Skin pores can become clogged with excess oil, dead skin cells, debris and bacteria. Clogging will result in symptoms of acne or unsightly large pores. Check out the underlying causes of clogged pores, so you can keep them in check.

1. Excessive Sebum Secretion

One of the main causes of clogged pores is excessive sebum secretion, which, in turn, can be put down to genetic reasons, changes in hormone levels or hormonal fluctuations. Dehydration caused by climate, body dehydration or the use of drying skin products can also lead to excessive sebum production.

2. Improper Cleansing

Failing to clean your skin properly, allowing makeup residue, oils and bacteria to build up, is yet another cause for clogged pores. On the other hand, excessive cleaning, scrubbing or the use of strong products can dry and irritate the skin, bereaving it of natural oils. Your body will try to compensate by boosting sebum production, leading to clogged face pores.

Crushed Blush And Eyeshadow

3. Slow Skin Cell Production

One of the common causes of clogged pores is the slowdown in skin cell renewal rates, which comes with age or stems from hereditary and lifestyle factors. As dead skin cells build up, they will mix with sebum and block the pores. Incorrect exfoliation of the skin can also affect skin renewal, resulting in a dull complexion and clogged pores.

4. Cosmetics

Unless you remove it at the end of the day, heavy or moisture-containing makeup can leave behind unhealthy residue, which, combined with sebum and bacteria, will sink into the pores and clog them.

Heavy Moisturizer

5. Heavy Moisturizers on Oily Skin

Common causes of clogged pores also include using moisturizers or skin products not suited for your skin type. Moisturizing products created for dry skin types will not be absorbed by oily or combination skin, leaving behind excess oil, which will lead to clogged pores. That aside, whenever using a skin product, it is best to try it out on a small portion of your skin to prevent unwanted reactions. You may have often heard questions like “Does coconut oil clog pores?” or “Does shea butter clog pores?”. The answer is that it all depends on several factors and on your skin's individual reaction. While, for some, they may be very effective treatments for acne, in other cases, they may clog pores and exacerbate the problem.

In order to find the right remedy for clogged pores, you will have to identify the root cause of the problem and start working from there.

See also:
Tips for Proper Facial Cleansing
Beauty Tips for a Perfect Exfoliation

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