topical treatment

Products that regulate skin cell turnover and sebaceous gland activity.

Correction of factors

Adjustment of skincare, lifestyle, and possible internal causes.

Important:

Treatment should be selected by a doctor, as incorrect actions may lead to inflammation and acne development.

Q&A

Do closed comedones need treatment?

If there are few and they do not bother you, not always. But with many lesions, it is better to consult a doctor.

Can you squeeze them?

No. This may cause inflammation and worsen the condition.

Can comedones turn into pimples?

Yes, if inflammation develops.

Why do closed comedones appear?

Because of blocked pores filled with sebum and dead skin cells.

Are they dangerous?

No, but they may lead to inflammatory acne.

Can they be removed permanently?

Their number can be significantly reduced with proper care and treatment.

Do peels help?

Yes, but they should be selected by a specialist.

Where do they most often appear?

On the face, as well as the scalp, neck, and trunk.

Check Your Skin Instantly

Use the Skin disease scanner – SKinive AI to take a photo of a skin lesion and get an AI-based risk assessment. It helps determine whether professional consultation is recommended, giving you fast guidance and peace of mind.

Medical literature and sources

• American Academy of Dermatology (AAD)
• European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology (EADV)
• Fitzpatrick’s Dermatology, 9th Edition
• Bolognia Dermatology, 4th Edition
• Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology (JAAD)
• World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines on skin conditions

Images of whiteheads: