How to get rid of whiteheads?

Find out what whiteheads are, what are their causes and how to treat them.

What's in this article:

Read Time: 6 minutes

What are whiteheads?
Whiteheads vs. blackheads: what’s the difference?
Causes of Whiteheads
Whiteheads on different parts of the body
Fact Overview
Skincare routine on how to remove whiteheads
Summary
Frequently asked questions

What are Whiteheads?

Whiteheads, scientifically termed as ‘closed comedones’, are the small bumps that appear on the skin's surface. They are characterised by a closed, white or yellowish centre, often surrounded by red, inflamed skin. Whiteheads have closed pores, trapping sebum, dead skin cells, and bacteria beneath your skin's surface.

This guide will explore what causes them, and most importantly, how to effectively get rid of them. Get ready to unveil the secrets to radiant, blemish-free skin!

Whiteheads are a type of Acne

Acne, a common skin condition, encompasses a spectrum of blemishes that can affect the skin. These blemishes are primarily the result of clogged hair follicles or pores. In general terms, acne is a condition and whiteheads are the symptoms of it.

Whiteheads vs. blackheads: what’s the difference?

Whiteheads and blackheads are both types of acne blemishes, but they differ primarily in their appearance and the status of the pore. Whiteheads, as covered before, have closed pores, meaning the trapped debris is not exposed to air.

In contrast, blackheads are small dark spots with open pores that expose trapped debris to air, causing them to oxidise and turn black or dark brown. Both whiteheads and blackheads are caused by clogged hair follicles, but the difference in pore status determines their distinct appearances.

Causes of Whiteheads

Whiteheads can develop due to various factors. Here is a list of common causes and contributing factors:

Excessive Sebum Production:
Sebum, an oily substance produced by the sebaceous glands, maintains skin lubrication, but when there's an overproduction of sebum, it combines with dead skin cells and environmental debris, clogging hair follicles and creating an environment for bacterial growth. The accumulation of the bacteria could cause hair follicles to swell, resulting in the formation of whiteheads.
Hormonal Changes:
Hormonal fluctuations, often associated with puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause, can increase sebum production, making individuals more prone to whiteheads.
Bacterial Activity:
The presence of acne-causing bacteria (Propionibacterium acnes) within clogged pores can trigger inflammation, leading to the formation of whiteheads.
Cosmetic Products:
Some makeup or skincare products contain comedogenic ingredients that can block pores and contribute to whitehead formation, especially if used excessively.
Dietary Factors:
More consumption of refined carbohydrates and dairy products contributes to the development of acne that can exacerbate whiteheads in some individuals.
Lifestyle Habits:
Smoking and high levels of stress can negatively impact skin health and worsen acne symptoms, including whiteheads.
Genetics:
A family history of acne can increase an individual's susceptibility to whiteheads and other acne types.
Environmental Factors:
Exposure to pollutants, humidity, and certain climates may affect skin health and contribute to whiteheads, particularly in individuals with sensitive skin.
Friction and Pressure:
Touching, squeezing, or putting pressure on the skin can spread bacteria and exacerbate whiteheads. It's crucial to avoid picking at them.

Whiteheads on different parts of the body

Whiteheads can occur on various parts of the body where sebaceous glands are present. Here's a list of common areas where whiteheads may develop:

Face: Spots on the T-zone area (forehead, nose and chin) are commonly linked to higher levels of stress and fatigue. Those whiteheads around the cheeks could appear due to excess consumption of dairy, sugar products and red meat.

Chest: The chest area can be subject to friction from clothing, especially tight or non-breathable fabrics. This friction, along with irritation from sweat and other environmental factors, can contribute to the development of whiteheads.

Back: Back whiteheads can be quite common, particularly in individuals who engage in physical activities and tend to perspire heavily. The combination of sweat and excess sebum can create a conducive environment for the formation of whiteheads, as the moisture and oils mix with dead skin cells and can become trapped within the pores.

It's essential to note that while whiteheads can develop in these areas, the causes and treatment approaches may vary. Consulting a dermatologist can effectively guide whitehead management in specific body areas.

young woman using Nivea DermaSkin product

Facts Overview

Whiteheads

Causes: Whiteheads occur when excess sebum production combines with the accumulation of dead skin cells, leading to blocked hair follicles. These follicles create a favourable environment for the growth of acne-causing bacteria and inflammation.

Treatment: This involves regular cleansing and exfoliation to prevent pore blockage, moreover, topical products with ingredients like Salicylic Acid or Benzoyl Peroxide can help to unclog pores and reduce inflammation. However, in some cases, prescription medications or procedures are recommended by a dermatologist for more severe cases.

Prevention: A consistent skincare routine with gentle cleansing, non-comedogenic products, and stress management to control hormonal fluctuations could help to prevent them.

Skincare routine on how to remove whiteheads:

1. Cleanse:

Opt for a mild cleanser to wash your face twice a day, sweeping away excess oil and impurities. The NIVEA Derma Skin Clear Wash Gel deeply cleanses and helps clear out pores while also removing excess oil. A combination of Salicylic Acid and Niacinamide was specifically formulated to reduce & prevent the reappearance of blemishes. For double cleansing, use the NIVEA Derma Skin Clear Anti Blemish Scrub as it can enhance the effectiveness of other skincare products by allowing them to penetrate deeper into the skin.

young woman using Nivea DermaSkin face cleanser

2. Toning:

Incorporating a gentle, hydrating toner into the routine offers several advantages. It aids in maintaining the skin's pH balance and effectively eliminates excess dirt, oil and makeup. The NIVEA Derma Skin Clear Toner could help to hydrate the skin while rebalancing it.

3. Exfoliate:

Exfoliating helps remove dead cells and prevents dirt buildup, so the pores are not clogged. This step should only be done 1-2 times a week to avoid over-exfoliation. The NIVEA Derma Skin Clear Chemical Exfoliator enriches and renews your skin through high concentrations of Salicylic and Glycolic acid.

4. Moisturise:

Proper skin hydration is important to the routine. You should aim for well-moisturised skin without excessive oiliness, which can lead to whiteheads. Opt for a non-comedogenic, lightweight moisturiser or gel to keep your pores clear.

Explore NIVEA Moisturiser Range

5. Sun Protection:

The UV rays can increase redness and inflammation of breakouts causing them to become dry and sore. The skin's response to being dried out by the sun is to release more sebum which then leads to clogged pores. Therefore, it's essential to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every morning and during the day. The NIVEA UV Face Shine Control SPF 50 helps to absorb excess oil from the skin’s surface while protecting against UVA / UVB-induced skin damage. Remember that some components such as Alpha Hydroxy acids can increase your skin's sensitivity to sunlight.

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Home remedies to treat Whiteheads

Tea Tree Oil
Tea Tree Oil could help to clear up spots due to its anti-inflammatory features. Create a solution by blending 1-2 drops of Tea Tree oil with 3-4 drops of Jojoba oil. Apply this mixture to the affected areas and follow up with a moisturiser to prevent dry skin.
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera’s moisturising effects could prevent skin dryness commonly induced by acne treatments. Scrape the Aloe Vera gel out of the leaf using a tablespoon and apply it directly to the affected area as a moisturiser at night. This could also help remove the bacteria from the whiteheads, however, remember to wash it off in the morning
Honey
Honey’s chemical properties, such as high sugar concentration and acidic environment, hinder bacterial growth. Cinnamon’s features can shrink pores, leading to smoother and more even-looking skin. The combination of both helps to eliminate the bacteria responsible for inflamed pores. Mix 2 tablespoons of Honey with 1 teaspoon of Cinnamon and create a paste. Begin by cleansing your face, then apply the paste and let it sit for 10-15 minutes. Then rinse the mask off with warm, but not hot water, and gently pat your face dry. This mask can greatly help to treat whiteheads on the nose as both of the components have antimicrobial properties.

Remember - If you notice any signs of skin irritation, you should immediately stop the procedure and consult your GP for advice.

Summary

Whiteheads are small skin bumps characterised by a closed, white or yellowish centre, often surrounded by red, inflamed skin. They result from clogged pores trapping sebum, dead skin cells, and bacteria beneath the skin's surface.

Whiteheads can appear on various parts of the body, and effective treatment involves a personalised skincare regime, and seeking professional help if necessary. Additionally, proper diet, stress management, adequate sleep, and gentle skin care are essential for skin health. Sun protection is also crucial to prevent whiteheads when exposed to UV rays. Home remedies like Tea Tree oil, Aloe Vera, and Honey-Cinnamon masks may help to fight whiteheads, but caution is advised to avoid skin irritation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are whiteheads?

Whiteheads, scientifically known as closed comedones, are small bumps on the skin's surface with a closed, white or yellowish centre, often surrounded by red, inflamed skin.

Are whiteheads a type of acne?

Yes, whiteheads are a type of acne. Acne encompasses various blemishes resulting from clogged hair follicles or pores, with whiteheads being one of its symptoms.

How common are whiteheads?

Whiteheads are very common. Whiteheads affect nearly everyone at some time during their lives. They’re most common among adolescents, but 10% to 20% of adults have whiteheads too.

What causes whiteheads on the face?

Whiteheads on your face are primarily caused by factors such as excessive sebum (skin oil) production, the buildup of dead skin cells within hair follicles, hormonal changes, bacterial activity within clogged pores, and the use of comedogenic cosmetic products.

What happens if you pop a whitehead?

Popping a whitehead can lead to redness, swelling, and infection risk, while also causing long-term scarring and dark spots as the skin heals.

How do you treat whiteheads on the nose?

Pore strips for the nose will not help to treat whiteheads. Wash the affected area with more care and use non-comedogenic products.

How to remove whiteheads effectively?

You can use gentle exfoliation, topical treatments containing Salicylic Acid or Benzoyl Peroxide, or consider professional extraction by a dermatologist for stubborn whiteheads.