Stop! As tempting as it is, don’t even think about popping that fresh, juicy whitehead on your chin because you already know the consequences: scarring, new breakouts, inflammation, and more, all of which delays the progress you’ve made in your skincare journey.
It’s no secret that whiteheads are public enemy number one and according to Miami-based board certified dermatologist Dr. Loretta Ciraldo, they can be even more annoying for those who wear heavy makeup or workout consistently. So, how do you get rid of these little day-ruiners? Ahead, Dr. Loretta shares her best tips and treatments for treating whiteheads.
What are whiteheads, anyway?
“Whiteheads are the buildup of dead cells within our pores,” says Dr. Loretta. Not to be confused with blackheads, which oxidize and turn black when exposed to air, whiteheads form at the surface of skin and turn white because of “the covering of skin over the pore, so you don’t see the oxidized dead cells the way you do in the blackhead.”
What causes whiteheads?
Whiteheads are caused by a number of issues, but heavy makeup, certain products, sweat, and dirt are all factors that contribute to the formation of whiteheads on the skin. “Whiteheads can be due to hormonal or hereditary factors or to products you’re using, women who wear heavy makeup often come in with this issues,” Dr. Loretta added. “Same with those who sweat and/or work out a lot and don’t wash their face following. More and more, I see patients breaking out from the haircare products they are using.” Dr. Loretta says that products that contain argan oil can clog pores because “it is not truly comedogenic,” which is why some women see whiteheads forming “around the rim of the face and especially on the chin.” Read more
