Senile Comedones

Senile comedones, also called solar comedones or Favre–Racouchot syndrome, are a type of skin change often seen in older adults, especially those with a history of long-term sun exposure. They appear as blackheads (open comedones) or white bumps (closed comedones), usually clustered around the temples, cheeks, or under the eyes.

Causes

This condition develops due to:

• Chronic sun damage that weakens the skin’s structure
• Thickening of the skin around hair follicles
• Aging-related changes in oil glands
• Smoking, which worsens skin damage

Symptoms

• Multiple blackheads and whiteheads, usually without acne-like redness or pain
• Mostly appear on sun-exposed areas of the face
• Skin may also look thickened, wrinkled, or leathery in the affected region

Treatment & Care

Senile comedones are benign, but they can be cosmetically bothersome. A dermatologist may recommend:

• Manual extraction of comedones under sterile conditions
• Topical retinoids to improve skin turnover
• Chemical peels or microdermabrasion for smoother skin
• Laser treatments in advanced cases
• Sun protection measures to prevent further damage

Prevention

The best way to reduce risk is consistent sun protection, avoiding smoking, and maintaining good skin care habits throughout life.