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

To treat blackheads and whiteheads, Bowe likes the SkinCeuticals Silymarin CF—an oil-free vitamin-C serum that can also help reduce signs of aging. —Kiana Murden, Vogue, 7 Feb. 2025

When combined with sweat, dirt, and dead skin cells, excess sebum can clog pores, leading to blackheads, whiteheads, and breakouts. —Heather Jones, Verywell Health, 5 Feb. 2025

Here's how dermatologists suggest dealing with whiteheads. —Hannah Yasharoff, USA TODAY, 27 Jan. 2025

Testers considered performance across formula strength, efficacy (whether for blackheads, whiteheads, dark spots, etc.), and results while keeping the price in mind. —Deanna Pai, Allure, 23 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1886, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for whitehead

• abovesaid
• aforesaid
• arrowhead
• casinghead
• copperhead
• figurehead
• fountainhead
• gingerbread
• hammerhead
• infrared
• leatherhead
• letterhead

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)