When sebum hardens and clogs a pore, what is it called?

When sebum hardens and clogs a pore, it is referred to as a comedone. This term specifically describes the clogged pore that can result from the mixing of sebum (the natural oil produced by sebaceous glands) and dead skin cells. Comedones can be open or closed; when the clogged pore is open to the air, it appears as a blackhead, while a closed comedone may develop underneath the skin, leading to a whitehead.

Understanding the comedone is essential in the context of skin care and treatments, especially for those working in aesthetics or dermatology. Recognizing the types of comedones can help professionals recommend appropriate treatments or products to their clients. For instance, the removal of comedones is a common practice in facial treatments, and different methods might be applied based on whether the comedone is open or closed.

In contrast, acne is a broader term that encompasses various forms of skin blemishes, including comedones, while a pimple is often used to describe inflamed lesions that develop as a reaction to clogged pores. Therefore, defining the problem accurately as a comedone allows for targeted discussions about causes, prevention, and treatment options in skin care.