Your pores are tiny openings in your skin that are a natural part of your body. Everyone has pores, and their job is to release natural oils and sweat from the lower layers of the skin.

When the pores become clogged, though, it can lead to a number of visible issues including the appearance of whiteheads, blackheads, and even acne. Ensuring your skin stays cleansed and exfoliated while taking action in clarifying them can help minimize the chance your pores will become clogged.

What Causes Clogged Pores?

Your pores can become clogged in a variety of ways. The most common way is when a buildup of dead skin cells are unable to shed freely from your skin. Instead, they will remain on your skin and eventually lead to your pores being unable to release oils and sweat properly.

Additional factors that can cause clogged pores may include:

• Excess sweat
• Various toxins in the air
• Oil from your hands
• Dirt and pollution
• Makeup

You might not notice whiteheads, blackheads or acne right away, but will start to notice an overall dullness in your complexion. Pores may appear larger or darker in color, and swelling or inflammation may start to develop.

One of the easiest ways to prevent clogged pores is to limit how often you touch your face. Other factors include dirty pillowcases and towels, not cleansing after a workout, and putting cell phones against your skin.

Can You Squeeze Clogged Pores?

While it might seem oddly satisfying to squeeze the dirt and build-up out of a clogged pore, this can lead to even more damage to your pores and the surrounding skin. The pinching and pulling motion on your skin when you attempt to squeeze a clogged pore can lead to additional inflammation and redness. Bottom line: don’t ever extract a pore yourself–go to a professional!

Can You Unclog Pores?

The short answer is: yes! If you’ve already started to notice clogged pores, don’t worry. There are a variety of ways you can help unclog your pores and return to the brighter complexion you are used to.

Ways to Shrink Large Pores

Unfortunately, there is no way to physically shrink large pores, but you can help reduce the look of them. Some of the most effective and proven options you can consider include the following skincare habits:

Exfoliate Regularly

Enjoying an evening exfoliating facial is a great way to start your day! It’s also a great way to gently scrub away excess buildup of dirt, grime, oils and skin cells which can clog your pores. Just make sure to find an exfoliating agent that’s gentle yet efficacious (i.e. avoid aggressive substances like crushed walnut shells), and slough off those dead skin cells at least once or twice a week. Don’t overdo it–they will do more harm than good.

Consider our ILUMA intense brightening exfoliating cleanser. It’s an excellent choice for all skin types and can help gently scrub away dead skin cells while also removing excess oils from your skin. You’ll also notice it includes a range of high-performance ingredients like mushroom-derived enzymes, glycerin, white peony and licorice to help increase the appearance of your skin’s elasticity as well.