whitehead

noun

white·​head ˈ(h)wīt-ˌhed 

: a small whitish elevation of the skin (as on the face) due to retention of sebum and dead skin cells in a skin pore blocked by a thin layer of epithelium

called also closed comedo, comedo, milium

compare blackhead sense 1

Examples of whitehead in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Not to mention, there are various types of acne, from superficial blackheads and whiteheads to hormonal cysts. —Ariana Yaptangco, Glamour, 14 Oct. 2024

Ultra-thin and transparent, the patches are suited for any skin type, and they’ve been clinically proven to clear up blackheads, whiteheads, and acne in just a day. —Jenny Berg, Vogue, 14 Sep. 2024

But there are certain situations where popping a pimple may be an acceptable option, like if the pimple has a visible whitehead or a blackhead that's close to the skin's surface. —Korin Miller, Health, 11 Sep. 2024

In fact, whiteheads—which are technically an early stage of acne—aren’t even really poppable, Dr. Mariwalla says. —Jenna Ryu, SELF, 16 Aug. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1886, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

whitehead

noun

white·​head ˈhwīt-ˌhed 

ˈwīt-

: a small whitish lump in the skin caused by the fluid given off by an oil gland when the canal leading from the gland is blocked

Medical Definition

whitehead

noun

white·​head -ˌhed 

1

: a small whitish noninflammatory elevation of the skin (as on the face) due to retention of sebum and dead skin cells in a skin pore blocked by a thin layer of epithelium

called also closed comedo, comedo

compare blackhead sense 1

2

: milium sense 1

Biographical Definition

Whitehead 1 of 2

biographical name (1)

White·​head ˈ(h)wīt-ˌhed 

Alfred North 1861–1947 English mathematician and philosopher

Whitehead

2 of 2

biographical name (2)

William 1715–1785 English dramatist; poet laureate (1757–85)