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How Do I Remove Whiteheads?

Marlene Garcia
Marlene Garcia

Several methods might remove whiteheads from the skin, and might include seeking a professional dermatologist or cosmetologist for advice. Removing whiteheads is typically more difficult than getting rid of blackheads because they form in deeper layers of the skin. Steam, commercial skin products, and exfoliants might be used to diminish whiteheads without causing permanent scarring. Lemon juice might also open clogged pores to make removal easier.

Whiteheads, also called closed comedones, develop from oil that clogs pores. They are caused by poor skin hygiene, hormonal imbalances, and lack of moisture in the skin. This form of acne commonly appears on the face, including on the forehead, nose, under the eyelids, and chin. Adolescent girls might deal with whiteheads as hormonal levels change each month.

A comedone extractor with a sharp point is best for use on a whitehead.
A comedone extractor with a sharp point is best for use on a whitehead.

The steam method to remove whiteheads represents an age-old way of treating this type of acne at home. An antibacterial soap can be used to thoroughly cleanse the face and hands before exposing skin to steam. Some people make a tent over a pan or bowl of boiling water to keep steam from escaping. Once pores open, cotton balls might be used to squeeze dead skin cells and oil from the bumps. An antibacterial cream can be applied to prevent infection after steaming to remove whiteheads.

Whiteheads are common on one's forehead.
Whiteheads are common on one's forehead.

Another technique to treat whiteheads involves a paste that acts as a defoliant. Hot compresses might be used instead of steam to open clogged pores before using a sterile needle to nudge bacteria out of comedomes. This should be followed by an exfoliating product, which can be purchased or made at home. Oatmeal or cornmeal mixed with yogurt to form a paste can be massaged into skin before rinsing off.

Removing makeup before going to bed is a good way to prevent acne.
Removing makeup before going to bed is a good way to prevent acne.

Commercially prepared acne cream might also remove whiteheads. Products containing retinoid, a form of vitamin A, might reduce the appearance of these blemishes and prevent them from forming. Creams made with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide also might help remove whiteheads, but tend to dry out the skin. Most dermatologists advise against squeezing to remove whiteheads because it could spread bacteria and cause scars.

There are a number of cleansing products on the market to help reduce the occurrence of pimples.
There are a number of cleansing products on the market to help reduce the occurrence of pimples.

Preventing acne might be easier than getting rid of it. Skin should be kept clean by washing twice a day and exfoliating dead skin cells twice a month. Keeping pores open might eliminate the need to remove whiteheads later. Creams or lotions with a petroleum base, and heavy makeup, might activate oil glands and clog skin pores. Removing makeup before going to bed also might help prevent acne.

Discussion Comments

anon285254

I need help, please. I have whiteheads and redness and oily skin.

When my whiteheads go away, they leave my pores open and permanently damaged. My skin is ugly, is not smooth and honestly I'm a little frustrated because they do not go away. I used proactiv retin-a, but not before now I have had so many whiteheads, like 10 on each cheek and I am desperate. I know it's not a big issue but I am desperate. Nothing helps me, not even salicylic acid. I have oily skin and it's also sensitive.

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    • A comedone extractor with a sharp point is best for use on a whitehead.
      By: F.C.G.
      A comedone extractor with a sharp point is best for use on a whitehead.
    • Whiteheads are common on one's forehead.
      By: Valua Vitaly
      Whiteheads are common on one's forehead.
    • Removing makeup before going to bed is a good way to prevent acne.
      By: lightwavemedia
      Removing makeup before going to bed is a good way to prevent acne.
    • There are a number of cleansing products on the market to help reduce the occurrence of pimples.
      By: ipag
      There are a number of cleansing products on the market to help reduce the occurrence of pimples.
    • Antibacterial creams can help whiteheads heal faster.
      By: red150770
      Antibacterial creams can help whiteheads heal faster.
    • Popping whiteheads improperly can lead to severe scarring.
      By: Budimir Jevtic
      Popping whiteheads improperly can lead to severe scarring.
    • Applying a steamed towel to the face can help unclog the pores and reduce the occurrence of whiteheads.
      By: miya227
      Applying a steamed towel to the face can help unclog the pores and reduce the occurrence of whiteheads.
    • Creams that contain salicylic acid may be helpful in treating whiteheads.
      By: Olga Lyubkin
      Creams that contain salicylic acid may be helpful in treating whiteheads.