Why do I keep getting whiteheads on my nose?

What are whiteheads on the nose?

A whitehead is a small, raised, white or skin coloured bump called a closed comedo, meaning a closed pore. It is usually not inflamed. Whiteheads belong to the acne family, despite having a name that sounds like a separate item on the skincare shopping list.13

A white or yellow centre does not automatically mean a whitehead. A raised, inflamed bump containing pus is a pustule, a different type of acne spot. A blackhead has an open pore, and its contents darken through contact with air rather than dirt.1

What keeps the pores getting blocked?

Hormonal changes can make skin oilier, including changes during puberty, periods and pregnancy. Acne also tends to run in families. Greasy cosmetics or hair products, heavy sweating, humidity and repeatedly touching or rubbing skin can contribute. Certain medicines can trigger acne too. If breakouts started after a medicine change, discuss that timing with the prescriber rather than stopping the medicine yourself.45

How should I care for my nose?

1. 1Wash gently morning and evening with a mild, nondrying cleanser. Cleanse after exercise, but avoid repeated washing throughout the day.
2. 2Remove makeup at the end of the day. Choose water based or noncomedogenic skincare and cosmetics, meaning formulas designed not to clog pores.
3. 3Use acne products sparingly and follow their directions. The amount, frequency and time of application depend on the product you choose.
4. 4Leave the bumps alone. Picking whiteheads can cause more whiteheads and scars. Do not try to scrub the plugs out, because scrubbing can irritate skin and worsen acne.

Noncomedogenic products are a sensible choice for recurring clogged pores, even if the word sounds like an administrative department.4

Which treatments help recurring whiteheads?

Salicylic acid helps break up dead skin cells and clear pores. Retinoids such as adapalene help skin cells turn over and are useful for ongoing maintenance rather than just treating an individual spot. Adapalene is available without a prescription in some markets; stronger topical treatments are available by prescription.26

Benzoyl peroxide is another option. A benzoyl peroxide wash reduces acne related bacteria, and benzoyl peroxide also helps clear plugged pores. It can interact with some other topical acne treatments, so check combinations with a doctor, especially if you already use a prescription. A pharmacist can help you choose an acne treatment instead of assembling several at once.256

Acne products can cause redness, dryness and excessive peeling. If a product irritates your skin, back off rather than adding more exfoliation. Benzoyl peroxide can also bleach towels and clothing.24

How long should I wait, and when should I get help?

Give treatment six to eight weeks to work. If whiteheads persist, a dermatologist can discuss prescription treatment or professional extraction. Extraction is a medical procedure, not a reason to puncture closed bumps at home. Acne can flare again, so clearing today's whiteheads does not mean the tendency to develop them has ended.46

Seek medical help sooner for deep or painful lumps, worsening acne, scarring, or skin that becomes hot, swollen and red. Redness can be harder to see on brown and black skin. Get help too if the breakouts are affecting your mental health.5