Do you want to know how to get rid of whiteheads? If so, you’re at the right place. Whiteheads are a prevalent skin condition, affecting the face, neck, chest, and back. Although they are generally painless, they affect a person psychosocially and psychologically. Sometimes people associate them with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and suicidal thoughts.
Introduction
Whiteheads mostly occur in adolescents. However, they can develop at any age. Many people search for home remedies for whiteheads to improve their appearance without medication. Products like salicylic acid and vitamin A can help with whitehead removal. Also, you can use prescription and over-the-counter treatments to remove whiteheads at home.
You might also like: What Are Blackheads: 14 Ways to Get Rid of Them
Causes of Whiteheads
Now that you know about this condition, you’re probably wondering, what causes whiteheads? Whiteheads develop when something blocks a sebaceous gland or hair follicle. Sebaceous glands connect to hair follicles and are all over the body. Their inflammation can be due to:
- Excess sebum production
- Abnormal keratin formation
- Presence of excess bacteria that cause skin acne
Symptoms of Whiteheads
So, how do you know that you have whiteheads on face or any other body part? Whiteheads are generally milder than acne. They appear where the skin has more sebaceous glands, such as the face, upper chest, and upper back. They appear as tiny, whitish or yellowish protuberances that don’t cause pain, heat sensation, swelling, or redness, since they’re non-inflammatory. Also, they don’t have pus.
Top 8 Remedies to Treat Acne
You’re probably reading this article to learn how to remove whiteheads permanently. White heads remover can be something you already have at home. Here’s how to get rid of whiteheads from nose, chest, or any other body part using readily available home remedies.
1. Honey
Honey is antibacterial, meaning it may prevent the growth of Propionibacterium acnes, which contributes to whiteheads. To use honey to remove whiteheads on nose, chest, or upper back, add a little water and then apply it to the affected area. Wash it off after 15 to 20 minutes with lukewarm water.
2. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is antibacterial and has substances that work as astringents. Hence, it fights the bacteria that cause whiteheads while tightening the skin pores. Here’s how to treat whiteheads with aloe vera:
- Cut off the flat end of a fresh aloe vera leaf.
- Slit it open to reveal the inside gel.
- Scoop out the gel and apply it to the affected area.
- Wash off with clean water after 15 to 20 minutes.
3. Tea Tree Oil
The antimicrobial properties of tea tree oil make it an effective treatment for whiteheads. Here’s how to remove whiteheads with tea tree oil:
- Put some tea tree oil in a container or bowl.
- Add a carrier oil, such as olive, jojoba, or coconut oil.
- Mix thoroughly
- Dab the mixture onto the affected skin area with a cotton swab
- Use lukewarm water to wash it off after 15 to 20 minutes
- Pat the skin dry
4. Witch Hazel
Witch hazel has an astringent quality because it contains tannins. Therefore, it helps with skin cell contraction. Additionally, it is antiseptic, meaning it prevents the growth of harmful microorganisms. You can use it for whiteheads on nose removal by applying it with a cotton ball. Avoid rinsing after application.
5. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is antibacterial. Hence, it can fight the bacteria that cause whiteheads. So, instead of squeezing whiteheads on nose or any other body part, massage them with coconut oil. You can leave it on overnight and then use tepid water to wash it off when you wake up.
6. Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid reduces natural oil production in the skin pores. Also, it dries out the skin surface, eliminating the dead cells that may clog the pores. This remedy is ideal for prevent whiteheads, and you can use it once or thrice per day. It’s available in astringents, toners, gels, and creams.
7. Retinoid Creams
Retinoid has vitamin A in its stronger version. Its daily use provides anti-aging benefits. Also, it unclogs the pores. While you can use OTC retinoids, like Adapalene, your dermatologist can prescribe a stronger version if it’s ineffective.
8. Gentle Exfoliants
Gentle exfoliants can also help with whitehead removal. Besides making the skin smoother, they may remove dead cells. Nevertheless, use a gentle formula to avoid unnecessary dryness and irritation.
Skin Care Tips
Caring for your skin is better than waiting to learn how to get rid of whiteheads on nose, chin, upper back, or any other body part. Try the following tips to prevent whiteheads from forming:
- Use a mild skin care product to wash your face at least once daily, preferably in the evening.
- Cleanse your face with lukewarm water.
- Remove dead skin cells that may clog the pores by exfoliating a few times every week.
- Avoid harsh products or scrubs that may irritate your skin.
- Wear a face sunscreen.
- Remove oil from long hair by washing it regularly.
- Clean your pillowcase, sunglasses, and smartphone to eliminate dirt, oil, and bacteria.
When to See Your Dermatologist
Knowing how to remove whiteheads from nose and chin may be insufficient. If your whiteheads remain after trying the above remedies, you may need medical assistance. Your dermatologist can prescribe the appropriate treatment depending on your situation. Also, if whiteheads affect you psychologically, seek assistance from your healthcare provider.
Conclusion
The internet is awash with tips on how to get rid of whiteheads from nose at home. Many have used the above methods to improve the appearance of whiteheads and their overall appearance. However, if these methods fail, seek help from a dermatologist or healthcare provider.
