Acne bumps, pus, whiteheads, and blackheads, yes we can make a song out of it! Although you want to imagine it as cute little tiny bumps, let’s be real it will definitely not look cute on the face. If you have been suffering from whiteheads for so long, just remember that you’re not alone. Breakouts are common skin concerns that most people experience throughout their lives and yet it’s still pretty daunting when we experience it. Have you grown tired of using the best products or even tricks to combat whiteheads? Yes, we do too. It all comes down to the real question, what causes whiteheads? Fret not, because Beauty Insider has gathered all the essential info that you need to know about whiteheads to end it for good.

What are Whiteheads?

Whiteheads which are a form of comedones occur when the pores are clogged with bacteria, dead skin cells, and impurities. As the name suggests, whiteheads usually can be characterized by their white or yellowish features. As the pores remain closed, it looks white-ish. Unlike blackheads, whiteheads are not extractable. Although they rarely cause inflammation, an infection likely to happen once it was exposed to bacteria. Then, it may develop into pustule or papule. Whiteheads can occur in any part of the body but they usually develop in the areas that are populated with pores like the face, back, shoulders, chest and arms. But you will probably find these tiny bumps the most on the T-zone area.

What Causes Whiteheads?

There are various factors that contribute to the cause of whiteheads and as it is a form of acne, it is no surprise that the causes are the same. The most common factor is the overproduction of sebaceous glands in which it causes clogged pores and leads to various skin concerns. However, excess sebum is also related to fluctuations in hormone levels due to puberty, pregnancy or menstruation. Previous research has shown that such changes can significantly trigger acne, so it seems that what we have thought for so long is true. In order to combat this skin concern, it is important that we know the underlying cause.

  • Excess sebum production
  • Hormonal changes
  • Reactions to cosmetics or skincare products
  • Medications
  • High humidity
  • Diet
  • Stress
  • Lifestyle or personal habits
  • Hereditary factors

The Only Tips You Need to Combat the Core Causes of Whiteheads

Most of all, it is not only about using the best products for whiteheads, but you need to reexamine your daily habits and skincare routine as well. Once you have determined the exact causes of the recurring whiteheads, you can now opt for suitable treatments or even incorporate these tips into your daily routine.

  • Make sure to cleanse your face about twice per day using a face cleanser that is formulated with anti-acne properties like benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid. Pay extra attention to the T-zone area like the nose, chin, and forehead
  • Restraint yourself from popping the whiteheads as it can lead to scarring
  • Do not scrub the area as it can worsen the existing conditions, instead opt for a gentle exfoliating product
  • Remove the makeup or cleanse the face before heading to bed
  • Prioritize products that won’t clog the pores and look for a label with non-comedogenic or oil-free
  • If you have dry skin, opt for skincare products that are water-based and fragrance-free
  • Protect the skin against harmful UV rays
  • Minimizes the usage of makeup
  • Opt for loose clothes and outfits to minimize sweat
  • If you need a little helping hand, make sure to consult the dermatologist or even aesthetician to know the suitable treatments to keep whiteheads at bay

Best Skincare Products to Get Rid Of Whiteheads

1. Serene SkinLab Clear Spot Acne Treatment Gel

Serene SkinLab Clear Spot Acne Treatment Gel is formulated with all the essential ingredients that you need to prevent whiteheads and acne. Infused with camphor, salicylic acid, and lactic acid, this blend of antibacterial ingredients helps to prevent unclog the pores and prevent acne from appearing. Enhanced with niacinamide, this transparent gel prevents excess sebum production and brightens the skin tone. It easily absorbs into the skin when applied and it is super gentle.

Why we love it:

  • Non-comedogenic
  • Mild and gentle formula
  • Easily absorb into the skin
  • Helps to lighten spots

Price: $22.00

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2. Cosrx AC Collection Acne Patch

If you prefer a cute and effective acne patch, you will definitely love the Cosrx AC Collection Acne Patch. Available in three different oval sizes, you can easily opt for it depending on the size of the Whitehead. With its oval shape, the acne patches can be applied to the edges of the body and face. The Cosrx AC Collection Acne Patch contains Centella Asiatica extract, which is known for its soothing properties.

Why we love it:

  • Three different sizes
  • Strong adhesion
  • For face and body

Price: $5.50 (Original price $6.90, saved 20%)

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3. ARENA Sayonara Antiacne Purifying Ampoules

Next on the list is the ARENA Sayonara Antiacne Purifying Ampoules which is packed with a high concentration of amino acids, sulfur, and allantoin. This ampoule regulates oil production, promotes cell renewal, and helps to banish acne that triggers breakouts. With consistent usage, you will notice that you experience fewer breakouts than usual and your skin is more radiant.

Why we love it:

  • Prevents acne
  • Promotes skin cells growth
  • Soothes the skin

Price: $128.00

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4. Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel

Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel is a cult favorite skincare product that you must have in your routine. It features a two-step treatment that helps you to attain a radiant and healthy-looking complexion in just two minutes. Packed with AHAs, BHAs, salicylic acid, retinol and peptides, these ingredients help to reverse the signs of ageing, minimizes the appearance of pores and balance out the skin tone.

Why we love it:

  • Instant results
  • Minimizes the fine lines and wrinkles
  • Shrinks the pores
  • Slough off dead skin cells

Price: $230.00

Where to buy: Sephora

5. Caolion Hot & Cool Pore Pack Duo

With 4 star ratings on Sephora, the Caolion Hot & Cool Pore Pack Duo features two of its best-selling products namely Premium Blackhead Steam Pore Pack and Premium Pore Original Pack. This combo helps to draw out impurities and minimizes the appearance of pores. The Premium Blackhead Steam Pore Pack functions to detoxify the skin and slough off dead skin cells, through its steaming effect. Whereas the Premium Pore Original Pack helps to provide a cooling sensation to soothe and calm the skin. Infused with Alaskan glacial water, it boosts the moisture level of the skin.

Why we love it:

  • Reduce pores size
  • Detoxify the skin
  • Helps to tighten the pores

Price: $45.00

Where to buy: Sephora

6. Mario Badescu Glycolic Foaming Cleanser

If you have been searching for the best facial cleanser to combat your whiteheads, look no further because the Mario Badescu Glycolic Foaming Cleanser is a cult classic. Enriched with herbal extracts and AHAs, it eliminates oils and impurities. . Plus, this foaming cleanser helps to stimulate new cells and remove dead skin cells away, leaving you with a clearer complexion.

Why we love it:

  • Brightens the skin tone
  • Does not strip the skin of its natural oils
  • Gently exfoliate the skin

Price: $27.00

Where to buy: Sephora

7. SUPERGOOP! Unseen Sunscreen Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 40

Sunscreen is like a holy grail to combat all the underlying causes of skin concerns including whiteheads. So, it is super important that you invest in good sunscreen. Well, nothing can beat the all-time favorite SUPERGOOP! Unseen Sunscreen Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 40! This oil-free sunscreen features a broad spectrum SPF 40 that helps to protect the skin against blue light and UV rays. It seamlessly glides into the skin without leaving any white cast.

Why we love it:

  • Delivers a radiant finish
  • Oil-free
  • Suitable for oily skin type

Price: $52.00

Where to buy: Sephora

So, has this article on what causes whiteheads help you in any way? Let us know your opinion in the comments section below, and make sure to follow us on Instagram and Facebook!