Whiteheads on Nose Keep Coming Back, how to get Rid of, Removal and Home Remedies

This post explores, in details, the causes of whiteheads on nose, why they might keep coming back, what it means when the whiteheads are on the nose crease or inside it as well as various ways on how to get rid of them, their removal and readily available home remedies.

Whiteheads on Nose

You most probably have noticed some tiny, or maybe huge, white lumps on your nose and assumed they are whiteheads. Well, not every white bump on the nose is a whitehead. With that in mind;

What are whiteheads on nose? – Whiteheads vs. Blackheads

During formation of acne, the primary stage occurs when a widened hair follicle is clogged by sebum, bacteria and skin debris. Once this happens, the opening at the point of formation may be closed or open. A whitehead is a comedone with an obstructed opening. A blackhead occurs if the surface is open, as a result of which the components of the comedone get exposed to the air and are oxidized making the tip appear black; hence the term blackhead. 

Whiteheads are also referred to as closed comedones. Normally, they don’t become inflamed but if they do, an inflamed pustule or papule will form around the area. Whiteheads on nose will either appear white or yellow and can occur around the nose crease, inside the nose or under the skin. The size varies with some being small and others swelling up to appear quite large. 

The only difference between blackheads and whiteheads is in exposure to air causing the former to change color and the latter to retain the color of its components. Their causes, treatments and prevention methods are the same.

Causes Of Whiteheads On Nose 

Now that we know what they are and how to tell them apart from blackheads, what causes whiteheads on nose and why do we get whiteheads on our noses? Researchers have not yet made a breakthrough as to the exact cause of acne but certain occurrences are known to trigger it. This section looks at the likely causes of whiteheads.

Hormonal Fluctuation

When pregnancy, puberty, menopause, polycystic ovarian syndrome, menstruation cycle or a halt into the use of contraceptives occur, they are likely to result in hormonal imbalance. This will then be followed by an eruption of whiteheads on nose and other parts of the body. 

Generally, what happens is that androgens trigger excess production of sebum which then results in clogged pores. They also accelerate production of acne-causing bacteria and increase the likelihood of the skin to become inflamed. Hormonal acne is common in the t-zone and will therefore result in whiteheads on the forehead, nose and the chin.


Whiteheads on nose have a hereditary component to them. People who come from families with a history of acne are at a risk of getting them too. There also is a correlation between skin sensitivity and genes which makes it easy for the pores to get easily inflamed. Persons with a genetic risk of acquiring acne respond strongly against various elements exposed to their skin while those who do not may not be affected at all.


On-going research suggests that there is a relationship between acne flare-ups and stress. A 2003 study published in the Archives of Dermatology found that college students at Stanford University experienced acne eruptions during exams when compared to times without tests which are less stressing. 

According to a University of Texas clinical professor of dermatology, Lisa A. Garner, MD, emotional stress tends to worsen acne and will thus see you experience more whiteheads on your nose than when you are in your relaxed moments. Additionally, stressed people are likely to mess up with their skin by picking it thus making the situation worse. 

It is suspected that the reason why stress could result in acne is the fact that it triggers the release of inflammatory-causing elements. When these attack the skin, there is a widening of the pores and release of excess sebum to them resulting in whiteheads.

Lifestyle Choices

There are some lifestyle choices that may affect whitehead formation on your nose. Excessive exposure to the sun causes damage to the skin. It results in dead skin cells and also contributes to excessive sweating. These easily result in clogged pores. 

Diets that include a lot of dairy products, sugar and oil also predispose consumers to formation of acne. In addition, smoking inhibits the process of cell renewal and exposes your skin to harmful particles. These can result in formation of whiteheads on your nose.

Wrong Cosmetic Products

Using the wrong cosmetic products for your skin results in a breakdown of the oil and moisture balance. Some products also contain harmful elements that are too harsh to the skin. If you settle for products that are not meant for your skin type, you may end up stripping off your skin its natural oils.

This interruption will in turn disrupt normal oil secretion which predisposes your skin to acne.
To effectively fight whiteheads on your nose, know your skin type and use appropriate products on your face. Also incorporate a good facial cleanser that eliminates impurities while maintaining the natural oil balance.

Whiteheads on Nose Keep Coming Back

If you notice that whitehead on nose keep coming back, try and evaluate conditions surrounding their presence and identify when it is that they occur and when it is they are gone. With close monitoring, you are likely to identify a pattern. 

It is possible for the recurrence of whiteheads on nose to be triggered by hormonal imbalance. Where this is the case, you might notice that they keep coming back at specific times within your cycle. If you are a student you might notice they keep recurring in times when you have exams or comprehensive assignments. 

By identifying the pattern they adopt, you will be in a position to deal with the condition better and also take good care of your skin. Where whiteheads on nose keep coming back and they are of concern to you, see your dermatologist.

Whiteheads Inside Nose

Ever had a pimple inside the nose that hurts so bad? Well, a whitehead inside the nose is uncomfortable and can get swollen and painful. Even worse is when it is infected. While it is possible to have whiteheads in nose, it is also possible to confuse other bumps with them.

Some of the skin conditions that have been mistaken for whiteheads inside the nose include boils, painful bumps from folliculitis, boils and cysts. Due to the biology of the nose, it might be hard to properly look at the bump in question to see what it is. 

You can opt to give it a few days and see if it resolves itself. During this time, avoid popping or picking at it. You can use a small cotton ball to apply a warm compress on it to see if it helps to hasten the process. However, in case the alleged whitehead becomes too painful, keeps swelling or recurring, visit your doctor so it can be treated.

Small Whiteheads On Side Of Nose

Acne around nose crease or zits on corner of the nose occur because it is easy for the pores around the sides of the nose to get clogged. This is precipitated by the fact that there are a lot of oil glands there. The fold around the nose crease also makes it easy for the pores to get easily clogged as it tends to trap debris. 

The high concentration of oil glands also makes the areas prone to sebaceous filaments. These may be mistaken for small whiteheads or blackheads depending on their coloration. They, however, are different skin conditions.

How To Get Rid Of Whiteheads On Nose

There are different options on how to get rid of whiteheads on nose. These include fast medical options to get rid of the whiteheads on nose instantly, combination treatments as well as home remedies. The details are as discussed below.

a) How To Remove Whiteheads From Nose2,900 Fast

1. Whiteheads On Nose Removal1,300 Using an Extractor

Removal of whiteheads on nose should be done by a dermatologist. The dermatologist will make use of a sterilized whitehead extractor to lance the white head and eliminate sebum and debris buildup from the skin. This should not be done at home. If you want to remove whiteheads at home, try using nose strips for whiteheads but not an extractor as you might end up hurting yourself.

2. Prescription Treatment

For severe cases of whiteheads on nose, chin and the face, a dermatologist can offer prescription strength medication. These are usually to be used within a course of eight weeks for the acne to clear. For mild to moderate acne, your doctor may prescribe oral antibiotics to fight bacterial infection on the pores. Where the whiteheads are accompanied by a severe outbreak of acne, chemical peels, laser treatment and oral contraceptives may be given.

3. Whiteheads Removal Cream

To quickly get rid of whiteheads on nose at home, you can opt for a removal cream. There are some available over the counter but getting one from your dermatologist will hasten the healing process. Creams containing salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide are quite effective. 

The benzoyl peroxide clears the skin off bacteria to enhance healing of the affected pores while the salicylic acid acts as a skin peel to slough off dead skin cells. These two undertakings help to open up blocked pores. The acid also dries out excessive sebum thus diminishing the likelihood of recurrence. Salicylic acid is, however, harsh and should not be used to get rid of whiteheads on your nose if you have a sensitive skin.

b. Home Remedies for Whiteheads on Nose

4. Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil has been used for eons to treat various skin conditions. Used properly, it can help get rid of whiteheads on nose. This remedy is however not appropriate for people with sensitive skin and should be used with caution. Conduct a patch test before applying it on large areas.
  • Dilute tea tree oil with an equal amount of carrier oil.
  • Apply on the nose where there are whiteheads using a q-tip
  • Leave the oil on for a while before washing it off.

5. Manuka Honey

Honey has antimicrobial properties and is known for its healing effects on the skin. Manuka honey is especially famed for its effectiveness in dealing with acne. It is also quite subtle and can be used on any skin type without causing a reaction.
  • Dab manuka honey on the whiteheads or opt to use it as a facial mask to benefit the whole face.
  • Allow it to dry off on the skin before rinsing your face.

6. Baking Soda

This readily available kitchen product is an effective home remedy for whiteheads on nose. It has a rough texture that exfoliates the skin to get rid of dead skin. It also controls the pH of the skin and discourages production of excess sebum.
  • Mix a reasonable amount of baking soda with water to form a consistent paste.
  • Gently, massage the paste on your face while concentrating on the whiteheads laden nose.
  • Allow the mixture to rest for about 15 minutes before washing it off.

7. Witch Hazel

Witch hazel has antibacterial properties and helps clear off bacteria from the skin. It also reduces inflammation which is important in the healing of whiteheads. The tannin in it makes it a natural astringent.
  • Dab some witch hazel on the nose using a cotton ball.
  • You may also incorporate it as part of your skincare regimen to curb whitehead flare-ups.

8. Apple Cider Vinegar

This is a natural antiseptic and will cleanse the skin to get rid of whiteheads effectively at home. It regulates the pH of the skin, eliminates buildup and prevents further formation of acne. Use it as a toner on the skin to reap its benefits.
  • Dilute apple cider vinegar with an equal amount of water.
  • Use a cotton ball to apply the resulting solution on the skin.

9. Aloe Vera

This home remedy for whiteheads on nose is quite gentle and can be used on all skin types. Aloe vera has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps soothe the skin and restore it into its most natural form when used regularly.
  • Simply get a fresh aloe vera leaf and cut it open.
  • Scoop some gel from it and apply on the skin.
  • Let it dry before washing it off.

How to Get Rid Of Whiteheads on Your Nose Forever – Whiteheads on Nose Preventive Measures

While the first thought that might cross your mind as soon as you notice them is squeezing whiteheads on nose, this habit is retrogressive and could lead to scarring. If you want to get rid of whiteheads on your nose forever and not have to deal with constant come backs, you need to take good care of your skin.
  1. Anthony Peri, a Houston dermatologist recommends that you visit a board certified dermatologist for a comprehensive evaluation followed by recommendation for a skin care regimen customized to your skins needs. In addition, here are some specific preventive measures that can help keep whiteheads on your nose away, as well as keep your whole face healthy.
  2. Wash your face twice daily to eliminate excessive oil and curb the buildup of dead skin and bacteria. Use a gentle cleanser and stay away from any harsh products
  3.  Keep your hair clean especially if you let it loose often. Having too much oil on the hair results in it getting on the face which increases the likelihood of getting clogged pores.
  4. Settle for oil free make-up and self-grooming products. Also keep your brushes clean to keep bacteria away and avoid clogging the pores. Never sleep in makeup at the end of the day to allow your skin breathe.
  5. Change your pillow case regularly as this is where dirt and oil from your face land at night. Keeping them clean ensures that your nose and face are not expose to whitehead-causing elements.
  6. Settle for a healthy diet so it can calm down overactive sebaceous glands. Drinking enough water can also go a long way in promoting healthy skin. Also try and quit smoking for a healthy skin.
  7. Avoid unnecessary stress whenever you can and engage in relaxing activities regularly. Also learn to deal with stressing situations in a relaxed manner to avoid over-exerting yourself and affecting your skin negatively.



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