Bricks, Masonry, Asphalt and Concrete - white washed brick

I would like suggestions as to how to achieve a "white washed", or "distressed" look on exterior brickwork. The brick itself is deep burgundy, and the joint is a traditional mortar.
Is there a paint, or sealer that i could apply to the joint, that would affectively change it's color?
Are there alternatives to paint, to create the look i have in mind, on the brick? Milk paint has been mentioned as a possibility, but is it ok for outdoor use?

Distressing is accomplished with physical abuse (hammer, chain, nail embedded board, grinder, hydrochloric acid, etc.). Otherwise it's an artistic endevor falling into the faux finishing category (dubbed "creative paint smearing". Typically taught in pre-school).

If you want a sealer, you must make it: Silotex sealer plus "universal" plastic tints (suitable for silicone, from a plastics supply). Other products: masonry stain (paint product - eventual redo), cement paint (white portland cement and typically lime plus dry earth colors - eventual redo), for mortar only: acid stain (specific minerals in an acid carrier, typically hydrochloric - permanent change), thinned cheap latex paint (possibly with exterior glaze added).

Funny, at one time dairy farmers used milk paint (modified whitewash) to whitewash barns. It reduced bacteria. Neither plain whitewash or milk paint are suitable for long term exterior use without additional ingredients.

If I were choosing (tinted silotex sealer, cement paint, masonry stain, then cheapest latex paint you can find [not acrylic]).