These 11 Treatments Will Get Rid of Whiteheads, No Popping Required (Seriously)
Clear skin this way.
Fun fact about me: My pimples almost always like to turn into whiteheads. (Yeahhh, beauty editors get whiteheads too.) It used to bother me, but honestly, it's kind of no big deal anymore. If I had to choose between whiteheads, blackheads, hormonal acne, bacne, or heck, even pimples inside my nose, I'm going whiteheads every time. Why? With so many at-home product options now, whiteheads really aren't the worst to treat (granted you've got the right routine down). Products like an acne face wash, full-face acne treatments, or spot treatments get them taken care of pretty quickly. Remember though, that these are all treatments, not cures, so you have to keep using them or risk getting more whiteheads. That being said, figuring out how to get rid of whiteheads on your own can be a bit of a journey.
If you didn't know, whiteheads (much like other breakouts) can have multiple causes, ranging from hormonal fluctuations to medication side effects, but here's the thing: The general idea is pretty much the same. They pop up (literally) when your pores get clogged with dead skin cells and oil, and that's why you end up seeing that telltale white bump. If you're feeling ~scientific~ you can refer to them as “closed comedones,” which is when “skin cells stick together and trap oil under the skin’s outermost surface,” says dermatologist Joshua Zeichner, MD. Sometimes, these closed comedones can grow inflamed and large, and other times, they’re tiny and barely noticeable. Regardless, we’ve got you covered on how to treat ‘em:
The best whitehead treatments, according to Cosmo editors:
But keep on reading to learn more about how to get rid of whiteheads, if they go away on their own, and, of course, lots more product recs for you to try. After all, ~knowledge is power~.
Pros
- Dermatologist-approved and Acne Award winner
- Contains the maximum possible amount of salicylic acid
Cons
- Though many reviewers don't have issues with it irritating their skin, some do say it's drying
Why we love it: This guy right here is a winner of Cosmo's very own 2025 Acne Awards, and for good reason. It contains 2 percent salicylic acid (the highest amount that can be in OTC products) that targets excess oil and clogged pores, both of which can cause whiteheads and blackheads.
One Cosmo expert says: “This cleanser is effective for those who struggle with blackheads and whiteheads, thanks to the 2 percent salicylic acid in the formula, which helps target excess oil and unclogs pores. I use this twice a week and always bring it with me while traveling to help prevent unwanted breakouts. It leaves my skin feeling clean but still hydrated, unlike other salicylic acid products that can be drying and irritating.” —DERMATOLOGIST CONNIE YANG, MD
Pros
- Doesn't have the usual stinky sulfur smell
- Comes in cute packaging that makes acne skincare feel fun
Cons
- Clay formula takes a couple minutes to dry before staying put on your skin
Why we love it: Sulfur has a bit of a reputation for being a lil stinky (like rotten eggs), but this spot treatment manages to smell like absolutely nothing (a feat in itself). But it doesn't stop there—the clay-based formula can be dotted onto skin super easily and doesn't cause excessive dryness, thanks to ingredients like niacinamide and glycerin. Bonus: Banu's entire line is dedicated to be safe for acne-prone skin, this product included.
One Cosmo editor says: "I immediately fell in love with this sulfur spot treatment after one use. I've been dealing with some whiteheads along my chin, and I swear the clay acted like a magnet and drew the whiteheads out overnight (I apply it on any spots before I go to bed and wash it off in the morning). I'm a side and stomach sleeper, and I didn't have any issues of the clay rubbing off or staining my pillows while I slept." —CATHARINE MALZAHN, CONTRIBUTING BEAUTY WRITER
Features at a Glance
| Key ingredients | Sulfur, niacinamide, kaolin and bentonite clays |
Pros
- Super gentle on skin
- Protects the pimple from getting any bacteria in it, especially if you like to pick at your pimples
Cons
- These can't really be used preventatively, only when the whitehead is already out in full force
Why we love it: Some pimple patches are filled with tons of zit-killing acids, which is great, but it can leave your whitehead red and flaky. When you want something simple, try these. They’re made with nothing but hydrocolloid, so they're good for both popped whiteheads (they absorb fluid drainage while protecting your open wound) and unpopped whiteheads (to stop yourself from scratching and picking), without any irritation. Just stick one on your zit—ideally before you try messing with it—and let your body do its natural healing thang.
One Cosmo editor says: "There are so many pimple patches out there that don't do it for me, but these were the first ones that I ever really loved. They stick on my skin all day or all night but don't hurt to take off, and when it's time to take them off, the whitehead always comes with it." —CM
Pros
- Easy to travel with and carry-on bag safe
- Contains a high percentage of BHA
Cons
- Only 10 pads in one box
Why we love it: Behold: An on-the-go version of the top-rated Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant. If you love the liquid exfoliant, get ready to fall in love with these just as much. They're pre-soaked salicylic acid pads that are just like the cult favorite, but just a little more compact. While they can treat current breakouts, as an exfoliant, they also keep skin healthy to avoid future breakouts as well.
One Cosmo editor says: "My skin literally has an instantaneous glow after swiping these on my face. I like to bring them with me when I'm traveling (I hate checking a bag if I don't have to, and these are TSA-friendly), but I also end up using them at home a couple days a week because I love how my skin looks after using them so much. These have never once irritated my skin, but they deliver serious results." —CM
Pros
- Combines benzoyl peroxide with other hydrating ingredients, so it's less irritating
- Doesn't cause dryness or flakiness
Cons
- Can be too harsh for dry or sensitive skin
Why we love it: This cleanser uses 4 percent benzoyl peroxide, which is a star ingredient for nixing whiteheads, along with niacinamide and hyaluronic acid to soothe and hydrate (and therefore preventing drying out the skin). Just remember: If you already use retinol for acne, alternate the days that you use this cleanser to avoid irritation. And of course, always follow with a non-comedogenic moisturizer and sunscreen.
One shopper says: "After using the CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser daily, my skin stays clearer and I get fewer new breakouts. It helps prevent acne instead of just treating it. The quality is excellent — it feels dermatologist-designed and well balanced. Despite the benzoyl peroxide, it’s surprisingly gentle and doesn’t leave my skin tight or flaky. My skin feels clean, calm, and hydrated after each wash."
Pros
- Absorbs quickly and doesn’t leave skin sticky
- Packed with hydrating, skin barrier-supporting ingredients
- Cosmo Readers' Choice Award winner
Cons
- Watermelon fragrance might be irritating for sensitive skin
Why we love it: Salicylic acid = the absolute best whitehead treatment. Why? It's oil-soluble, so it helps penetrate and break down the sebum in your pores. Buttttt, it has a reputation for potentially drying out your skin. Not this toner, though! It uses glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and cactus extract to keep your skin barrier plump and hydrated.
One shopper says: "Literally the best toner ever!! This helped me so much with my dark blackheads and whiteheads. This also helps with oil control. So good!!"
Pros
- Leaves skin softer and smoother over time
- You can get results using this just once a week
Cons
- Too strong for sensitive skin
Why we love it: These cult-favorite, at-home chemical peel pads contain both retinol and five (yes, five) different AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids, like lactic and glycolic acid) and BHAs (beta hydroxy acids, like salicylic acid), making it effective but also intense, TBH. It's a two-step process: The first pad goes on dry skin for up to two minutes, then the second pad is a neutralizer that deactivates the peel when your time is up.
One shopper says: "Expensive but so worth it! I've tried so many other products but this one actually does all it claims! Two to three uses even after a gap of a month and I have an instant glow and clear skin. I'm someone who break out easily with slight changes in diet and I always travel with these peels to keep my skin clear. It's satisfying to see little white heads disappear overnight. At times though it makes me break out more but I know it's just deep cleansing the blocked pores which is what I really needed."
Features at a Glance
| Key ingredients | Glycolic, lactic, and malic acids, resveratrol, green tea extract |
Pros
- Only have to use a quarter of a dropper for your whole face
- Very affordable price
Cons
- Some reviewers say it feels a little sticky after it dries
Why we love it: This unbelievably-priced drugstore serum uses 2 percent salicylic acid to both treat existing whiteheads and help prevent them by keeping your pores clear. You can use it as a first step after cleansing your skin either as a full-face treatment or as a spot treatment wherever you tend to break out.
One shopper says: "I've had minor to severe acne my whole life and this helps me keep my adult version at bay. It's super affordable, gentle, and doesn't strip my skin like a lot of acne products. I've noticed less whiteheads, blackheads, and cystic acne using this product."
| Key ingredients | Salicylic acid |
Pros
- Rinses off with warm water and a washcloth without scrubbing
- Dries quickly on skin
Cons
- Tube can sometimes squeeze out too much product
Why we love it: Using a clay mask on oily skin is always a good move, especially if you're dealing with some whiteheads. The clay helps soak up excess oils on the surface of your skin while also helping your pores look clearer (love a multitasker). Bonus: This one from French skincare brand Caudalie smells great while doing it.
One shopper says: "This product works great for my whiteheads. Dries fast and I like that you can see where the product pulls from on your face. Great smell and not too harsh on my skin. I like using this at night every week to clear my skin up!"
Pros
- Potent enough to clear acne
- Helps treat dark spots too
Cons
- Stronger than any other drugstore retinoid, so you have to start slow
Why we love it: I know you know, but as a reminder, retinoids are an acne-fighting powerhouse. Prescription retinoids from your dermatologist are the gold standard (think tretinoin), but if you can't get there, this is the next best thing. Differin is made with adapalene and is specifically created to treat acne without a doctor's appointment. This lil guy will help unclog pores, fade hyperpigmentation, and reduce bumpy skin texture.
One shopper says: "This really works better than any other otc product I've used before. If you're struggling with acne, I'd recommend at least trying it. I'm really happy with the results. Helps lighten dark spots and draw up those hard knots and inflamed bumps go down within couple days. I'd get those itchy random bumps that show up out of nowhere around my jawline. It would go down and come back in same spot all the time. This really works to get rid of those and my skin texture has improved."
| Key ingredients | Adapalene |
Pros
- Doesn’t leave skin feeling tight or squeaky
- Contains no fragrance, which is great for sensitive skin
Cons
- Some reviewers wish it lathered more
Why we love it: First of all, it's super normal to get whiteheads on your body and nothing to be embarrassed about. Skip the potentially very irritating scrubs and stick with this chemical exfoliant instead, made with salicylic acid. But not to worry: Sunflower and safflower seed oils keep it from being too drying on your body.
One shopper says: "It gently cleans and exfoliate without feeling harsh or stripping, and my skin feels smoother after showering. It doesn't have a strong scent, which I like. It leaves my skin feeling clean but not dry and it helps even skin color."
| Key ingredients | Salicylic acid |
FAQs:
Meet the experts:
- Caroline Chang, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and the founder of Rhode Island Dermatology Institute in East Greenwich, RI. She is also an associate staff member at Rhode Island Hospital.
- Joshua Zeichner, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist in New York, NY, who specializes in acne and rosacea. Dr. Zeichner is also the director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology and an associate professor of dermatology at the Mount Sinai Hospital in NYC.
Why trust Cosmopolitan?
Ruby Buddemeyer was the beauty editor at Cosmopolitan for nearly three years, and has five years of experience writing about beauty, fashion, and celebrity news across print and digital, including body washes for acne and blackhead face masks. Her whitehead treatment picks were based on product reviews, ratings, personal testing, and industry experts' information.
Catharine Malzahn is a contributing beauty writer at Cosmopolitan with five years of experience researching and writing skincare stories. She has dealt with hormonal and adult acne, including plenty of whiteheads.
Ruby was the beauty editor at Cosmopolitan, where she covered beauty across print and digital. Her work has appeared on The Zoe Report, Fashionista, and StyleCaster. Follow her on Instagram.
Catharine Malzahn is a contributing beauty writer at Cosmopolitan and was previously the beauty assistant at Good Housekeeping, Woman's Day, and Prevention.
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