How They Form

• Whiteheads generally accompany oily skin. Whiteheads form when pores, or follicles, fail to drain oil that accumulates in them, known as sebum. Acne forming bacteria commonly will form due to the blockage of the pore. Because air cannot reach inside the follicle and it is not oxidized, a white bump will appear. The result is a tiny whitehead on the skin that is soft and contains pus.
  
  

Removal

• In order to remove a whitehead, it is important to wait until it is fully grown. Popping them too soon can result in scarring or infection. Wash your hands and face with warm water and soap. Next, soak the whitehead with a warm washcloth for several minutes. This will sometimes get rid of the whitehead. If that does not work, gently squeeze the bump from both sides and push forward. The whitehead will pop and drain the white pus inside. Soak a cotton ball with rubbing alcohol and clean the area to prevent an infection.
  
  

Treatments

• Applying a facial cleanser to the face daily will help to prevent whiteheads. Benzoyl Peroxide is a very popular treatment. It is the main antibacterial ingredient in products that treat acne. Any product with a 2.5% benzoyl peroxide content will help get rid of whiteheads and blackheads. Also, beta hydroxyl acid, or salicylic acid, will treat the acne as well. The organic acid will exfoliate the skin and open pores.
  
  

Home Remedies

• In order to prevent whiteheads, eat a lot of fresh fruit and drink plenty of water. To get rid of whiteheads and clean pores, take a pot of hot water and cover your head with a towel. Place your head directly over the steam from the water. Another trick is to mix vinegar and cornstarch and apply the rub to skin. Wash off with warm water after 15 minutes. Or, make a mixture of sandalwood and rose water and apply to skin for 20 minutes.
  
  

Prevention/Solution

• In order to prevent whiteheads, it is important to stop using oil-based makeup and skin treatments. Do not use a bar soap to scrub the face. The ingredients will clog pores. Use an acne cleanser nightly that is gently and water-soluble. Exfoliating dead skin will also keep the face healthy and free of acne and whiteheads.