Why do Whiteheads Occur?
While there are several causes of whiteheads, the main reason is the excessive production of oil by the skin. The secretion of excess sebum blocks the pores and causes whiteheads, and in some people, blackheads. To put it simply, whiteheads and blackheads are clogged pores, known as closed and open comedones, respectively. Here are the two main causes of whiteheads – Greasy Cosmetics – Ensure that all cosmetics, whether sunscreen or moisturizer, are oil-free. In case your cosmetics are oily, then ensure that you thoroughly clean your face off all make up before you go to bed. Oily Hair – People oil hair and leave the oil on it for a day or two. When you apply oil, you need to wash it off after a couple of hours, or your skin becomes oily too, and this triggers whiteheads. It would be best if you avoid these triggers. The most affected area is the T-zone, where there is oil production is maximum and where the pores get clogged the most. For those who are unaware, the T-zone is the forehead, nose, and part of the cheeks. Let us now explore the best home remedies to get rid of whiteheads at home.Best Home Remedies To Get Rid of Whiteheads at Home
Here are some home remedies for clearing whiteheads –1. Acidic Mask – Apple cider Vinegar is one of the best ingredients for clearing whiteheads. Mix it with a little water and apply it on your face. Wash it off after a few minutes and rinse with warm water. A mixture of baking soda and water is equally effective.
2. Oatmeal-Sugar Mask – Make a scrub using oatmeal, sugar, honey, and lemon. Use 2 spoons of oatmeal (the instant ones that are easily available), 1 spoon of regular sugar, and ½ spoon each of lemon and honey. Scrub your face using these for 5 minutes and leave it on to dry. Rinse with water and pat dry.
3. Neem Mask – In India, neem trees can be found everywhere. They grow in abundance. These trees are not just good for providing shade in the hot summers. They also have a lot of medicinal benefits. Get some neem leaves and make a paste with fresh turmeric. If you don't have fresh turmeric, use organic turmeric powder. Apply this mask on your face and let it remain for 15 minutes till it dries. Wash it off and pat dry. This mask can be applied every day and there will be a marked improvement in the skin.
4. Egg White Mask – You can whip up an egg white for a healthy omelet. And you can also whip it up for the good health of your skin, too, but minus the spices! Egg white helps eliminate whiteheads if applied on the face for only 15 minutes. That's just the time this mask takes to dry. In addition to clearing whiteheads, this mask also tightens up the skin. It is an instant pick-me-up. 5. Cinnamon-Oatmeal Mask – This spice that adds so much fragrance to food and is good for blood pressure also stimulates collagen production, which facilitates cell regeneration. Cinnamon has antimicrobial properties that help in the treatment of acne and the removal of whiteheads. Prepare a mask with equal quantities of oatmeal powder and cinnamon powder and make a paste with water. Apply this mask on your face and leave it to dry for about 15 minutes. Wash it off with cold water. Do this on alternate days for the best results.
6. Grandma's Mask – An ancient grandma's remedy is to make a paste of besan and green gram dal with yogurt and a few drops of lemon. This mask works as a scrub as well as a face mask. Scrub your face with this paste for 5 minutes and then leave it to dry. Wash it with cold water. Do this every day for the best results. This remedy is not a quick fix, and you need to use it regularly for visible results. But, every Indian woman would attest to the results of this mask.
8. Rose Water – Rose water is an excellent cleanser and toner. It is also a good treatment for whiteheads and blackheads. Instead of buying a ready to use rosewater, make your own at home—all you need are desi Gulab petals – the fragrant red variety. Wash the petals thoroughly in running water and place them in a stockpot. Add enough distilled water to submerge them. They'll float on the top, but there should be enough water. Now bring this to a boil. Cover and let it simmer till the petals have lost their color. Cool, strain, and store in a sterilized bottle. Use this on your face every day. Now that you have read about all these home remedies for your whiteheads, you can start using the most convenient one.
Skincare Tips
Here are some skin care tips that you need to incorporate into your routine. Following the tips given below will ensure that your skin is problem-free and blemishless.- Wash your face with plain water 2-3 times a day. It will remove the excess oil build-up.
- Use natural aloe-vera gel to clean your face.
- Wipe your face every evening with rosewater taken in a cotton ball. You can also use cucumber if your skin is allergic to rosewater.
- After you clean and tone your skin, apply sunscreen and moisturizer. Here are the best sunscreens for oily and acne-prone skin available in India.
- Drink a lot of water and keep yourself hydrated. Your skin needs it.