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Pores are a hot issue.
We all know what comes next:blackheadsandwhiteheads.
Luckily, we’re here to do some of the heavy lifting.
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Keep scrolling for 12 foolproof ways our experts suggest for keeping your pores clean.
Meet the Experts
What Causes Clogged Pores?
“Like many other traits, they are a result largely of genetics.”
Blackheads specifically arise when there are clogs in your pores.
“This results in an increase in sebum production, inflammation, and an increase in C. acnes.
When sebum accumulates, a microcomedo is formed.
There are two types of comedonesclosed comedones (whiteheads) and open comedones (blackheads).
Blackheads are not due to dirt as they are [instead sparked by] oxidized melanin.”
Read the Ingredient List
You know what they say, prevention is the best treatment.
Popular comedogenic, or pore-clogging, ingredients includecoconut oiland other heavier oils, cocoa butter, and lanolin.
The list can be pretty lengthy but sites likeAcne Clinicsimplify the process by checking ingredient lists for you.
Dr. Nazarian notes, however, that for many people, baking soda can be irritating to the skin.
She recommends you “use conservatively and monitor for redness, itching, or signs of inflammation.”
“It works by [dissolving] away debris from within the pores,” Dr. Libby says.
Try a Mechanical Exfoliator
As we mentioned before, the power ofexfoliationcan never be overstated.
Its one of the simplest and most fundamental ways to unclog pores and keep them that way.
That said, repeatedly disturbing the skin barrier may worsen any issues you are having.
verify to keep exfoliation to just a few times a week to give your skin time to rebalance itself.
Gritty scrubs may actually spread bacteria, which is the exact opposite of what you want when unclogging pores.
“I would recommend alternatives like masks withbentonite clay, which have shown success at absorbing oils.
Once the pores are opened, your facialist will perform extractions.
Dr. Austin says he recommendsextractionsfor those prone to acne.
“This is a great treatment,” he says.
The powerful ingredient is commonly praised for its ability to fight signs of aging.
But like all powerful skincare ingredients, take caution when using retinoids.
After a few weeks of use, the blackheads will typically pop out with gentle pressure.
If theyre not budging, see your dermatologist to avoid damaging your tissue and creating scars.”
Also, because retinoids may make your skin more sensitive,be diligent about wearing sunscreen during the day.
Consider a HydraFacial
HydraFacialsare an in-office treatment worth looking into.
As this happens, the tool also bathes your skin in hydrating serums.
Refreshed, glowing skin.
“A HydraFacial is one of our most popular treatments,” Dr. Austin says.
“The only con: You will become extremely addicted, and your wallet may take a hit.”
Ask About Prescription Medications
“Sometimes products or treatments can’t help unclog your pores.
There are genetic and environmental components to acne,” Dr. Austin says.
“I recommend visiting a board-certified dermatologist to educate you on expectations and prescription medications.
A dermatologist can advise you on the best combination of prescriptions and over-the-counter products.”
Dr. Boakye also advises against “picking at the lesions and aggressively scrubbing the lesions.”
Your pores may become enlarged if they become clogged with sebaceous material or bacteria.
Using products like Retin-A and alpha-hydroxy acids may help reduce the appearance of pores.
so you cant shrink them beyond their original size.
American Academy of Dermatology Association.How to safely exfoliate at home.
Zasada M, Budzisz E.Retinoids: active molecules influencing skin structure formation in cosmetic and dermatological treatments.Postepy Dermatol Alergol.
American Osteopathic College of Dermatology.Beauty myths.
American Academy of Dermatology Association.I have acne!
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