Removing whiteheads can feel like a never-ending battle with your pores. You may be tempted to squeeze them out, but it can leave you with scarred, irritated and inflamed skin. What’s the solution?
Read on as we show you how to get rid of whiteheads naturally without wreaking havoc on your skin. Explore remedies to claim clear, smooth skin!
What are Whiteheads?
Whiteheads, or acne vulgaris, are small acne-like bumps with a white or yellowish appearance.
These are formed when the skin’s natural oil or hair follicles get clogged under the skin, leading to inflammation and irritation.
Studies show that over 85% of teenagers get whiteheads, sometimes affecting even adults beyond their 20s and 30s. Other than face, these pesky bumps can also be found on the neck, back, chest, upper arms, butt, armpits, etc.
While whiteheads aren’t a health concern, their consistent presence can chip away at your confidence or damage your skin if you try to poke or squeeze them out. If you want to learn how to get rid of whiteheads on nose, chin, or other facial areas, check out the next section.
How to Get Rid of Whiteheads on Face?
Whiteheads usually fix themselves over time. However, maintaining skin hygiene, exfoliating, and using mild chemical treatments can provide quicker results and help prevent them from recurring.
Here are the tips on how to get rid of whiteheads on chin, cheeks, and other facial areas:
1. Turmeric and Yoghurt Pack
Turmeric has anti-bacterial properties that prevent further inflammation and the chances of infection on the skin. Using turmeric yoghurt paste helps cleanse the skin of oil and dirt, reducing redness and swelling.
2. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is loaded with antioxidants that boost skin health and healing. The anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties in it prevent redness and soothe the skin. Dilute with water before applying it over the affected area.
3. Oatmeal Scrub
Since whiteheads are trapped under the skin’s surface, exfoliating is one of the ways how to get rid of whiteheads on forehead, cheeks, or other gentle skin areas. You can use oatmeal with water to make a mild scrub and remove dead skin cells that have been trapping the follicle underneath.
Chemical Treatment For Whiteheads
Other than home remedies, you can also treat whiteheads with chemical treatment at home. These are cost-effective and efficiently remove whiteheads. Take a look:
Salicylic Acid: This over-the-counter solution works as an exfoliant, dissolving dead skin cells and debris from the skin. Using it once a day or three times a week is how to get rid of whiteheads under lip.
Azelaic Acid: This is a natural acid that kills harmful germs and reduces swelling. Using 5% to 20% azelaic acid helps treat whiteheads when applied in the form of gels.
Benzoyl Peroxide: It clears bacteria on the skin’s surface and lowers the risk of inflammation due to whiteheads. It is commonly recommended by dermatologists to treat acne vulgaris.
Read More: Types of Acne: How Do They Differ & Which Treatment Works?
Things to Avoid When You Have Whiteheads
While you’re trying out different remedies to fight whiteheads, it is important to avoid the common mistakes. Here’s a list:
- Avoid popping your whiteheads as it can lead to deep scars and inflammation.
- Don’t scrub your skin harshly, as it can make the issue worse.
- Refrain from touching your face too often to prevent the spread of germs.
- Skip heavy makeup and let your skin breathe while the treatment is ongoing.
- Avoid over washing your face as it strips natural oil and triggers more sebum production.
To Sum Up
Whiteheads are usually harmless, but if not managed properly, they can lead to severe skin irritation, inflammation, and scarring. Avoid popping and squeezing them, and use simple home remedies like a turmeric and yoghurt paste, tea tree oil, and an oatmeal scrub.
You can also try chemical exfoliants like salicylic acid, azelaic acid, and benzoyl peroxide. Using these tips is not how to get rid of whiteheads overnight, but with consistent use, you can witness a noticeable reduction in whiteheads from week one.
