21 Easy Ways to Get Rid of Whiteheads at Home

Whiteheads are a common type of acne that can appear on the face, particularly on the nose and chin. They occur when pores become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria. While they are not usually painful or inflamed like other types of acne, they can be unsightly and bothersome.

Fortunately, there are several ways to get rid of whiteheads, including home remedies, over-the-counter products, and professional treatments. It’s important to find a method that works best for you and to avoid picking or squeezing whiteheads, as this can cause further irritation and potentially lead to scarring. This article shows you 21 easy ways to get rid of whiteheads at home.

Causes of Whiteheads On Nose and Chin

Some common causes of whiteheads on the nose and chin include:

• Excessive Oil Production: Excess oil production can clog the hair follicles on the skin, leading to the formation of whiteheads.
• Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause can increase oil production and lead to the formation of whiteheads.
• Poor Skin Hygiene: Not cleansing the face regularly can lead to a buildup of oil and dirt on the skin, increasing the risk of whiteheads.
• Diet: Consuming a diet high in sugar, refined carbohydrates, and dairy products can trigger acne, including whiteheads.
• Medications: Certain medications, such as steroids and birth control pills, can disrupt hormonal balance and contribute to the formation of whiteheads.
• Genetics: Some people may be more prone to developing acne, including whiteheads, due to their genetics.

Home Remedies to Get Rid of Whiteheads Fast

While there are various skin products you can purchase from stores that will help get rid of whiteheads and blackheads, some home remedies can be done to get rid of whiteheads using the products you have at home. Want to learn more about it? Here are some home remedies to try out.

1. Lemon Juice

Lemon is rich in Vitamin C. Aside from that, it has other components that make it suitable for the skin. This can help to rejuvenate the skin faster and can help to eliminate whiteheads.

Direction:

• Slice a lemon in half.
• Take out the lemon juice and remove the lemon skin.
• Rub the lemon skin on the face for a few minutes.
• Do this twice a week.

2. Steam

Many people know that steaming is done just before essential facial cleansing in dermatology and spas. Steaming can help open up the pores of the skin. So it will be easier for whiteheads to be removed from the skin. At the same time, other bacteria and dirt can be removed to make the skin smoother and clearer.

Direction:

• Boil a cup of water.
• After the water comes to a boil, place it in a clean container.
• Place face over the container.
• Steam for about 10 minutes.
• Pat dry with a clean towel afterward.

3. Oatmeal Scrub

Oatmeal scrub is a natural exfoliant that can help remove whiteheads by removing dead skin cells and excess oil. To make an oatmeal scrub, mix a tablespoon of oatmeal with a few drops of water to form a paste.

Gently massage the paste onto your face in circular motions for a minute or two, then rinse off with warm water. You can use this scrub once or twice a week to help keep whiteheads at bay.

4. Sandalwood Powder

Many people do not realize that sandalwood powder is one of the safest home remedies that can be placed on the skin because it is mild. It can remove excess oil from the face so that the appearance of whiteheads can be lessened.

Direction:

• Prepare sandalwood powder and add rose water (water with rose petal extract).
• Mix the two ingredients to form a paste.
• Apply the paste on the face for about 10 minutes.
• Wash with warm water afterward.

5. Use Sugar Scrub

Many people do not know what else sugar can do aside from making some homemade delicacies sweeter. Sugar is also known to exfoliate quite well and can help remove dead skin cells, trapped dirt, and bacteria underneath the skin.

Direction:

• Mix honey and sugar to form a paste.
• Apply the paste to the face gently.
• Massage the paste all over the face. Make sure you cover the whole face.
• Leave the paste on the face for about 10 minutes.
• Wipe off using a clean washcloth.
• Rinse residue with water.
• Do this once a week.

6. Fenugreek Leaves

Fenugreek leaves can help get rid of whiteheads due to their natural anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Here’s how to use them:

• Take a handful of fresh fenugreek leaves and wash them thoroughly.
• Grind the leaves into a paste using a blender or mortar and pestle.
• Apply the paste to your nose and chin or any other area affected by whiteheads.
• Leave the paste on for 15-20 minutes before washing it off with warm water.
• Repeat this process 2-3 times a week for best results.

Fenugreek leaves can help reduce inflammation and kill bacteria, which can help prevent the formation of whiteheads. They also contain antioxidants that can help improve overall skin health.

7. Apple Cider Vinegar

If you do not have any astringent or run out of toner, do you know that you can use Apple Cider Vinegar instead? It can be instrumental in helping remove that excess dirt and oil on the face. It also contains some components that can help kill the bacteria-causing whiteheads and other forms of acne.

Direction:

• Mix a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar with a cup of water.
• Using a cotton ball, place the apple cider vinegar mixed in with the water in the affected face area.
• Leave the solution on the face for about 20 minutes.
• Rinse off with lukewarm water.

8. Strawberries

The main reason why strawberries can be useful is their texture. It is not as soft as other fruits in general. Strawberries can help remove dirt trapped under the skin. It can also remove dead skin cells that might cause whiteheads.

Direction:

• Mash the strawberries until you make a paste.
• Place a tablespoon of honey to make the paste even stickier.
• Spread the paste on the face evenly.
• Leave it on for about 15 minutes.
• Do this about twice a week.

9. Lime Juice

Lemon juice or lime contains some antioxidant properties that can efficiently help eliminate whiteheads on the skin. Lime juice can also remove dead, seated oil under the skin that might be causing whiteheads.

Direction:

• Mix lime juice with groundnut oil to make a solution.
• Apply the solution to the affected areas of the face.
• Do this regularly for the best results.

10. Try Tea Tree Oil

Tea Tree Oil is another home remedy that can work efficiently as an astringent. It can remove the oil trapped under the skin. Other than that, it can also effectively remove whiteheads because it has antibacterial properties.

Direction:

• Place a few drops of tea tree oil on a cotton swab.
• Dab the tea tree oil in affected areas.
• Place on the skin and leave it on for about 30 minutes.
• Wash with clean and cold water.

11. Wash your face twice daily

Washing your face twice a day is an important step in preventing and getting rid of whiteheads. Use a gentle cleanser to wash your face in the morning and at night before bed.

Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water and pat your face dry with a clean towel. Avoid over-washing or using hot water, as this can strip the skin of its natural oils and lead to irritation.

12. Try Benzoyl Peroxide Cream

Benzoyl peroxide is a topical medication that can treat acne, including whiteheads. It works by killing bacteria on the skin and helping to unclog pores.

To use benzoyl peroxide cream for whiteheads, start by washing your face with a gentle cleanser and patting it dry. Then, apply a small amount of the cream directly to the affected area, being careful not to over-apply or use too much pressure.

It is important to follow the instructions on the product label carefully and to start with a lower concentration of benzoyl peroxide (2.5% or 5%) to avoid irritation or dryness. If you experience any discomfort or side effects, discontinue use and speak to your healthcare provider.

13. Try Salicylic Acid

Salicylic acid is a common ingredient found in many over-the-counter acne treatments, and it can be effective in treating whiteheads as well. Salicylic acid works by penetrating the pores and dissolving the buildup of oil and dead skin cells, helping to unclog pores and prevent new whiteheads from forming.

To use salicylic acid, look for a product specifically designed for acne treatment that contains 0.5 to 2% salicylic acid. Cleanse your face with a gentle cleanser, then apply a small amount of the product to the affected areas, being careful to avoid any open wounds or irritated skin.

Leave the product on for a few minutes before rinsing off with warm water. It is important to follow the instructions on the product label, as overuse or misuse of salicylic acid can lead to dryness, irritation, or peeling of the skin.

14. Use Retinoid Creams

Retinoid creams are a type of topical medication that contains vitamin A derivatives. They work by unclogging pores, increasing cell turnover, and reducing inflammation, making them an effective treatment for whiteheads.

Retinoid creams are available both over-the-counter and by prescription. Common over-the-counter options include adapalene (Differin) and retinol, while prescription options include tretinoin (Retin-A) and tazarotene (Tazorac).

When using retinoid creams, it’s important to start slowly and gradually increase usage to avoid skin irritation. Typically, a pea-sized amount is applied to the affected area once daily at bedtime. It’s also important to use sunscreen during the day since retinoids can increase sensitivity to sunlight.

It may take several weeks or even months to see results with retinoid creams, but they can be an effective long-term solution for preventing whiteheads.

15. Honey

Honey has natural antibacterial properties that can help reduce inflammation and kill bacteria that may contribute to whiteheads.

To use honey to get rid of whiteheads, follow these steps:

• Wash your face with warm water to open up your pores.
• Apply a thin layer of raw honey to the affected area.
• Leave the honey on your face for about 15-20 minutes.
• Rinse off the honey with warm water and pat your face dry.

You can do this once or twice a week to help prevent and reduce whiteheads. However, remember that honey may not be suitable for people with sensitive or allergic skin, so it’s best to do a patch test before applying it to your face.

16. Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera is the natural healing accelerator for cuts, scrapes, and minor burns. Aloe has antibacterial and antifungal properties,s which can help eliminate scarring and reduce acne symptoms like inflammation, redness, swelling, etc.

• Cut off some pieces of aloe vera leaves.
• Peel the upper layer and extrude the gel.
• Apply this to the affected area for 15-20 minutes. Rinse with fresh water.
• You can do this twice a week until the whiteheads heal.

17. Baking Soda

Baking soda is an excellent ingredient to eliminate whiteheads because it can remove anything clogging your skin pores—mix water with baking soda to form a thick paste. Massage the paste into your skin.

Note: Baking soda may irritate your skin and cause redness and irritation. If you have sensitive skin, you’d better avoid this method.

Read:12 Amazing Health Benefits of Baking Soda

18. Coriander Leaves

Coriander leaves, also known as cilantro, have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce whiteheads. Here’s how to use coriander leaves to get rid of whiteheads:

• Crush a handful of fresh coriander leaves to make a paste.
• Apply the paste to your face, focusing on areas with whiteheads.
• Leave the paste on for 15-20 minutes.
• Rinse off the paste with warm water.

You can repeat this process once or twice a week to help reduce the appearance of whiteheads.

19. Yogurt

You can use yogurt to cleanse your skin and eliminate whiteheads on the nose. Yogurt can nourish your skin from inside and outside. Yogurt contains many vitamins and minerals, such as zinc and calcium, to help smooth your skin. Also, It can reduce redness, moisturizes the skin, and improve the overall skin appearance.

• Clean your face and hands with mild soap and water.
• Apply plain yogurt to your face with your finger and massage gently.
  
• Wait for ten to fifteen minutes and rinse with water.
• To make a face mask, mix one teaspoon of raw honey with one teaspoon of yogurt.
• Apply this mixture twice a day to remove whiteheads fast.

Note: Choose unflavored and plain yogurt to make a face mask to prevent irritation and redness of the skin.

20. Toothpaste

Using toothpaste as a spot treatment for whiteheads is a common home remedy, but it’s important to use caution when trying this method. Toothpaste contains baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, and alcohol, which can dry the skin and cause irritation. It’s also possible that some toothpaste formulas may be too harsh for the delicate skin on your face.

If you use toothpaste to treat whiteheads, only apply a small amount directly to the affected area and leave it on for no more than 10 minutes before washing it off with warm water.

It’s also a good idea to do a patch test on a small area of skin first to ensure you don’t have an adverse reaction. If you experience any redness or irritation, discontinue use immediately.

21. Tomato

Tomatoes can be used to get rid of whiteheads due to their acidic properties, which help to balance the pH of the skin and reduce the production of excess oil. To use tomatoes for whitehead removal:

• Cut a small tomato in half and rub the cut side over the affected areas.
• Leave the tomato juice on the skin for 10-15 minutes.
• Rinse off with cool water and pat dry.

Repeat this process 2-3 times a week for best results.

BOTTOM LINE

Here are the 21 best natural remedies to quickly eliminate whiteheads at home. Make sure you stick with one or two solutions to get the best result!