How to unclog pores

What causes clogged pores?

Clogged pores develop when there is a buildup of sebum, dead skin cells, sweat, dirt, or debris from the environment. They're also triggered by the environment, lifestyle factors, as well as the skincare you're using.

• Excess sebum production: Our skin naturally produces sebum to keep it moisturised. However, factors like genetics, hormones, and humidity can cause the sebaceous glands to overproduce oil which causes clogged pores.

• Buildup of dead skin cells: Our skin is constantly renewing itself, shedding dead cells to make way for new ones. When this process falters, and dead cells linger on the surface, they can mix with sebum and create blockages in our pores.

• Environmental factors: Pollution, dirt, excess humidity, and even makeup residue can accumulate on the skin's surface, contributing to clogged pores and congestion. 

• Friction and restrictive clothing: Friction and rubbing from clothing or gym equipment, combined with a buildup of sweat, can irritate the skin leading to blocked pores. And too much friction on your skin caused by tight clothing, accessories, or forceful scrubbing can also exacerbate this skin concern.  

• Improper skincare: Incorrect skincare products, cosmetics and even haircare can clog pores. The main culprit is comedogenic products, but an impaired skin moisture barrier and infrequent cleansing and exfoliation can also exacerbate the problem.

• Lifestyle factors: Stress, sleep deprivation, hydration, and even diet, can contribute to congested skin and clogged pores.

 

What are the signs of clogged pores?

Clogged pores can manifest as uneven skin texture, skin tone, breakouts or visibly enlarged pores. If you're wondering whether you have clogged pores, look for these signs:

• Rough or bumpy skin texture, like sandpaper, can be an indicator of congestion and clogged pores.

• Visibly enlarged pores may indicate pores are clogged with sebum and dead skin cells, especially on your forehead, nose, and chin (the T-zone).

• Blemishes are one of the biggest signifiers of clogged pores; this includes blackheads, open comedones that look black due to oxidation, and whiteheads, closed comedones that appear as small, white bumps.

• Dull skin and a lacklustre complexion is caused when blocked pores prevent light from reflecting off the skin evenly. 

 

How to clear blocked pores

Changes to your skincare routine and lifestyle choices can help to prevent clogged pores and improve skin texture. Here's our top 6 tips for unclogging pores to reveal brighter, more smoother skin.

 

1. Exfoliate regularly

Make sure you have a regular exfoliating routine to remove dead skin cell buildup that leads to skin congestion. Gentle, chemical exfoliants (alpha hydroxy acids and beta hydroxy acids) can break down bonds between dead skin cells, clearing out the pores to improve overall skin texture. Look for products containing salicylic acid, for a deeper exfoliation, or alpha hydroxy acids like glycolic acid and lactic acid, for gentle exfoliation.

 

2. Diet and hydration

A poor diet and dehydrated skin can lead to either an excess or a lack of sebum production, which can both contribute to clogged pores and breakouts. Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day and maintain a balanced diet.

 

3. Use a gentle cleanser

Your skincare routine plays a key role in clearing out clogged pores and preventing them from clogging in the future. Washing your face is an essential step to clearing your skin of impurities, dead skin cells, and excess oil. But while it's tempting to reach for a stronger formula, a gentle, foaming cleanser, like the Ceramides Oil-Free Cleanser, is more than enough to cleanse the skin without affecting the skin's moisture barrier.

 

4. Use the right moisturiser

Oily skin types produce too much may be tempted to skip moisturising in order to help reduce shine. But when your skin isn’t moisturised, the sebaceous glands compensate for this by producing more oil, which can only worsen clogged pores. Instead, look for an oil-free, lightweight moisturiser that will strengthen the skin moisture barrier without being heavy on the skin.

 

5. Look for non-comedogenic products

Your skincare can help clogged pores, but some skincare can worsen the problem. Always look for non-comedogenic (non pore-clogging) skincare to keep your pores clear—the same goes for your cosmetics!

 

6. Be gentle with your skin

No matter your skin type, you should always look for gentle skincare products and avoid being too aggressive on the skin. Even if a clogged pore has led to a pimple, never squeeze clogged pores. This won't get rid of clogged pores, can stretch out the pore and even lead to post-blemish marks.