When a pore is clogged by sebum and dead skin cells, the top of the pore remains open. This causes the top of the pore to turn black; these are known as blackheads. They are stubborn and you need patience and perseverance to clear them naturally. However, if the pores are closed it looks like a bump on the skin and is referred to as whiteheads.

These are difficult to treat and OTC products contain chemicals that can have side effects with long term use. It is more effective and safe to use natural treatments that are easily available at home, such as:

1. Exfoliating face packs
Combinations of commonly found items in your pantry or your local store work well to remove whiteheads. Use them as a scrub or a face pack. Combine it with water, apply it on your face or only on the whiteheads and leave it for 15-20 minutes before rinsing it. If you feel like your skin is getting dry, use a light moisturizer. You can test it on a patch of your skin before determining which remedy suits you best. You will start seeing results in a couple of weeks. Make your exfoliating face masks with the following:

  • Baking soda and water: Rinse with warm water and use a moisturizer
  • Organic turmeric powder and water: Rinse with cool water
  • Coconut water and sugar
  • Green tea and water: Massage well for 3 minutes. Rinse this off with normal water
  • Organic honey: Slightly warm the honey before using it. Rinse it off with normal water
  • Aloe Vera and lemon juice: Blend fresh aloe vera and lemon juice before use.
  • Bentonite clay and honey: Rinse with lukewarm water
  • Crushed aspirin tablets and water: Scrub this onto your face, let it rest for 7-8 minutes, and apply a moisturizer.
  • Rosewater and lemon juice
  • Sandalwood powder and rose water
  • Oatmeal powder and rose water
  • Honey, sugar and few drops of lemon juice
  • Beaten egg white
  • Brown sugar and olive oil

2. Topical remedies for whiteheads
Apart from these combinations, there are also some ingredients that you can find in the kitchen that can help remove whiteheads:

  • Tea tree oil
  • Apple cider vinegar
  • Organic virgin coconut oil
  • Raw grated potato juice – Rinse after 20 minutes
  • Witch Hazel solution
  • Tomato paste