We all heard about blackheads, but did you know about whiteheads? Yes! The plain ugly appearances on the face, which are caused mainly due to clogged pores, are called whiteheads. Some people will have to deal with them constantly, while for some people, whiteheads last only during adolescence. But worry no more! We present you with the best home remedies that help you deal with whiteheads naturally.
When your skin pores are clogged due to dead skin cells, oil, grime, and bacteria, it results in whiteheads called comedones. They are firm and have a white or yellowish appearance, hence the name. The problem with these is that they appear without any notice to ruin your perfect day. Read on to have a glimpse at some of the home remedies you can try to treat whiteheads.
What Causes Whiteheads:
The appearance of whiteheads is caused by clogged pores primarily, and some of the reasons that render this blockage are:
- Production of excess sebum.
- Extreme changes in hormones.
- Sweating.
- Birth control pills.
- Humidity in the environment.
- Cosmetic product allergy.
- Consuming greasy foods.
- Genetics.
Although these are some of the factors, not everyone is affected for the same reasons. You can use the home remedies mentioned below to handle whiteheads well.
Risk Factors Of Whiteheads?
There is a lot of information going around that claims different factors that contribute to whiteheads’ formation. Although there is no scientific proof to support the same, here is the list of some of the risk factors:
- Hormonal changes during pregnancy or puberty.
- Certain medications.
- People who consume foods rich in carbohydrates or refined sugar.
- If you have parents who had acne.
How To Remove Whiteheads:
The prominent reason for the appearance of whiteheads is clogged pores. As mentioned above, several reasons cause them, and if it is caused by genetic predisposition, you may not be able to cure it completely. But the home remedies mentioned below will help you manage the appearance of whiteheads by unclogging your pores and keeping your face fresh.
Home Remedies For Whiteheads:
Here is the list of some of the best and effective home remedies for whiteheads that you can try in the comfort of your home.
1.Aloe Vera for Whiteheads:
Aloe vera is considered one of the best home remedies to remove whiteheads with its skin-cleansing properties. The astringent and antimicrobial properties of lemon eliminate the bacteria on your skin effectively.
Ingredients:
- One e aloe vera leaf.
- One tbsp of lemon juice.
Preparation:
- Scoop out the fresh aloe vera gel from the leaf and place it in a bowl.
- Add lemon juice to the bowl and combine them.
Application:
- Apply the mixture to the affected areas of your face.
- Massage your skin for about 3 to 4 minutes gently.
- Let it stay on your face for about 5 to 10 minutes.
- Use fresh water to wash your face.
- For effective results, use this remedy twice a week.
2.Facial Steam:
Facial steam has been a remedy that gives positive results for many health issues. Indirect heat application helps improve the circulation to your skin’s surface, making it one of the best natural remedies for whiteheads. The facial steam helps open up the pores and cleanse them with warm air.
Ingredients:
- A bowl of water.
- A towel.
Preparation:
- Boil the bowl of water.
- Shift the water into another bowl.
Application:
- Place your head over the boiling water and cover your head with a towel.
- Let the steam come in contact with your face.
- Repeat the process for a few minutes.
- Pat your skin dry once done with the steaming process.
- For effective results, use this remedy once a week.
Caution: Make sure to stay away from the hot bowl to avoid burns.
3.Witch Hazel for Whiteheads:
Witch hazel controls the production of excess oil that tones your skin with its astringent properties. Regular usage will help you get rid of deep whiteheads naturally.
Ingredients:
- Two tbsp of witch hazel solution.
- Cotton ball.
Application:
- Apply the witch hazel liquid on your whiteheads by dipping a cotton ball.
- Let it dry.
- Use this remedy twice a day for effective results.
4.Honey:
Honey helps ward off whiteheads effectively with the help of its antibacterial properties. It also moisturizes and soothes your skin, making it one of the best home remedies to eliminate whiteheads.
Ingredients:
- One tbsp of organic honey.
Application:
- Warm up the honey lightly.
- Gently apply the warm honey to the affected areas.
- Let it stay for about 15 to 20 minutes.
- Use lukewarm water to wash your face.
- For whiteheads to go away completely, repeat this remedy every alternate day.
[ Also Read: Honey for Acne Scars ]
5.Sugar Scrub:
Sugar granules have a special place in the beauty routine. The sugar granules eliminate dead skin cells by acting as an exfoliant making it one of the best home remedies for whiteheads on the face.
Ingredients:
- One tbsp of honey.
- One tbsp of sugar.
- Few drops of fresh lemon juice.
Preparation:
- Take a bowl and add all the ingredients to it.
- Apply the mixture to your face before the sugar granules melt.
- Massage your face in circular motions for a few minutes.
- Use lukewarm water to wash your face.
- Use this scrub twice a week for ideal results.
6.Turmeric:
Turmeric is one of the commonly found spices in every household. It is a natural way to get rid of whiteheads with antimicrobial and healing properties.
Ingredients:
- ½ tbsp of turmeric powder.
- Water.
Preparation:
- Take a bow and add turmeric powder to it.
- Add water as per the need to form a smooth paste.
Application:
- Apply the paste to the affected areas of your face.
- Let it stay for about 20 minutes.
- Use warm water to rinse off your face.
- Use this remedy once or twice a day for efficient results.
7.Baking Soda for Whiteheads:
You can get instant whitehead removal at home with baking soda. The exfoliant and astringent properties of baking soda cleanse your skin by eliminating all impurities. It also controls the production of sebum and acts as a PH neutralizer.
Ingredients:
- Two tbsp of baking soda.
- Water.
Preparation:
- Place the baking soda in a bowl.
- Add the required amount of water to form a paste.
Application:
- Gently apply the paste to either your whiteheads or entire face.
- Let it stay on your face for about 20 minutes.
- Use lukewarm water to wash your face.
[ Also Read: Baking Soda for Acne ]
8.Apple Cider Vinegar:
Apple cider vinegar helps dry up whiteheads with its acidic properties. It unclogs your pores by eliminating all the bacteria in them, making it one of the best home remedies for whiteheads.
Ingredients:
- Apple cider vinegar-few drops.
- Cotton ball.
Application:
- Dip the cotton ball in the apple cider vinegar.
- Gently apply it on the whiteheads.
- Let it air dry for five minutes.
- Get rid of whiteheads by using this remedy twice or thrice over a fortnight.
9.Tea Tree Oil:
Essential oils have always played an indispensable role in dealing with many skin issues. Tea tree oil is considered one of the best natural remedies to eliminate whiteheads because it helps remove bacteria from your clogged pores with its antimicrobial properties.
Ingredients:
- Few drops of tea tree oil.
- Cotton swab.
Application:
- Dip the cotton swab in the tea tree oil.
- Gently apply the oil to the affected area.
- Using this remedy twice a day gives you the desired results.
- Toothpaste for Whiteheads:
Toothpaste, when you exclude the gel ones, penetrate your whiteheads and eliminate them within a few hours of application. This is yet another whiteheads-on-face treatment at home where the ingredient is available easily.
Ingredients:
- Toothpaste.
Application:
- Gently apply the toothpaste to your whiteheads.
- Let it stay for at least 30 minutes.
- Use lukewarm water to wash your face.
- Use this remedy once or twice a day for good results.
Treatments To Getting Rid of Whiteheads:
Here is the list of some of the other treatments available to treat whiteheads on your face.
1.Benzoyl Peroxide:
Benzoyl peroxide reduces inflammation with its strong antibacterial properties. It also helps dry up excess oil from your face reducing the occurrence of acne. This is the reason why benzoyl peroxide is one of the common ingredients found in many beauty products.
Although it is helpful, using benzoyl peroxide products should be used once a day and gradually increase the quantity. It is advised to wash your hands thoroughly after applying these products.
2.Salicylic Acid:
Salicylic acid is another ingredient commonly found in many skin and hair care products because of its beneficial nature. It helps cleanse your pores by eliminating the accumulated dead skin cells.
Apply the selected salicylic acid cream to your face as per the instructions given on the product. Don’t forget to moisturize after. To keep the whiteheads and acne under control, use this treatment daily.
3.Mild Retinol And Vitamin A Creams:
Vitamin A is a potent antioxidant, and it helps reduce inflammation and promotes skin growth. There are several creams available in the market that have vitamin A that help you tackle whiteheads efficiently.
If you are looking for a more potent vitamin A form, then retinoid creams are a perfect choice. Adapalene is one of the mild retinoid creams available online that can be applied to the face.
It is best to use retinol creams during the night rather than daylight hours since it makes your skin sensitive to the sun.
Tips to Avoid Whiteheads:
The internet is filled with information regarding the prevention of acne and whiteheads. While some of it is true, not many have verified backup. Here are some tips you can follow to avoid whiteheads forming or don't let them intensify.
- Leave the affected area alone.
- Do not clean your face excessively if you have whiteheads.
- Avoid products that have irritants.
- Try to use oil-free, non-comedogenic products for your skin.
- Do not pop the whiteheads or squeeze them.
- Avoid going out in polluted areas.
- Wear loose clothes.
- Do not cleanse your skin aggressively.
- Remove makeup and clean your face before going to bed.
- Tie back your hair.
- Bathe regularly.
Final Thoughts:
If whiteheads are a constant struggle, you can try the home remedies that suit your skin type. But if the treatments cause irritation or don’t do anything for your whiteheads, consult your doctor immediately. To be on the safe side, consult your physician before you start using anything new on your face. Don’t forget to let us know if this article was helpful.
FAQ:
1.What happens when you pull out whiteheads?
There is a process of professional extraction when you want to remove blackheads. But pulling out comedones causes the formation of more whiteheads or blackheads by spreading the impurities. Therefore if you don’t want to leave a mark, leave the whiteheads alone.
2.When is the right time to consult a doctor for whiteheads?
It is time to consult a doctor if the home remedies mentioned in this article don’t help you clear up your whiteheads or increase intensity. The doctor will prescribe something more substantial, which can be oral medication or topical application creams. Don’t forget to use sunscreen daily if you are using prescription products.
3.Is exfoliation helpful in treating whiteheads?
Gentle exfoliation has good results in not only maintaining the health of your skin but also reducing whiteheads. Use exfoliants with or without salicylic acid to remove excess dead skin cells and make your skin smooth.