Clogged pores are probably one of the most commonly experienced skin issues by so many people. And because of this, there’s so many products that promise to help you fix this issue, but you should really understand why your pores get so clogged first before you get into that rabbit hole! 

Let’s get to know what pores are. They are the small openings that surround our skin, it acts as a tunnel for releasing oils and sweat. So, when excess oil and sweat are produced, they come through your pores and onto your skin. 

Why do pores get clogged?

Reason #1: Excess Oil

Our skin has sebum - it produces natural oils but sometimes, it produces too much. Sebum is great for our skin, but when they overproduce it contributes to clogged pores. If you’re experiencing this, make sure to wash your face (preferably with a product that has salicylic acid) to remove the excess oil each evening. 

Reason #2: Dead Skin Cells

Dead skin cells are totally normal and are a natural part of our bodies but, we can’t let them overstay their welcome. When you don’t wash your face, you’re allowing dead skin cells to accumulate and sit around instead of shedding off. The lack of cleansing and exfoliating is some of the few reasons why dead skin cells stick around, clogging our pores. 

Reason #3: Over-cleansing and Over-exfoliating 

Yup, this is a thing. I know I rambled on about washing, cleaning and exfoliating your face but make sure you’re not overdoing it either. If you’re frustrated and annoyed by your clogged pores thinking that washing it like crazy will help, it won’t. 

Over-cleansing your face strips away the oil that should actually stay on your skin, keeping it healthy and balanced. Over-exfoliating, on the other hand, you risk suffering through redness, irritation, breakouts and increased sensitivity.

Ideally, you should cleanse your face no more than twice a day, once in the morning and once at night and exfoliating should be limited to 2-3 times a week. Adding a product (like toner or serum) with Hyaluronic Acid after cleansing will help add moisture back to your skin, which is what our skin needs so it doesn’t overcompensate by producing an excess amount of oil.