Remove closed comedones

Types of products that remove closed comedones

A closed comedone remover is a skincare product that helps eliminate closed comedones, which are small, flesh-colored bumps on the skin. These bumps appear when hair follicles become clogged with dead skin cells and sebum (oil). They are a mild form of acne. While closed comedones themselves aren't painful or dangerous, many people dislike their appearance and want to get rid of them. Products that remove closed comedones include:

• Exfoliants: These products exfoliate the skin to remove dead skin cells, which can clog pores and form closed comedones. Look for products containing AHAs (like glycolic acid) and BHAs (like salicylic acid), which gently peel away dead skin cells at the surface level so new, fresh cells can come in. Good exfoliants include Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant and Neutrogena Pore Acne Foaming Scrub.
• Products with retinol or prescription retinoids: Retinol is an over-the-counter ingredient that helps exfoliate inside hair follicles to prevent closed comedones from forming. Prescription retinoids, like Differin and Tazorac, are even stronger at speeding cell turnover and keeping pores clear. Using products with retinol or regularly seeing a dermatologist for retinoid creams can help eliminate existing closed comedones and prevent new ones from appearing.
• Niacinamide serums: Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3 that helps reduce the size and appearance of closed comedones. It works by decreasing sebum (oil) production in the pores and has anti-inflammatory properties that can calm redness and puffiness. The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% is an affordable choice that may help reduce the prominence of any bumps caused by clogged pores.
• Products containing salicylic acid: Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that exfoliates inside pores to prevent and treat closed comedones. Over-the-counter products with salicylic acid, such as cleansers, spot treatments, and masks, can help keep closed comedones under control. Look for "salicylic acid" on the ingredient lists of products like Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash.
• Clay masks: Applying clay masks can absorb excess oil from the skin and remove dead skin cells, which helps prevent closed comedones. Ingredients like kaolin and bentonite clay draw out impurities from the pores. Using clay masks once or twice a week can provide a deep clean to the skin's surface that deters closed comedones from forming.
• Oil-free moisturizers: Even acne-prone skin needs hydration. Using oil-free moisturizers won't clog pores and can help keep skin balanced. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin provide non-comedogenic moisture that soothes the skin without feeding closed comedones.

How to choose remove closed comedones

When it comes to getting rid of closed comedones, one should always seek professional help, as this skin condition can get worse if treated incorrectly. However, if one is looking for products that may help with this skin condition, it is advised to look for products that are non-comedogenic so that new comedones don't form while trying to treat the existing ones. Products that contain salicylic acid, retinoids, and alpha hydroxy acids may help treat the condition. Salicylic acid helps exfoliate the pores and prevent blockages. Retinoids promote cell turnover and prevent clogged pores. Alpha hydroxy acids exfoliate the skin's surface to remove dead skin buildup.

It is important to note that while over-the-counter products may help treat closed comedones, they may take time to show results. In case of no improvement, one should consult a dermatologist who may prescribe stronger medications. In some cases, the dermatologist may recommend procedures such as chemical peels, microdermabrasis, or laser therapy to treat the condition.

Apart from topical treatments, a dermatologist may also recommend oral medications such as antibiotics, hormonal treatments, or isotretinoin to treat closed comedones. They will assess the severity of the condition and recommend the most appropriate treatment.

How to use and product safety

How one goes about removing closed comedones will depend on where they are located. Below is a simple step-by-step guide on how to remove closed comedones on the nose:

• Preparing the Nose:

  First, gently cleanse the nose area with a mild face wash, then pat it dry. Next, apply a warm, damp washcloth to the nose for about two minutes. This will help soften the skin and open the pores.

• Steaming:

  Steam the nose by holding it over a bowl of hot water covered with a towel. Be cautious not to get too close to the hot water. Steam the face for five minutes. This will loosen the comedones.

• Gentle Extraction:

  Wash hands and sanitize nails with rubbing alcohol. Using a comedone extractor tool or fingers wrapped in tissue, apply gentle pressure to the sides of the clogged pore. If it does not come out easily, do not force it. Attempting to extract with excessive pressure can cause skin injury or infection.

• Post-Extraction Care:

  After extracting the closed comedones, gently cleanse the nose with a mild face wash. Apply an alcohol-free toner to tighten pores. Then, apply a lightweight oil-free moisturizer to hydrate the skin.

• Using Products:

  Over the next few days, continue using non-comedogenic products. Consider applying a salicylic acid treatment once or twice daily to prevent future closed comedones. Salicylic acid helps exfoliate inside the pores to stop blockages from occurring again.

• Preventing Recurrence:

  As a final step, maintain a regular skincare routine. Cleanse, exfoliate, and treat the nose to keep closed comedones from reappearing. Avoid touching the face with unwashed hands. Avoid heavy, oily makeup and skincare products that can clog pores.

Product Safety

When it comes to product safety, it is important to note that comedone extraction should not be performed alone. The procedure is best performed by a professional who can properly and safely extract the buildup without inflicting further injury to the skin. Additionally, over-the-counter products with potentially irritating ingredients like salicylic acid should be used with caution. For some individuals, these products may cause skin reactions.

Functions, features, and design of closed comedone removers

Closed comedones removal tools have features and designs that help effectively treat blackheads. Their functions include:

• Extraction Tool: The extraction loop has a small, rounded end and a thin, flat handle. It gently applies pressure around pores to remove blackheads. Some tools have a spoon-shaped end on one extraction side.
• Dual-ended Design: This closed comedone extractor tool has a loop on each end. One end can remove closed comedones, while the other can remove open comedones. It is a convenient, two-in-one tool for extracting different blackhead types.
• Stainless Steel Construction: Closed comedones removal tools are made from high-quality stainless steel. It will not rust or corrode. The sturdy and durable steel makes it easy to clean and sterilize. The non-porous surface prevents bacteria from accumulating on the tool.
• Antimicrobial Properties: Many blackhead removal tools have stainless steel construction. They have built-in antimicrobial properties. They inhibit the growth of bacteria on the tool's surface.
• Ergonomic Handle: The handle is designed for a firm and comfortable grip. This ensures better control during use. The handle may have textured or non-slip features for added safety.
• Safety Features: Closed comedone removal tools have safety features. These features prevent injury while using the tool. Certain models may include protective caps on loops or pointed ends. They help protect the skin when extracting comedones.
• Pointed Tip: Some blackhead removal tools have a pointed tip opposite the looped end. This feature helps dislodge skin cells or debris blocking pores. It prepares the area for extraction using the looped end.

Q&A

Q1: What products are used to treat closed comedones?

A1: Over-the-counter treatments for closed comedones include salicylic acid, glycolic acid, benzoyl peroxide, and retinoids. Professional treatments include chemical peels, microdermabrasion, laser therapy, and extractions.

Q2: Can closed comedones go away on their own?

A2: Closed comedones may go away on their own, but they often require treatment to disappear. They can return even after going away, so regular skincare is essential.

Q3: How long do closed comedones take to heal?

A3: Closed comedones can take several weeks to months to heal, depending on the severity of the case. With proper treatment, they can resolve more quickly.

Q4: Is it okay to squeeze closed comedones?

A4: No, closed comedones should not be squeezed. Attempting to squeeze them can damage the skin further and cause irritation. It is best to treat them gently with appropriate skincare products.

Q5: What type of exfoliant is best for closed comedones?

A5: Exfoliants that help unclog pores, such as salicylic acid or glycolic acid, are best for closed comedones. These ingredients thin the buildup inside pores to reduce closed comedones.