Acne problems, including whiteheads and blackheads, stem from clogged pores, according to MedlinePlus. Pores may also look larger when clogged due to stretching caused by oil and dirt debris. Keeping pores unclogged may help you have fewer skin blemishes and more radiant skin. You may decrease your risk of developing acne by treating clogged pores with lifestyle changes, regular routine skin care and topical treatments.
Step 1
Wash acne prone areas twice per day with mild soap or non-medicated cleanser. Washing more than twice per day can worsen acne, warns MayoClinic.com. Make sure that you use a cleanser that matches your skin type--normal, oily or dry. Always wash your face before going to bed to remove oil and dirt that can clog your pores.
Step 2
Apply topical over-the-counter medications, ones that contain benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, to treat mild and moderate acne, reports the U.S. Foods and Drugs Administration. For most people, benzoyl peroxide, which may help kill bacteria and prohibit oil production, is a good product to start with as it is well-tolerated by many people, according to the MayoClinic.com. Use salicylic acid to exfoliate your pores as it may reduce and prevent clogged pores. Consider alternating your benzoyl peroxide ointment and salicylic acid treatment every other day, states Brown University, which will help to further control pore oil production. Alternatively, you can apply one product in the morning and another in the evening, reports the MayoClinic.com.
Step 3
Begin your acne treatment program with lower strength products. Using gentler products to start may help minimize side effects from the acne medications, such as redness and dryness. You can gradually increase product strength if the lower strength products are not effective.
Step 4
Visit a dermatologist for severe cases of acne. If your acne is inflamed or severe, or if you have cysts or nodules, it is best to see a skin care professional. You may need oral medication or prescription topical ointments, alone or together, to treat more severe skin care problems.
Tips and Warnings
- You may need to experiment with a variety of acne products in a number of different combinations to find what best remedy for your skin, suggests MayoClinic.com. Avoid oily sunscreen, makeup and moisturizing skin care products. Instead, use only products labeled "oil-free" or "water-based," which may help to minimize breakouts due to clogged pores. Wash hair regularly and often, if it is oily. The oil from your hair may transfer to your forehead and face, which may clog your pores.
- Do not squeeze your pimples or pick at your acne as this may worsen your breakout condition. Watch what touches your acne-prone area. Try not to touch your face, and keep your hair away from your face. Use an astringent only if you have oily skin and only on oily areas, recommends Brown University. Redness or skin irritation may occur when using new skin care medications. If skin irritations persists or worsens, see your skin care professional.
Things You'll Need
- Gentle skin cleanser
- Benzoyl peroxide medication
- Salicylic acid medication
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