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How to manage oily skin with whiteheads as a 19-year-old girl?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I am a 19-year-old girl. My face is often oily, and I have white buildup on the sides of my nose and a little on the top. I use Nivea products.

How can I manage this?

Please advise.

Thank you.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern, and I am going to be very clear with you.

From your description, the white material around the sides of your nose is most likely sebaceous filaments (a normal finding in people with oily skin) or possibly a few early whiteheads (mild acne), both of which are very common at your age due to natural hormonal changes.

Since you are limited to using moisturizing cream, keep your routine very simple: wash your face gently twice daily with plain water or a mild soap, avoid scrubbing, and use only a small amount of cream, preferably on drier areas rather than the oily nose region.

It is important not to squeeze or pick at the area, as this can worsen the condition and lead to marks. To effectively manage this, apply an In order to effectively manage this, apply a pea-sized amount of Azelaic acid 10% on alternate nights on the entire face or on the affected area only, followed by a moisturiser to help get rid of these sebaceous filaments.

Also, try to avoid touching your face frequently, keep your hair away from your face, and limit very oily or junk foods. These changes usually lead to gradual improvement over a few weeks.

Please share a clear picture of the affected area so I can confirm the diagnosis and guide you more precisely.

I hope it helps with your query.

Please let me know if you have any more questions in mind. I would be happy to guide you.

Thank you.

Answered byDr. Misha Saghir

Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team

Published At April 5, 2026
Reviewed AtApril 5, 2026

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