Over time, the pores of your skin can become clogged with oils, dirt and other material. This can lead to skin problems like acne, and may also make your pores appear stretched and large, which detracts from your complexion. Although your dermatologist or a spa aesthetician can perform various in-office treatments, like a facial, to help clear your pores, you can also cleanse your pores at home using homemade treatments and over-the-counter skincare products.
Step 1
Mix sugar and water to make a thick paste. The exact amount you need varies depending on how much skin you plan to cleanse. For additional benefits, add a couple drops of lemon juice, suggests natural health resource Care2.com. The citric acid in the juice helps further exfoliate and clear your skin and pores, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Step 2
Splash your face with lukewarm water. This helps open up your pores, according to the cosmetic dermatologist Fredric Brandt, writing for "Real Simple" magazine. Avoid using hot water. That opens up your pores, too, but also strips your skin of essential oils and can lead to excessive dryness.
Step 3
Smooth on the sugar-and-water paste onto your skin. Rub it in for a few seconds using firm, circular strokes with your fingers. This functions as a gentle exfoliating treatment to slough off dead skin cells and surface debris that may be clogging your pores.
Step 4
Rinse your skin with lukewarm water, then splash your skin with cold water to help tighten and close your pores.
Step 5
Pat your skin with a towel to dry it, but don't rub. Rubbing can cause skin irritation.
Step 6
Apply a salicylic acid-based serum or cream. Such products are available in most drugstores and are often marketed as a treatment for acne. The acid helps penetrate the oil and buildup within your pores to exfoliate and clear them. They will also help maintain clear pores, according to Columbia University's health services.
Tips and Warnings
- Regular exfoliation isn't just good for your pores. The University of Maryland Medical Center also reports that exfoliating can help correct poor skin tone and help reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
- Using the wrong skincare products can clog your pores as soon as you clean them. If you use skincare products like makeup or moisturizers, they should be labeled noncomedogenic. This means they don't clog your pores, according to skincare tester Paula Begoun.
Things You'll Need
- Water
- Granulated sugar
- Lemon juice (optional)
- Towel
- Salicylic acid cream or serum
References
- "Don't Go to the Cosmetics Counter Without Me"; Paula Begoun; 2009
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Skin Wrinkles and Blemishes
- Real Simple Magazine: Is Mom's Beauty Advice Right?
- Care2: Kitchen Cupboard Skin Tips
- Columbia University's Health Services: Clogged Skin Pores
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