What are whiteheads?

Whiteheads are considered a closed comedone and are very similar to blackheads, caused by an overproduction of oil, bacteria and dead skin cells. The difference is that a whitehead stays below the surface of the skin creating a white bump as opposed to a blackhead which is exposed to oxygen. Common locations for whiteheads are the T-zone area which tends to be the oiliest part of the face.

What are pimples?

Pimples are also closed comedone. The difference between pimples and whiteheads is the characteristic redness that accompanies pimples. Pimples are caused by inflamed oil glands and can be painful.

How to Eliminate whiteheads & Pimples

Although many people do self-extractions at home, if it is not done properly it can cause infections as well as scarring. I believe it is best left to the professionals to remove.

Daily Treatment

The first step in healthy glowing skin is cleanliness. You must wash your face twice daily with a gentle cleanser such as Cetaphil or a medicated acne cleanser with salicylic acid. However I tend to find medicated acne washes too drying especially if the only oily zone you have is in the T-zone.

An astringent such as witch hazel helps to remove bacteria and tone the skin (make sure its alcohol free, otherwise this too can be too drying on your face.

Facial Steaming,this helps to open and unclog your pores.

If you wear makeup, look for products that are non-comedogenic and oil free.

Weekly Treatment

In addition to the above, once a week a facial mask is a must. There are many types to choose from.

For absorbing oil, clay masks are great as are peel off masks. Read the instructions to see that it is suited for oily skin and that it cleanses your pores.

Natural Treatments

For spot treatments, before going to bed apply white toothpaste to affected area (only the acne itself, NOT your skin). Gel type toothpastes, toothpastes that are red, blue and cinnamon flavored tend to have irritating effects. To test for sensitivity use a small amount on 1 pimple only. If there is no reaction the following day, you can apply as a spot treatment to all affected areas.

Tea Tree Oil-This is an anti-bacterial that helps reduce redness. Apply to the affected area only. Do not rinse off.

Lemon Juice-After cleansing, using freshly squeezed lemon juice, apply to affected areas.

Please remember that not all treatments will work on everyone, the best thing is to test your skin for sensitivity by trying the treatment on a small area and leaving alone for twenty-four hours. If you experience no reaction, then it is safe to use.