Sterile extraction
A fine sterile lancet opens each whitehead so it can be cleared gently, avoiding the marks that come from squeezing.
Acne & Skin Texture
Whitehead Treatment in Gangnam, Seoul
Doctor-led care for whiteheads and closed comedones at Nest Clinic — precise extraction, exfoliating peels and prescription topicals that smooth bumpy texture without irritating the skin.
4–8
weeks for smoother texture
A
How do you get rid of whiteheads and closed comedones?
Whiteheads are closed pores filled with oil and dead skin, so they need the plug gently opened and the pore kept clear. At Nest Clinic our doctors use sterile extraction, salicylic or mandelic acid peels and a prescription retinoid to normalise skin turnover. Treated whiteheads clear within days, while the overall texture typically smooths over 4–8 weeks. Results vary, and avoiding heavy, pore-clogging products is part of the plan.
- Sessions
- 2–4 visits, then as needed
- Interval
- Every 2–4 weeks
- Downtime
- None to mild redness for a day
- Treatment time
- About 45–60 minutes
- Results
- Smoother texture in 4–8 weeks
- Skin types
- Suitable for all skin types
Understanding whiteheads
Small bumps, closed pores
A whitehead (closed comedone) is a pore blocked by sebum and dead skin cells beneath a thin layer of skin, so the plug stays white or skin-coloured instead of darkening like a blackhead. They often cluster on the forehead, chin and jawline as tiny, rough bumps.
Common triggers include rich creams, heavy sunscreens or hair products, hormonal changes and over-cleansing that disrupts the barrier. Left alone, some become inflamed spots, which is why whiteheads are considered an early form of acne.
Signs of closed comedones
- Tiny, flesh-coloured or white bumps that feel rough
- Clusters on the forehead, chin or jawline
- Bumps that do not come to a head
- Flare-ups after new skincare or makeup
- Texture that shows under foundation
Some firm white bumps are milia, which form differently and need a different technique. Our doctors will check before treating.
Our approach
Open, clear and prevent
We treat the bumps you can see and the turnover problem underneath that keeps creating new ones.
Exfoliating peels
Salicylic or mandelic acid peels loosen plugs across the whole area and smooth bumpy texture.
Q Facial
Our Q Facial combines cleansing, gentle exfoliation and hydration — useful for congested skin.
Prescription retinoids
A topical retinoid normalises how skin cells shed so fewer pores close over in the first place.
Product review
We go through your skincare and makeup to identify heavy or occlusive products that may be clogging pores.
What to expect
From bumpy to smooth
Drag the handle to compare. Whiteheads clear quickly, and texture keeps improving with the right routine.
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Before
After 6 wks
Illustration for explanation only — not a patient photograph. Individual results vary; real case photos are shown during your consultation.
Is it right for you?
Good candidates
- Clusters of small, closed bumps on the forehead or chin
- Rough texture that makeup emphasises
- Whiteheads that keep returning despite cleansing
- Visitors who want visible improvement with no real downtime
Safety first
Possible side effects
Mild redness, small extraction marks and slight peeling are common and settle within a day or two. When a retinoid is started, many people have a short adjustment period of dryness or a temporary flare of bumps. Uncommon risks include irritation, temporary darkening in darker skin and, rarely, infection at extraction sites. We use sterile technique and gradual retinoid introduction to reduce these.
Topical retinoids are not used in pregnancy; we offer alternatives. Inflamed spots are treated differently — see our acne treatment
page.
Your visit
How treatment works at Nest Clinic
Skin check
Doctor confirms whiteheads versus milia or acne.
Cleanse & prep
Skin is cleansed and softened.
Extraction
Sterile opening and clearing of each bump.
Peel or facial
Exfoliation to smooth the wider area.
Home routine
Retinoid and non-comedogenic product plan.
Medical reviewer · Medical Doctor
Dr. Hee-in Song
Dr. Song graduated from Seoul National University College of Medicine and is a member of Korean societies for laser, skin and hair medicine and aesthetic medicine. She focuses on skin-quality treatments — lasers, acne and pigmentation care. Nest Clinic is led entirely by women doctors, with one-to-one consultations.
Seoul National Univ. College of Medicine
Korean Society for Laser, Skin & Hair
Korean Society of Aesthetic Surgery
Korean Academy of Facial Filler
This page was medically reviewed by Dr. Hee-in Song in October 2026. It is for general information and does not replace an in-person diagnosis.
FAQ
Whiteheads questions, answered
Should I squeeze whiteheads myself?
It is better not to. Because the pore is closed, squeezing often pushes contents deeper, causing inflammation and marks. Sterile professional extraction opens the pore first.
Why do whiteheads keep coming back?
They form continuously when skin cells shed unevenly and products block pores. A retinoid and non-comedogenic routine treat the cause, so new bumps become less frequent over 4–8 weeks.
Is there downtime?
Very little. Expect slight redness for a few hours, possibly small marks for a day. Most visitors continue their plans the same day.
Can I continue treatment after I fly home?
Yes. We will give you a written routine and product guide so a dermatologist at home can continue the prescription if needed.
Are whiteheads the same as milia?
No. Milia are tiny keratin cysts that feel hard and do not respond to peels or retinoids in the same way. Your doctor will distinguish them at the skin check.
Related treatments
Explore acne and pore care
Consultation
Smooth your skin texture
Send a photo on WhatsApp for a first opinion in English, then book a skin check with our doctors.
Nest Clinic Gangnam · 4F–5F Seocho Building, 453 Gangnam-daero, Seocho-gu, Seoul
Sinnonhyeon Station Exit 7 · Gangnam Station Exit 10
Mon–Fri 10:00–20:00 · Sat 10:00–17:00 · Sun closed
Results differ from person to person. All medical procedures carry potential risks and side effects; a doctor will explain them before treatment. Information on this page is educational and not a substitute for a personal medical consultation.
