How to remove whiteheads

Is the bump actually a whitehead?

A whitehead is a small, raised, white or flesh colored bump caused by oil and dead skin blocking a pore. Its medical name is a closed comedo, meaning a closed pore. Whiteheads are closed pores, which makes "just get it out" a less useful plan than it sounds. A swollen pimple with a white or yellow center containing pus is a pustule, not the same type of blockage. Deep, painful lumps need a dermatologist's care rather than a whitehead removal routine.23

How to treat whiteheads at home

1. 1Wash gently twice a day with a mild cleanser. Avoid scrubbing and repeated washing, which can irritate skin and worsen acne.
2. 2Apply your chosen acne treatment sparingly, following its directions. Pore clearing treatments are generally applied as a thin layer across the affected area, not only to individual bumps. Follow the product's schedule rather than assuming every treatment needs the same frequency or time of day.
3. 3Use moisturizer regularly. If a retinoid causes peeling, using it every other day or alongside moisturizer can reduce these effects.
4. 4Remove makeup at the end of the day. Choose cosmetics and skin creams labeled noncomedogenic, meaning designed not to clog pores, and keep greasy hair products away from your face.

Which treatment should you choose?

A retinoid, a vitamin A derivative, is a main option for unclogging pores and preventing new blockages. Adapalene is available without a prescription in some markets; availability depends on where you live. Retinoids can cause peeling and changes in skin color. If those effects make regular use difficult, reduce frequency and use moisturizer rather than applying more.126

Salicylic acid is another option, available in cleansers and lotions. It dissolves dead skin cells to help prevent follicles from clogging. A benzoyl peroxide wash can help reduce acne bacteria and is also used alongside a retinoid for whiteheads. Benzoyl peroxide commonly causes dryness; lower concentrations and wash formulations are less irritating. Azelaic acid is another topical option for comedonal acne, the type dominated by whiteheads and blackheads.126

Benzoyl peroxide can bleach towels and clothing, so the laundry gets a vote in where you apply it.5

Can you squeeze or extract a whitehead?

Do not squeeze, scratch or pick whiteheads. Pressure can damage skin, introduce bacteria, slow healing and cause scars. Deep whiteheads might not come out even with considerable pressure. Picking can also lead to more whiteheads. For persistent bumps, ask a dermatologist about comedo extraction rather than trying to force the blockage out at home.1235

How long does removal take?

An individual whitehead can disappear on its own, sometimes within seven days. Treating recurring whiteheads takes longer: allow six to eight weeks to assess progress, and several weeks to months for worthwhile improvement in comedonal acne. Treatment often needs to continue long term to control recurring blockages. A disappearing bump and fewer new bumps are different measures of progress.16

When should you get medical help?

See a doctor sooner if acne is deep, painful, worsening or leaving scars, or if you have hot, swollen, red skin suggesting infection. Redness can be harder to see on brown and black skin. Seek help if acne affects your mental health, too. If home treatment has not improved whiteheads after six to eight weeks, a dermatologist can assess whether prescription treatment or extraction is appropriate.24