What Are Whiteheads?

Whiteheads are a type of acne, also known as acne vulgaris. They occur when oil and dead skin cells block hair follicles or sebaceous glands (oil glands), leading to the formation of a closed bump on the skin, known as a comedo. This results in small, white or yellowish bumps on the skin’s surface.

Whiteheads appear as small, raised bumps that are usually white or yellowish in color. They can be slightly tender or asymptomatic.

While both blackheads and whiteheads are comedones, blackheads are open bumps on the skin that appear dark due to an irregular light reflection off the clogged follicle. In contrast, whiteheads are closed and do not come into contact with air, giving them their characteristic white or yellowish appearance.

Check out our detailed guide on blackheads; its causes, symptoms and treatments here.

Whom Do Whiteheads Affect?

Whiteheads commonly affect teenagers and young adults due to hormonal changes. However, they can also appear in adults well into their 30s or 40s. Some people may even experience whiteheads for the first time in adulthood. Whiteheads are very common, with research suggesting that nearly everyone will experience them at some point. 

Where Are Whiteheads Commonly Found?

Whiteheads are most commonly found on the face particularly the nose, chin, forehead, neck, back, chest, and upper arms. 

Symptoms and Causes

Symptoms

The primary symptom of whiteheads is the presence of small, white or yellowish bumps on the skin. They may be slightly tender but can also be asymptomatic.

What Causes Whiteheads To Appear?

Understanding the underlying causes of whiteheads can be key to preventing future breakouts. Whiteheads primarily result from clogged pores, which can become obstructed for various reasons.

1. Hormonal fluctuations are a significant factor in pore blockage and are commonly linked to acne. During different life stages, such as puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, and hormonal changes due to contraceptives containing only progesterone, your body may produce more sebum, or oil. This excess oil can clog pores, leading to whiteheads. Additionally, some women experience increased acne at different points in their menstrual cycle, particularly after discontinuing birth control pills.
2. Genetics also play a crucial role in the development of whiteheads and other acne types. If acne runs in your family, you may be more prone to experiencing it yourself.
3. Whiteheads can also form in areas that experience frequent friction, such as on the chin from wearing athletic gear or chin straps.
4. Dirt can also contribute to the development of whiteheads. When dirt, along with other debris like dead skin cells and oil, accumulates on the skin, it can mix with sebum and clog pores. This blockage can create an environment where bacteria can thrive, leading to the formation of whiteheads. Keeping your skin clean and free from excessive dirt and debris is important for preventing whiteheads and maintaining overall skin health.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis

Whiteheads are generally easy to identify based on their appearance - white, raised, tender and painful at times.. A healthcare professional may be consulted if whiteheads are accompanied by other severe acne forms or if treatment is needed.

Treatment Options

Whiteheads occur when dead skin cells, oil, and dirt block your pores. Unlike blackheads, which can be squeezed out, whiteheads are sealed within the pore, making them trickier to treat. Fortunately, there are various methods to tackle them, from simple habit changes to over-the-counter and prescription treatments.

Stop Trying To Pop It
Avoid touching your face as it can transfer dirt and bacteria and lead to irritation or scarring. Instead of picking at whiteheads, which can worsen the situation, explore other treatment options.

Natural Remedies
These are popular but vary in effectiveness. Vitamin A creams, available over the counter, may reduce redness and promote healthy skin growth, though they can cause sun sensitivity. Tea tree oil, known for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, might help clear whiteheads when applied directly or found in skincare products. Aloe vera, used in some acne treatments, may be beneficial when combined with other acne-fighting products. Witch hazel, with its astringent properties, can help tighten pores and reduce whiteheads when applied with a cotton ball.

Over-the-Counter Medications
To tackle whiteheads effectively, you can turn to a range of over-the-counter treatments and skincare solutions. These remedies are designed to address the factors contributing to whitehead formation, such as excess oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria. Here are some popular options that you might find beneficial:

Benzoyl Peroxide: Helps eliminate bacteria and excess oil while reducing inflammation. Opt for products with at least 2% benzoyl peroxide and apply once or twice daily.
Salicylic Acid: Aids in preventing whiteheads by removing dead skin cells and decreasing oil production. Here are a few products you can use to treat your whiteheads:

1. Tiam AC Fighting Spot RX Cream (30 ml)
2. CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser (150 ml)
3. COSRX Full Fit Propolis Synergy Toner (150 ml) 
4. The INKEY List Salicylic Acid Cleanser (150 ml).

Retinoid Creams (e.g., Adapalene): Stronger versions of vitamin A that unclog pores and offer anti-aging benefits. Apply nightly, keeping in mind that these may increase sun sensitivity. Check out these:

1. CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum (30 ml)
2. LANEIGE Retinol Firming Cream Treatment (15 ml) 
3. La Roche-Posay Retinol B3 Pure Retinol Serum (30 ml).

Gentle Exfoliants: Useful for removing dead skin cells and smoothing the skin. Select a gentle formula to avoid irritation and dryness. Here are a few recommendations.

1. Paula's Choice SKIN PERFECTING 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant 
2. The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution (30 ml)
3. iUNIK Lime Moisture Mild Peeling Gel (120 ml).

Prescription Treatments

For more severe cases of whiteheads, additional treatments may be necessary. Here are some advanced options to consider:

1. Stronger Retinoids: For more intense whitehead issues, stronger retinoids recommended by a dermatologist can offer deeper pore-clearing and anti-aging benefits.
2. Oral Antibiotics: These can help reduce bacteria and inflammation from within, offering a more systemic approach to managing whiteheads. However, only take these on a dermatologist’s recommendation.
3. Microdermabrasion: This procedure exfoliates and removes the top layers of skin, helping to clear clogged pores and improve skin texture. You can find a number of aesthetic clinics, all over Pakistan, that provide Microdermabrasion services by professional aestheticians. 
4. Chemical Peels: By peeling away the surface layers of skin, chemical peels can help diminish whiteheads and promote clearer skin. A chemical peel every few weeks can be extremely effective for long term health of your skin.
5. Laser Skin Resurfacing: This treatment focuses on oil production and improves skin texture, offering a strong solution for persistent whiteheads, stubborn acne, and scarring. 
6. Avoid Squeezing: This goes without saying. Refrain from squeezing or picking at whiteheads, as this can lead to bacterial infection, irritation, and potential scarring. I know it’s tempting to pop a white zit, but please don't. You'll thank me later.

Prevention 

Both oral and topical medications can effectively treat whiteheads, but incorporating certain lifestyle changes can also help you achieve clearer skin and minimize future breakouts.

Opt for makeup products that are non comedogenic and oil-free, as these are less likely to clog pores and contribute to acne. This can reduce the risk of developing whiteheads. Similarly, choose oil-free lotions and moisturizers to prevent excess oil from accumulating on your skin.

Maintain a regular skincare routine by washing your face consistently, but avoid over-washing, which can irritate your skin and potentially worsen acne. Use a gentle cleanser (check out our cleanser collection for whitehead-prone skin here) to wash your face once daily with warm water, and always pat your skin dry rather than scrubbing. Refrain from using abrasive exfoliants, as they can aggravate acne and lead to more skin issues.

Misconceptions About Whiteheads

There are several common myths about whiteheads that can lead to confusion about acne management. Here’s a clarification of what does not contribute to the development of whiteheads:

1. Washing your face excessively or scrubbing too hard does not prevent whiteheads and can actually irritate your skin, potentially worsening existing acne.
2. Dirt is not a direct cause of acne.
3. Greasy foods do not cause acne.

Understanding these misconceptions can help you focus on more effective strategies for managing and preventing whiteheads.

Risks Associated With Whiteheads

How you manage whiteheads can greatly influence the health of your skin. If you habitually pick at a whitehead, it’s more likely to become inflamed and result in a blemish. Once a blemish forms, while it can be diminished, it tends to remain a relatively lasting mark on your skin.

It’s Time To Talk To A Doctor

If you have tried everything - home remedies, over-the-counter medicines, and lifestyle changes - and nothing works, then it is time to visit your doctor, and identify perhaps a deeper, underlying cause behind your breakouts. There is no need to get afraid, sometimes, we need professional guidance from the experts, which can prevent a major problem in the future. 

Be Gentle

Pimples are often uncomfortable and can affect one’s self-esteem, but they should not define your inherent worth. Seeking treatment is important for your health and can help you feel better about yourself. However, it’s crucial to be gentle and patient with yourself as you explore new skincare products and routines. Start seeing yourself in a new light - someone who brings innate value to the world by merely existing. Start your skincare journey from a place of love, then wait and watch how your life and skin transform.