Let's be real—we've all stood inches away from the mirror, examining those tiny spots that seem to multiply overnight. Whether they show up as blackheads, whiteheads, or just enlarged pores that won't seem to budge, clogged pores are the uninvited guests that can turn your clear skin dreams into a frustrating reality. But before you start picking at your face (please don't!), let's try to understand what's really going on beneath your skin's surface.
What are clogged pores?
Pores are tiny openings in your skin that house hair follicles and sebaceous glands, according to dermatologist Courtney Rubin, MD. These microscopic channels serve crucial functions: 1) they allow your skin to breathe, 2) regulate temperature, and 3) release natural oils (a.k.a. sebum) that keep your skin healthy and protected. However, when these tiny openings become blocked, they can lead to various skin concerns, like acne.
What causes clogged pores?
1. Excessive sebum production
Your sebaceous glands produce an oily substance called sebum, which is essential for keeping your skin moisturized and protected. However, factors like hormonal changes, genetics, and certain medications can trigger these glands to produce more oil than necessary. This excess sebum can mix with other substances, creating blockages.
2. Dead skin cell accumulation
Your skin naturally sheds dead cells every 28 to 30 days. However, when this process is disrupted, these dead cells can stick together and combine with sebum, which then form plugs within your pores. This is particularly problematic for people with slower cell turnover rates or those who don't exfoliate regularly.
3. Product build-up
Heavy skincare products, particularly those containing comedogenic ingredients, can create a barrier that traps dead skin cells and sebum underneath.
4. Environmental factors
Urban pollution, humidity, and environmental debris can settle on your skin throughout the day. These microscopic particles can penetrate your pores, leading to blackheads and inflammation.
How to get rid of clogged pores
1. Exfoliation
Exfoliants work by breaking down the bonds between dead skin cells, allowing them to be easily removed. Here's what to look for in your skincare products:
- Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHA), particularly salicylic acid, are oil-soluble and can penetrate deep into pores to dissolve excess sebum and dead skin cells.
- Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA) work on the skin's surface to remove dead skin cell build-up and improve cell turnover.
Start with a lower concentration (2% for BHA, 5 to 7% for AHA) and use them two to three times a week to avoid over-exfoliation, which can increase oil production.
2. Proper hydration and moisturizing
Contrary to popular belief, oily and clogged skin actually needs hydration. It might seem counterintuitive, but when skin is dehydrated, it produces more oil to compensate. Here what you can choose from:
- Humectants like hyaluronic acid and glycerin to attract water to the skin
- Light, non-comedogenic moisturizers to seal in hydration without clogging pores
- Gel or lotion formulations instead of heavy creams
3. Regular professional treatments
While you can always stick to your routine on a day-to-day basis, professional treatments can provide deeper cleansing through:
- Extraction: Safe removal of deeply lodged debris
- Chemical peels: Controlled exfoliation that reaches deeper layers
- Hydrafacials: Combination of cleansing, exfoliation, and hydration
These treatments should be done every four to six weeks, depending on your skin's needs and concerns.
4. Preventive measures
All of the steps we've just enumerated can help manage clogged pores in simple but effective ways. But if you're looking for something more long-term, that would require lifestyle changes. Here are a couple of things you can start incorporating into your daily routine:
- Change your pillowcases every week to prevent bacteria build-up. After all, you spend (ideally) eight or more hours asleep on them every night!
- Keep hair products away from your face. While hair products are generally safe to use, those with fragrances or oil can block your pores when they come into contact with your skin.
- Use non-comedogenic products. It might take an extra step to check the ingredients list of every skincare product you use in your routine, but trust us—it's worth it. Comedogenic ingredients include cocoa butter, lanolin, and coconut oil.
- Remove makeup before exercising. We get it—it already takes a lot for you to get ready to work out in the first place. But you should also account for the time to remove your makeup before that gym sesh. You don't want sweat to build up under your foundation and everything else you have on.
- Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet. Put those tumblers to good use! Always make sure to take sips of water in between your daily activities. Don't overdo it with unhealthy food—and alcohol—either.
SHOP: Products to help clear clogged pores
1. COSRX AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner
Since it's formulated with AHA (which helps peel away the surface of your skin) and BHA (which helps clear acne), the COSRX AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner is a great way to remove impurities on your face, declog your pores, and gently exfoliate the dead skin cells.
COSRX AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner, starts at P500
2. Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA (Salicylic Acid) Liquid Exfoliator
If you want to minimize pores and improve your skin texture, Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA (Salicylic Acid) Liquid Exfoliator might be what you're looking for. This cult fave product helps declog your pores and it is suitable for all skin types.
Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA (Salicylic Acid) Liquid Exfoliator, starts at P900
3. Cerave Renewing SA Cleanser
Cleansing might sound super basic but it is the foundation of helping declog your pores. The Cerave Renewing SA Cleanser, packed with salicylic acid, is a non-comedogenic cleanser that removes all dirts, sebum, and dirt on your face while leaving your skin smooth.
Cerave Renewing SA Cleanser, starts at 1,799
4. St. Ives Facial Scrub Fresh Skin Apricot
By now, you should know that exfoliation is not just a skincare tradition but a must to prevent further breakouts. St. Ives Facial Scrub Fresh Skin Apricot is a deep exfoliator that helps remove impurities that might clog your pores.
St. Ives Facial Scrub Fresh Skin Apricot, starts at P120
5. L'Oreal Paris Revitalift Hyaluronic Acid Serum
Hydration is everything when it comes to declogging pores, making L'Oreal Paris Revitalift Hyaluronic Acid Serum a great choice. Not only does it cleanse your skin but it restores elasticity, reduces fine lines and wrinkles, and controls oil production in your face.
L'Oreal Paris Revitalift Hyaluronic Acid Serum, starts at P799
