How to Remove Whiteheads: Here are Effective Products to Help!

Do whiteheads insist on living rent-free on your face? This is an unfortunate fact for many of us, especially those with oily or acne-prone skin. We deal with it with scrubbing, washing our faces too often, and using products that often turn out to be irritating. If you’ve always wondered how to remove whiteheads, gently, effectively, and without causing further damage to your skin, read on.

Whiteheads — small, white, or flesh-colored bumps on the skin — are formed when dead skin cells, oil, and bacteria become trapped in your pores. Medically, it is referred to as a closed comedone and is a type of non-inflammatory acne, which means they do not usually swell and is not painful.

Whiteheads can also be triggered by friction (hello, maskne!) and can appear on the chest and back as well. They can also be caused by puberty, menstruation, or pregnancy. Of course, lifestyle plays a lot into it, too.

There’s a misconception that scrubs and washing vigorously with soaps that leave skin “squeaky clean” will help you get rid of whiteheads. This is false and will only damage the skin further and strip it of the protective moisture barrier that keeps acne at bay.

Instead, look for products with ingredients that specifically designed for whitehead treatment, such as trusty benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid. Benzoyl peroxide fights acne by getting rid of the bacteria and dead skin cells that are clogging your pores. It can also be a spot treatment for more severe breakouts. Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid that goes deep into the pores to promote exfoliation and is much gentler.

To treat whiteheads, experts recommend washing the face twice a day with lukewarm water, eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated with water, reducing stress, and always wearing sunscreen. Avoid staying out under the sun and avoid over-washing the skin. On the other hand, if you exercise or sweat excessively, it’s important to wash your face immediately to prevent further clogging your pores. Finally, use products that treat as well as nourish the skin without causing further irritation. Here are some tried-and-tested whitehead-busting products to add to your skincare routine:

Start your cleansing routine with a deep cleansing balm. 

Instead of washing with harsh soaps, try double cleansing, which is, as the term suggests, cleansing your face twice but with gentle products that don’t strip skin of oils and moisture. Usually, the first step in double cleansing is an oil. Scoop a pea-sized amount and massage the balm on your face until it turns into a silky oil. Rinse with warm water, and follow with your cleanser.

POND'S Bright Miracle Ultimate Acne Control Facial Foam is your solution for acne. It targets pimple-causing germs and prevents acne from coming back. It helps clear the skin of whiteheads and other forms of acne and brightens the complexion. Take a pea-size amount and build a lather between your palms. Massage the foam gently on your face for 30 seconds, then rinse with lukewarm water.

You need to follow up with a toner after washing to rid the skin of any soap or debris left, as well as replenish the skin with moisture. Make sure your toner features salicylic acid and tea tree oil to deeply clean and unclog pores.

Apply toner on a cotton pad and swipe up gently around the face. Use a light touch and don’t rub. Let your skin absorb the toner (without being completely dry) before applying any other product.

Congratulations! Now you know how to remove whiteheads — go on and evict them from your skin with these tips and products that have been proven effective and nourishing on the skin. Don't forget to team your skin care with a balanced diet and regular exercise. Share this article and spread the word!