A whitehead is a type of acne similar to the blackhead. Both are also called comedones, though whiteheads may be called closed comedones. Whiteheads and blackheads form when hair follicles are blocked by a secretion called sebum and by dead skin cells. Blackheads are considered open comedones because the pore remains open, allowing this material to oxidize and change color. With whiteheads, a small amount of skin covers the pore, so that the material remains white.

Whiteheads tend to be smaller than blackheads but they are still fairly noticeable because of their white color. Most dermatologists recommend that you not pop these, unless you’re knowledgeable in using a comedone extractor. Instead, though it may take time, the best way to reduce whiteheads is by using a good exfoliating cleaner on the face. Exfoliants help to remove dead skin, which may reduce incidence of follicles being blocked by it.

Another way to work on eliminating whiteheads is to use an astringent to clean the face of excess sebum. Astringents with benzyl peroxide or salicylic acid may be most effective in this respect. Many people are able to eliminate closed and open comedones, or at least reduce them if they a follow daily skin cleaning regimen with an exfoliant and an astringent.

Some people really want to pop whiteheads, and since they are small they may not run much risk of scarring. It may help to use a warm compress on the whitehead for several minutes so you can soften the pimple. It’s important not to use your fingers after you’re softened the whitehead.

Instead learn how to use a comedone extractor, or use two q-tips to place gentle pressure on the sides of the whitehead. When the whitehead is popped, make sure to use your astringent so you don’t spread more sebum or potential infection to other parts of the skin. Remember that even though you can pop whiteheads, you still may run some risk of scarring and most dermatologists do not recommend you do it.

If regular care of the skin is not helping to eliminate whiteheads, blackheads or other forms of acne, you may want to visit a dermatologist. Dermatologists can prescribe topical and oral medications that can help get acne under control. If you are teen, recall that you’re not alone, since sebum production increases greatly in teenagers. Well over half of all teenagers face blackheads, whiteheads and other forms of acne too!