Comedonal Acne – Consultant Dermatology Treatment in London for Blackheads & Whiteheads

What is comedonal acne?

Comedonal acne is one of the most common subtypes of acne. Unlike inflammatory acne, which causes painful red pimples, comedonal acne presents as blackheads (open comedones) and whiteheads (closed comedones). These form when pores become clogged with excess oil, dead skin cells, and debris. While less aggressive than nodular or cystic acne, it can be persistent and impact confidence.

Comedonal Acne Causes and mechanisms

The development of comedones is linked to increased sebum production, hormonal fluctuations, and abnormal shedding of skin cells. Key contributing factors include:

• Excess oil production during puberty or hormonal shifts.
• Clogging of pores with keratin and dead cells.
• Cosmetic products that are comedogenic (pore-blocking).
• Dietary factors such as high glycaemic index foods in some individuals.
• Genetics and family history of acne.

Who is affected by Comedonal Acne?

Comedonal acne is very common in teenagers and young adults, but it also affects adults, particularly women around hormonal changes such as menstruation or perimenopause. People with oily or combination skin types are especially prone.

Comedonal Acne Diagnosis

Diagnosis is usually straightforward through clinical examination. A dermatologist can distinguish comedonal acne from other skin conditions such as milia, keratosis pilaris, or folliculitis. Dermoscopy and history taking help refine the assessment and guide treatment.

Comedonal Acne Management and treatment

Treatment of comedonal acne is aimed at unclogging pores, normalising skin turnover, and preventing progression to inflammatory acne. Options include:

• Topical retinoids (adapalene, tretinoin, tazarotene) to promote skin cell turnover.
• Salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide cleansers to reduce blockages.
• Chemical peels such as glycolic or salicylic acid peels to resurface the skin.
• Microdermabrasion or hydrofacial for gentle exfoliation and pore clearance.
• Laser or light therapies for resistant cases.

At Skinhorizon, our specialists tailor treatment to the severity of your acne, skin type, and goals, often combining medical-grade skincare with in-clinic procedures.

At-home care and prevention

Consistent skincare plays a vital role. Recommended measures include:

• Using non-comedogenic cleansers and moisturisers.
• Avoiding heavy makeup or skincare products that block pores.
• Regular but gentle exfoliation to reduce build-up.
• Sun protection, as UV exposure can worsen acne.
• Healthy diet and stress management to support skin balance.

Special considerations

In skin of colour, comedonal acne may be complicated by post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, making early treatment important. For sensitive skin, treatment must be introduced gradually to reduce irritation from retinoids or acids.

Why choose Skinhorizon?

We combine dermatological expertise with advanced technology to treat acne effectively. Our approach goes beyond symptom control, aiming to restore skin health, improve appearance, and prevent future flare-ups. Patients value our holistic care and outcome-focused treatments.

Your first visit — what to expect

1. Consultation: assessment of your acne type, triggers, and history.
2. Skin analysis: evaluation using advanced imaging when needed.
3. Treatment plan: personalised options combining at-home care and in-clinic therapies.
4. Follow-up: monitoring results and adjusting treatment to optimise progress.

Reviewed by: Dr Mohammad Ghazavi, Consultant Dermatologist
Skinhorizon Clinic, 4 Clarendon Terrace, Maida Vale, London W9 1BZ
Last reviewed: 20 August 2025