whiteheads

Jun 27, 2011

ashley h.

i know, they're gross. anyone have tips on how to get rid of them? or any advice at all for them?


i have quite a few around my mouth from years of wearing chapstick. i sometimes go on "popping sprees" clearing the areas for a few days making it appear smoother, until they appear again. i wash my face & i'm careful about what i put on it, but nothing seems to help.

Jun 27, 2011

Lisette G.

have you tried using Proactiv or Skin ID?

Jun 27, 2011

ashley h.

i have not. i've just always assumed those were for acne.

Jun 27, 2011

Yasmin K.

And what do you think white heads are? LOL Popping acne, which is what you said you do, will only spread the infection and bacteria around which in turn can and often does cause more acne.

Proactive and Skin ID are good but unless you know what's causing your acne you maybe wasting money. Talk to a doctor first.

Jun 27, 2011

Shauna M.

I recommend extracting them. Do not pop them or else that will just spread the infection and make it worse. Get a lancet and extractor and lance the white head then extract.. Immediately after use an astringent to clean the area. You might have an excess amount of bacteria or clogged pores in that area. Using a product with benzoyl peroxide or exfoliating should help! 

Jun 28, 2011

ashley h.

i'll definitely have to look into a dermatologist in my area because they always come back.

Jun 28, 2011

Angela W.

Some docs seem to think breakouts around the mouth and jawline are indicitive of hormonal spikes. Not sure how old you are or what your situation is but birth control can help regulate hormonal spikes and might help keep the breakouts at bay.  

Jun 28, 2011

Theresa G.

Here is a link that might be helpful!

http://www.livestrong.com/article/71571-difference-between-clogged-pores-/

Jun 29, 2011

ashley h.

indeed it was, thank you! according to that, they're definitely whiteheads ("clogged pores"). i didn't know skin could be dry & clog pours?! crazy.