Whiteheads are small white bumps that appear on the skin surface. It is a form of acne that gets formed when the skin pores get completely blocked as a result of accumulation of dirt, bacteria, excessive oil residues and dead skin cells. This is why they are also referred to as Closed Comedones.
Whiteheads are small white bumps that appear on the skin surface. It is a form of acne that gets formed when the skin pores get completely blocked as a result of accumulation of dirt,
bacteria, excessive oil residues and dead skin cells. This is why they are also referred to as Closed Comedones. Though whiteheads look like pimples, they are actually very different and need to be treated carefully. Whiteheads are a common skin concern among women of all ages.
Causes of Whiteheads
Whiteheads are a result of the accumulation of hardened serum (oil secreted inside the skin) within the skin pores. The serum often contains bacterial growth and when a skin pore closes, the bacterial growth inside aggravates and results in the formation of whiteheads. Whiteheads mostly occur around the eyes and on the cheeks. Many people also complain about whiteheads on the chest, neck and forehead. Often, whiteheads are accompanied by blackheads, pimples and acne.
Prevention and Treatment of Whiteheads
Because whiteheads are caused by bacterial infestation within the skin pores, it is important to keep your skin clean and cleanse the pores efficiently in order to prevent their formation. Here are some tips to help prevent the occurrence of whiteheads and treat them accordingly.
Cleanse Well
Use a quality cleanser to clean your face at least twice a day - once in the morning and once at night. Make sure the cleanser that you use suits your particular skin type as well. Preferably, use cleansers that contain ingredients like salicylic acid or alpha hydroxyl acids that help unclog the skin pores and control acne.
Some Product Suggestions:
Obagi Nu-Derm Gentle Cleanser
It is mild soap-free cleanser that gently removes all impurities, excess oil and makeup residues and leaves the skin clean and fresh. It suits both normal and dry skin types.
Obagi Nu Derm Foaming Gel
It is again a unique product from the Obagi Nu Derm range of products. The product contains a blend of aloe vera, natural herbs and natural cleansers. It removes all the pollutants and excess oil accumulated within the skin pores without disturbing the natural moisture levels of the skin.
Exfoliate Regularly
Exfoliation is an important process to ensure skin rejuvenation. Ideally, you should exfoliate at least twice a week to scrape off dead skin cells from the skin surface and allow new fresh cells to appear from underneath. Apply the exfoliating product all over the face and use light circular motions of the hands to spread it over the problem areas of your face like the forehead, nose and cheeks. Choose a good exfoliating product that has small particles so that they unclog the pores more efficiently.
Moisturize Intensively
The skin requires moisture, without which it gets parched and becomes dry and prone to irritation. Even oily skin needs adequate moisture in order to balance its intrinsic hydration levels. People with oily skin should use a lightweight oil free moisturizer while those with dry skin should stick to creamier formulations. Whatever moisturizer that you decide to use, make sure it caters well to your particular skin type.
Some Product Suggestions:
Obagi Action
It’s a great moisturizing lotion that immediately hydrates dry skin and relieves it from chapping, redness and soreness. It calms down irritated skin and unclogs clogged skin pores. It suits all skin types and doesn't leave an oily feeling on the skin.
NIA 24 Intensive Recovery Complex
It is a rich cream that moisturizes the skin intensively and accelerates its regenerative powers. As a result, the skin becomes firmer and toned. It contains powerful ingredients like ceramides, liposomes and peptides that lock the moisture within and reduces trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL). Regular application makes the skin fuller and firmer.
NIA 24 Skin Strengthening Complex
Yet another great product from NIA, this cream neither too light nor too heavy. It moisturizes the skin and also reduces wrinkles and fine lines upon regular application. It works to enhance the barrier function of your skin and accelerates the repair process by supplying moisture to the skin cells.
Steam your Face
Make sure you steam your face at least once a week for a few minutes in order to deep cleanse your skin. Steaming loosens the dirt and debris that is embedded within the skin pores. It expands and opens up the skin pores so that all the inlying toxins can be flushed out. As a result, all the impurities are removed and the skin becomes soft and appears radiant.
