Questions — Skincare
Closed comedones vs blackheads: the difference.
Both are clogged pores. A blackhead is open at the top, so the oil darkens in air. A closed comedone (whitehead) is sealed under a thin layer of skin, so it looks like a small skin-coloured bump. Both clear with salicylic acid and a retinoid.
4 minute read
Written and reviewed by Beauty World Editorial · Last reviewed October 2026
01
Difference
How to tell them apart
Blackheads
Open pore, dark dot, most often on the nose and chin.
Closed comedones
Closed pore, tiny flesh-coloured bumps, rough texture on forehead and cheeks.
Milia
Hard white dots that don't squeeze out — different again.
02
Treatment
One routine for both
1. Salicylic acid 2%
3–5 times a week.
2. Retinoid at night
Retinol or adapalene from a UK pharmacy.
3. Non-comedogenic moisturiser and SPF
Every day.
4. Don't squeeze
It causes marks and scars.
