Whiteheads - How To Get Rid Of Them?

Similar to blackheads are whiteheads, which develop on our skin. Both blackheads and whiteheads are caused due to clogged pores. However, as opposed to blackheads, whiteheads cannot be extracted. Whiteheads are a form of acne that is referred to as closed comedones. They appear on the skin as small round white-coloured bumps. When excess oil is secreted in the skin, oil along with dead skin cells clog the pore area and block the pore opening resulting in whitehead formation. Unlike blackheads that keep the pore open, whiteheads, on the other hand, keep the pores closed.

However, they may evolve into a pustule or other acne lesion when bacteria gets involved.

Causes of whiteheads
Clogged pores are the prime reason that causes whiteheads, and they can occur due to any of the following reasons:

• Excessive oil secretion or sebum
• Hormonal changes occurring due to puberty, pregnancy, and menstruation
• Birth control pills
• Sweating and humidity
• Use of certain cosmetics or products that are harmful
• Eating excessive oily or greasy foods
• Genetic predisposition

Treatment of whiteheads

With extreme conditions, oral medications like isotretinoin may be prescribed, but these come with potential side effects. Here are some remedies you can try to get rid of whiteheads: Tea tree oil: Dab a cotton swab with tea tree oil and apply it on the whiteheads to prevent bacterial infection.

Self-care tips 
Practising some of the following preventive self-care measures will prevent the formation of whiteheads:

• Wash your skin twice daily with lukewarm water and mild soap.
• Don’t squeeze pimples.
• Practice caution while shaving.
• Avoid excessive exposure to sunlight.
• Use oil-free skin products.
• Remove makeup before going to bed.
• Opt for non-comedogenic or non-pore-clogging products.
• Wear loose-fitting clothing made of non-synthetic fabrics to let your skin breathe.
• Wash your hair regularly.
• Change of pillow covers periodically is essential as oil and dirt may accumulate in the covers.

Here are some remedies you can try to get rid of whiteheads:

The above are just some measures to avoid whiteheads. If the problem persists, then it's time to seek medical assistance and schedule an appointment with a dermatologist to eradicate these pesky whiteheads.