How to Unclog Pores (And Keep Them Clear)

Pores are a buzzword in skincare, and clogged pores have quickly become the number one public enemy for acne and breakouts. But with so much conflicting advice and products to choose from, it can be hard to know how to promote clear skin. 

Luckily, we’re here with trusted tips on clogged pores, prevention strategies, and healthy skin. Read on to learn more about how to get rid of clogged pore problems.

Identifying Common Causes of Clogged Pores

Pores become clogged when dead skin cells, excess oil, sweat, dirt, and other debris get trapped in the skin. Let’s break down some of the most common reasons for a pore blockage.

Excessive Sebum Production and Pore Congestion

Sebum is an oily substance naturally produced by sebaceous glands on the skin. In the right amounts, sebum provides the necessary moisture and protection. However, excess sebum is one of the main causes of acne. 

There are two causes of excess sebum: your body naturally produces too much, or clogged pores and blocked hair follicles lead to sebum buildup. The resulting inflammation can cause a sebum plug in facial pores, otherwise known as acne. 

Congested skin due to excess sebum can produce:

• Whiteheads
• Blackheads
• Keratin plugs
• Cysts
• Pustules
• Pimples

Thorough cleansing every day, such as with our skincare for acne-prone skin, helps regulate sebum buildup and keep pores clear. 

External Factors Contributing to Pore Blockages

Aside from excess sebum, there are numerous other culprits of clogged pores. In fact, you may be encouraging a pore blockage in your everyday life without even knowing it. Common causes of clogged pores include:

• Makeup – Did you know that makeup can cause acne? Caking comedogenic (i.e., pore-clogging) products on your face is like asking for a blocked pore. Not only do all ingredients need to be non-comedogenic, but makeup must be properly washed off before bed. If you think your makeup is causing breakouts, use our pore-clogger checker to see which products are harming your skin.

• Pollution – Dirt, dust, and other grime floating around the air can cause bacteria buildup. 

• Medications – Certain medicines interfere with your skin’s oil glands, causing excessive sebum production. 

Other lifestyle aspects like diet, exercise, and stress can worsen clogged pores, but don’t directly cause the congestion. 

How to Get Rid of Clogged Pores

You can unclog your pores using a variety of at-home remedies. There are lots of methods to try, such as pore strips, steaming, chemical exfoliators, and activated charcoal or clay masks. 

That said, clear pores really begin with clogging prevention, ensuring that there is not too much buildup in the first place. The two most effective strategies are cleansing and exfoliation. 

Cleansing

It’s not as simple as washing your face in the shower every day. If your face wash has comedogenic ingredients, it doesn’t matter how hard you scrub—your pores will still clog, and you will still break out. 

Look for non-comedogenic cleansers that remove dead skin cells and promote clear pores. For sensitive skin types, try GENTLECLEAN, a soothing and hydrating face wash for acne-prone skin. 

Before you lather up, make sure to always wash your face with lukewarm water, as hot water damages skin cells. Take this time to gently massage the cleanser into your face; usually 30 seconds of circular motions will do the trick.  

Exfoliation 

Otherwise known as dead skin cell removal, exfoliation works wonders for congested skin. Check out our range of exfoliants, like the CLEARITY serum or VITAMINSCRUB exfoliating cleanser. 

Incorporating Pore-Friendly Ingredients into Skincare Routine

Cutting out comedogenic products is the first step towards clear and healthy skin. Comedogenic ingredients can be hidden in countless everyday products: lotion, shampoo, makeup, toothpaste, sunscreen, and lip balm. Even if it is not skincare, anything topical that comes in contact with your skin can contribute to clogged pores and chronic breakouts. 

The solution? Saying goodbye to all pore-clogging ingredients and using only non-comedogenic products in your daily life. Copy and paste ingredient lists into our handy pore-clogging checker, or consult our master list of comedogenic ingredients. 

Prevention Strategies to Keep Pores Clear

It’s time to learn not only how to unclog pores but how to keep pores unclogged. With a few simple habits, you’ll be on the path to clearer pores.

• Don’t touch your face – The oils from your hands can irritate or clog your pores.

• Don’t pick or pop – While it might be tempting to pick at dead skin or pop a pimple, this could only cause further infection or acne scarring.

• Always remove makeup – Even if your makeup is non-comedogenic (which it should be!) it must be washed off every day to prevent it from blocking up your pores. 

The consistency of a daily skincare routine will also help reinforce these healthy habits. 

Keep Pores Clear with CLEARSTEM 

Struggling with clogged pores? We can help. Browse anti-acne and anti-aging serums, cleansers, exfoliants, and more to unblock pores and revitalize skin. Plus, target breakouts at the source with our hormonal acne supplement, a revolutionary all-natural daily capsule to prevent acne.  

At CLEARSTEM, our non-comedogenic skincare products are toxin- and cruelty-free, so you can feel good about products that help you look your best.

Take our 60-second skincare quiz today to get started. 

Sources: 

Cleveland Clinic. Clogged Pores. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22773-clogged-pores.