The Whole Truth About Whiteheads

There are many different types of blemishes that you can get on your face. They are all generally called acne but when it comes to treatment, it is important to know exactly what is going on with your skin. People with acne are usually familiar with whiteheads (milium), however they don't know what causes them or how to get rid of them.

The difference between this and a blackhead is that blackheads are exposed to oxygen which causes the black appearance.

A whitehead is a build-up of oils and dead skin that plugs up your pores. It is embedded under the skin so it appears as a raised white bump. These are also referred to as "closed comedones". This is because the pore is not open and oxygen never comes in contact with it.
They are caused by hardened oils under the skin that are clogging the pores, which is the cause of most acne to begin with. Some dermatologists believe that people with frequent outbreaks may produce a drier oil than normal, which makes them susceptible to getting clogged pores. If you wear make-up, avoid using anything that is greasy to prevent all forms acne.

Another acne preventing precaution is to wash your pillowcase regularly as well as your hair. This will prevent old dirt and oils from rubbing off onto your skin and causing irritation.

If you are experiencing a problem with whiteheads, there are many treatment options available that could clear your skin right up.

The Derma Cleanse Acne Treatment System cleans, tones, and detoxifies your skin. It also regulates the hormones in your body to normalize the oil secretion. You do not have to see a dermatologist to get this medicine, even though it is recommended by most of them. Using a deep pore cleanser can prevent whiteheads from ever forming. It could also help to gently dislodge existing spots over time.

Even though the chance of scarring from a whitehead is very unlikely, you should still never attempt to remove them yourself. It will only damage your skin and cause an infection. The contents leaking onto your skin can also cause more acne to form. A doctor can remove them individually for you in his office, using sterile tool.


If you prefer to use a prescription provided by your dermatologist than deal with your whiteheads, a commonly prescribed medicine is Differin gel. It is a topical retinoid treatment that works to reduce inflammation involved with acne, as well as increases cell formation. It is more effective than other medicines such as Retin-A and it is also less irritating. It is alcohol free and it light and non-greasy. For patients with extremely sensitive skin, there is also less-harsh Differin cream.

Most people with whiteheads also suffer from other forms of acne that this medicine would be beneficial to use for as well. He/She may also choose to prescribe an oral contraceptive as a way to regulate hormones in females. This is also beneficial in clearing up most types of acne.