WHITEHEADS Meaning and
Definition
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Whiteheads, also known as closed comedones, are a common type of acne lesion that appears as small, white or flesh-colored bumps on the surface of the skin. They occur when the skin pores become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and other debris. Unlike blackheads, which are open comedones, whiteheads have a closed surface, making the contents trapped inside the pore not exposed to the air.
Typically, whiteheads develop on areas of the skin that are rich in sebaceous glands, such as the face, forehead, chin, and sometimes the back and chest. They are a result of excessive sebum production, which combines with dead skin cells and dirt, leading to the formation of a plug inside the pore. This plug blocks the hair follicle, preventing it from reaching the skin surface and causing the characteristic white bump to form.
Whiteheads are considered non-inflammatory acne lesions, lacking the redness, swelling, and tenderness associated with inflammatory acne. They are generally painless and do not cause scarring unless they are picked or popped incorrectly, which can introduce bacteria and worsen the condition.
Treatment options for whiteheads often involve topical skincare products containing ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, which help to unclog the pores and reduce sebum production. Regular exfoliation and gentle cleansing can also be beneficial for preventing and managing whiteheads. In some cases, oral medications or professional treatments may be recommended by dermatologists for more severe or persistent whiteheads.
Common Misspellings for WHITEHEADS
Etymology of WHITEHEADS
The word "whiteheads" refers to small, elevated, pus-filled bumps on the skin, often associated with acne.
Etymology:
The term "whiteheads" is derived from Middle English, where "white" referred to the color of the pus-filled substance within the bumps, and "heads" indicated the elevated nature of these skin lesions.
The term itself has been used for centuries to describe these specific types of skin eruptions. The word "whitehead" is believed to have evolved from the Old English "hwīt" meaning "white" and "heafod" meaning "head", which eventually combined to form "whiteheved" in Middle English, and then transformed into the modern "whitehead" we use today.
Similar spelling words for WHITEHEADS
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