Pores on the skin can become clogged with excess oil, dead skin cells, bacteria and debris. This can cause symptoms of acne such as pimples, red bumps and blackheads as well enlarged pores that may become visible and unsightly, particularly on the forehead, chin and nose. Causes of clogged pores include genetics, skin dehydration and improper cleansing habits.
Sebum Production
Sebum is the oil excreted by the sebaceous glands to keep skin soft and supple and to maintain moisture. Excessive oiliness can be due to genetic reasons or triggered by changes in hormones during the teen years or pregnancy, and hormonal fluctuations due to stress, illness or medications. Skin that is dehydrated due to use of strong, drying skin products, a dry climate, internal dehydration or incorrect moisturizing can also stimulate the sebaceous glands to produce more sebum. This can cause greasiness and clogged pores.
Improper Cleansing
Activities or work that leaves dirt on the skin, and touching the face with your fingers, can transfer pollutants and bacteria into the pores. Not cleansing and toning the skin properly to remove makeup, oils and bacteria can cause grime buildup in the pores. On the flip side, excessive cleaning, scrubbing or using strong products can dry and irritate the skin, stripping it of natural oils. This can also increase sebum production, leading to inflamed and clogged pores.
Slow Skin Cell Turnover
Skin cell renewal rates naturally slow down with age and may also be controlled by hereditary and lifestyle factors. This causes a buildup of dead skin cells that mix with sebum and stick together to create plugs in the pores. Not enough or incorrect exfoliation of the skin can also decrease skin rejuvenation, causing a dull complexion, rough skin texture and blocked pores.
Cosmetics
Heavy, greasy or moisture-containing makeup can leave behind chemical, oil and pigment residue on the skin. Oils and substances can become trapped in pores, enlarging them and causing blackheads and pimples. It may be tempting to sleep or exercise with a bit of makeup on, but this also causes cosmetic by-products, sweat and grime to sink into pores.
Skin Moisturizers and Products
Using moisturizers that are not right for your skin type can cause an imbalance in skin moisture. Skin products that are formulated for drier skin types may contain heavier moisturizers that can cause greasiness on oily or combination skin. All skin types require healthy amounts of hydration, but some products may not be as easily absorbed by oily or combination skin. Using moisturizers or skin care products without exfoliating may also hinder absorption, leaving oils floating on the surface of the skin, where they clog pores.
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