Whiteheads are annoying, pesky little pus-filled zits on certain or most parts of your face. Every human being experiences this skin issue at least once in their lifetime. There are some who also have to constantly live with it and resist the urge to squeeze them.
What if we told you there’s a way to get rid of this problem? And it does not involve picking or popping. Yes, that’s true. Identifying the cause behind your whitehead is getting one step closer to the solution. Here’s what whiteheads on each part of your face are trying to tell you.
Nose

This is one of the most common areas where whiteheads appear, particularly because the T-zone produces a lot more oil than the rest of your face. It is far more common and problematic among those with combination or oily skin type. They are usually accompanied by blackheads, but take longer to clear because the clogged pore is hidden deeper under the skin. Using skincare products that contain salicylic acid, glycolic acid or lactic acid works wonders for those with whiteheads on the nose.
Forehead

The forehead is the second most common area of your face where whiteheads appear because it produces a lot of oil too. If you have short bangs or a hairstyle that brings hair to your forehead then that could also be the reason behind clogged pores. Your hair can transfer oil and bacteria to the forehead and lead to whiteheads and acne. Changing your hairstyle can bring about a positive result and improve your skin’s health. Use a gentle exfoliating cleanser to reduce the excess oil production in this area.
Cheeks

If you have noticed small bumps on your cheeks it could either be whiteheads or Keratosis Pilaris. If your skin is prone to producing excess keratin in the hair follicles it leads to Keratosis Pilaris. It looks similar to whiteheads but the condition and treatment are very different. Those with dry skin are more likely to experience KP whereas whiteheads appear on those with oily skin type. First, identify whether the bumps are KP or whiteheads, once you are sure, treat it by eating a diet rich in omega-3 and vitamin A.
Chin

Unlike your nose and forehead, your chin isn’t one of the areas that naturally produce excess oil, therefore this could be a little more complicated. Skin experts say that whiteheads and chin acne are a result of hormonal changes. A rise in androgen levels is generally responsible for higher and thicker sebum production. If the whiteheads and acne are really a result of hormonal imbalance, avoid foods that are treated with hormones such as dairy.
Written by Sanya Hamdani on 12th Feb 2020
Sanya Hamdani is a skincare enthusiast and lipstick hoarder, she truly believes no two red lipsticks look exactly alike. With a Master's degree in Communication & Journalism and 5+ years of digital writing experience up her sleeve, Sanya has some of the biggest beauty experts in the country on her speed dial. When she's not swatching products or writing about the latest trends in beauty, you will find her watching F.R.I.E.N.D.S. or cooking up a storm in the kitchen.