Whiteheads are a form of acne characterized by a white pin-head dot on the skin. The area around the whitehead may appear inflamed and red. Inside the whitehead is oil and dead skin cells that have clogged the pore and bulged to the skin's surface. Dermatologists call this a closed comedo, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Because whiteheads are one of the first signs of a condition that can lead to more severe acne, fast and comprehensive treatment is necessary to keep acne from advancing.
Step 1
Wash your face twice daily with a cleanser containing salicylic acid. Salicylic acid is a keratolytic agent, meaning it helps to encourage exfoliation inside the pore. This is helpful in treating whiteheads because the whiteheads contain dead skin cells and other matter inside the pore that must be removed in order to clear the skin.
Step 2
Apply a benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid spot treatment to the skin. These medications contain higher concentrations of active ingredients than those meant for application to the entire face. Apply to both the whitehead itself and the area surrounding it for best results. For a natural remedy, mix a paste of corn starch with vinegar and apply, leaving on for 15 to 30 minutes before washing off with warm water.
Step 3
Apply a purifying clay mask to the face once per week. This type of mask can help to dry up the contents of a whitehead. If you are short on time, you can dot the mask only on the whitehead and area surrounding it. Take care when removing the mask so you do not inadvertently pop the whitehead.
Step 4
Use facial products and makeup that is labeled non-comedogenic. This means the application does not contain pore-clogging oil that can further worsen your acne. You should apply your makeup after you have performed your anti-acne treatments and applied any spot treatments, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.
Step 5
Continue to use acne medication after the whitehead has cleared to prevent future whitehead breakouts.
Things You'll Need
- Salicylic acid face wash
- Acne spot treatment
Member Comments