Rufus R. Noble What are the available treatments?
Whiteheads are caused by dead skin cells, oil (sebum), and dirt getting clogged up in your pores. Whiteheads cannot be pushed out like blackheads. This can make it more difficult to treat.
There is hope for those pesky whiteheads. There are many options available, including natural and home remedies as well as prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) treatments. Continue reading to find out the best ways to eliminate whiteheads.
A hands-off approach
Ironically, the first step in whitehead treatment is to not do anything. You’ll want to be hands-off. Not only does it invite more pore-clogging bacteria, oil, and dirt to your face, but it can also cause irritation.
Popping whiteheads by picking and popping them is a bad idea. It can cause irritation and permanent scarring in some cases. It is best to look into other options for treatment and prevention.
Home remedies
Home remedies may be the most cost effective and easiest way to get rid of whiteheads. These home remedies often involve items you already have in your house. However, be aware of possible harmful ingredients. Any remedy that causes skin irritation should be stopped.
Some home remedies are helpful, but others can cause skin irritation. Take, for example:
- Apple cider vinegar and lemon juice might be too acidic for sensitive skin
- Baking soda is too harsh.
- Sugar crystals can increase inflammation and even cause the skin to become irritated.
Natural remedies
As an alternative to traditional skin treatments, natural remedies are becoming more popular. Although the term “natural” sounds promising, these treatments may not pass the same standards of testing. Be aware of the following warnings.
Vitamin A cream
Vitamin A is a powerful antioxidant nutrient. Vitamin A can improve skin health by decreasing inflammation and redness, as well as encouraging healthy cell growth.
Vitamin A is found in some creams that are available over the counter and at natural health shops. These creams can be applied to your skin once or twice daily. Vitamin A products can cause skin reddening and skin sensitivity. These products can cause skin reddening and sunburns, so it is important to use sunscreen every day.
Tea tree oil
Tea tree oil has been touted as a natural anti-inflammatory remedy. It might also be antimicrobial. Tea tree oil may help to clear up whiteheads.
You can also apply the oil directly to your skin as an extract. Tea tree oil is also found in some skin care products, including cleansers, masks, spot treatments, and spot treatments.
Aloe vera
Another plant-based ingredient is aloe vera. Aloe vera can be used in OTC skin products or as an extract, just like tea tree oil. While studies on aloe vera’s efficacy are not conclusive, the Mayo Clinic suggests that it may be beneficial when combined with other products for acne.
Witch hazel
Witch hazel is a product of the same flowering plant. It may be used to treat whiteheads by opening pores and reducing astringency. Astringent witch hazel is the most convenient. Use it by simply soaking a cotton ball in it, and then twice daily.
Over-the-counter products
It is often difficult to treat whiteheads or other forms of acne. OTC treatments may be an option if natural remedies and home remedies do not work.
Be careful not to use too many of the ingredients. Too many acne products can cause skin dryness. OTC acne products require patience. It can take several months for these treatments to fully take effect.
Benzoyl peroxide
As a spot and full-face treatment, benzoyl peroxide is effective. It is effective in eliminating bacteria and oil. Benzoyl peroxide can be used to treat multiple whiteheads. It reduces inflammation and helps with swelling.
You should look for products that contain at least 2% benzoyl peroxide. undefined
Apply to the area one time per day. Once your skin is used to the treatment, you can increase the frequency to twice daily. Wash your hands immediately after applying products with benzoyl Peroxide. This ingredient can bleach hair and clothes.
Salicylic acid
Salicylic acid, like benzoyl peroxide, can reduce oil production in your pores. It can also dry out your skin and remove dead skin cells from the pores.
Salicylic acid can be used to prevent whiteheads. It can be used up to three times per day. It is found in creams and gels, as well as acne toners and strong astringents. Salicylic acid is also found in some face moisturizers.
One of these products might appeal to you:
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- Dermalogica Overnight Clearing Gel
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Retinoid creams
Vitamin A is stronger in retinoids. Retinoids are part of a daily skin cream that can offer anti-aging benefits and unclog pores. Adapalene, an OTC retinoid, can prove to be very beneficial. You should apply it to your entire face and not just to a specific area. It is best to use it nightly if you have sensitive or dry skin. Your dermatologist may recommend stronger prescription retinoids if the OTC adapalene does not work.
Retinoids can cause skin irritation, so be careful. These retinoids can make your skin more sensitive. Use sunscreen daily and avoid direct sunlight during peak hours.
Use gentle exfoliants
Whiteheads can be treated with exfoliants, with or without the use of salicylic acid. These can smoothen not only the skin but also remove dead skin cells.
A gentle formula is the best exfoliant. You will get the exfoliation that you want without irritation or dryness. undefined
Skin care tips
You can prevent whiteheads by taking good care of your skin. These are some tips to help prevent whiteheads.
- Make sure to wash your face at night. Use mild products such as Cerave or Dove. After working out or engaging in sports, you may want to wash your skin.
- For cleansing and bathing, use lukewarm.
- Avoid using harsh scrubbers as they can cause skin irritation.
- Only do this a few times per week. Exfoliating helps remove dead skin cells that can clog pores. However, too much exfoliating can cause more irritation and worsen your acne.
- Use sunscreen that is specifically made for the face. Skin pores can be blocked by all-over sunscreens.
- If you have long hair, it is important to wash your hair frequently. Your pores can be clogged by oily hair.
- Hair products should be kept away from your face.
- To get rid of dirt, oil, and bacteria, clean your phone, pillowcase, sunglasses, and other items regularly.
There are a few things to remember if you use makeup.
- Every night, wash your makeup.
- Makeup products that are not oil-free or noncomedogenic should be avoided. They will be less likely to clog pores.
- Get rid of old makeup. Powders last for up to one year, while creams should be used in a matter of months.
- Avoid using makeup jars that can harbor bacteria.
- After each use, wash your makeup sponges and brushes.
- Never share your makeup or applicators.
When should you see your dermatologist?
If you have tried everything to get rid of your whiteheads, you may need to see a dermatologist. You may be able to get stronger medication to eliminate whiteheads. These can be in the form of either oral tablets or topical treatments. Prescription acne products can make your skin more sensitive than others, so it is important to use sunscreen every day.
