PDF download Download Article PDF download Download Article

No matter who you are, you've probably battled clogged pores. Dirt, toxins, and oil build up on the skin's surface, and you may be left wondering how you can unclog your pores without squeezing or picking. Well, we've got you covered! Over the years, skin experts have identified so many incredible, easy ways to clean out your pores and get your fresh, bright complexion back. We'll walk you through everything you need to know. Read on for a complete guide covering the best expert-backed tips for cleaning clogged pores.

1

Understand what causes clogged pores.

PDF download Download Article
  1. When these small openings fill up with dirt, dead skin cells, oil, makeup, pollutants, bacteria, and more, they can clog over time (sometimes noticeably—those are blackheads). Clogged pores can also cause breakouts and whiteheads. [1]
    • Depending on the person, your skin and pores may function totally differently (you may be more prone to oily or dry skin, for example).
    • If one technique doesn't work, try another. Keep experimenting until you find an unclogging and cleaning method that works for you.
  2. Advertisement
2

Scrub with AHA + BHA Exfoliants.

PDF download Download Article
  1. Chemical cleaning is especially effective for pores because it's more difficult to get deep into pores via physical cleaning alone. Look out for ingredients like glycolic, lactic, and salicylic acid—because in your fight to unclog pores, these will be one of the best options. [2]
    • First, get your face wet with warm water. Then, gently apply your exfoliant. Rub your fingers around your face in a circular motion.
    • Never use AHA or BHA exfoliants more than 2-3 times per week. Test out just a pinch of exfoliant to start. Wait to see how your skin reacts.
    • These are strong chemical agents. If you use too much too quickly, you could easily dry out your skin.
    • BHAs are typically harsher and sometimes need a prescription. If you're interested in trying out a heavier exfoliant, talk to your doctor first.
3

Use pore strips.

PDF download Download Article
  1. Pick out a shape and size that suits the section of your face you’re looking to clear up—maybe your nose, forehead, chin, or cheeks. Wet the strip and your face with warm water, apply the strip so it’s firmly pressed into your facial creases, and leave the strip on for 10-15 minutes. Then, gently peel the strip away. [3]
    • Oil, dead skin, and hair can all be removed from your skin using a pore strip.
    • This reduces buildup over time. They can also immediately leave your pores looking cleaner and smaller.
    • Plus, they’re just really fun to use, too!
  2. Advertisement
4

Apply retinol or retinoids.

PDF download Download Article
  1. In short, they're great for unclogging and minimizing pores. Head to your local drugstore and find a cream or oil that contains retinol. Or, reach out to your doctor to get a prescription for a stronger retinoid product. These can cause skin to produce more collagen, look fresher, and ultimately, stay clear for longer. [4]
    • Though there are tons of benefits, retinol and retinoids pose a risk, too. If you have sensitive skin, talk to your doctor or begin at the lowest percentage.
    • Wear sunscreen and never overuse your retinol or retinoid products. This can lead to extra uncomfortable, sensitive, or dry skin.
    • It’s also important to note that these products aren’t safe for someone pregnant or breastfeeding. Speak to your doctor for more information.
5

Wear clay or charcoal masks.

PDF download Download Article
  1. [5] So masks will collect your pores' impurities—and when you toss your mask, dirt and grime get tossed out with it. Follow your mask’s directions so you don’t cross the line from reducing oil to totally drying out your skin. Finally, if you use a peel mask, remove it very carefully. Otherwise, you risk damaging your skin.
    • Make sure you wash your face with your regular cleanser prior to applying your mask. Follow up with a hydrating moisturizer to help fight off dry skin.
    • Find clay or charcoal masks online, in beauty stores, or at your local drugstore.
  2. Advertisement
6

Exfoliate with baking soda.

PDF download Download Article
  1. Mix 2 teaspoons (9.9 mL) of baking soda and 1 teaspoon (4.9 mL) of warm water to create your makeshift cleanser. Gently rub your mixture over your face and be very careful to avoid your eyes (because, ouch! That'll hurt). Use this method no more than once or twice per week. [6]
    • Note that this remedy can neutralize your face’s pH balance—but it could also dry out sensitive skin.
    • Use caution and consider getting advice from your specialist first. If you notice that it creates dryness or irritation, don't continue using this method.
7

Incorporate steamers.

PDF download Download Article
  1. Order a steamer online, in drug stores, or in beauty stores. Or, use a towel and a bowl for a DIY steamer. Place a clean, small towel in a bowl, pour hot water over the towel, and then lay the towel over your face. Make sure the water isn't boiling, otherwise you could burn yourself. [7]
    • Steams help gently open up your pores using warm air. Then, when you follow up with an AHA or BHA exfoliation or cleanse.
    • When you clean out your pores, now it'll be especially effective—because your steamer lets exfoliations get deeper into your pores!
    • Keep in mind that people with rosacea or sensitive skin shouldn't try steaming. This can cause more redness and exacerbate your skin condition.
  2. Advertisement
8

Try pore cleansers.

PDF download Download Article
  1. Also called pore vacuums, pore cleansers use suction to pull dirt and debris from your pores. After a single use, you may immediately notice fewer blackheads. Buy a pore cleanser online or in the drugstore. They won’t hurt to use—but pay attention to the directions. Your biggest risk is inadvertently leaving a mark on your skin! [8]
9

Schedule a professional facial.

PDF download Download Article
  1. Let a professional handle your pores for a healthy, effective unclogging. When you get help from a professional, you have less chance of upsetting sensitive skin, causing breakouts, or leaving acne scars. If you like what treatment does for your pores’ appearance, schedule your appointments no more than once a month. [9]
    • Extraction treatments involve carefully squeezing dirt and oil from your pores. Then, antibacterials will be applied to fight off breakouts and scarring. [10]
    • Steam treatments use warm air to open up your pores. This way, your specialist’s exfoliations and treatments will soak more directly into your skin. [11]
    • Hydrafacials involve using water and pressure to open and clear your pores. After your treatment, pores are likely to look smaller in appearance. [12]
  2. Advertisement
10

Take prescription medication.

PDF download Download Article
  1. It might be the case that unavoidable factors, like a skin condition, are causing your pores to clog quickly. In that case, seek out extra help through heavier medication. Ask your dermatologist to help you come up with a plan that works best for you. That way, you can finally kick your clogged pores for good! [13]
11

Keep your hands away from your face.

PDF download Download Article
  1. It may be tempting to just pick, pluck, or squeeze the problem away. But if you do, not only could you cause noticeable acne scars, you could actually cause breakouts, infections, and even larger-looking pores. In short: choose an expert-backed method above—don’t squeeze your pores. [14]
    • If you need to, cover your pores with a bandage to reduce temptation.
    • Busy your hands with a craft, a baking session, or another distraction.
  2. Advertisement
12

PDF download Download Article
  1. Use a facial cleanser to lift dead skin and dirt from your pores so your skin is left looking fresh and clean. If you wear makeup, it’s especially important that you exfoliate and cleanse at the close of each day. Try to use products that make it clear they won’t clog pores. Sometimes this is labeled as, “noncomedogenic.” [15]
    • Keep your hands off of your face to limit dirt and oil buildup.
    • If you’re able, wash your face after working out or sweating heavily.

Expert Q&A

Search
Add New Question
  • Question
    What is the cause of clogged pores?
    Laura Martin
    Licensed Cosmetologist
    Laura Martin is a Licensed Cosmetologist based in Milledgeville, Georgia. She has been working as a hair stylist since 2007, and began a career as a cosmetology teacher in 2013. She worked as a teacher at Arrojo Cosmetology School, teaching cosmetology practices, hairstyling, and hair color application. She also brought her cosmetology expertise to her work as a staff writer for fashion blog Style Noted, writing pieces related to hair and fashion. She received an MFA in Creative Writing from Georgia College & State University, where she was also an English Teaching Fellow. Additionally, she received a BA in Creative Writing and Literature from New York University.
    Licensed Cosmetologist
    Expert Answer
    Clogged pores are caused by a buildup of oils, dirt, and dead skin cells in the pores. They are more common in people who have oily skin.
  • Question
    Can tea tree oil help clogged pores?
    Laura Martin
    Licensed Cosmetologist
    Laura Martin is a Licensed Cosmetologist based in Milledgeville, Georgia. She has been working as a hair stylist since 2007, and began a career as a cosmetology teacher in 2013. She worked as a teacher at Arrojo Cosmetology School, teaching cosmetology practices, hairstyling, and hair color application. She also brought her cosmetology expertise to her work as a staff writer for fashion blog Style Noted, writing pieces related to hair and fashion. She received an MFA in Creative Writing from Georgia College & State University, where she was also an English Teaching Fellow. Additionally, she received a BA in Creative Writing and Literature from New York University.
    Licensed Cosmetologist
    Expert Answer
    Tea tree oil is good for reducing inflammation. It can help unclog pores if used in a steam treatment or added to a cleanser.
  • Question
    How do you get clogged pores?
    Laura Martin
    Licensed Cosmetologist
    Laura Martin is a Licensed Cosmetologist based in Milledgeville, Georgia. She has been working as a hair stylist since 2007, and began a career as a cosmetology teacher in 2013. She worked as a teacher at Arrojo Cosmetology School, teaching cosmetology practices, hairstyling, and hair color application. She also brought her cosmetology expertise to her work as a staff writer for fashion blog Style Noted, writing pieces related to hair and fashion. She received an MFA in Creative Writing from Georgia College & State University, where she was also an English Teaching Fellow. Additionally, she received a BA in Creative Writing and Literature from New York University.
    Licensed Cosmetologist
    Expert Answer
    You can get clogged pores from not washing your face frequently enough. You can also get them from not exfoliating or not drinking enough water.
See more answers
Ask a Question
      Advertisement

      Video

      Tips

      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Name
      Please provide your name and last initial
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!

      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      To clean clogged pores, steam your face over a bowl of boiling water for 10 minutes, which will help open up your pores and clear out whatever is clogging them. After you steam your face, rinse it with cool water. You can also clean your clogged pores by exfoliating your face with a facial scrub or exfoliating brush 2-3 times per week. Applying a clay mask will draw out any impurities in your pores, and chemical peels can remove the top layer of skin to unclog and refresh your pores. If you're dealing with stubborn clogged pores, see your dermatologist for extractions and to discuss treatment options. For tips on using natural home remedies to unclog your pores, read on!

      Did this summary help you?
      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 2,377,946 times.

      Reader Success Stories

      • Sandy Bee

        Jul 25, 2016

        "This was a great article. I used all of the methods posted, and found steaming my face and exfoliating my skin ..." more
      Share your story

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement