What causes closed comedones

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Last updated: April 4, 2026

Quick Answer: Closed comedones, also known as whiteheads, are caused by a buildup of sebum (oil), dead skin cells, and bacteria within a hair follicle. When a pore becomes clogged and sealed off from the air, this mixture oxidizes slightly but does not turn black like an open comedone (blackhead).

Key Facts

Closed comedones form when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells.
Unlike blackheads, the pore opening remains sealed, preventing oxidation and the dark appearance.
Hormonal fluctuations, particularly during puberty, menstruation, and pregnancy, can increase sebum production.
Certain skincare products, especially heavy or pore-clogging ingredients (comedogenic), can contribute to their formation.
Increased stress levels can exacerbate acne, including closed comedones, by influencing hormone production.

What are Closed Comedones?

Closed comedones, commonly referred to as whiteheads, are a type of non-inflammatory acne lesion. They appear as small, flesh-colored or white bumps on the skin's surface. Unlike open comedones (blackheads), where the pore is open and the trapped material oxidizes upon contact with air, the pore opening in a closed comedone remains sealed.

Causes of Closed Comedones

1. Pore Blockage: The Primary Culprit

The fundamental cause of closed comedones is the blockage of a hair follicle. Each hair follicle on your skin is connected to a sebaceous gland, which produces sebum, an oily substance that lubricates the skin and hair. The skin also sheds dead cells continuously. In a healthy state, these dead skin cells and excess sebum are naturally expelled to the skin's surface. However, when this process is disrupted, these materials can accumulate within the follicle.

Specifically, an overproduction of sebum, often triggered by hormonal changes, can mix with dead skin cells. This mixture forms a plug that can block the opening of the hair follicle. Because the pore remains closed, the trapped material does not come into contact with oxygen. This is why it appears white or flesh-colored, as opposed to the black color of a blackhead, which is caused by the oxidation of melanin and lipids exposed to air.

2. Hormonal Influences

Hormones play a significant role in sebum production. Androgens, such as testosterone, are hormones that stimulate the sebaceous glands. While present in both males and females, their levels fluctuate throughout life, leading to increased sebum production at certain times:

Puberty: During adolescence, hormone levels rise, leading to an increase in oil production, which is why acne is common during this period.
Menstrual Cycle: Many women experience breakouts before or during their period due to hormonal shifts.
Pregnancy: Hormonal changes during pregnancy can also affect skin oiliness and lead to breakouts.
Menopause: Hormonal fluctuations during menopause can also contribute to acne.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): This endocrine disorder is characterized by hormonal imbalances that can cause acne, including closed comedones.

3. Genetics

There is a genetic predisposition to developing acne. If your parents had acne, you are more likely to experience it as well. This genetic component can influence factors like the size of your sebaceous glands and how your skin responds to hormones.

4. Skincare Products and Habits

The products you use on your skin can significantly impact pore health. Certain ingredients are known as 'comedogenic,' meaning they have a higher likelihood of clogging pores. These can include heavy oils, certain emollients, and thick formulations. Using makeup or skincare products that are not suitable for your skin type, or not removing them properly, can contribute to pore blockage.

Comedogenic Ingredients: Look for products labeled 'non-comedogenic' if you are prone to breakouts. Common culprits include coconut oil, isopropyl myristate, and lanolin.
Improper Cleansing: Failing to remove makeup, dirt, and excess oil at the end of the day can lead to pore congestion.
Harsh Products: Over-exfoliating or using harsh cleansers can strip the skin of its natural oils, paradoxically causing the skin to produce more oil in an attempt to compensate.

5. Lifestyle Factors

While not the primary cause, certain lifestyle factors can exacerbate the tendency to develop closed comedones:

Diet: While the link between diet and acne is complex and still debated, some studies suggest that high-glycemic index foods and dairy products may worsen acne in some individuals.
Stress: Stress can trigger the release of hormones like cortisol, which can increase oil production and inflammation, potentially worsening acne.
Friction: Constant friction from tight clothing, helmets, or even resting your chin on your hands can irritate hair follicles and contribute to breakouts.

Prevention and Management

Understanding the causes of closed comedones is the first step toward managing them. Gentle cleansing, using non-comedogenic products, managing stress, and maintaining a balanced diet can all contribute to clearer skin. If closed comedones are persistent or severe, consulting a dermatologist is recommended for personalized treatment options.