Whiteheads Treatment & Removal (Closed Comedones)
Small white bumps on your forehead, chin or nose that never come to a head, however carefully you wash? Whiteheads are closed comedones: pores plugged with oil and dead skin and closed over at the surface. Squeezing can leave a mark, and deep ones often won’t come out. Whiteheads treatment at the clinic works inside the pore: a course of salicylic acid peels loosens the plugs, from about Rs 4,800 a session in a course.
Also known as closed comedones, closed whiteheads or white heads.
Is this you?
- Small white or skin-coloured bumps on your forehead, chin or nose
- Bumps that never come to a head
- Rough, bumpy skin where make-up won’t sit smoothly
- They keep coming back, whatever cleanser you try
- Oily skin, with shine by midday
See a doctor first if the bumps are tiny, pearly white and around your eyes or on your cheeks (they may be milia, not whiteheads), you also have deep, painful pimples or scars, or breakouts came on suddenly with irregular periods or new facial hair.
What causes whiteheads?
- Extra oil The oil glands in your skin make more oil (sebum) than the pore can clear.
- Dead skin Skin cells that don’t shed stick together with the oil and close the pore over.
- Hormones Changes in hormone levels at puberty, around periods, in pregnancy and with PCOS can bring on acne spots, whiteheads included.
- Heavy products Oily hair products, thick creams and heavy make-up can block pores.
- Heat and humidity Skin makes more oil in summer and in humid weather.
- Squeezing and scrubbing Picking at spots and rough scrubbing irritate the skin and can make acne worse.
How we treat whiteheads, step by step
- First stepStep 1 · First stepSalicylic Acid PeelSalicylic acid dissolves into oil, so it reaches inside the closed pore and loosens the plug over 3–6 peels. From about Rs 4,800 a session in a course of 3.
- 3–6 peels, 2–4 weeks apart
- Mild flaking for a few days
Rough, bumpy skinStep 2 · Rough, bumpy skinHD Glow FacialA deep cleanse and a light peel loosen oil and dead cells in the pores and help the skin shed. From about Rs 4,900 a session in a course of 3.- One visit; monthly to keep the glow
- Little: redness for a few hours
Keeping pores clearStep 3 · Keeping pores clearHydraFacialA mild acid peel and gentle suction clear oil and dead skin from the pores, with no downtime. Rs 6,995.- One visit; monthly for upkeep
- None: back to work the same day
More treatments for whiteheads
Chemical Peel“I have dark spots, acne marks or dull skin.”- From Rs 4,800 a session in a course
- Downtime Little: redness for hours, light flaking
- Results last Months, with top-up peels
Acne Treatment for Men“I still get acne and it’s leaving marks.”- From Rs 4,800 a session in a course
- Downtime None to a few days, by treatment
- Results last Long-lasting with good skincare
Free consultation
Not sure which one suits you?
A doctor checks your skin and goals, then tells you honestly what will work, and what won’t. No obligation.
Meet our 48 doctorsWe usually reply within 15 minutes.
What our patients say
- Naz S.Gulshan / Johar, Karachi clinic
I had sessions with Dr Ayesha. She is very kind, polite and listens to you and your concerns. Very much satisfied and would look forward to have more services from her. Experience 10/10.
View on Google - Khaled B.Gulshan / Johar, Karachi clinic
I had the opportunity to visit the Cutera Johar branch and was thoroughly impressed with the overall experience. The team was professional, attentive, and ensured a smooth and comfortable visit. …
View on Google - Amna A.DHA, Lahore clinic
I got my procedure done by Dr Hafsa and she was so professional with her work. She kept reassuring me. Thank you Dr Hafsa I’ll come again to you. You are a nice asset to this clinic.
View on Google - Sajal W.Faisalabad clinic
I had a great experience at the cutera Aesthetics Faisalabad branch. The service was excellent and very professional. Special thanks to Dr zaimal for her polite and cooperative attitude. She assisted me very patiently and made the whole process smooth. Highly recommended!
View on Google - AyeshaFaisalabad clinic
I had a great experience at Cutera Aesthetics with Dr. Zaimal. She was professional, kind, and made me feel comfortable throughout the treatment. Her approach was reassuring, and I really appreciated the care and attention she gave. Highly recommend Dr. Zaimal and Cutera Aesthetics for a pleasant experience.
View on Google - Hadia Z.Faisalabad clinic
I recently had a session with Dr. Zuriya, and my experience was excellent. She was very supportive and explained everything clearly during the procedure. What stood out the most was her concern for my comfort, as she frequently asked if I …
View on Google - Mirza S.Faisalabad clinic
recently had a hair treatment and I’m very happy with the results. Dr. Sabahat was very professional and kind, and explained everything clearly. The clinic environment was clean and comfortable. I can already see a noticeable improvement in my hair. Highly recommended for anyone facing hair problems.
View on Google - Rameen F.Faisalabad clinic
I had my lifestyle consultation sessions with Dr. Wajiha, and it was a really positive and fruitful experience. Her advice was practical, personalized, and easy to follow. I’m very satisfied with the guidance and would definitely recommend her!
View on Google - Kanwal K.Sialkot clinic
Really happy with my experience at Cutera Asthetics! Dr. Sehrish was lovely, professional, and made the whole laser treatment smooth and comfortable. Highly recommend her!
View on Google - Ch A.Sialkot clinic
I had an absolutely wonderful experience at Cutera Aesthetics with Dr. Sehrish.My laser treatment experience was truly exceptional, and I couldn’t be happier with the results and overall service. Dr. Sehrish was extremely professional, kind, and attentive, making me feel comfortable and confident throughout the entire process. The staff was welcoming, the environment was lovely, and the level of care was outstanding. Everything exceeded my expectations. I highly recommend Cutera Aesthetics to anyone looking for excellent laser treatments and a truly satisfying experience. Definitely a 5-star experience!
View on Google - Eman T.Sialkot clinic
Dr Amna is highly skilled and professional. Explained the procedure clearly and set realistic expectations. The treatment was comfortable, and the results looked natural.
View on Google - Saima W.Sialkot clinic
I recently visited Cutera Aesthentics and was impressed by their wide range of products and excellent customer service. Dr.Amna is very Good doctor and knowledgeable and helped me find exactly what I needed. Overall, I had great experience and would definitely recommend to others!" 5/5 stars.
View on Google - Mian I.Sialkot clinic
I had great experience with Dr Mukarma at cutera asthetic .she is vvery humble professional and honest Doctor at cutera asthetic siaklot .she gave me realistic expectation and deliver exceptional results . Best consultant Dr Mukarma at cutera asthetic
View on Google - Zain P.Sialkot clinic
I had my PRP treatment done here by Dr. Mukarma, and it was an excellent experience. Dr. Mukarma is very professional, kind, and gentle. She explains everything clearly and performs the treatment very calmly and carefully. …
View on Google - Talha S.Sialkot clinic
I had my PRP sessions with Dr. Mukarma and I am very satisfied with the results. After the second session, I noticed a clear improvement in my hair and overall condition. She is very professional, kind, and explains the procedure in detail …
View on Google - Neelum U.Clifton / DHA, Karachi clinic
Had a great experience at Cutera Aesthetics! Special thanks to Dr. Maheen, who performed all the procedures with great care and professionalism. Really happy with the results and overall experience. Looking forward to visiting again and seeing Dr. Maheen!
View on Google - Areeba B.Clifton / DHA, Karachi clinic
Had a really good experience with Dr. Maheen. She’s very kind, professional, and attentive. She makes you feel comfortable and takes the time to address your concerns. Highly recommended!
View on Google - Moiz U.Clifton / DHA, Karachi clinic
It was my first time doing an aesthetic treatment today. Yet to see the results but it’s too early to see them right now as it was the first session but Dr Areesha did it very professionally and explained everything very properly so I knew everything that I was being treated with.
View on Google - Mohommad A.Clifton / DHA, Karachi clinic
I'm under treatment with Dr Areesha the body contouring consultant She's very professional at her way of treatment plus so polite and friendly. I would highly recommend those who are dealing and searching for any kind of body contouring concerns
View on Google - Preet G.Clifton / DHA, Karachi clinic
It was nice treatment by Dr areesha this was my 2nd section of cavi and I felt much difference in my lower body fat she is friendly and professional I have a great experience with Dr areesha
View on Google - Ali H.Clifton / DHA, Karachi clinic
I’m taking sessions the body contouring with Dr Areesha. She was highly professional and explained every aspect in details. I truly appreciate her expertise and approach.
View on Google - Iam M.Clifton / DHA, Karachi clinic
Dr Areesha is a very cooperative and good doctor and is guiding me very well, apart from that, whenever I message her regarding diet, she replies from time to time and understands everything very deeply.
View on Google - AsiyaClifton / DHA, Karachi clinic
Loved my laser treatment by Dr Areesha at Cutera Aesthetics. She is absolutely the best, so welcoming, professional and made the whole process super comfortable. Highly Recommended!
View on Google - Sabiha S.Clifton / DHA, Karachi clinic
I had a good experience with Dr. Lubna Rehman. She listened to my concerns properly and explained everything clearly. I felt comfortable during the consultation and wasn’t rushed. Overall, I’m satisfied with her advice and treatment.
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Selected reviews from Google. Experiences vary.
What results to expect
Whiteheads treatment works over weeks, not overnight. Skin usually feels less oily within a week of the first salicylic peel, and peels keep working through the course: in a study of 50 people with mild to moderate acne, a salicylic acid or TCA peel every two weeks for 12 weeks clearly cut the number of blackheads, whiteheads and pimples. Cleansers and creams used at home are slower: allow several weeks to a few months before you judge them.
The honest limit: your skin keeps making oil, so new whiteheads can form once treatment stops. A monthly peel or HydraFacial, and a salicylic acid cleanser at home, keep pores clear.
Whiteheads vs blackheads and milia
- Whitehead (closed comedone): the pore is completely blocked and closed over, so the plug stays white or skin-coloured.
- Blackhead (open comedone): the same plug in an open pore, so it looks dark; it isn’t dirt. See blackhead removal.
- Milia: not clogged pores, but tiny pearly-white cysts of keratin just under the skin, most often on the eyelids and cheeks. They often clear by themselves within a few months; if they stay, our visiting dermatologist can remove them, after a dermatology consultation, which is a paid one.
Sources
Caring for your skin at home
- Wash twice a day with a gentle cleanser and your fingertips; scrubbing irritates the skin and can make acne worse.
- Use a salicylic acid cleanser a few times a week: it clears the dead skin that clogs pores.
- Choose oil-free products: moisturiser, sunscreen and make-up marked “non-comedogenic”, which means they won’t clog pores.
- Take make-up off every night, and keep oily hair products away from your face.
- Don’t squeeze or use pins: it can cause an infection, a dark mark or a scar.
- Give it time: a new routine can take several weeks to a few months to show.
Whiteheads: your questions answered
Straight answers from our doctors to what people ask most about whiteheads.
Choosing a treatment 6
01How do I remove whiteheads, and what is the best whiteheads treatment?
Whiteheads clear best with treatments that work inside the closed pore: a salicylic acid cleanser at home, and a course of salicylic acid peels at the clinic.
Salicylic acid peels loosen the plugs over 3–6 sessions, and the light peel in the HD Glow Facial helps the skin shed. Some people also need a prescription retinoid cream from the doctor. If pimples on face come too, your doctor adds an acne plan.
02What is the whiteheads treatment price in Pakistan?
The whiteheads treatment price in Pakistan at Cutera Aesthetics starts from about Rs 4,800 a session for a salicylic acid peel in a course of 3 (Rs 14,388), or Rs 5,995 for one peel.
The HD Glow Facial is Rs 6,995, or Rs 14,690 for three, and a HydraFacial is Rs 6,995. Prices are the same at all 12 clinics, the consultation is free, and any current offer is explained at the clinic.
03What are whiteheads, and how are they different from blackheads and milia?
Whiteheads are closed comedones: pores plugged with oil and dead skin and closed over at the surface, so they stay white or skin-coloured.
A blackhead is the same kind of plug in an open pore, so it looks dark; for those, see blackhead removal. Milia are different again: tiny pearly-white cysts of keratin, most often on the eyelids and cheeks, that are not clogged pores. If you are not sure which you have, the doctor checks at your free consultation.
04What is the cause of whiteheads on the face?
Whiteheads form when a pore fills with oil and dead skin cells and closes over.
Hormone changes at puberty, around periods and with PCOS can bring them on, and oily hair products, heavy creams and humid weather add to it. They are more common in oily skin, so for some people oily skin treatment is part of the plan.
05How do I get rid of whiteheads on my nose, chin and forehead at home?
Wash twice a day with a gentle cleanser, and use a salicylic acid cleanser a few times a week.
Choose oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturiser, sunscreen and make-up, take make-up off every night, and keep oily hair products off your forehead. Give the routine several weeks to a few months; if whiteheads stay, a clinic peel clears them more thoroughly.
06Which is better for whiteheads: salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide or a retinoid?
Salicylic acid is a good place to start: it clears the dead skin that clogs pores and is sold without a prescription.
Retinoid creams also unclog pores and treat both whiteheads and blackheads; the stronger ones need a prescription. Benzoyl peroxide targets the bacteria on the skin, and it can dry the skin. Your doctor tells you which suits your skin.
Cost & results 2
07Will whiteheads go away on their own?
Most whiteheads do, though it can take up to a week.
New ones keep forming while pores keep clogging, though, so whiteheads that keep coming back need treatment, and treatment takes several weeks to a few months to show.
08How many sessions will I need, and can whiteheads be removed permanently?
Usually 3–6 salicylic peels, 2–4 weeks apart.
Skin keeps improving through the course. Whiteheads can’t be removed permanently: skin keeps making oil, so most people keep a monthly peel or HydraFacial and use a salicylic acid cleanser at home.
Safety & recovery 3
09Can I pop or squeeze whiteheads?
No, it is better not to.
Squeezing can push what is inside deeper into the skin, let in bacteria from your hands and leave a dark mark or a scar, and deep whiteheads often won’t come out anyway. At the clinic, a peel loosens the plug so the pore clears without force.
10Does whiteheads treatment hurt, and is there downtime?
No, it is comfortable for most people.
A salicylic peel tingles for a few minutes and may flake lightly for a few days, the HD Glow Facial can leave mild redness for a few hours, and after a HydraFacial you go straight back to your day. Treatment waits over sunburn, broken skin or recent isotretinoin.
11Where can I get whiteheads treatment near me?
Whiteheads treatment is available at all 12 Cutera Aesthetics clinics in 7 cities, at the same price, with female doctors at each.
Find an aesthetic clinic near me, or message us on WhatsApp and we’ll book your free consultation.
اردو میں خلاصہ
وائٹ ہیڈز چھوٹے سفید یا جلد کے رنگ کے دانے ہوتے ہیں جو مسام میں تیل اور مردہ جلد جمع ہونے سے بنتے ہیں۔ وائٹ ہیڈ میں مسام اوپر سے بند ہوتا ہے، اس لیے دانہ سفید رہتا ہے۔ بلیک ہیڈ میں مسام کھلا ہوتا ہے، اس لیے وہ کالا نظر آتا ہے۔
کیا وائٹ ہیڈز کو دبانا چاہیے؟ نہیں، دبانے سے انفیکشن ہو سکتا ہے اور داغ یا نشان پڑ سکتا ہے۔
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علاج: ہمارے ڈاکٹر پہلے آپ کی جلد کا معائنہ کرتے ہیں، پھر سیلیسلک ایسڈ پیل، ایچ ڈی گلو فیشل یا ہائیڈرا فیشل تجویز کرتے ہیں۔
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