How to Get Rid of Whiteheads: A Gentle, Effective Routine

Whiteheads are one of the most common types of spot — those small, raised bumps with a white or cream-coloured top. They're a mild form of acne, and the good news is they respond well to a gentle, consistent routine. Here's what they are and how to clear them without irritating your skin.

What are whiteheads?

A whitehead is a pore that's become clogged with oil and dead skin cells and then closed over at the surface, trapping the contents. That trapped material shows through as a small white or pale bump. They're closely related to blackheads — the difference is that a blackhead stays open to the air (so it oxidises and darkens), while a whitehead is sealed. For that comparison, see what non-comedogenic means and closed comedones.

What causes them?

• Excess oil and a build-up of dead skin cells clogging pores.
• Hormonal shifts that increase oil production.
• Heavy or pore-clogging products — choosing non-comedogenic formulas helps.
• Over-washing, which strips the skin and prompts even more oil.

The ingredients that clear whiteheads

• Salicylic acid (BHA) — the go-to. It's oil-soluble, so it gets inside the pore to clear the trapped oil and cells.
• Retinoids — support cell turnover so pores clog less over time. Introduce slowly.
• Niacinamide — helps regulate the look of oil and calms the surface.
• A gentle cleanser and a light moisturiser — clear without stripping; don't skip moisturiser even if skin is oily.

Browse suitable options in our blemish-prone skin collection.

A simple routine

• Morning: gentle cleanse, light moisturiser, then SPF.
• Evening: gentle cleanse, then salicylic acid or a retinoid (alternate nights), followed by moisturiser.

Don't squeeze whiteheads — it can push the contents deeper and leave marks or scarring. For the wider approach, see how to get clear skin and the skincare routine for acne-prone skin.

When to see a professional

Whiteheads alone are mild and usually manageable at home. But if they're widespread, painful, or mixed with inflamed spots that aren't improving after a few consistent months, a pharmacist or GP can advise on stronger options.

Whiteheads FAQs

How do you get rid of whiteheads?

Use salicylic acid to clear the pore, add a retinoid a few nights a week to reduce clogging over time, and keep to a gentle cleanser, light moisturiser and daily SPF. Give it six to eight weeks and avoid squeezing.

What's the difference between a whitehead and a blackhead?

Both are clogged pores. A whitehead is closed at the surface so it stays white or pale; a blackhead is open, so its contents oxidise in the air and turn dark. The treatment approach is very similar.

Should I squeeze whiteheads?

Better not to. Squeezing can push the contents deeper, spread bacteria and leave marks or scarring. Salicylic acid and retinoids clear them more safely over time.

Can moisturiser cause whiteheads?

Heavy, pore-clogging products can contribute. Choose lighter, non-comedogenic formulas — but don't skip moisturiser, as stripping the skin only prompts more oil.

How long do whiteheads take to clear?

With a consistent routine, expect gradual improvement over six to eight weeks, and longer for retinoid benefits. Chopping and changing products slows progress.