Whiteheads on Nose: Causes, and How to Get Rid of Them ASAP

• The nose has a large number of sebaceous glands making it a prime target for whiteheads to develop
• Effective over-the-counter treatments include benzoyl peroxide, alpha hydroxy acids and salicylic acid
• Natural solutions include facial steaming, tea tree oil and witch hazel 

Whiteheads on the nose are a type of acne that develops when pores become clogged with dead skin cells, excess sebum (oil), and debris. They appear as small white or yellow bumps with a thin layer of skin covering them. This type of acne, known as comedonal acne, is characterized as noninflammatory and does not cause swelling, redness, or discomfort. However, if left untreated, whiteheads can become inflamed due to the overgrowth of Cutibacterium acnes. 

Home remedies can be effective in treating this type of acne, but in some cases, it may be necessary to consult a dermatologist for more advanced treatment options. The nose is part of the T-zone, an area of the face that tends to be oilier and more prone to acne breakouts.

Causes of Whiteheads on the Nose

The primary factor in the formation of whiteheads is the overproduction of sebum, an oily substance produced by sebaceous glands inside pores to lubricate and protect the skin. The nose has a higher density of sebaceous glands, which are larger and have correspondingly larger pores, making it more susceptible to whitehead development. Excess sebum can accumulate and combine with debris and dead skin cells, forming plugs that lead to whiteheads.

Various skin types are at risk of developing comedones, including dry skin. In some cases, excessive dryness can trigger an overproduction of sebum, causing a layer of oil to rest on the skin and promote comedone formation. 

What if whiteheads on the nose keep coming back?

Whiteheads on the nose may keep coming back due to various factors, including hormonal fluctuations during life events such as puberty, pregnancy, and menopause. Genetic predisposition, diet, and stress can also contribute to the recurrence of whiteheads on the nose.

Thankfully, consistent use of skincare products containing effective agents to target pore buildup can help treat and prevent the reoccurrence of whiteheads on the nose. By understanding the factors that contribute to whitehead formation and maintaining a consistent skincare routine, you can better manage and prevent whiteheads on your nose. 

Can You Get Rid of Whiteheads Overnight?

While it would be ideal to get rid of whiteheads overnight, it is not entirely feasible. Whiteheads are firm plugs of material that are deeply embedded beneath the skin. However, you can use nighttime as an opportunity to initiate acne treatments that can help soften and loosen these plugs.

After cleansing your face, apply a cream, gel, or ointment containing benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or sulfur. Benzoyl peroxide is a potent anti-acne agent that can eliminate bacteria and remove excess oils; salicylic acid helps dry up whiteheads and exfoliates the skin; and sulfur targets bacteria, sebum, and dead skin cells. All three ingredients work together to reduce the size of whiteheads and minimize their appearance.

It is important to note that hydrocolloid bandages, also known as acne stickers, are designed to treat open, inflamed lesions by drawing out pus and reducing inflammation. However, they are not effective against whiteheads, as these blemishes are closed and do not contain pus.

Over-the-Counter Treatments for Whiteheads on Nose

There are numerous effective over-the-counter (OTC) products available to treat and prevent whiteheads, such as cleansers, toners, serums, lotions, creams, and gels. These products typically contain one of the following key active ingredients, as they have been proven to produce results.

Alpha-Hydroxy Acids

Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) are chemical exfoliants that work to loosen and remove dead skin cells from the outermost layer of the skin, promoting skin cell turnover. This process results in a smoother skin texture, reduced flaking, and helps heal and prevent acne lesions, particularly comedones. 

Glycolic acid and lactic acid are two well-known AHAs; glycolic acid has a small molecular size, allowing it to penetrate pores deeply and dissolve whiteheads, while lactic acid performs a similar function but has a larger molecular size, making it gentler on the skin and ideal for sensitive or dry skin types.

Retinoids

Topical retinoids have long been a staple in comedonal acne treatment. They inhibit the formation of comedones by increasing skin cell turnover, which eliminates buildup, unblocks pores, and maintains clearance. 

This action also prevents C. acnes from flourishing and causing comedones to worsen and become inflamed. Additionally, retinoids can block several inflammatory pathways that are activated in acne, preventing swelling and redness. 

Clear pores also enable better absorption of topical treatments for improved results.

Salicylic Acid

Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA), making it oil-soluble. This characteristic allows it to effectively penetrate into follicles, dissolving oil, dead skin cells, and debris, as well as drying up and healing whiteheads. As a desmolytic, it can break down the bonds that hold skin cells together, facilitating exfoliation and preventing accumulation on the skin’s surface. 

Salicylic acid can be found in various strengths, ranging from 0.5% to 7%, in numerous skincare products. Oily and normal skin types can tolerate higher strengths, while sensitive and dry skin types may benefit from lower concentrations, as salicylic acid can have a drying effect on the skin. 

Regardless of your skin type, monitor your skin after use and adjust the frequency of use or strength if your skin feels tight, irritated, or appears red. 

How to Get Rid of Whiteheads on the Nose Naturally

For those seeking chemical-free treatments for whiteheads on the nose, there are several plant-derived and all-natural options available.

Facial Steaming

Facial steaming can help open pores, release trapped oils, and soften whiteheads, making them easier to exfoliate away with topical treatments or to remove manually through gentle manipulation.

Steps for facial steaming:

1. Pour boiling water into a bowl.
2. Optionally, add a few drops of tea tree oil or eucalyptus essential oil for their antibacterial benefits and antioxidant properties.
3. Tie your hair back, drape a towel over your head to retain the steam, and lean over the bowl, keeping your face about 12 inches above the water.
4. Steam your face for 5–10 minutes.
5. Pat dry, use a toner to remove loosened debris and impurities, and continue with your usual skincare routine.

You can also use an at-home facial steamer, take advantage of the hot water from a shower, or simply place a warm steamed washcloth over your nose.

Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is a pure essential oil with numerous benefits for acne treatments, including antibacterial, antimicrobial, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory properties. Research shows that tea tree oil activates white blood cells, which play a key role in the healing process. 

Tea tree oil has been demonstrated to significantly improve mild-to-moderate acne, reduce oiliness, and decrease pore size. Before applying to your skin, dilute the oil with a carrier oil for safe use.

Witch Hazel

Witch hazel has long been used in traditional healing for various skin complaints, including treating poison ivy and healing cuts and bruises. As a treatment for whiteheads on the nose, witch hazel contains tannins and oils that calm inflammation, redness, and irritation. Its astringent qualities help dry up existing whiteheads and eliminate excess oils, preventing future whiteheads from forming. 

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is a popular natural remedy for whiteheads due to its astringent and antibacterial properties. These properties help tighten skin pores and fight against whiteheads. To use aloe vera, cut off the flat end of an aloe vera leaf, slit it open vertically, and scoop out the gel inside. Apply the gel directly to the skin and wash off after 15-20 minutes.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is an astringent with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help treat whiteheads by drying out blemishes and tightening pores. To use apple cider vinegar, mix two tablespoons of ACV with about one cup of warm water. Apply this mixture to the affected areas and leave it on for about 20 minutes before washing it off with water.

Azelaic Acid

Azelaic acid is a naturally occurring acid found in grains such as barley, wheat, and rye. It has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it effective in the treatment of skin conditions like acne and rosacea. Azelaic acid can prevent future outbreaks and clean bacteria from your pores that cause acne. It is very safe and gentle, with minimal side effects, and can be used in children and people who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

How to Safely Pop Whiteheads on the Nose

To safely pop whiteheads on the nose, follow these steps:

1. Exfoliate your skin with salicylic acid or apply benzoyl peroxide to cleanse the area.
2. Steam your face to soften the blockage.
3. With clean hands or a clean cotton swab, gently press down on either side of the whitehead.
4. Cleanse the area again once you are finished.

You can also purchase an extractor tool specifically designed for this purpose. If the whitehead does not pop, avoid using force, as this can worsen the symptoms. Instead, continue your regular skincare routine and try again in a day or two.

A Note on Removal Strips

Removal strips are marketed as a quick method to eliminate blackheads and whiteheads. While applying an adhesive strip to the nose can help peel away dead skin cells for a cleaner, smoother appearance, they can also damage the skin. Moreover, these results are only surface-level. Pore strips cannot actually draw out whiteheads, as they are closed over by skin.

Tips to Prevent Whiteheads on Nose

To prevent whiteheads on the nose, consider incorporating the following steps into your skincare routine:

1. Choose a gentle facial cleanser: Regular cleansing eliminates excess oils and clears grime and debris to reduce your risk of developing whiteheads.
2. Exfoliate regularly: Exfoliation prevents the buildup of dead skin cells that cause whiteheads. Opt for a gentle exfoliant and adjust the frequency of use according to your skin type.
3. Be consistent: Apply medicated topical acne medications as directed and be patient; it takes time for the active ingredients to clear whiteheads.
4. Wear oil-free moisturizer: Noncomedogenic skincare products won’t clog pores.
5. Apply noncomedogenic makeup: Read the product label and choose makeup marked as noncomedogenic; these are formulated without substances that can block pores.
6. Avoid touching your nose: Your hands can transfer dirt and bacteria to your nose and cause breakouts.
7. Use sunscreen: Choose a sunscreen that is noncomedogenic and won’t clog pores, such as those containing zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.
8. Consider professional treatments: For persistent whiteheads, consult a dermatologist for treatments like chemical peels.

By following these tips and incorporating them into your daily skincare routine, you can help prevent whiteheads on the nose and maintain clear, healthy skin.

Takeaway

Whiteheads are a very common occurrence on the nose as it is home to a large number of sebaceous glands. Whiteheads can form due to the accumulation of excess sebum, dead skin cells and debris.

A skin care routine that incorporates products containing acne-fighting agents such as benzoyl peroxide, retinoids, salicylic, glycolic and lactic acids can treat and help prevent whitehead formation when used regularly.

These topical treatments work to exfoliate dead skin cells, accelerate skin cell turnover and clear excess oils. 

Facial steaming can help loosen plugs and facilitate their removal through manual extraction. Tea tree oil and witch hazel are natural remedies which can help reduce inflammation, dry up whiteheads and reduce oil levels.