Whiteheads: Causes, Remedies & Prevention

How long do whiteheads last?

Whiteheads can last from a few days to several weeks. With proper care, they should start to clear up within a few weeks.

How are whiteheads different from blackheads?

Both whiteheads and blackheads are comedones, or clogged pores filled with sebum and dead skin cells, but they differ in their appearance and how they form. Whiteheads, or closed comedones, occur when the pore opening is completely blocked, trapping the sebum and debris beneath the skin's surface, resulting in a small, white bump. Blackheads, or open comedones, have a slightly open pore, allowing the trapped sebum to oxidize upon contact with air, giving it a characteristic dark or black appearance. Essentially, the difference lies in whether the pore is open or closed, which affects the oxidation and therefore the colour of the comedone.

How do I get rid of whiteheads?

In addition to preventative measures, you can help reduce existing breakouts by keeping the area clean and limiting contact with impurities or irritants.

• Cleansing: Gently cleanse your face twice daily with a mild, sulfate-free, oil-free, and non-comedogenic cleanser. Avoid harsh scrubbing. 
• Exfoliation: Chemical exfoliants like AHAs (glycolic and lactic acid), LHA or BHA (salicylic acid) can help break down dead skin cells that clog pores and cause whiteheads. Avoid overusing exfoliants, as over-exfoliating can exacerbate the problem.
• Other ingredients for blemishes: Use topical treatments like retinol, azelaic acid or benzoyl peroxide. Start with low concentrations and increase gradually as tolerated.
• Lifestyle: Minimise touching your face, change pillowcases frequently, and manage stress levels.
• Avoid picking or squeezing the whitehead: Picking at or squeezing your whitehead exacerbate the breakout.
• Pimple patches: You can use pimple patches visibly reduce the whitehead without compromising the moisture barrier.