Comedone
Pronunciation: KOM-eh-dohn
A plugged hair follicle opening caused by the accumulation of sebum, keratin, and cellular debris, presenting as either an open (blackhead) or closed (whitehead) lesion.
Full Definition
A comedone is the primary lesion of acne vulgaris and is categorised as open (blackhead, where the follicular plug is exposed to air and oxidises) or closed (whitehead, where the plug is covered by a thin layer of epidermis). In aesthetic dermatology, comedone extraction is a component of clinical facials and some resurfacing protocols. Editors should note that the plural form is 'comedones', not 'comedons' or 'comedoes'. The adjective form is 'comedonal', as in 'comedonal acne'. The related term 'comedogenicity' refers to a topical product's propensity to cause comedone formation and should not be confused with the clinical lesion itself.
Usage
Usage note: Plural: 'comedones' (not 'comedons'). Adjective form: 'comedonal'. Distinguish from 'milia', which are epidermal inclusion cysts and are not true comedones.
In Context
- "A combination of salicylic acid peels and topical retinoids was prescribed to address the widespread closed comedones on the forehead." — Aesthetic treatment plan
- "The text uses 'comedons' as the plural form; correct to 'comedones' throughout." — Proofreading correction