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Everyone has pores, and we’ve all experienced the to reduce their appearance at one pointor another. At one point, we may have tried to minimize their appearance using a pore vacuum or pore-minimizing product. Dermatologist Mona Gohara, MD, associate clinical professor at Yale University, says that excess sebum (oil produced by the skin), dead skin cells, and dirt—things from the outside world, even makeup—are the main causes of blocked pores. .
Here, the safest and most effective ways to do so.
1. Use salicylic acid.
Salicylic acid, the biggest muck buster available, is what you need to clear the debris from your pores. “Gentle exfoliating cleansers of the salicylic acid variant are great because salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that cuts and breaks down sebum,” Dr. Gohara explains. If you use a cleanser, give it a little more time to do its job by leaving it on a little longer than you usually do.
2. Mask with charcoal or clay once a week.
It should come as no surprise that these original acne-fighting superheroes are excellent pore-cleansing agents. Shari Marchben, MD, a fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology, is a dermatologist. She adds, “Some of my favorite ways to unclog pores are to use either clay or charcoal masks that can help draw out impurities, bacteria, and sebum/oil from pores.” However, she warns that masking is only a Band-Aid solution and, to really improve your face and reduce the appearance of pores, you need to do it at least once a week.
3. Invest in a comedone extractor.
Squeezing a blackhead may be satisfying, but it is by far the worst method of clearing blocked pores. However, the use of comedone extractors is not only recommended by dermatologists but also safe and effective. Dr. “Comedone extractors are routinely used in dermatology office extraction treatments, so they are good and safe tools to use when working on clogged pores,” says Gohara. Remember to wipe it well with rubbing alcohol after each use.
4. Use retinol in your routine.
For those who suffer from frequent breakouts, or those who don’t suffer from pore insecurities (props to my big pore friends!), Dr. Marchben suggests using over-the-counter products like Differin Gel or prescription retinoids like Retin A. “Over time, retinoid creams can tighten pore walls and give them a smaller appearance by increasing collagen. They also help exfoliate the skin,” she adds.
5. Indulge in a weekly pore strip.
Turns out dermatologists actually approve of those really delightful pore strips! Dr. According to Marchben, “By using an adhesive to remove trapped dirt and oil, adhesive pore strips can temporarily improve clogged pores.” But since the pores will naturally reopen, this treatment should be done at least once a week.” Note that using strips can be satisfying, but Dr. Marchben claims that there are no long-term effects or benefits on the skin.
6. Opt for in-office acne facials.
Ask any dermatologist – there is an excellent and effective way to clear acne facial pores. “In-office treatments, such as hydrafacials and microdermabrasion, are great examples of less invasive in-office treatments that can improve the appearance of pores by mechanically exfoliating the skin,” Dr. According to Marchbane. In addition, they facilitate deeper penetration of pore-clogging agents such as salicylic acid into the skin, “which may contribute to brighter skin, even pigmentation and the appearance of smaller pores,” the authors continue.
7. Try microneedling.
Although it might not make it onto this list of remedies for blocked pores, microneedling is a very effective treatment. “The needles go into the skin and create these tiny microscopic channels of injury, which can physically cause the pores to burst,” says board-certified dermatologist Whitney Tolpinrud, MD.
The tiny holes created by the needle will not only unclog pores but are also able to penetrate deep into your skincare products. Dr. “It’s a really good way to help give your exfoliating journey an extra boost,” says Tolpinrun. “After about a month you’ll start to see improvements, but each time you do it you’ll see more additional benefits.”
8. Use a non-comedogenic cleanser regularly.
Some people prefer to wash their face twice a day, while others only wash it once. Either way, cleansing is essential if you want to give your skin a much-needed reset. Dr. According to Tolpinrud, “Cleansers are designed to create little microspheres around dirt, oil, excess debris, and makeup that may be on the skin.” “So just keeping up with a good gentle skincare routine can help prevent clogged pores.”
While facial equipment and treatment choices can be beneficial, maintaining a regular skincare routine can also be beneficial. Dr. Tolpinrud recommends using cleansers without chemicals that can clog your pores if you’re not sure which to buy. Moreover, it Changing your skincare regimen based on the season can be beneficial. Does summer make you greasier? If so, try gel-based products instead of oil-based products.
9. Exfoliate with an AHA.
Try alpha hydroxy acids to unclog pores and exfoliate dead skin cells. Citric acid, lactic acid and glycolic acid are the most popular. If you have sensitive skin, Dr. Tolpinrun recommends lactic acid because it is soothing. If not, glycolic acid can be used topically to fully penetrate the skin. Just remember that it’s usually more painful, so it’s best to start slowly.
10. Consider using azelaic acid or sulfur.
Dr. Tolpinrud claims that azelaic acid, a chemical derived from grains that is neither an AHA nor a BHA, can be used to treat hyperpigmentation, acne and rosacea as well as clear pores and exfoliate the face.
Like azelaic acid, sulfur also exfoliates, being a comedolytic. “It’s an ingredient that can be used [to treat] rosacea, acne, excess oil and bacteria on the skin,” Dr. According to Tolpinrud. “It’s not really at the forefront of consumers’ minds when they’re thinking about ingredients, but sulfur is great.”