Pores: We all have these tiny openings in our skin to release sweat and oil, but for some people, they can be more temperamental than others. Or rather, clogged pores happen more often to some of us than others.
Clogged pores occur when oil doesn't or can't pass through them properly, says a board-certified dermatologist. Geeta Yadav, MD.
"Typically, this is caused by the overproduction of oil, which is then trapped by dead skin cells that have not properly shed from the pore lining. Makeup, dirt and/or comedogenic ingredients can also block the pore and prevent this flow. Comedogenic is basically a word for clogging the pores, and while these types of ingredients are not the only cause of acne and breakouts. There are several factors, they certainly won't help the situation."
Pore-clogging ingredients make it much more likely that pimples will form," says a board-certified dermatologist. Rachel Nazarian, MD.
"In someone who has naturally oily skin or harbors the bacteria that causes acne, using these ingredients is like adding gas to the fire. It's a dangerous combination that can exacerbate acne and cause constant breakouts."
So what makes an ingredient likely to clog your pores? Short answer: we don't really know for sure. "Comedogenicity is not fully understood," says Yadav. "In some cases, ingredients may interact poorly with your sebum, making it thicker, while other ingredients are too thick for the sebum to pass through."
At this stage, pore-clogging ingredients are usually occlusive, adds a board-certified dermatologist. Mélanie PalmierMD. They sit on the skin, forming a seal that ends up trapping oil, especially when someone has oily skin to begin with. Palm also points out that some pore-clogging ingredients add more oil to the skin, causing the cells to stick and adhere more tightly instead of coming off the pore lining as they usually should.
Now that you understand why comedogenic ingredients can increase your breakouts, it's time to learn which ones to specifically avoid.
Here's a non-exhaustive list of seven ingredients that tend to leave the and that dermatologists say are worth avoiding if you're prone to acne.
- Mineral oil
- Coconut oil
- Shea butter
- Palm oil
- Soybean oil
- Beeswax
- Sunflower oil
However, it is important to note that the comedogenic effects of these ingredients can vary depending on their concentration in products and each person's individual sensitivity. Therefore, it is recommended that you consult a dermatologist if you have specific skin problems or concerns related to cosmetic ingredients.
How to avoid clogged pores
Acne is one of the most common skin problems, affecting millions of people worldwide. This skin condition is caused by clogged pores, which can be made worse by the use of comedogenic skin care products. Find the steps to a good skin care routine for acne-prone skin.
If you have acne-prone skin, you may already know that certain ingredients can clog your pores and cause breakouts. Here are some tips to help prevent clogged pores and keep your skin clear and glowing. By following these simple tips, you can help prevent breakouts and keep your skin healthy and beautiful.
- Deep Cleaning: To prevent clogged pores, it is important to regularly cleanse your skin with a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser. Use a deep cleansing technique to remove excess oil, dead skin cells and dirt from the skin.
- Avoid comedogenic products: Avoid using skin care products that contain comedogenic ingredients that tend to clog pores. Instead, choose non-comedogenic, oil-free products to minimize the risk of clogged pores.
- Use gentle exfoliants: Using gentle exfoliants helps remove dead skin cells that can clog pores. Avoid harsh exfoliants that can irritate the skin and cause damage.
- Moisturize skin: Well-hydrated skin is less likely to dry out and produce too much oil. Use a light moisturizer that does not contain oil to keep your skin hydrated and supple.
- Avoid touching your face: Avoid touching your face with dirty hands or rubbing it with dirty towels, as this can transfer bacteria and impurities to your skin, clogging pores. Keep your hands clean and use clean towels to dry your face.
By following these five simple tips, you can help prevent clogged pores and maintain healthy, clear skin. Remember, every skin type is different, so it's important to choose the right skin care products for your skin type for optimal results. Feel free to read our articles onacial care
Meet the expert
- Geeta YadavMD, is a board certified dermatologist and founder of Facet Dermatology in Toronto, Canada.
- Rachel NazarianMD, is a board-certified dermatologist with the Schweiger Dermatology Group in New York City.
- Mélanie PalmierMD, is a board-certified dermatologist and plastic surgeon at Art of Skin MD in San Diego.
