3 Tips to Prevent & Treat Clogged Pores
Clay masks, pore packs, pore cleansing brushes... we've all tried the whole shebang. If you're still struggling with clogged pores no matter how many skin care products you try, here's what you can do to keep your pores clear:
1. Avoid occlusive products
This is the first and most important step. Occlusive products help lock in moisture, so they can be a blessing if you're dealing with dry skin. But when it comes to fighting oiliness and clogged pores, occlusive products can be a nightmare as they can further clog your pores!
This doesn't mean that you have to avoid occlusive products entirely, especially if you have dry skin. You just need to pay more attention to areas of your face that are more oily or prone to clogged pores, like the infamous T-Zone, and apply only lightweight products on these areas. Just make sure that the products you choose are still hydrating enough so you don't deprive your skin of moisture!
For lightweight hydration, we love snail mucin products like Benton Snail Bee High Content Lotion or Missha Super Aqua Cell Renew Snail Cream, thanks to their lightweight, gel-like consistency. Snail products in general are great for hydrating and repairing skin damage without weighing the skin down!
2. Skin care acids are your new BFF!
Another ingredient you should add to your routine are acne-fighting acids like salicylic acid, or BHA. This exfoliating acid is a dream for anyone struggling with clogged pores, as its main function is to get rid of excess oil and exfoliate dead cells that block the pores.
There are many ways to incorporate BHAs into your routine. You can use a salicylic acid-based cleanser like our best-selling COSRX Salicylic Acid Daily Gentle Cleanser or Some By Mi Bye Bye Blackhead 30 Days Miracle Green Tea Tox Bubble Cleanser. You can also use an acid toner with salicylic acid, like the Benton Aloe BHA Skin Toner, which is really gentle and won't strip the skin of moisture.
Just make sure you don't go overboard with these acids and over-exfoliate your skin!
Related Article: Over-Exfoliated? Here's How You Should Heal Your Skin
3. Change your diet
We know nobody likes to hear this, but what you eat can have a huge impact on your skin! When it comes to preventing clogged pores from getting worse, sometimes it's best to start the change from the inside. Sugary, excessively oily foods and cow's milk in particular have been known to promote inflammation in the skin.
There is no one magical product that can keep your pore clean and clear for eternity, but with the right products and care, you can definitely keep clogged pores at bay!
What are your tips on preventing clogged pores? Let us know!
