Whitehead acne

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Whiteheads are the direct result of skin pores becoming clogged with sebum (naturally occurring oil) and dead skin cells. Whiteheads are symptoms of acne vulgaris and consist of pores blocked with sebum. Unlike blackheads the sebum is white but is otherwise similar.

Whiteheads with correct treatment or time may resolve and do not generally scar. They do not form a head, although the sebum may sometimes protrude from the pore. Individual whiteheads can become infected and progress to pustules and form a head.

No infection is present in whiteheads, infected pores are pustules, papules or nodules - these terms are frequently confused.