How to get rid of Whiteheads
What are whiteheads?
Whiteheads are those little white bumps that appear on your skin that you can feel even when they are not visible to the naked eye. Although whiteheads are stubborn and difficult to remove as they develop inside the pore and cannot be pushed out, there are different ways you can get rid of whiteheads.
What causes whiteheads?
As natural oils, dead skin cells, and bacteria get trapped in the skin's pores, whiteheads, blackheads, and pimples form, all of which fall under the term acne. Unlike blackheads that are formed when sebum and dead cells get trapped in the open pores on the outer layer of the skin, whiteheads form when the dirt and sebum become trapped within a closed pore.
Where do whiteheads commonly appear?
Most people are familiar with whiteheads that develop on the nose as it is the most noticeable place where they appear, but there are other places where whiteheads occur. Although oil glands are all over your body, there are specific places where acne and whiteheads are more common and include:
- The nose, chin, and forehead (commonly referred to as the T-zone)
- The chest
- On the shoulders
What causes whiteheads?
There are several internal and external factors that cause whiteheads and other forms of acne to appear such as:
- Touching the face
- Wearing head coverings, such as sports hats and helmets
- Various weather conditions, such as air pollution and high humidity
- Using skin care products that contain an excessive amount of oil
- Genetics
- Hormone level fluctuations, such as when a woman is about to get her period
- Stress as it increases the hormone cortisol
What is the right treatment to get rid of white heads?
Following a healthy skincare routine can help reduce whiteheads and acne in general. According to dermatologists, some tips and recommendations to help you get rid of whiteheads include:
- Washing your face twice a day and making sure to wash your face after sweating
- Using a gentle, non-abrasive daily cleanser, such as Neutrogena® Deep Clean® Facial Cleanser
- Making sure to use non-comedogenic products
- Using products, such as Neutrogena® Hydro Boost® Water Gel Face Cleanser to make sure that your face is clear from makeup, dirt, and oil while simultaneously being hydrated
- Avoiding rubbing your skin as it can aggravate acne
- Avoiding picking your white-heads
- Avoiding the sun and tanning beds
- Using appropriate sunscreen when out in the sun
Whiteheads require constant care to prevent and eliminate. Treating whiteheads is a lengthy process and might take up to eight weeks to see results. Consult a dermatologist if care products do not help even after long continuous use.