How to Deeply Clean and Unclog Your Pores
DYK that your pores look the way that they do because of your DNA? Yep! Turns out, we don’t have much control over the size of our pores. It’s genetic. If you’re not fully thrilled about the look of your pores or you’re wondering how to unclog pores, we have some really good news for you. There are a few simple ways to deeply clean your pores. And we swear they’re easier than those algebra problems giving you grief!
What Causes Clogged Pores?
Let’s set the record straight on how pores on your nose and other parts of the face become clogged in the first place. Gunk like dirt, debris, oil, and dead skin can all cause clogged pores. Sometimes, said clogs look like small dark spots. Blackheads are slightly different. According to our friends at the American Academy of Dermatology, blackheads are caused by pores filled with gunk that remain open and oxidize (causing the dot to look black, hence the name blackhead).
OK, But What Are Some Ways to Unclog Pores?
A little something-something called deep cleaning by way of a gentle exfoliating cleansing scrub can work wonders. This will help to dissolve excess oil and slough away dead skin. Also, if you’re sitting there wondering how to get rid of pores on your nose, you literally can’t. The pores will always be there. Forever-ever.
So, What’s the Best Way to Get Rid of Blackheads?
Whatever you do, don’t squeeze!!! We know it’s tempting to want to get rid of blackheads on your nose, chin, and other parts of the face. We know. The reality is, squeezing can push the debris deeper into the pore or transfer more bacteria from your hands to your pores. Picking and squeezing can make things much, much worse. So much worse you’ll want to throw on a face filter as a disguise. In fact, you should really just try to keep your hands away from your face altogether. The AAD tells us that a dermatologist should be the one to do extractions — safely — for you.
Can’t see a derm fast enough? Try a facial scrub with salicylic acid in it. This helps exfoliate skin and remove the dead skin that’s causing the build-up. A physical scrub, such as a bead, helps the natural shedding of dead skin. These small, non-plastic beads exfoliate the skin to lift away trapped oil and dirt, which can clog pores.
What About My Chin and Forehead?
Like your nose, the chin and forehead fall victim to collecting the same sort of gunk we mentioned above. If you’re curious about how to get rid of clogged pores on your chin, cheeks, and forehead, the answer is generally the same as above. Follow up your cleanser or scrub with a deep cleaning astringent (step two).
A Few Parting Words
We stand for clear skin! But we also know it’s easy to feel frustrated or defeated by clogged pores and blackheads. The truth is, these are normal skin concerns that most people face. Healthy, happy skin is totally within your reach. And all it takes is a couple of steps every morning and before bed.