Published 13 November 2020

How do whiteheads form?

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Why do whiteheads form? Many people are surprised to learn that the cause of whiteheads is actually pretty simple. Whiteheads occur when the pores in the skin become clogged and bacteria and oil becomes trapped in the follicle.

While whitehead causes may vary from person to person, their effects can be very similar: they can result in a flaking, itching sensation. They are also the perfect breeding ground for bacterial growth.

So, what are the main causes of whiteheads? They come from different sources. Some are directly related to your skin’s environment, like the types of clothes you wear, such as tight-fitting or lightweight clothing that traps heat. The dry air may lead to excess oil production.

Other contributing factors include stress, genetics, or even the use of an exfoliator. Some people are naturally oily, while others have to deal with a skin condition called acne. For those who use exfoliation on a regular basis, whitehead formation may be common.

If you have dry skin, you should avoid the use of scrubs or exfoliating products, since this can worsen your skin type. This does not mean you can’t use these products if they are formulated for dry skin. However, if your skin has been dried out, you may need to look for a moisturizing toner that contains sunscreen.