Conditions › Giant Comedone
Giant Comedone – Consultant Diagnosis & Removal in London
A giant comedone is a large, dilated pore blocked with keratin and sebum, often mistaken for a cyst or skin tumour. Although benign, it can be cosmetically distressing and may recur if not properly treated. At Skinhorizon, we provide safe, dermatologist-led treatments to remove giant comedones and restore skin health.
Call Us Book ConsultationWhat is a Giant Comedone?
A giant comedone is a solitary, dilated pore obstructed with keratinous debris and sebum. Unlike multiple blackheads seen in acne, giant comedones appear as a single large lesion. They are benign but can be mistaken for epidermoid cysts or even basal cell carcinoma, which is why proper diagnosis is essential.
Causes and risk factors
They typically occur in older individuals and are associated with long-term sun damage and skin ageing. Risk factors include:
- Chronic sun exposure
- Oily skin or acne-prone skin
- Ageing skin with enlarged pores
- Previous skin trauma or scarring
Giant Comedone Symptoms
The hallmark feature is a large pore containing a keratin plug. It may appear black, brown, or skin-coloured. The lesion is usually asymptomatic but may cause cosmetic concern or psychological distress.
Giant Comedone Diagnosis
Diagnosis is usually clinical, supported by dermoscopic examination. Rarely, a biopsy may be required to rule out malignant mimics.
Consultant-Led Giant Comedone Removal in Central London
Book a consultation in Maida Vale for safe removal of large blackheads or giant comedones. Performed by a consultant dermatologist with minimal scarring.
Call Us Book ConsultationGiant Comedone Treatment
Treatment options include:
- Manual extraction: Superficial removal can provide temporary relief but recurrence is common.
- Minor surgical excision: Removal of the keratin core and pore wall is the definitive treatment.
- Laser or electrosurgery: Can be used for precision removal and cosmetic improvement.
Prognosis
Once properly treated, giant comedones usually do not return in the same site. Cosmetic outcome is excellent when performed by a dermatologist.
Your first visit — what to expect
- Assessment: Examination of the lesion and discussion of symptoms.
- Differential diagnosis: Ensuring the lesion is not a cyst or skin cancer.
- Treatment plan: Explanation of extraction or excision options.
- Aftercare: Guidance on wound care and prevention of recurrence.
Reviewed by: Dr Mohammad Ghazavi, Consultant Dermatologist
Skinhorizon Clinic, 4 Clarendon Terrace, Maida Vale, London W9 1BZ
Last reviewed: 21 August 2025
Concerned about a large blocked pore or skin lump? Get expert diagnosis and safe removal of giant comedones at Skinhorizon Clinic.
Call Us Book ConsultationGiant Comedone FAQs
Is a giant comedone dangerous?
No, giant comedones are benign, but they can resemble cysts or skin cancers, so assessment by a dermatologist is recommended.
Can a giant comedone be removed at home?
Attempting to squeeze or extract a giant comedone at home often leads to recurrence, scarring, or infection. Professional removal is advised.
Does removal of a giant comedone hurt?
No, removal is usually performed under local anaesthetic or with minimal discomfort in clinic.
Will a giant comedone come back after removal?
If only the contents are extracted, it may recur. Definitive removal of the pore wall prevents recurrence.
Where on the body do giant comedones occur?
They most often occur on the face, neck, and upper trunk, particularly in sun-damaged or oily skin.
