Pores are those tiny holes found on your skin. Most of them are invisible to the naked eye. When the sebaceous glands produce sebum, these little protectors allow this oil to move to the surface, where it helps keep the skin hydrated.  

However, sebum, dirt, makeup, and dead skin can get trapped in these pores. Apart from feeling bumpy on the skin, clogged pores can lead to unwanted issues like blackheads, whiteheads, as well as acne when inflamed. It’s important to note that acne affects over 50 million people each year in the US, which underlines just how serious this condition can become if not contained.

The good news is that removing oil and makeup trapped in the pores isn’t that difficult (shouldn’t be!), so long as you take the right steps. Here are some tips and tricks you should familiarize yourself with:

1. Cleanse your skin regularly

Dirt and oil buildup on the skin got to be one of the major causes of clogged pores, and improper cleaning is to blame! So, the simplest way to get rid of these clogs is cleansing with precision. You should do it twice a day, once in the morning and another one in the evening. Remember to use gentle products to keep adverse reactions at bay.

However, normal cleansing at home may not be enough in eliminating oils and dirt out of those deep pores. This is where new, revolutionary skincare techniques enter the picture, one being HydraFacial. This is a non-invasive treatment that cleanses, hydrates, and performs extensive extraction.

2. Exfoliate regularly 

Exfoliation is the process of removing dead and dry skin, which can get trapped in the pores, from the skin’s surface to reveal a more vibrant and smoother layer underneath. It can be done using physical exfoliants such as scrubs or using chemical solutions.   

When exfoliating, consider these general tips: 

• Opt for an exfoliator that’s gentle to your skin. Say no to chemicals that can cause reactions such as itching and redness.
• Avoid over-exfoliating your skin, as this can lead to dryness, irritation, and inflammation. Too much of anything absolutely does no good!
• Apply moisturizer and serums to keep your skin hydrated after exfoliating.

If you’re unsure about the right chemical exfoliator to use or the frequency of application, talk to a dermatologist. They’ll assess your skin, consider your goals, and recommend safe and effective treatments.  

3. Use a toner

Toners are an excellent way to remove any traces of extra makeup and oil from your skin. They can also help balance your skin’s pH, which inhibits bacterial growth and promotes hydration. But with the myriad of toners available in the market today, make sure to choose one that’s right for your skin type.

For example, if you have oily skin, avoid using toners that contain alcohol, as they can be too stripping. What happens then is that your skin will make up for it by producing more oil. Instead, go for toners containing glycolic acid that penetrate your skin and remove any excess dirt in the pores.

Meanwhile, a toner with hydrating ingredients, such as hyaluronic acid or glycerine, is the ideal choice for dry skin. This will help replenish your skin’s moisture levels.

4. Use clay masks for instant unclogging 

Paving the way for skin free from bumps, blackheads, and redness is as easy as using clay masks. They can help absorb excess oil, makeup particles, and dirt from the pores. These products can also help tighten the pores and reduce their appearance. Who doesn’t want that, right?

When using these masks, apply a thin film on your face, but avoid the lips and the eyes. Then, allow it to dry completely before washing it with warm water.

However, note that clay masks aren’t the gentlest products out there. There’s hope for those with sensitive skin, though—kaolin clay. It may be a forgiving ingredient, but it can effectively unclog pores and promote a brighter complexion.

5. Remove makeup every night

Makeup can mix with sebum, dirt, and sweat. You probably know what will happen next—clogged pores. These can also prevent the skin from breathing and repairing itself, leading to other skin problems. Therefore, you should keep your face and neck makeup-free as much as possible, especially at night and when indoors. 

Before going to bed, remove any makeup using water or oil-based removers, depending on your skin type. You can also use warm water as it’s free from chemicals, hence zero chances of inflammation or redness caused by cleansing agents.

Conclusion 

Unclogging your pores can help your skin breathe and, ultimately, glow. It’s also key to getting rid of stubborn acne, blackheads, impurities, and other skin imperfections. Regular exfoliation, removing makeup before bed, and using suitable products like toners and clay masks will extract dirt and oils from your skin, leaving it clear and radiant.