Clogged pores are usually associated with oily, acne-prone skin. They are more common with increasing age when years of environmental damage and changes in the skin's texture cause the skin‘s pores to enlarge. Clogged pores, or comedones, occur when oil, dead skin cells, bacteria and dirt mix together and plug the hair follicles of the skin. Clearing your skin of clogged pores requires minimal changes in your skincare routine and will improve your appearance and reduce acne breakouts.
Step 1
Wash your face with warm water and a mild soap to remove any cosmetics, dirt and oil. Avoid using hot water and harsh soaps, both of which can cause skin irritation and dryness, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Do not wash too frequently or vigorously, as doing so can overstimulate the oil-producing glands in your skin and trigger an increase in oil production.
Step 2
Use steam to open your pores. Boil a large pot of water on the stove and then stand over it close enough so that the steam reaches your skin but far enough away to prevent burns. After a few minutes, any clogged pores should soften.
Step 3
Exfoliate using a fine-grained product once or twice each week. Exfoliation opens pores by removing accumulated dead skin cells. If you experience any redness or skin irritation, reduce the frequency of exfoliation or try a different product.
Step 4
Moisturize your skin after exfoliating and bathing. Dry, flaky skin can contribute to clogged pores. Water-based lotions are less clogging to the pores than oil-based products, but they are not as effective as rehydrating the skin. For the greatest benefit, the University of Iowa recommends moisturizing within three minutes of washing or showering.
Step 5
Use a cream containing salicylic acid. Salicylic acid works to correct abnormalities in skin cell shedding that may be causing or contributing to your clogged pores. The University of California, Berkeley states that salicylic acid is only effective when used continuously.
Step 6
Seek professional help if home remedies and over-the-counter creams fail to clear your clogged pores. Microdermabrasion, chemical peels and prescription retinoid medications may be necessary.
Tips and Warnings
- The Nemours Foundation recommends wearing cosmetics and using skincare products labeled as "noncomedogenic" to prevent clogged pores.
Things You'll Need
- Fine-grained exfoliant
- Moisturizer
- Salicylic acid cream
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