Our skin is covered in pores which are small openings in the skin that allow oil and sweat to reach the surface. Pores are more noticeable and visible on the face which may cause some skin problems. Your pores become clogged when dead skin cells, oil, and debris get stuck in your pores. This makes your skin unable to breathe and get rid of toxins that cause whiteheads, blackheads, and acne. When you notice blackheads or whiteheads covering your nose, this means your pores are clogged and you need to know how to unclog pores.
Touching your face with dirty hands and using non-comedogenic makeup can clog your pores. Also, pollution, dust, oil. and sweat can cause blockage in your pores and make them look bigger. And this results in developing pimples and acne.
You should consult your dermatologist as he/she can tell you which products you should use. You may need to change your skincare routine. There are also some safe methods that can help unclog pores such as:
1- Cleansers
Washing your face daily with a gentle cleanser helps remove dirt and excess oils from your pores. A study showed that using a cleanser formulated for normal to oily skin every day can reduce some acne symptoms. And it can also keep your skin clear.
Don’t overuse the cleanser as it can strip the face of the natural oils that keep the skin hydrated. Overwashing your face can also dry out your skin.
So using a gentle cleanser is the first method that can help unclog pores and improve skin appearance by removing dirt and toxins from pores.
2- Steam
Using a skin steamer can help relax your muscles and open your pores. Once the pores are open, you can cleanse your skin and get rid of dirt and excess oils. Steaming can also increase circulation and boost blood flow which helps keep your skin healthy and clear. So if your pores are clogged, your dermatologist could use a skin steamer as a treatment to unclog pores.
The doctor may also apply masks or other treatments to your face after the steamer opens your pores. This can help draw out impurities of your face. Steaming is a great safe method that can keep your pores clear so try this method every month.
Also, you can buy face steamer online and try it by yourself at home. Remember to wash your face with a gentle cleanser before using the steamer. And apply a gentle moisturizer to your face after using it.
People with a skin condition like rosacea should not use a skin steamer as it can cause a flare-up and worsen the condition.
3- Pore Strips
Use pore strips to cleanse your skin and draw out oils, dead skin cells, blackheads, hair, and other impurities from your pores. So after washing your face with a gentle cleanser, use pore strips to remove debris. Read the package instructions before applying it to your face. Also, pore strips should be applied to wet skin. And you should not use them more than once a week.
Some dermatologists believe that pore strips are not good for your skin and they don’t remove buildups from pores. They can also irritate your skin. If you have sensitive skin, you shouldn’t use pore strips as they can cause irritation or inflammation to your skin.
4- Exfoliation
Exfoliation can unclog pores as it removes dead skin cells and dirt from your skin. Regular exfoliation keeps also your skin clear and fresh. Exfoliating products that contain glycolic acid, salicylic acid, or topical enzymes can remove debris and blackheads from your pores. Chemical exfoliants can keep the pores unclogged, ask your dermatologist before using any exfoliants. Your dermatologist can tell which one suits your skin as some exfoliants could be harsh on your skin especially if you have sensitive skin.
Exfoliate your skin 1-2 times a week, don’t overdo it as it can cause your skin to dry out. Facial scrubs that are made out of natural ingredients like green tea, honey, and coconut oil can cleanse your skin. Don’t scrub too hard as this can cause irritation and redness. Ask your dermatologist before using facial scrubs if you have sensitive skin. Don’t forget to moisturize your face after exfoliation.
5- Charcoal Masks
Charcoal masks are super trendy nowadays as activated charcoal is a powerful ingredient that can detoxify and purify your skin. The mask can absorb excess oils and toxins and improve your skin appearance.
The charcoal mask pulls out all the impurities of your skin and keeps the pores clean. Some online DIY charcoal face masks contain harmful ingredients that can damage your skin. So buy the charcoal mask from a beauty supply store or drug store to avoid any skin problems.
Also, choose the mask that suits your skin type and follow the package instructions. Moreover, consult your dermatologist before using it as he/she knows what’s safe for your skin type.
6- Extractions
If your pores are clogged, skin extractions can be a safe way to help you get rid of blackheads and unclog pores. A dermatologist can use an extractor tool or his hands to remove dirt from pores. Then the doctor applies a topical treatment to your face to avoid inflammation and infections. You may also need to apply a soothing cream or mask to your face to reduce irritation and redness. This helps restore a damaged skin barrier and prevent any further infections.
Also, a skincare expert thinks that performing facial extraction can help reduce premenstrual acne and prevent pores blockage. Getting rid of acne can decrease psychological stress as acne can make you feel anxious and depressed which affects your self-esteem.
It’s important to know that extractions should be performed by professionals to avoid pain and infections. Also, doing extractions at home can damage your skin and cause painful irritation and acne breakouts.
7- Chemical Peels
You may need to try a chemical peel as it can remove the top layer of skin and stimulate new skin cells to grow. Dermatologists use strong chemicals to get rid of all residues that trapped in your skin. A chemical peel can treat sun damage, acne scars, and small bumps. Also, it makes your skin look flawless.
After a chemical peel, you may experience some temporary side effects like redness, burning, swelling, and dryness. Your skin will be sensitive for a few days after a chemical peel. It can also cause more serious and permanent side effects like scarring, infections, and lightening or darkening of the skin color.
So visit your dermatologist and discuss with him the benefits, risks, and side effects of a chemical peel. Your doctor can also tell if a chemical peel is safe for your skin or not.
8- Natural Remedies
Rose Water
Rosewater is a natural toner that you can use to tighten your pores and moisturize your face. It has antimicrobial properties that can kill bacteria that cause acne. Rosewater can also keep your pores clean as it removes excess oils, dirt, and dead skin cells from pores.
Moreover, rose water can soothe your skin and reduce inflammation and redness due to its anti-inflammatory properties. People with skin conditions like rosacea and eczema can use rose water to calm irritation and redness. Rosewater has various benefits for the skin, tap to know more
Parsley Water
Parsley is a natural astringent that can unclog your pores and pull out excess oil, dirt, and toxins from your skin. It’s also full of vitamin C which promotes collagen production and prevents premature aging. So it keeps your skin clear, fresh, and healthy.
To make parsley water:
In a pot, boil washed parsley in water then remove the pot from the heat and let the parsley water cool. Then soak a washcloth into the parsley water and apply it to your face for 10-15 minutes. Repeat this remedy every other day.
Prevention
If you want to keep your pores unclogged, you should do the following steps;
- Wash your hands before touching your face. Your hands come in contact with germs and bacteria that may clog pores and spread acne breakouts.
- Remove makeup before going to bed. When you sleep with your makeup on, your pores become clogged and your skin develops acne and pimples. It also makes your skin unable to breathe which causes irritation and dry out your face. You can use micellar water to cleanse and hydrate your face.
- Find a skincare routine that suits your skin type. You may need to visit a dermatologist to help you find the best skincare routine.
- Remember to read the ingredients of any skincare product that you’re going to buy to make sure it doesn’t contain any ingredient that can ruin your skin. Also, buy non-comedogenic products to avoid blocking your pores.
- Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated. Also, eating healthy food that is packed with nutrients, protein, carbs, and fats can improve your skin texture.
- Regular exercise can improve your overall health as it increases blood flow which helps nourish your skin. It can also enhance skin elasticity and maintain skin firmness.
When To See A Doctor
You should visit your dermatologist if your skin problem persists. The dermatologist can recommend products that suit your skin type. He/she may also prescribe topical or oral medications that can unclog pores, reduce acne, and improve skin appearance.
There are some safe methods that can unclog your pores and keep your face glow. But there are some products or home remedies that can damage your skin. So work with your dermatologist to get the best results.
You should ask your doctor before using new facial products. Also, consult your dermatologist before trying over-the-counter remedies for clogged pores.