What is the main difference between open and closed comedones?

The main difference between open and closed comedones lies in their appearance and the way they are formed. Open comedones, which are commonly referred to as blackheads, occur when hair follicles become clogged with sebum and dead skin cells. The top of the pore remains open, and when exposed to air, the sebum oxidizes, turning black.

Conversely, closed comedones, or whiteheads, form when the clogged follicle is closed off beneath the skin. In this case, the contents do not have contact with air, preventing oxidation, and they appear as small, flesh-colored or white bumps on the skin.

Having a clear understanding of these distinctions is essential for effective skin care routines and treatment plans, as the approach to managing these types of acne can differ significantly. For instance, treatments suitable for blackheads might focus on exfoliation and unclogging pores, while whiteheads may require different methods to reduce inflammation and clear the skin.