Whitehead

Whitehead is a term used in several different contexts, including medicine, geography, ornithology, and onomastics.

In dermatology, a whitehead is a type of comedo, a clogged pore that becomes filled with sebum, keratin, and bacteria, resulting in a small raised lesion with a white or yellowish center. Whiteheads are closed comedones, in contrast to blackheads, which are open. They are commonly associated with acne and may be influenced by hormones, skin type, and skincare routines. Treatments typically focus on cleanliness and pore-clearing agents; options include topical retinoids and benzoyl peroxide, with professional care advised for persistent or severe cases.

Geographically, Whitehead is a coastal town and port in County Antrim, Northern Ireland. It lies on the north shore of Belfast Lough, near Carrickfergus. Historically it developed as a fishing and shipbuilding site and today features residential areas along with maritime and tourist facilities.

In ornithology, whitehead or white-headed is a common descriptor used for several bird species that display a predominantly white head. One well-known example is the white-headed duck (Oxyura leucocephala), though the term appears in various regional common names for birds with pale head plumage.

As a surname, Whitehead is of English origin and is typically toponymic or descriptive, referring to an ancestor associated with someone having a white head or pale appearance. It is found in English-speaking countries and has been borne by various notable individuals across different fields.