How to Clean Skin Pores?

How to Clean Skin Pores?

Introduction to Skin Pores

Skin pores are tiny openings connected to your hair follicles. They release oil and sweat to keep your skin soft and protect your skin barrier. When oil and dead skin cells build up, those openings get blocked. That’s when clogged pores show up as blackheads, whiteheads, or acne—and sometimes a tender pimple or acne cyst, especially around nose pores where we produce more oil.

Knowing how to clean skin pores starts with knowing your skin type. Oily skin, dry skin, sensitive skin, and acne-prone skin all behave differently. Oil production, hormones, and environmental factors like heat, pollution, and sweat can change the appearance of pores from day to day. Pores don’t actually “open” and “close,” but they can look larger when there’s excess oil inside or when skin loses firmness.

A simple, steady skincare routine keeps pores clean and calm. Cleansing skin regularly with warm water and a gentle, non-stripping cleanser helps remove debris without causing skin irritation. Over time, this helps prevent clogged pores, prevent breakouts, and keeps large facial pores from looking more noticeable. In the next sections, we’ll walk you through easy, proven steps to unclog pores and care for them—so your skin looks clearer and feels happy.

Understanding Clogged Pores

What’s actually clogging your pores

Pores are tiny openings at the top of your hair follicles. They release oil to protect your skin. When dead skin cells mix with excess oil and other debris (think sunscreen, makeup, pollution), that blend can get stuck inside the pore. Trapped oil inside the follicle becomes food for more bacteria, which can trigger inflammation inside the pore. That’s when a simple clog can turn into a pimple or even an acne cyst.

Why some skin types clog faster

  • Oily skin and very oily skin: Higher oil production means a greater chance that dead skin will stick and form clogged pores.

  • Acne prone skin: More likely to develop blackheads, whiteheads, and breakouts from congestion.

  • Sensitive skin: Easily irritated by harsh scrubs or stripping cleansers, which can weaken the skin barrier and lead to more flare-ups.

  • Dry skin: It still clogs. Flaky dead skin can plug facial pores even if you don’t produce much oil.

Tip: Nose pores often look darker and “bigger” because oil oxidizes at the surface, making blackheads more visible.

Common triggers you can control

  • Skin care habits: Skipping a cleanse at night, not removing makeup fully, or using comedogenic (pore-clogging) formulas can pack pores. Look for non comedogenic or oil free products when possible.

  • Over-cleansing: Harsh washing and aggressive, physical exfoliators can cause skin irritation, push the skin to produce oil as a rebound, and disrupt the skin barrier.

  • Heavy textures: Thick balms and rich creams can sit on top of the skin and trap dead skin if they’re not right for your skin type.

  • Environmental factors: Humidity, sweat, and pollution add debris that can settle in open pores and create congested skin.

Factors you can’t fully control (but can plan for)

  • Genetics: Your baseline appearance of pores and oil production are largely inherited. Some people naturally have large pores.

  • Hormonal changes: Puberty, pregnancy, postpartum, and cycles can spike oil and drive breakouts.

  • Age: Slower cell turnover means dead skin cells linger longer, which can lead to clogged pores.

How to spot a clog vs. a breakout

  • Clogged pores: Bumpy texture, blackheads, and small whiteheads from built-up dead skin cells and oil.

  • Inflamed acne: Red, tender bumps or an acne cyst when bacteria and inflammation ramp up. If you’re getting deep, painful cysts, check in with a board certified dermatologist for professional treatments or prescription medications.

Myths to leave behind

  • “Pores open and close.” Pores don’t have muscles. They don’t open or close, but they can look smaller when they’re clean.

  • “Squeezing helps.” When you squeeze clogged pores, you can push debris deeper, invite more bacteria, and cause more inflammation. That often means a bigger, longer-lasting spot and risk of marks.

Why this matters for your routine

Understanding the root causes makes it easier to prevent breakouts. A simply smart approach focuses on clearing dead skin, balancing excess oil, and protecting the skin barrier—especially for sensitive skin. Up next, we’ll show how to clean skin pores safely and how to gently unclog pores without triggering irritation.

Causes of Enlarged Pores

Genetics and Skin Type

Some of us are simply born with larger facial pores. The size of your hair follicles and how much your skin can release oil are set by genetics. If you have oily skin or very oily skin, excess oil can sit in the pore and make the appearance of pores more noticeable, especially on nose pores and the T‑zone. Dry skin can also look “pebbly” when dead skin cells build up around open pores.

Knowing what you’re working with makes how to clean skin pores feel a lot simpler.

Aging and Sun Damage

As we age, skin makes less collagen and loses elasticity. Think of collagen as the scaffolding that keeps pores looking tight. When that scaffolding thins, pores look larger. Sun damage speeds this up by breaking down collagen and thickening the pore edge. Daily SPF and gentle care protect that support system so large pores don’t look even bigger.

Oil, Dead Skin, and Congestion

When oil production ramps up and dead skin cells don’t shed well, they mix inside the pore. This build‑up leads to clogged pores, blackheads, and sometimes a pimple or acne cyst. Inflammation inside the pore invites more bacteria and can stretch the pore wall over time, leaving large facial pores behind. Congested skin shows this most on the nose and cheeks.

Product Choices and Pore‑Unfriendly Habits

Heavy, comedogenic or oil‑based products can plug pores. If makeup or sunscreen isn’t removed fully, residue can pack into the pore and hold onto excess oil. Reaching for non comedogenic or oil free, fragrance‑free options helps prevent clogged pores.

A few habits also make pores look worse:

  • Over‑cleansing or harsh, daily scrubs can damage the skin barrier, triggering more oil inside the pore.

  • Aggressive physical modality tools (stiff brushes, rough pads) and vigorous, circular motions cause skin irritation.

  • Trying a baking soda paste can spike pH and irritate sensitive skin.

  • When you squeeze clogged pores at home, you can injure the pore edge and create larger pores later.

Climate and Lifestyle

Heat, humidity, and pollution are environmental factors that push skin to produce oil and collect tiny particles in pores. Stress can have a similar effect on oil production. Sweat itself isn’t the enemy, but when it mixes with debris, it can stick in pores—especially if you don’t cleanse skin regularly after workouts.

Why Gentle Exfoliation Helps the Look of Pores

Lack of exfoliation isn’t a cause, but it can magnify pore concerns by letting dead skin pile up around the pore opening. Regular, gentle chemical exfoliation keeps that rim smooth so pores look smaller.

  • Beta hydroxy acids: Salicylic acid (in a salicylic acid cleanser or leave‑on) is oil‑soluble, so it travels into the pore and gently exfoliates from the inside to help unclog pores.

  • Alpha hydroxy acids: Glycolic acid and lactic acid work on the surface to lift dead skin and refine texture.

  • Hydroxy acids used 1–3 times per week can reduce the appearance of pores over a few weeks without the redness that harsh scrubs can cause.

Tip: Choose formulas labeled non comedogenic or oil free, and pair acids with an oil free moisturizer to keep balance. If you have acne prone skin or frequent acne cyst flare‑ups, a board certified dermatologist can guide safe use of over the counter products or prescription medications.

Bottom line: genetics set your pore size, but excess oil, dead skin, sun damage, and pore‑unfriendly products make pores look larger. Smart, gentle choices help prevent breakouts and treat large facial pores—without stressing your skin.

Preventing Pores from Becoming Clogged

Build a pore-safe daily routine

A simple skincare routine is the key to how to clean skin pores and keep them clear. Think: cleanse, gently exfoliate, and moisturize. Done well, this keeps dead skin cells and excess oil from settling into hair follicles and turning into clogged pores.

Cleanse the gentle way (AM + PM)

  • Morning: Wash with a gentle cleanser and warm water. Use circular motions for 30–60 seconds to remove debris without stripping your skin barrier.

  • Night: Double cleanse if you wear SPF or makeup. Start with a balm or oil cleanser, then follow with a water-based cleanser to lift what’s left.

  • For acne prone skin or very oily skin, a salicylic acid cleanser (a beta hydroxy acid) 3–5 times a week can help unclog pores by dissolving oil inside the pore. If you have dry skin or sensitive skin, stick with a mild, non-comedogenic cleanser and use salicylic acid less often.

Exfoliate, but keep it smart

Over-exfoliating causes skin irritation and inflammation inside the pore, which can lead to more acne. Instead:

  • Choose hydroxy acids that gently exfoliate:

  • BHA (salicylic acid) reaches into the pore to unclog and reduce nose pores and other facial pores.

  • AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) like glycolic acid and lactic acid smooth dead skin on top to refine the appearance of pores.

  • Aim for 1–3 times a week based on your skin type.

  • Prefer a soft physical modality if you love the feel of a physical exfoliator (like a konjac sponge). Keep gentle scrubbing light and infrequent.

  • Skip baking soda or a baking soda paste on the face. It can disrupt pH and harm the skin barrier.

Moisturize to balance (yes, even if you’re oily)

Hydration tells your skin not to overproduce oil. Use a non comedogenic or oil-free, gel-cream texture if you’re oily, and a lotion if you’re dry. An oil free moisturizer helps prevent clogged pores, supports the barrier, and can soften the look of large pores over a few weeks.

Choose non-comedogenic products

Look for labels that say non comedogenic or oil free. Heavy, occlusive skin products and certain oils can trap oil inside pores and create congested skin. If makeup is part of your routine, pick lightweight, buildable formulas and remove them every night to prevent breakouts.

Hands-off and hygiene habits

Resist the urge to squeeze clogged pores. It can push more bacteria deeper and turn a simple clog into a pimple or acne cyst (even an acne cyst that lingers). Keep pillowcases, phone screens, and makeup brushes clean to help keep pores clean day to day.

Weekly reset, not daily strip

One night a week, try oil-absorbing support like clay or charcoal masks. These over the counter products can help soak up excess oil and reduce shine without harshness. Avoid daily pore strips; they’re OK occasionally, but frequent use can stress skin.

Tailor by skin type and pore concerns

  • Very oily skin or large facial pores: Use a salicylic acid leave-on toner or serum a few nights a week and a deep pore cleanser at night.

  • Dry skin: Choose lactic acid (a gentler AHA) once weekly and a richer, non-comedogenic moisturizer.

  • Sensitive skin: Introduce acids slowly; patch test to avoid skin irritation.

  • Acne prone skin: BHA + consistent cleansing keeps pores open (not literally “open pores,” but clear) and can help treat large facial pores caused by buildup.

Lifestyle that loves your pores

Sun, heat, and pollution are environmental factors that can ramp up oil production. Wear mineral SPF, don’t smoke, and manage stress where you can. These small shifts support clearer pores and calmer skin.

When to call in help

If clogs keep returning or you’re getting deep breakouts, see a board certified dermatologist. They can perform extractions (manual extraction), suggest professional treatments, or offer prescription medications. If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, avoid Retin-A (tretinoin) and confirm any actives with your clinician.

Simply smart next step

Ready to simplify? Choose a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser, a BHA or AHA that gently exfoliates, and an oil free moisturizer you’ll use every day. We make it easy to keep pores clean—without the fuss. Shop our pore-friendly basics and enjoy happy, balanced skin.

Exfoliation Methods

Why exfoliation matters for pores

Exfoliation is one of the simplest answers to how to clean skin pores. It lifts dead skin cells and excess oil so your pores can release oil the way they’re meant to. This helps unclog pores, smooth congested skin, and softens the appearance of pores (especially nose pores and large facial pores). Keep it gentle and consistent for real results.

Physical exfoliation (the “scrub” approach)

Physical exfoliation is a hands-on physical modality. Think a gentle scrub or a physical exfoliator like a konjac sponge or a soft brush.

  • How to do it: After cleansing with warm water, gently massage in small circular motions for 10–20 seconds per area, then rinse. You’re removing dead skin, not sanding wood.

  • Good for: Normal to oily skin types that don’t get easily irritated.

  • What to avoid: Harsh shells, sugar on the face, or heavy pressure. Overdoing it can cause skin irritation, weaken your skin barrier, and invite more bacteria and inflammation inside pores.

  • Pro tip: Skip physical scrubs on active breakouts or a painful pimple or acne cyst. Scrubbing over acne can spread oil inside hair follicles and slow healing.

Chemical exfoliation (the “leave-on” method)

Chemical exfoliants use hydroxy acids to dissolve the “glue” holding dead skin cells together. They gently exfoliate without scrubbing.

  • AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids): Water‑soluble; great for dry or dull skin.

  • Glycolic acid: Stronger; helps refine texture and the look of large pores.

  • Lactic acid: Gentler and hydrating; a smart pick for sensitive skin.

  • BHAs (beta hydroxy acids): Oil‑soluble; go deeper into pores to remove debris.

  • Salicylic acid: The classic for oily skin and acne prone skin. It travels into hair follicles to dissolve excess oil and unclog pores, especially around nose pores.

How to use:

  • Start with an over the counter product at a low strength. A salicylic acid cleanser (0.5–2%) or a lactic acid toner are easy entry points.

  • Use on clean, dry skin, then follow with a non comedogenic, oil free moisturizer.

  • Do not mix acids with Retin‑A on the same night.

Safety notes:

  • Avoid DIY “acid” recipes and skip the baking soda paste. Baking soda is too alkaline for facial pores and can damage your skin barrier.

  • If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, keep it simple (lactic acid is often well‑tolerated) and check with your provider or a board certified dermatologist.

How often to exfoliate

More is not better. Most people do best once or twice a week. Adjust by skin type:

  • Sensitive or dry skin: Every 7–10 days with lactic acid or a very gentle scrub.

  • Balanced or combination: 1–2 times weekly.

  • Oily or very oily skin: 2 times weekly; add a salicylic acid cleanser on oilier days. Give it a few weeks to see steady changes in texture and fewer pore concerns.

Post‑exfoliation care (to protect your barrier)

Rinse with warm water, pat dry, and seal with an oil free, non comedogenic moisturizer. This keeps pores clean without clogging. In the daytime, finish with SPF. Resist the urge to squeeze clogged pores—picking can push debris deeper and lead to acne or an acne cyst.

Quick picks by concern

  • Blackheads and clogged pores on the nose: Beta hydroxy acids (salicylic acid) to unclog pores.

  • Large pores or uneven texture: Alpha hydroxy acids like glycolic acid to refine the appearance of pores.

  • Reactive, sensitive skin: Lactic acid or a super soft konjac sponge for gentle scrubbing.

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Treatment Options for Clogged Pores

Start with proven over-the-counter helpers

  • Salicylic acid cleanser (beta hydroxy acids): This is the gold standard for oily skin and acne prone skin because it moves through oil inside the pore and gently exfoliates dead skin cells. Look for 0.5%–2% strength. Use 3–5 nights a week to unclog pores and prevent breakouts. If you have sensitive skin or dry skin, start slower to avoid skin irritation.

  • Glycolic acid and lactic acid (alpha hydroxy acids): These hydroxy acids work on the surface to smooth dead skin, refine facial pores, and improve the appearance of pores over time. Try lower strengths (5–8%) a few nights per week, alternating with your BHA.

  • Charcoal masks and clay masks: Great for very oily skin and congested skin. They help remove debris and excess oil from nose pores and the T‑zone. Use for 10 minutes, once a week. Choose non comedogenic or oil free formulas to keep the skin barrier calm.

  • Pore strips: These can lift surface blackheads on nose pores. Use occasionally after a warm shower to soften buildup, then gently massage on an oil free moisturizer to soothe. They don’t treat the root cause and may irritate sensitive skin, so think of them as a quick fix, not a routine.

Tip: “Open pores” is a myth—pores don’t open and close like doors. Warm water and steam can soften plugs so products work better, but the real work comes from ingredients that dissolve oil and dead skin inside hair follicles.

Deep-clean options you can do at home

  • Double cleanse at night: If you wear sunscreen or makeup, double cleanse to remove debris before treatment. Use a gentle oil cleanser first (choose non comedogenic), then a water‑based deep pore cleanser. This simple step alone can ease pore concerns within a few weeks.

  • Baking soda paste: Some DIY routines suggest mixing baking soda with water into a thin paste to briefly polish areas with large pores. While it can lift buildup, baking soda is very alkaline and may disrupt the skin barrier, inviting more bacteria and inflammation inside the pore. If you try it, spot treat only, keep contact under 60 seconds, rinse with warm water, and follow with an oil free moisturizer. If irritation appears, stop. Gentler hydroxy acids are a better long-term choice.

  • Physical exfoliator: If you prefer a physical modality, choose a soft konjac sponge and use circular motions with gentle scrubbing no more than once a week. Avoid harsh scrubs that scratch and trigger inflammation.

Targeted actives to treat large facial pores

  • Leave‑on BHA (salicylic acid): A serum or toner at 0.5%–2% can penetrate oil to unclog pores and smooth large facial pores. Start 2–3 nights weekly, then increase as tolerated. Always moisturize after.

  • AHAs for texture: Glycolic acid boosts cell turnover; lactic acid is gentler and hydrates. Both can help treat large facial pores by resurfacing dead skin and softening the look of open pores with consistent use.

  • Retin‑A (tretinoin): This prescription medication normalizes how pores release oil and can reduce acne and the look of enlarged pores over time. Important: Avoid retinoids if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Talk to a board certified dermatologist about safer options like azelaic acid during that time.

When to call a professional

  • Manual extraction: Licensed estheticians can perform extractions safely to keep pores clean without scarring. For best results, combine regular extractions with at‑home BHAs/AHAs to prevent clogged pores from returning.

  • Chemical peels: Professional treatments using salicylic acid or glycolic acid can reset congested skin and refine texture. Great for persistent pore concerns.

  • Dermatology care: If you’re dealing with a pimple or acne cyst (acne cyst), or breakouts that don’t budge after consistent care for a few weeks, see a board certified dermatologist. Prescription medications may be needed. And remember: never squeeze clogged pores—pinching invites more bacteria, worsens inflammation, and can scar.

A simple routine to follow for a few weeks

  • AM: Gentle cleanse, oil free moisturizer, SPF.

  • PM: Double cleanse, then use a salicylic acid cleanser or leave‑on BHA 3–5 nights/week. On alternate nights, use lactic acid or glycolic acid. Once weekly, use a charcoal mask on the T‑zone. Always listen to your skin type and scale back if you feel irritation.

Honestly effective tip: Consistency is the real “secret” in skin care. Give your routine time—most pores respond in 4–8 weeks.

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Additional Tips for Clearer Skin

If you’re wondering how to clean skin pores without stressing your routine, these simple habits help keep pores clean, calm, and happy—especially for sensitive skin and acne prone skin.

Choose a moisturizer that won’t clog

Pick a non-comedogenic or oil free moisturizer. On labels, look for “non comedogenic” or “oil free.” This helps prevent clogged pores and the look of large facial pores.

  • Very oily skin: go for a lightweight gel or lotion to balance oil production without heaviness.

  • Dry skin or sensitive skin: choose barrier-loving formulas (think ceramides, squalane, aloe) to protect the skin barrier while you treat pore concerns.

Smart swaps matter: use non comedogenic makeup and sunscreen too. Heavy, waxy products can sit in hair follicles and make the appearance of pores look larger.

Book safe extractions (and skip the squeeze)

We know it’s tempting to squeeze clogged pores, but try not to. Squeezing can push more bacteria and oil inside, cause inflammation inside the skin, and turn a small clog into a pimple or acne cyst.

Instead, see a licensed pro. Regular facials every few weeks with gentle, sterile extractions can keep pores clean and prevent breakouts. If you get deep, painful cysts, a board certified dermatologist can offer professional treatments or prescription medications.

Use gentle scrubbing and massage, not harsh rubbing

A little physical modality can help—light, gentle scrubbing with a soft physical exfoliator once a week. Use circular motions and a light touch to remove debris without causing skin irritation. Focus on congested skin areas like nose pores and the T‑zone.

Pro tip: at night, double cleanse with warm water (not hot) to melt sunscreen and makeup, then follow with a mild, deep pore cleanser. Warm water won’t “open pores” (pores don’t open or close), but it does loosen oil inside so your cleanser can work better.

Pick ingredients that quietly do the heavy lifting

  • For daily washing: a salicylic acid cleanser (a beta hydroxy acids, or BHA) to dissolve oil and unclog pores.

  • For texture and glow: alpha hydroxy acids (hydroxy acids) like glycolic acid or lactic acid to refine facial pores and treat large facial pores over time.

  • Occasional extras: charcoal masks or pore strips can help on the nose, but keep it rare to avoid irritation.

Skip DIYs like a baking soda paste. Baking soda is too alkaline for skin and can damage your skin barrier.

Stay consistent and play it safe

Use new skin products one at a time and patch test—especially if your skin type is reactive. Give changes a few weeks before you judge results. If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, avoid Retin‑A and ask your dermatologist for alternatives that fit your life stage.

 

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FAQs

How do you deep cleanse your pores?

  • Start with a double cleanse. First, melt sunscreen and makeup with a gentle oil cleanser. Then wash with a salicylic acid cleanser. Use warm water and massage for about 60 seconds, paying extra attention to nose pores and areas with congested skin.

  • Add gentle warmth, not heat. A warm, damp towel can soften the oil inside your hair follicles. Pores don’t “open” or “close,” but warmth helps release oil and remove debris without harsh scrubbing.

  • Exfoliate 1–3 times a week. Beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) like salicylic acid get inside pores. Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) like glycolic acid or lactic acid lift dead skin cells on the surface. These hydroxy acids gently exfoliate and help prevent clogged pores.

  • Mask weekly. Clay or charcoal masks are helpful over-the-counter products for very oily skin. They soak up excess oil and support pores clean without stripping your skin barrier.

  • Moisturize to protect. Finish with a non comedogenic or oil-free, lightweight, oil free moisturizer to keep skin calm and balanced. This reduces the “produce oil” rebound that can make large pores look more visible.

  • Keep it simple and regular. Clean your skin regularly, especially after sweat, city pollution, or other environmental factors.

  • Use pore strips sparingly. As a physical modality, pore strips can pull out surface plugs on facial pores, but frequent use may cause skin irritation—especially on sensitive skin.

CTA: Want to simplify how to clean skin pores? Build a two-or three-step skincare routine with a gentle deep pore cleanser, an AHA/BHA, and a non comedogenic moisturizer.

How to draw gunk out of a spot?

  • Identify the type. A whitehead near the surface is different from a deep pimple or acne cyst.

  • For surface whiteheads:

  • Apply a warm compress for 5–10 minutes to soften dead skin and excess oil.

  • Use a hydrocolloid patch overnight. It draws out fluid and helps keep out more bacteria.

  • Spot treat with 2% salicylic acid or sulfur.

  • For deep, painful bumps (possible acne cyst):

  • Do not squeeze clogged pores. Squeezing can push oil inside deeper, cause inflammation inside, invite more bacteria, and lead to scarring.

  • Ice for 5–10 minutes to calm swelling.

  • Use a BHA leave-on serum; give it a few weeks of steady use.

  • If it’s large or lingers, see a board certified dermatologist. They can advise on professional treatments like a cortisone shot or prescription medications.

  • Skip baking soda paste. Baking soda can disrupt pH and damage your skin barrier, increasing irritation.

  • Pore strips and charcoal masks help with blackheads on the nose, but they’re not ideal spot treatments for inflamed pimples.

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How to unclog a deeply clogged pore?

  • Go steady for a few weeks. Consistency beats force. Start with a salicylic acid cleanser daily to dissolve oil-based plugs inside the pore.

  • Layer smart exfoliation. Use a leave-on BHA 3–5 nights a week. Add an AHA 1–2 nights a week:

  • Glycolic acid helps re-texture and improve the appearance of pores.

  • Lactic acid is gentler for dry skin or sensitive skin.

  • Try an oil cleanse + gentle massage. A short, gently massage with a slippery cleanse can loosen stubborn plugs; rinse with warm water, then follow with your water-based cleanser (double cleanse).

  • Mask once weekly. Clay or charcoal masks are helpful deep pore cleanser stand-ins to lift oil and remove debris, especially around large facial pores on the T‑zone.

  • Avoid DIY that harms. Baking soda or a baking soda paste may seem tempting, but it can cause skin irritation and weaken your skin barrier.

  • Don’t dig or pick. Home tools can drive plugs deeper. If the pore won’t budge, book manual extraction with a licensed pro who can perform extractions safely.

  • Consider professional help. A board certified dermatologist can provide regular extractions for stubborn pore concerns, and discuss prescription medications (like retin a/tretinoin). Note: avoid retinoids during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

  • Choose the right skin products. Look for non comedogenic or oil-free formulas to help prevent breakouts and treat large facial pores over time.

CTA: Want fewer steps? Keep it simple: BHA at night, gentle cleanser, and an oil free moisturizer. That’s it.

What’s the best way to exfoliate pores?

  • Choose chemical over harsh scrubs. For acne prone skin and oily skin, beta hydroxy acids (salicylic acid) are best—they get into the pore to unclog pores. AHAs (glycolic acid, lactic acid) smooth dead skin cells on top, which helps enlarged pores look smaller.

  • Match your skin type:

  • Very oily skin: BHA most days; AHA 1–2 times weekly.

  • Dry skin or sensitive skin: Lactic acid once weekly; BHA 2–3 times weekly.

  • Combo skin: BHA on the T‑zone (nose pores, chin); AHA on dull areas.

  • Keep physical exfoliation gentle. If you prefer a physical exfoliator, use a soft cloth or konjac sponge with gentle scrubbing in small circular motions—no sharp or gritty particles.

  • Protect your barrier. Over-exfoliation leads to redness and breakouts. Start low and slow, moisturize after, and wear SPF daily. Expect clearer-looking pores in a few weeks, not overnight.

  • Myths to skip: Hot water doesn’t “open pores,” and cold water doesn’t “close” them. Pores are openings of hair follicles that release oil; they don’t have muscles to open or shut.

CTA: Craving easy, effective exfoliation? Reach for a simply smart AHA/BHA that gently exfoliates without disrupting your skin barrier.

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