comedonoks

Comedonoks is a term sometimes used informally to refer to comedones. Comedones are a common type of acne lesion. They are characterized by a plug of sebum and keratin that has accumulated in a hair follicle. There are two main types of comedones: open comedones, commonly known as blackheads, and closed comedones, commonly known as whiteheads.

Open comedones, or blackheads, occur when the plug is exposed to air. The exposure to oxygen causes the melanin in the keratin to oxidize, resulting in a black appearance. This is a surface discoloration and not dirt. Closed comedones, or whiteheads, are formed when the plug is covered by a thin layer of skin. The sebum and keratin are trapped beneath the skin's surface, giving the lesion a whitish or flesh-colored appearance.

Comedones form when pores become clogged. This can be due to an overproduction of sebum by the sebaceous glands, the accumulation of dead skin cells, or the presence of certain bacteria. Hormonal changes, genetics, and certain medications can also contribute to their development. While often associated with adolescent acne, comedones can appear at any age. Treatment typically involves topical medications that help to unclog pores, reduce sebum production, or increase cell turnover.