Acne lesions filled with puss are called as Whiteheads. They are fairly common and can affect individuals in their teens and sometimes into adulthood even. These blemishes look ugly and are incredibly annoying, so people look for effective ways for white head removal. Whiteheads may not be as tough to treat as some other acute forms of acne, such as cystic acne. Good news is there are many over-the-counter and prescription products that can be used to remove whiteheads. Finding the “best” remedy that suits you may involve some trial and error, and is generally dependent on the specific skin condition.
White Head Treatment – A Dermatologist Tells All About Whiteheads
We spoke to a top-notch certified dermatologist to get to the root of the cause. Below, is all the information, which explains: What causes whiteheads? How to get rid of whiteheads? and What you should never, ever do!
Causes Of Whiteheads
In the individuals who are acne prone, cells lining follicle (called as pores) are stickier. This condition can clog openings of the follicles. When the pores get clogged, the dead skin cells, sebum (or oil), and bacteria get trapped – such a condition leads to formation of a closed comedone – the so-called dreadful whitehead.
How Are Whiteheads Different Than Blackheads?
Whitehead is different from blackhead. Unlike blackhead, a whitehead occurs under the surface of a closed pore. In contrast, blackheads are clogged pores that have contents exposed to the air – so they oxidized. Oxidization causes sebum to turn dark, which makes them look blackish in color.
How Are Whiteheads Different Than Cystic Acne?
When a pore is clogged, oil production rises, bacteria thrives, and then inflammation sets it. Cystic acne is linked with inflammation. That explains why cystic acne tends to be red and painful, on the other hand whiteheads and blackheads – both are neither red nor painful.
Is It Ever Okay To Pop Whiteheads?
Never! It can push the bacteria in the follicle deeper into the pore and lead to inflammation and even scarring. Fast acting whitehead spot treatments, which are readily available over the counter can help treat whiteheads in as little as 4 hours, so rather use them instead. If you are desperate to remove a whitehead instantly, a dermatologist can perform acne surgery or other trained professional. But we don’t recommend this.
Over-The-Counter Whitehead Treatment Options
Mild whitehead flare-ups can be treated with over-the-counter medications. Benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid are among the most popular and effective remedies, which you can look for when searching for a product to treat whiteheads. Whereas benzoyl peroxide acts by killing bacteria that otherwise can cause whiteheads, the salicylic acid helps the skin to shed dead cells that can otherwise clog the pores. As per the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), these treatments would need four to eight weeks before improvement is noticed. Moreover, to continue to see positive results, the product should be used routinely.
DERMATOLOGISTS RECOMMENDED TOP OTC PRODUCTS TO REMOVE WHITEHEADS
What Prescription Medications Work To Get Rid Of Whiteheads?
Consult a dermatologist for prescriptions. Retinoids like tretinoin or adapalene can be used to treat various forms of acne, including blackheads and whiteheads. This derivative of vitamin A works by unclogging pores and preventing blackheads and whiteheads from forming. As per the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), retinoids are considered a cornerstone in acne treatment. Its bonus benefits include reduced wrinkles, making skin appear more healthy and youthful.
What’s The Best Way To Treat Whiteheads?
Application of a spot treatment plus a prescription retinoid and proper skin care.
Causes Of Whiteheads That Aren’t On Your Face (i.e. back, shoulders, etc.) And What Is The Best Way To Treat Them?
Breakouts on the back or shoulders (also called as folliculitis) are caused due to the same reasons, which cause whiteheads on the face. Remedies and ingredients are also the same as for facial acne. Just be careful while using benzoyl peroxide containing products, as they can bleach fabrics. Medicated wipes treated with salicylic acid are a safe and efficient way to treat a large body surface area without subjecting your clothing at risk.
Good Skin Care For Preventing And Controlling Whiteheads
The best way is to prevent and contain the flaring up of whiteheads in the first place itself. As per the American Acne Dermatology, popping and squeezing whiteheads can deteriorate the condition further. Actually, poking and picking at the whiteheads cause the acne condition lasts longer and can even result in to permanent scarring. Take good care of your skin by washing gently, avoiding harsh scrubs and vigorous scrubbing, which can irritate the skin and cause more breakouts.
Useful Related Posts:
How To Get Rid Of Whiteheads