A whitehead is a unique type of acne that forms when oil, bacteria, and dead skin cells are trapped within the pores. They are common acne that usually appears on the nose. While they are less painful than pimples, they can make you self-conscious.
Whiteheads are not only bothersome, but they also seem to appear during the worst times. The good news is they can be treated at home with simple home remedies. However, before starting the treatment process, you must know the causes and what differentiates them from blackheads.
The difference between whiteheads and blackheads
Although both the whiteheads and blackheads are clogged pores, the opening of the pores is different.
Blackheads
In blackheads, the pore at the skin’s surface is stretched and open. The black color is, therefore, the bacteria, the dead skin, and the oil stuck down in the pore. Their exposure to the air causes the debris to darken after oxidization, giving them a blemish color. Since the black pore is open, the blackhead is known as an open comedone.
Whiteheads
While a whitehead is a clogged pore, the top of the pore is not stretched open. This means the clogged portion is not exposed. The pore is blocked, but the surface is closed. A whitehead is, therefore, termed as a closed comedone. As compared to blackheads, whiteheads tend to be more swollen and a bit more sensitive.
Causes of whiteheads
Some of the most common causes of whiteheads on the nose include
Hormonal changes
When you are experiencing hormonal changes, you are likely to have whiteheads.
Certain cosmetics
Using some cosmetic products containing petroleum could also cause whiteheads.
Genetics
Due to their genetic makeup, some people are naturally prone to whiteheads on the nose and acne. If you develop whiteheads, it might be in the genes.
Stress and anxiety
Anxiety and stress are normal, but sometimes, they can cause whiteheads and acne.
12 Tips to get rid of whiteheads on the nose
1-Â Thorough washing of the face
Since whiteheads are majorly caused by buildups of bacteria, dead skin cells, and oils, preventing these can help treat them. If you are predisposed to whiteheads, washing your face at least twice daily is advisable. Use a gentle facial wash, and avoid scrubbing your face too much, as this can irritate the skin and dry it out.
2-Â Apply a little heat
Applying a little heat is one of the best ways to eliminate whiteheads on your nose. You can use this in the form of a steam or hot compressor. While using the heat, the heat will open the pores so that the dead skin, bacteria, and sebum may escape. After this, wash your face with a facial cleaner and close the pores again by rinsing with cold water.
3-Â Use lemon juice
Lemon juice contains an acid that can help remove whiteheads by opening them and drying out the excess sebum. Slice fresh lemon, mix it with water, and use cotton wool to apply it to the affected areas. However, since this process dries the skin, avoid overdoing it. Applying it once a day is just enough.
4-Â Use Tea Tree oil
If you need one of the best natural alternatives,ves, Â tea tree oil is the best. Tea tree oil has essential oils that are useful for cleaning nose whiteheads. Compared to other home remedies, it’s one of the most effective. If the oil is too strong, dilute it with water.
5-Â Apply honey
Although honey may be sweet, it can also be an antibacterial agent. More so, it’s very gentle and can rarely harm your skin. Dip cotton balls into honey and apply it to the affected places. The good thing is that it’s also safe and can be used as a facemask.
6-Â Apply cider vinegar
Like lemon, vinegar can work wonders when it comes to removing whiteheads on the nose. It has also been used as an antibacterial agent and antiseptic for many years. To apply this, dip cotton balls into vinegar and then apply directly to the affected parts of the nose. However, it would help to be careful because it’s acidic and may cause skin irritation.
7-Â Use oatmeal
Have you wondered why several oatmeal-based products and soaps are created for the face? This is basically because it works wonders when exfoliating the face by removing bacteria and dead skin that may be left on the skin. Mix oatmeal with yogurt, then place it on the skin for at least 25 minutes. Finally, rinse with cold water then cold water.
8-Â Use sandalwood powder
Most people do not know that sandalwood is one of the safest home treatments for whiteheads. It removes the excess oil from the skin so whiteheads can be lessened. Mix sandalwood and rose water, then apply the mixture on the face for 12 minutes. Finally, use clean water to wash it off.
9-Â Sugar scrub
Sugar is also among the best home remedies that can be used to treat whiteheads and acne. When applied to the skin, it removes the bacteria, dead skin, and dirt trapped below it. Just mix honey with sugar and then use it gently on the skin. Next, massage the skin so that it can cover the whole surface. Leave it there for 15 minutes and rinse with water.
10-Â Fenugreek leaves
While most of these home remedies will only treat whiteheads temporarily, with fenugreeks, you can rest assured that whiteheads will be eliminated for good. You can paste fenugreeks with water and apply the mixture overnight. In the morning, wipe out the paste and rinse it with cold water.
11-Â Use strawberries
You might be surprised, but strawberries are part of this list. The main reason why it’s among the best remedies is because of its texture. Apart from removing the dirt trapped under the skin, it removes dead skin that might cause whiteheads. Mash the strawberries to make a paste and then apply. Spread the paste uniformly on the skin and leave it there for 15 minutes. Rinse it out with water. Note: you can do this twice a week.
12-Â Aloe Vera
This is also one of the best home remedies for removing whiteheads. While it’s a healing accelerator for minor burns, scrapes, and cuts, it can also help reduce the symptoms of whiteheads and blackheads.
While whiteheads on the nose can naturally…
Being caused by cosmetics, hormonal changes, stress, and genetics, treating them can be a nightmare. However, if you adopt a good lifestyle change, such as sleeping well, eating a healthy diet, and maintaining good hygiene, getting rid of them should not be hard. You can use some of the best home remedies to get rid of them quickly. This includes Aloe Vera, lime, lemon juice, honey, sugar scrub, and an oat meal. Try these today and enjoy their unique benefits.
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