Whiteheads are caused primarily by clogged pores. This clogging happens when excess oil (sebum), dead skin cells, and sometimes bacteria build up and block the opening of a pore. The blocked pore bulges outwards creating the characteristic white bump known as a whitehead. Several factors contribute to the formation of whiteheads:
- Hormonal changes, especially during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, or due to some contraceptives, increase oil production in the skin leading to clogged pores.
- Skin that produces excess oil is more prone to whiteheads because the sebum accumulates in the pores.
- Dead skin cells mixing with oil can create a plug that blocks pores.
- Bacteria trapped under the skin in closed pores (whiteheads) can cause inflammation and breakouts.
- Stress, lack of sleep, diet (high in refined sugar or dairy), and certain skincare or makeup products containing pore-clogging ingredients can aggravate whiteheads.
- Friction or repeated irritation in certain areas like the chin or nose creases can cause whiteheads to appear there.
- Genetics and smoking also increase the likelihood of developing whiteheads.
Whiteheads are common in the T-zone areas of the face such as the forehead, nose, and chin, but they can appear anywhere on the body where there are sebaceous glands. In summary, whiteheads form due to a combination of increased oil production, accumulation of dead skin cells, bacteria, and pore blockage influenced by hormones, skin type, lifestyle, and product use.
