Clogged pores are often the culprits behind whiteheads, blackheads, pimples, pustules and nodules, according to Harvard University Health Services. Oil, bacteria and dead skin cells can enter the pores--the openings to hair follicles--and cause inflammation. Deep pore cleansing can help relieve clogged pores by drawing out these invaders. A homemade pore cleanser can save you money, and the best part is that you may already have most of the ingredients in your pantry.
Step 1
Add 1 tbsp. of unflavored gelatin to 1 1/2 tbsp. of whole milk in a small microwavable bowl. Add 2 to 3 drops of tea tree oil to the unflavored gelatin and milk. Mix the ingredients using a whisk.
Step 2
Place the bowl in the microwave for 20 seconds--just enough time to make the unflavored gelatin mixture warm, not hot.
Step 3
Remove the deep pore cleanser from the microwave. Apply the warm gelatin mixture to your skin’s problem areas, using a clean makeup brush. A puffier brush, like the one you use for powder or blush, works best.
Step 4
Allow the deep pore cleanser to remain on your skin for approximately 10 or 15 minutes. By this time, the gelatin mixture will have hardened to a stiff film.
Step 5
Slide your fingernail under a section of the stiff mixture and peel it away. Continue the peeling process until all of the deep pore cleanser peels away. Repeat the deep pore cleansing once a week.
Tips and Warnings
- If you do not have unflavored gelatin or milk, try egg whites. Egg whites form a stiff film when they dry, which can also be peeled away to unclog pores. Simply mix one to two egg whites together in a bowl using a whisk, and apply with a clean makeup brush. Tea tree oil has anti-bacterial properties that improve the power of the deep pore cleanser by killing excess amounts of bacteria on your skin.
- Clean the makeup brush immediately after applying the deep pore cleanser. Rinse the brush under warm water and massage some dish soap into the bristles using your fingertips. Give the brush a final rinse and lay it on a soft towel to air-dry.
Things You'll Need
- Unflavored gelatin
- Whole milk
- Tea tree oil
- Bowl
- Whisk
- Microwave
- Makeup brush
- Egg whites
- Dish soap
- Soft towel
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