So, to control existing whiteheads and prevent new ones from forming, here are some dermatologist-approved treatment options to try:
1. Whatever you do, don't pop them.
More often than not, physically pressing on the spot (like squeezing or picking) will do more harm than good, warns Dr. Mariwalla: It will likely become irritated and inflamed, and possibly develop into an even larger cyst. Plus, the pressure from pressing or poking causes physical trauma to the delicate skin, which can lead to significant scarring and long-term hyperpigmentation (dark spots), she adds.
2. Switch to non-comedogenic skin care.
If the ingredient comedogenicThis means that it will most likely block your pores and cause acne. That's why you'll need to look for something Not– comedogenic to avoid the appearance of whiteheads and pimples in general.
Keep in mind that this labeling system has its flaws, and you may still have issues with products that are labeled as non-comedogenic. But according to the dermatologists we spoke to, a good place to start is to ditch any makeup, cleansers, moisturizers, or serums that contain known pore blockers like silicones. coconut oil, castor oilAnd Vitamin E.
3. Cleanse your pores with a reliable chemical exfoliant.
“The key to getting rid of closed comedones is to unclog the pores,” says Dr. Mariwalla, “and that’s where chemicals exfoliants come into play. These topical treatments work by dissolving the dead skin cells that clog your follicles.
For acne-prone or oily skin, she recommends exfoliants like salicylic acid or glycolic acid to exfoliate any buildup. Another less intense option to consider is lactic acidwhich enhances And moisturizes. Whatever you choose, be careful: The active ingredients can be harsh on sensitive and dry skin. (If this is you, start by using a chemical exfoliant once a week and — if there is no burning, flaking, or itching — move up to twice a week.)
4. Get some benzoyl peroxide.
This classic remedy has earned a reputation as an acne-fighting remedy. Samantha Conrad, MDfounder of Conrad Petersen Dermatology in Chicago, tells SELF. He works by killing Cutibacterium acnes, bacteria that is most often associated with acne. However, benzoyl peroxide can also dry out or irritate your face if you use it too often or in too high a concentration. For this reason, the dermis SELF previously told that anyone with dehydrated or sensitive skin should stick to formulations containing no more than 2.5%.”[These people] You should also use a light moisturizer without active ingredients, since preservation skin barrier “In its unmodified form, the product will combat irritation and prevent further breakouts,” adds Dr. Mariwalla.
5. Consider using over-the-counter retinoids.
This class of ingredients, which includes retinolRetinal and adapalene (Differin) are all vitamin A derivatives that speed up the cell turnover process. Essentially, this means your skin cells will exfoliate faster, preventing them from clogging your pores.
Like benzoyl peroxide, topical retinoids can also be strong and irritating. Beginners and those with sensitive or dry skin should use them two or three times a week at first, then gradually increase the frequency if all is well. It’s also important to avoid using other potentially irritating ingredients (like chemical exfoliants and the benzoyl peroxide we praised above) on the same nights you apply a retinoid: Not only can combining too many drying products make your face look broken out, but it can also irritate—and worsen—existing whiteheads, says Dr. Conrad. Instead, stick to a simple, non-strengthened moisturizer.
Ideally, you should start to notice improvements within a few weeks or months. “You want to use [these products] long enough for them to actually do their job—they won't work after five days,” says Dr. Conrad. If you don't see any progress after two months, or your skin gets worse, it may be time to see a board-certified dermatologist who can prescribe stronger acne treatments.
Your doctor can also gently remove your whiteheads if they feel it’s necessary. We know it’s tempting to try to do this yourself in the bathroom mirror, but please leave it to the professionals to avoid scarring or infection. Plus, with all the other dermatologist-approved treatments we’ve recommended above, you now have plenty of better (and much safer) options to clear it all up at home.
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