Whiteheads are a type of sub-surface pre-acne that can turn into pimples, blemishes or acne. Also known as bikou bumps, they occur when a pore or hair follicle (also known as a comedone) is clogged with oil, dead skin and impurities. When these clogged pores remain closed, these imperfections look white or light in color. ^II

Like other forms of acne, whiteheads can be caused by a number of factors including:

• Excess Oil Production
• Sweat
• Humidity
• Diet
• Pollution
• Stress
• Lack of Sleep
• Hormonal Changes

Whiteheads and blackheads are both comedones that form when dirt, impurities and oil become trapped within a pore or hair follicle. When the pores are open, the impurities within the pore oxidize when exposed to air which causes the dark color of blackheads to form. Since whiteheads are closed and underneath the skin, they remain white or light in color.^III

While blackheads can be professionally extracted, you should never have whiteheads removed. Extracting these comedones can cause impurities to spread which can actually cause more whiteheads or blackheads to form. Similar to popping blemishes, extracting or picking at whiteheads can also leave a mark or dark spot.

Whiteheads or bikou bumps are a form of pre-acne and that can turn into blemishes when they are not properly cared for. This can happen when these blocked or clogged pores become inflamed, due to build-up of trapped impurities, dirt or oil.

Whiteheads respond slowly and can be persistent, but they will eventually go away on their own. The best way to care for skin prone to whiteheads or acne is to use skincare formulas that can help prevent clogged pores since treating whiteheads can be difficult once they appear.

Since the skin on your nose tends to be oilier, you may notice more whiteheads and blackheads on this part of your face as well as your forehead and chin. Whether you have a few whiteheads on your nose or spread throughout other parts of your face, start a skincare routine for acne-prone skin to help promote clearer, healthier-looking skin.

Salicylic Acid is a trusted skincare ingredient for whiteheads and acne-prone skin. This beta-hydroxy acid helps reduce blemishes, promote exfoliation and can also control the amount of oil your skin produces. Look for cleansers, moisturizers and treatments with Salicylic Acid to help treat whiteheads and acne and help prevent future breakouts.

Sulfur is another skincare ingredient known to help clear whiteheads, blackheads and other forms of acne. If you have a whitehead that looks like it is forming a blemish or pimple, try a spot treatment with Sulfur to help visibly diminish its appearance.

To help clear your skin, use a face wash with Salicylic Acid uniquely formulated to care for blemish-prone skin. These formulas cleanse away impurities that can cause acne to form while helping clear existing breakouts. After cleansing, sweep on an alcohol-free toner for oily skin to help soothe and balance skin.

While blackheads may benefit from a facial scrub to help loosen debris and impurities clogged within the pore, a scrub should be used very carefully for whiteheads. Whiteheads cannot be scrubbed away and may even become irritated by excessive or harsh scrubs.^IV

While you may not think that hydration is key for oily, acne-prone areas, a daily moisturizer is an essential step for all skin types. Use a lightweight moisturizer and look for a formula that is non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores. You can also use an acne treatment lotion with Salicylic Acid to moisturize skin while also helping diminish acne breakouts.