TL;DR 

  • Daily pore management includes an effective skincare routine consisting of chemical exfoliants (BHAs, AHAs, retinol), lightweight non-comedogenic products, and proper cleansing.
  • Different skin types need tailored care—oily skin benefits from BHAs, while dry/sensitive skin needs gentle exfoliation and hydration.
  • Aesthetic treatments like lasers, chemical peels, and microneedling can further refine pores and improve skin texture.

Table Of Contents

Few things in skincare spark as much interest—and frustration—as clogged pores. While achieving smooth, poreless skin is a universal goal, many myths and misconceptions surround the topic.

We all have pores, and they play an essential role in skin health. Rather than eliminating them, the key lies in minimising their appearance and keeping them unclogged.

This comprehensive guide will explore what causes clogged pores, the science behind effective treatments, and how skincare and in-clinic procedures can help.

What Causes Pores to Clog?

Pores become clogged when sebum (oil), dead skin cells, and debris accumulate. Several factors contribute to this buildup:

  • Age: As we age, dead skin cell buildup around the pores increases.
  • Skin type and genetics: Those with oily or combination skin naturally produce more sebum, making them more prone to clogged pores. However, even dry skin types aren’t immune.
  • Hormonal changes: Fluctuations in hormones—puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, or stress can increase oil production, leading to congestion.
  • Skincare habits: Using heavy, comedogenic (pore-clogging) products or neglecting proper cleansing can worsen blockages.
  • Lifestyle factors: Pollution, diet, and stress can impact skin health and contribute to clogged pores—For example, dairy consumption has been linked to acne and pore congestion in some individuals.
  • Hydration and antioxidants from water and a diet rich in fruits and vegetables help support skin renewal and reduce inflammation.
  • Sun damage – UV rays break down collagen and elastin, weakening pore structure.

While we can’t change factors like genetics or hormones, we can control how we care for our skin. Let’s dive into skincare routines that can help.

Can Skincare Help Unclog Pores?

The short answer is yes, but only if you use the right ingredients and techniques—With a healthy diet, daily SP, regular aesthetic treatments and more, we can achieve healthier, clearer skin.

Exfoliation, for example, is a cornerstone in keeping pores clear: 

  • Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs): Salicylic acid is a popular solution for clogged pores. Being lipophilic (oil-attracting), it penetrates deep into the pore lining, dissolving sebum and dead skin buildup.
  • Retinol: Encourages skin cell turnover, preventing dead skin from accumulating and leading to smoother skin over time.
  • Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs): Ingredients like glycolic and lactic acid help to dissolve dead skin cells on the surface, preventing buildup that can contribute to clogged pores.

Avoid physical scrubs, as they can cause micro-tears in the skin and lead to further irritation.

Skincare Habits That Worsen Clogged Pores

  • Sleeping with makeup on is a surefire way to accumulate dirt and oil in your pores.
  • Skipping sunscreen—UV exposure thickens the epidermis over time, contributing to congestion. The right non-comedogenic sunscreen helps protect collagen and prevents pores from looking larger.
  • Using the wrong sunscreen—Some chemical sunscreens contain oils that convert UV light to heat, causing clogged pores. However, non-comedogenic (or mineral-based) sunscreens are oil-free and reduce the risk of clogging.
  • Pore strips might seem like a quick fix, but repeated use can also lead to micro-tears, making skin more vulnerable to future breakouts and sensitivity.

Finally, we know DIY extractions are tempting—but before you go down that road, consider a better, safer solution. Instead of risking scars and inflammation, a professional acne facial* can deeply cleanse pores without harming your skin.

Medical in-clinic exfoliation can gently remove debris, excess oil, and dead skin to refine your pores without the trauma. You could also pair a medical exfoliation with chemical peels, lasers, or skinboosters for a more excellent glow.

Makeup and Pores: What You Need to Know

Makeup can contribute to clogged pores if not used correctly. Here’s how to make your makeup routine work for you:

  • Use lightweight, non-comedogenic formulations—heavy foundations can sink into pores and worsen congestion.
  • Instead of rubbing foundation in, dab it gently to prevent it from settling into your pores.
  • Focus on makeup for the eyes, brows, and lips while keeping base makeup minimal—this reduces pore blockage.
  • Avoid common comedogenic ingredients like isopropyl myristate, propylene glycol, lanolin, oils & butter in skin care.
  • Remove makeup before bed to prevent overnight buildup.

How to Properly Use Pore-Tightening Ingredients for Different Skin Types

Here are a few popular pore-unclogging ingredients and how to use them effectively, depending on your skin type. We have broadly chosen the best ingredients for different skin types. 

Read more about how to tighten pores.

Oily/Combination Skin
  • Use salicylic acid (BHA) regularly to dissolve excess oil and clear pores.

  • Opt for lightweight, oil-free moisturisers to maintain hydration without greasiness.

  • Consider clay masks once or twice a week to absorb excess oil.

  • Avoid over-cleansing, which can strip the skin and increase oil production.
Dry Skin
  • Use gentle exfoliation with lactic acid (AHA) to remove dead skin without irritation.

  • Prioritise hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and glycerin.

  • Avoid harsh foaming cleansers that can strip the skin of its natural moisture.
Sensitive Skin
  • Stick to mild exfoliants like PHAs (polyhydroxy acids) or low-strength lactic acid.

  • Use fragrance-free, soothing ingredients like aloe vera, centella asiatica, and niacinamide.

  • Introduce new active ingredients slowly to avoid irritation.

Aesthetic Treatments for Stubborn Clogged Pores

While skincare forms the foundation of a good regimen, professional treatments can take results to the next level by providing deeper cleansing, exfoliation, and collagen stimulation.

Here are a few popular treatments that can help unclog pores for a smoother texture:

  • Laser Treatments (Carbon Laser and Pico Lasers): Lasers help reduce sebum production and remove built-up dead skin cells, helping to refine skin texture and shrink the appearance of pores. Fractional lasers can also help to stimulate new cells and collagen production to improve skin elasticity and shrink pores.
  • RF Microneedling: This treatment combines microneedling with RF energy to create micro-injuries to tighten pores and boost collagen production, leading to smoother, more refined skin. RF energy further facilitates the process and tightens collagen fibres to shrink pores.
  • Chemical Peels (e.g. BHA-salicylic acid peels): Salicylic acid-based chemical peels deeply penetrate clogged pores, dissolving impurities and improving skin clarity.
  • Skinboosters (e.g. Skinvive, Profhilo): These injectable hydrators improve skin texture, balance oil production, and promote overall skin renewal and repair, leading to a natural glow with less reliance on heavy makeup—By using less makeup, your pores stay clearer, too.

Myths About Pores – Quick List Edition

We can’t finish this guide without addressing some of the biggest myths about pores—because misinformation can do more harm than good when it comes to skincare.

"Pores open and close."

False. Pores don’t have muscles. They appear more prominent when filled with oil and debris and look smaller when clean and healthy.

"You can permanently shrink pores."

False. You can refine and minimise their appearance, but pore size is largely genetic.

"Steaming unclogs pores completely."

Partially true. Steam can loosen dirt and oil, but you need a good cleanser or exfoliant to remove debris effectively.

"Cold water shrinks pores."

False. Cold water can temporarily tighten the skin but doesn’t physically shrink pores.

"The harder you scrub, the cleaner your pores."

False. Over-exfoliating can strip your skin barrier and lead to even more congestion. Gentle, consistent care is key.

We hope you’ve learned some truths about caring for your pores. Remember, proper skincare and regular professional treatments make all the difference—your skin deserves the best.

If you’re ready to take the next step towards smoother, healthier skin, our clinic is here to help. Contact us today to find the best treatment for your skin’s needs.