Whiteheads are very common among teenagers and people with oily skin. They look quite similar to pimples because of their white tips. An oily substance called sebum is secreted by the sebaceous glands beneath our skin and stored in small follicles.Sebum nourishes our skin naturally and keeps it healthy and moisturized. However, some quantity of sebum may remain trapped inside the follicles instead of passing entirely into the skin which results in clogging and formation of whiteheads.
There are a number of medications that can be suggested by a dermatologist to cure whiteheads which are usually very expensive, have side effects and the results may vary from person to person. However, there are some easy home remedies which are economic and quite effective in removing whiteheads.
4 Smart Ways To Get Rid Of Whiteheads
Steaming
Steaming helps in opening up the pores and in unclogging the sebum and dirt accumulated within the follicles. It is one of the best ways of deep pore cleansing. For this, you will require a face steamer or hot water in a large bowl.
Put your face over the bowl full of hot water and drape a towel over your head to retain the steam for about fifteen to twenty minutes. You may also add a few drops of essential oils into the water. Now, gently wipe your face and and dab some apple cider vinegar on the affected areas with a cotton ball.
Camphor
Camphor is another effective ingredient to get rid of whiteheads, blackheads, pimples and acne. It acts as a counter irritant and creates a mild burning sensation due to which it should be applied along with other ingredients. Take four tablespoons of rosewater in a bowl and add a small pinch of camphor to it.
Apply it just on the affected area with a piece of cotton wool. Camphor should not be used on regular basis. It might make the skin excessive dry by removing sebum from the skin and make the skin dark and patchy.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree consists of anti-bacterial properties and is a very safe and effective way to treat whiteheads and other skin problems like blackheads, acne and dark spots. It is easy and simple to apply. Soak a piece of cotton wool in tea tree oil and dab it on the affected area.
This oil also helps in removing blemishes that appear on the skin due to whiteheads. Although it is safe on the skin, it should be applied in moderation as some people may experience some mild side effects like rashes and itching.
Raw Potato
Due to astringent properties present in it, potatoes absorb the excess sebum from the skin and works as an antidote against whiteheads and blackheads. Applying grated potatoes on the affected area twice a day helps in removing whiteheads. If you find this cumbersome, squeeze out some juice from a raw potato and apply it on the whiteheads, soaked in a cotton swab.
Leave this juice on the face overnight and wash it off in the morning. Repeating this for a few days will leave the skin whiteheads and acne free.
It is also important to keep the skin free from dust and pollution. Regular cleansing, toning and moisturizing are very essential to keep the skin healthy. Drink eight to ten glasses of water daily to flush out harmful toxins and germs from the body, which will help in maintaining a healthy skin from within.
Caution: Please use Home Remedies after Proper Research and Guidance. You accept that you are following any advice at your own risk and will properly research or consult healthcare professional.