Skin and Hair Disorders
Question #7084
33 days ago
37

whiteheads - #7084

Anonymously

I’ve been struggling with whiteheads for a while, especially on my nose and chin. I know they’re a type of acne, but what exactly causes whiteheads? Are they just clogged pores, or is there something else going on with my skin? I wash my face twice a day, but my whiteheads keep coming back. Does that mean I’m using the wrong skincare products, or are some people just more prone to them? Also, I’ve heard that scrubbing too much can make acne worse—so how do you get rid of whiteheads without irritating the skin? Are certain foods linked to whiteheads? I’ve noticed that my skin gets worse when I eat a lot of dairy or sugary foods. Could that be triggering my breakouts, or is it just a coincidence? What’s the best way to treat whiteheads? I’ve tried salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide, but they don’t always work. Would retinoids be better, or are they too strong for sensitive skin? Also, do professional treatments like chemical peels or extractions actually help, or will whiteheads just keep coming back? I’ve also heard that some people use home remedies like tea tree oil or steam to get rid of whiteheads. Do these actually work, or are they just myths? Lastly, how can I prevent whiteheads from forming in the first place? Is there a certain type of moisturizer or sunscreen that won’t clog pores? And if I have oily skin, should I still use a moisturizer at all, or will that make my skin worse?

Whiteheads
Acne treatment
Clogged pores
Skincare routine
Oily skin
Chemical peels
Blackheads vs whiteheads
Question is closed

On the Ask Doctors service, online consultations with doctors for Skin and Hair Disorders are available for any issue that concerns you. Expert doctors provide consultations around the clock and for free. Ask your question and get an answer right away!

Doctors’ responses

Dr. Evgeny Arsentev
I am a highly qualified medical professional with over 15 years of experience in General Medicine. My expertise spans diagnosing and treating a wide range of conditions, providing evidence-based care, and mentoring junior doctors. I am dedicated to ensuring patient well-being through a combination of clinical skills and compassionate care.
33 days ago
Whiteheads are a type of acne that occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and sometimes bacteria. This blockage causes the pore to remain closed, which results in the white appearance. While washing your face twice a day is good, using the right skincare products is also important. Sometimes, the wrong products can irritate the skin or contribute to clogged pores, so consider using gentle, non-comedogenic products that won’t clog your pores. Certain foods, particularly dairy and sugary items, have been linked to acne in some people, though the evidence is still evolving. If you notice a pattern between your diet and breakouts, it might help to cut back on these foods to see if it improves your skin. As for treatment, retinoids can be effective for whiteheads, but they can be irritating, especially for sensitive skin. If you’re concerned, you might want to start with a lower concentration. Professional treatments like chemical peels and extractions can help with removal, but they typically offer temporary relief, and the whiteheads may return if the underlying causes aren’t addressed. Home remedies like tea tree oil or steam might provide some relief, but they should be used cautiously. They can help in some cases, but they aren’t a substitute for evidence-based treatments. Lastly, using a non-comedogenic moisturizer is essential, even if you have oily skin. Skipping moisturizer can actually make your skin produce more oil, worsening the problem. When choosing products, look for ones labeled "oil-free" and "non-comedogenic."
Accepted response

0 replies

If you need a detailed answer, ask your question to a doctor

A doctor will answer all of your questions, advise you what to do now to get better, what to do in the future, what best treatments and practices should be followed.

About our doctors

Only qualified doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service.


Related questions