Closed Comedones Treatment 101 – Fast Solutions for Bumpy Skin Problems

Your Girl Knows’ product recommendations are handpicked by our editorial team and given the seal of approval by Harman herself. When you buy something through our affiliate links, we might earn a little commission—at no extra cost to you! We only recommend products we genuinely love. Please read my Disclosure Policy for additional information.

You know what’s worse than that one pimple that pops up right before an important event? It’s something that’s definitely there under the skin somewhere but still manages to play hide and seek.

Yep, those annoying little bumps that seem to 100% interfere with your flawless skin compliments. And if they’re mostly hanging out on your forehead, chin, and cheeks, then my friend, you’re dealing with something called closed comedones. 😤

So let’s decode them today!

What is the main cause of comedones?

Closed comedones are small, flesh-colored bumps caused by clogged pores. Unlike blackheads (open comedones), they’re closed off by a layer of skin (basically they are beneath the skin), so the trapped material (oil, dead skin cells, etc.) doesn’t oxidize or turn dark. They often appear on the forehead, cheeks, and chin.

But why do they happen? Blame it on extra oil, dead skin cells, bacteria, hormones going wild, or products that love clogging your pores. Genetics can play a part too, and sometimes even diet and stress tag along for the ride.

Are closed comedones a type of acne?

Yep! They’re technically a type of acne, but they’re the quiet type. They’re non-inflammatory, meaning they just sit there looking subtle—until they get infected, and then, hello, pimples!

How to cure closed comedones?

See, for any skin issue, one sole treatment is right and consistent skincare routine. Now, everybody will tell you words like “exfoliate” “AHAs and BHAs” and “chemical peels” and I will too but I will also say, you need to do exfoliation and hydration TOGETHER.

Over-exfoliation will make things so bad for closed comedones that you’ll regret doing anything. Now, let’s get into the routine!

1. Exfoliating Cleansers with AHA/BHA

Start your routine with an exfoliating cleanser. Look for products containing Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA) like glycolic and lactic acids or Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHA) like salicylic acid.

These ingredients work to gently remove dead skin cells and unclog pores. You can choose between foaming (for extra oily skin) and gel (for acne prone skin) cleanser. I don’t recommend creams for closed comedones.

2. Hydrating Toner (Optional)

Post-cleansing, consider using a hydrating toner. While optional, it helps balance your skin’s pH and provides a touch of moisture. This step ensures your skin is prepped for the treatments to follow.

Go for toners with calming ingredients like aloe vera, rose water or chamomile extract to soothe any potential irritation. You can even use a gentle exfoliating toner like Cosrx’s Whiteheads Power liquid, but only if you hydrate your skin intensely after it.

3. Layering Serums

Time to get fancy with serums! Start with any exfoliating serum. Be it lactic acid (if you’ve extra sensitive skin) or salicylic acid (if your skin can tolerate active ingredients. I love this more).

They basically penetrate deep into the pores to dissolve debris (excess sebum and dirt causing closed comedones).

See, after adding so many products to exfoliate the skin, it becomes all the more important to hydrate it and create a nice skin barrier that doesn’t break on exfoliating. (And cause more acne)

So, follow up with a hydrating serum like hyaluronic acid to keep your skin plump and moisturized.

4. Weekly Chemical Peels or Overnight Exfoliating Masks

For an extra boost, incorporate a chemical peel or an overnight exfoliating mask into your routine once a week. These treatments provide intensive exfoliation to clear away any lingering dead skin cells.

I absolutely love The Ordinary’s AHA BHA peel and Good Molecules’ overnight exfoliating serum for this. Both drugstore and work like a charm!

Always patch test new products and follow up with a soothing moisturizer to keep your skin happy.

5. Clay Masks, if you want a Natural Twist

If you’re leaning towards a natural approach, try weekly clay masks mixed with apple cider vinegar. This combo works wonders by drawing out impurities that are causing whiteheads and reducing inflammation, leaving your skin feeling fresh and rejuvenated.

Bentonite and kaolin clay are especially good for deep cleansing without being too harsh

My favorite of all time? Aztec Indian healing clay mask. Here’s how to use it properly.

6. Switch to Gel, Non-Comedogenic Moisturizers

When it comes to moisturizing, you need something that hydrates well, doesn’t clog your pores further, and creates a perfect barrier against comedone formation.

So, go for gel-based, non-comedogenic options. I absolutely cannot do without Neutrogena’s hydro boost.

Some other moisturizers I 100% recommend for closed comedones are – Beauty of Joseon’s dynasty cream, Cosrx all in one cream, Laniege water sleeping mask (once or twice a week and CeraVe’s moisturizing cream.

7. Spot Treatments with Benzoyl Peroxide

Got a stubborn spot? Benzoyl Peroxide is your go-to! It’s a powerful ingredient that kills bacteria and reduces inflammation. Dab a small amount on the affected area and watch those comedones shrink away.

However, use Benzoyl Peroxide only in targeted areas to avoid over-drying your skin.

8. Add Retinol – The Magic Ingredient

Adding retinol to your skincare routine can be a total game changer. It boosts cell turnover, helping to clear out those pesky clogged pores and prevent future breakouts.

But you cannot just buy a retinol cream and start using it today. Know how to use retinol correctly and safely.

Start with a low concentration and just thrice a week. Apply it at night to allow your skin to repair while you sleep.

Can I pop or extract closed comedones?

Nope, I would never recommend that as that can make things worse, like scars or infections. Best bet? See a pro (a dermatologist or esthetician) who knows how to safely extract them.

How long does it take to get rid of closed comedones?

Honestly, if you’re using the right treatments, you’ll usually see progress in a few weeks (say 3-4), but some stubborn bumps might hang around for a couple of months.

Is diet linked to closed comedones?

I mean, definitely not directly but high-glycemic foods and dairy might stir things up. If you notice a pattern with what you eat, it could be worth experimenting.

Do closed comedones only appear on the face?

Nope! They can appear on your chest, back, or pretty much anywhere you’re producing extra oil.

Can moisturizers cause closed comedones?

It’s possible! If your moisturizer’s heavy or comedogenic, it could clog things up. Go for lightweight, non-comedogenic ones to stay safe.

Will closed comedones worsen if I wear makeup?

Putting on makeup is not really a problem but not removing it properly definitely is. As long as you cleanse well (cleansing balm/oil and a foaming cleanser) and use light products, you should be in the clear.

Can stress cause closed comedones?

Actually, yes! Stress can mess with your hormones and ramp up oil production. It’s not always the cause, but it doesn’t exactly help, either.

Related articles to how to treat closed comedones

• How To Get Rid of Eye Bags Fast – 9 Tips That Will Work 100% Without a Doubt
• Tried Everything? Here’s How to Get Rid of Forehead Acne for Real
• How to Treat Back Acne Like immediately – 10 Practical & Effective Remedies
• 8 Easy Ways To Get Rid of Razor Bumps (Plus Some Do’s & Don’ts For A Comfortable Shave!)
• How to Get Rid of Blackheads: Clear Skin, Here We Come!