By understanding pore clogging ingredients better, you can help save your skin!
By Chere Di Boscio
For many of us, achieving clear, glowing skin is a top priority. And with the wide array of beauty products available today, it’s crucial to be informed about the ingredients of our cosmetics and skincare products.
While most skincare products promise radiant skin, the truth is that some contain ingredients that can lead to dreaded clogged pores. This ultimately means more breakouts, duller skin – and loads of frustration!
Understanding which pore clogging ingredients you should watch out for is essential for anyone looking to maintain healthy skin.
Why Do Pores Get Clogged?
Pores are tiny holes in the skin that allow our skin to ‘breathe’. They facilitate the expulsion of natural oils and sweat, which keeps our skin healthy. But sometimes, pores get blocked, and the result is dull skin, blackheads, whiteheads and breakouts.
There are many culprits that cause clogged pores. Some of these are:
- Heavy creams and oils
- Certain kinds of makeup
- Dirt and pollution
- Sweat
- The natural oils of our skin
- Incorrect cleansing routines and/or products
- Sleeping with makeup on (ugh!)
- Oily hair products that touch the forehead and cheeks
- Touching the face too much. Dirty hands can spread bacteria and dirt
Sometimes, tiny bumps show up that look like small white dots under the skin. They don’t pop. They don’t hurt much. But they stay. These are called ‘closed comedones’ and they’re another form of clogged pores. Let’s get into this a bit more.
What Are Closed Comedones?
Let’s talk about what these are, why they happen, and how to get rid of closed comedones.
Basically, these little bumps are formed when pores get blocked. The pore gets clogged with oil and dead skin. Yuck!
Sometimes, they appear because of too much oil on the skin. Or, they can form due to dead skin cells not being cleaned away. And finally, sometimes, products such as heavy creams or makeup can also block the pores.
If treated with care, you can get rid of closed comedones, but it takes time. The right closed comedones treatment regimen includes gentle cleansing and exfoliation. You can try a physical scrub, such as one made with coffee grounds or sugar, or a chemical exfoliator, such as salicylic acid or retinoids.
Cleansing the Skin Properly
Whilst it’s essential to wash your face daily, you need to learn about pore clogging ingredients before choosing a cleanser.
Harsh soaps dry out the skin, prompting the skin to produce more oil. Ironically, this can actually cause your pores to become further congested.
Double cleansing is helpful. First, a mild oil cleanser removes your makeup. Then, a water-based cleanser cleanses the skin and removes all dirt – including the cleansing oil. You can also choose a toner with gentle ingredients like witch hazel or aloe vera.
Exfoliating once a week can also help unclog your pores. Just remember to never rub your face too hard with it, and always use a soft towel to pat dry.
Got big pores? Are they super blocked? Consider a facial mask once a week, then. A good clay or charcoal mask will pull out dirt, absorb excess oil, and keep your pores clear.
Finally, don’t forget your moisturiser! Even oily skins benefit from hydrating with a good cream. Just make sure it’s targeted to your skin type. And don’t forget to keep your skin fresh by drinking loads of water to flush out toxins, and eating clean, too. Remember: oily and sugary foods shorten collagen fibres, while fresh vegetables and fruits bring antioxidants to your body that protect your skin.
Common Pore-Clogging Ingredients
Let’s get into some detail on which pore clogging ingredients you should look out for when choosing a cleanser, mask and moisturiser.
1. Heavy Oils and Butters
Natural oils are often heralded for their moisturising properties. But not all oils are created equal! Some heavier oils and butters, like coconut oil, cocoa butter, and wheat germ oil, can be comedogenic. This means they are more likely to clog pores than lighter alternatives. While these ingredients may be beneficial for dry skin types, they can pose problems for those prone to breakouts. For a lighter option, consider using jojoba oil or argan oil, both of which mimic the skin’s natural sebum.
2. Synthetic Silicones
Silicones, commonly found in many makeup and skincare products, provide a smooth, silky finish and can help with the application of products. However, they can also be pore clogging ingredients! Why? They can trap dirt and sebum within the pores, potentially leading to breakouts.
Look our for ingredients like dimethicone or cyclopentasiloxane on labels, and avoid products with a high silicone content if you’re prone to acne.
3. Certain Alcohols
While not all alcohols are bad for the skin, some types can be problematic. Fatty alcohols, such as cetyl alcohol and stearyl alcohol may be safe, but simple alcohols like isopropyl alcohol can strip the skin of its natural moisture. This leads to increased oil production and ultimately, clogged pores.
4. Fragrance and Artificial Dyes
Fragrances and artificial dyes can irritate the skin, leading to inflammation and breakouts. Though these additives smell nice, they can also disrupt the skin’s barrier function. The result? Yep, clogged pores. Luckily, there’s an easy solution: go for unscented beauty products!
5. Mineral Oil and Petrolatum
Derived from petroleum, mineral oil and petrolatum are commonly used in many beauty products for their occlusive properties. In other words, they create a barrier on the skin to prevent moisture loss. However, this barrier can also trap sweat, dirt, and bacteria, leading to – you guessed it – clogged pores. Look for natural moisturisers that use ingredients like shea butter or natural oils instead.
To Sum Up
Understanding and carefully examining the ingredient list on your skincare and cosmetic products can significantly impact your skin’s health. Knowing about pore clogging ingredients means you can choose items that support your natural beauty without compromising your skin’s clarity.
But don’t forget: it’s more than beauty products that can block your pores. Ensure you engage in a cleansing routine that’s suitable for your skin type, and keep your hands off your face! Your pores will thank you.
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