WHAT CAUSES CLOGGED PORES AND HOW TO PREVENT THEM

Clogged pores can be a major obstacle in achieving a smooth, clear complexion. No matter how much you cleanse and exfoliate, those pesky blockages seem to keep coming back! Luckily, that doesn't have to be the case. Here's everything you need to know about this common skin struggle and some helpful tips to keep it at bay.

THE BIGGEST CULPRITS OF CLOGGED PORES

Pores typically become clogged when dead skin cells, oil and bacteria get trapped in your skin's follicles. While some people may be more prone to clogging, there are a few common causes that can affect anyone:

• Excessive Oil Production: Your skin naturally produces oil to keep it moisturized and healthy, but sometimes this process goes into overdrive.
• Dead Skin Cell Buildup: As you age, your skin's natural shedding process slows down, leading to a buildup of dead skin cells that can clog pores. Age isn't the only factor, though. Hormonal changes and certain medications can also affect the rate at which your skin sheds.
• Environmental Factors: Pollution, dirt and debris from the environment can mix with oil and dead skin cells on your face, further clogging pores.
• Unremoved Makeup: Leaving makeup on overnight or not properly removing it can lead to pore-clogging residue.
• Improper Skincare: Harsh or heavy products or too many products at once can irritate the skin and cause clogging.
• Hormonal Changes: Fluctuations in hormones, such as during puberty or menstrual cycles, can cause an increase in oil production.
• Lack of Proper Cleansing: Not cleansing your skin properly and consistently can leave behind dirt, oil and dead skin cells.
• Skin Conditions: Certain skin conditions like acne and rosacea can contribute to clogged pores.

SIGNS YOUR PORES MAY BE BLOCKED

Not sure if your pores are clogged? There are a few signs that might indicate your skin needs some extra care.

Blackheads, whiteheads or a bumpy, rough texture on your skin are all signs of this skin struggle. Excessive oiliness or a shiny appearance on your face can also be an indicator. Clogged pores can sometimes lead to acne, particularly in areas like the forehead, nose and chin. You might also notice redness or inflammation around the pores.

If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, it's a good idea to take a closer look at your skincare routine and make some adjustments.

SKINCARE TIPS TO PREVENT & CLEAR CLOGGED PORES

The good news is that blocked pores aren't a permanent issue! With consistency and the right approach, you'll achieve clear, healthy skin free from breakouts. Use these expert tips, and you'll clear your pores in no time.

STICK TO A DAILY CLEANSING ROUTINE

The most important step in preventing clogged pores is to cleanse your skin daily with a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser. This type of cleanser is specifically designed not to clog pores and is suitable for all skin types; however, you’ll also need one with active ingredients like Glycolic Acid to gently exfoliate and unclog your pores.

We recommend starting with our Mega Cream Cleanser, which is super gentle and will remove makeup and impurities on your skin.

If you're already dealing with oily skin and breakouts, add our Purifying Cleanser with Salicylic Acid as a second cleanse. This professional formula will kill acne-causing bacteria, detoxify congested pores and protect against infection.

ADD EXFOLIATION TO YOUR REGIMEN

Exfoliation is essential to prevent clogging since it removes dead skin cells and debris from the surface of your skin. Adding an active cleanser to your routine, like our Glycolic Facial Cleanser, helps clear pores and improves product absorption.

For a deeper exfoliation, our Peptide Micro Scrub offers a powerful yet gentle alternative to microdermabrasion. Infused with skin-nourishing peptides, it exfoliates away dead skin cells, unclogs pores, and reveals a smoother, more radiant complexion when used 2 – 3 times a week.

MOISTURIZE PROPERLY

It may seem counterintuitive, but moisturizing is a crucial step in preventing clogged pores. When your skin is dry, it can overproduce oil to compensate, which may then cause acne to develop. Moisturizers keep your skin balanced to avoid excess oil production. However, be cautious about which product you use.

Look for lightweight, professional moisturizers like our Oxygen Cream. This product is formulated with ingredients that oxygenate skin cells, meaning they improve the flow of oxygen to the skin. This process helps keep your skin healthy by supporting cell renewal and can prevent oil buildup.

APPLY SUNSCREEN DAILY

Sun damage is another leading cause of clogging. The sun's UV rays can dry out your skin, causing it to produce excess oil. Too much sun also thickens your skin's outer layer, leading to a buildup of dead skin cells.

To prevent this, apply our Oil-Free Protective Moisturizer with SPF 50 daily. This oil-free formula not only provides sun protection but also essential moisture to keep your skin balanced and healthy.

MANAGE HORMONAL FLUCTUATIONS

While it's not always possible to control hormonal changes, you can take steps to manage how they affect your skin. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and a balanced diet, can help regulate hormones and reduce oil production.

AVOID TOUCHING YOUR FACE

Hands come into contact with a lot of bacteria throughout the day, so touching your face can transfer that bacteria and dirt to your skin. Avoid touching your face as much as possible, particularly if you're prone to acneic or oily skin.

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