Comedones are a common type of acne lesion that form when hair follicles become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and debris. They are classified into two main types: blackheads (open comedones) and whiteheads (closed comedones). Unlike inflamed acne, comedones are non-inflammatory, but they can lead to breakouts if left untreated. Comedones are different than fungal acne.
Causes of Comedones
Several factors contribute to comedone formation, including:
- Excess Sebum Production: Overactive oil glands increase the risk of clogged pores.
- Dead Skin Cell Buildup: Poor exfoliation leads to accumulation in follicles.
- Hormonal Changes: Androgens stimulate oil production, making adolescents and adults with hormonal imbalances more prone to comedones.
- Skincare and Makeup Products: Comedogenic (pore-clogging) ingredients can exacerbate blackheads and whiteheads.
- Diet and Lifestyle: High-glycemic foods and dairy have been linked to increased sebum production (Smith et al., 2007).
Best Treatments for Comedonal Acne
Effective treatment involves clearing clogged pores, regulating oil production, and promoting skin renewal. Comedonal acne is different than fungal acne, and must be treated as such.
Topical Treatments
- Salicylic Acid (BHA): This oil-soluble acid penetrates deep into pores, dissolving excess oil and dead skin cells.
- Retinoids (Tretinoin, Adapalene, or Retinol): Vitamin A derivatives accelerate cell turnover and prevent clogged pores. A study in JAMA Dermatology found that topical retinoids reduced comedones by 40-70% over 12 weeks (Leyden et al., 2017).
- Benzoyl Peroxide: While more effective for inflammatory acne, it helps reduce bacteria and oil buildup.
- Hydrocolloid Patches: Hydrocolloid acne patches are a safe and effective OTC treatment for acne
Professional Treatments
For stubborn comedones, dermatological procedures can provide faster results:
- Chemical Peels: Glycolic, salicylic, or lactic acid peels exfoliate the skin and unclog pores.
- Microdermabrasion: A physical exfoliation technique that removes surface debris.
- Comedone Extraction: Dermatologists use sterile tools to manually remove blackheads and whiteheads.
Skincare Routine for Comedones
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Cleanser: Use a gentle foaming cleanser with salicylic acid or tea tree oil.
Exfoliation: Introduce BHA or AHA exfoliants 2-3 times per week. - Moisturizer: Opt for non-comedogenic, oil-free formulas to hydrate without clogging pores.
- Sunscreen: Daily SPF is essential to prevent post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from acne.
Prevention Tips
- Avoid Heavy, Occlusive Skincare Products: Choose “non-comedogenic” labeled products.
- Limit Dairy and High-Glycemic Foods: Studies suggest these may worsen acne (Adebamowo et al., 2008).
- Change Pillowcases Regularly: Prevents oil and bacteria buildup.
- Avoid Picking or Squeezing: This can lead to inflammation and scarring.
- Supplement: A high quality acne prevention supplement like the one offered by DellaPella can help prevent many types of acne.
Comedones are a treatable form of acne that respond well to consistent skincare, exfoliation, and professional treatments if necessary. By incorporating salicylic acid, retinoids, and a non-comedogenic routine, you can effectively clear clogged pores and prevent future breakouts.
Sources:
- Smith, R. N., Mann, N. J., Braue, A., Mäkeläinen, H., & Varigos, G. A. (2007). A low-glycemic-load diet improves symptoms in acne vulgaris patients. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 86(1), 107-115.
- Leyden, J. J., Stein-Gold, L., & Weiss, J. (2017). Why topical retinoids are mainstay of therapy for acne. JAMA Dermatology, 153(8), 810-811.
- Adebamowo, C. A., Spiegelman, D., Danby, F. W., Frazier, A. L., Willett, W. C., & Holmes, M. D. (2008). High school dietary dairy intake and teenage acne. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 58(5), 787-793.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15556720/