Ah yes. Pores. The bane of most of our existence! Whether they are small or big, they bring unnecessary pain and frustration. Like, why are you there? Just why? It’s not a pretty sight to see, and many of us are just thinking of all the different ways we can poke them out! When your pores are all clogged up, they can also lead to other skin concerns such as blemishes and worse, blackheads and whiteheads. Yuck. Although satisfying to extract, nobody really wanted them there in the first place! Like hello, who invited you to the party? That is why Beauty Insider says no to pores and here is how you can get them unclogged! 

Can You Actually Unclog Pores?

Sadly, the answer to that question is no. You can’t exactly make your pores disappear! Your pores are actually genetic, so no amount of rubbing can get rid of them. We know that this is a kind of sad truth to hear, but it is something everyone should realise. Although we are always having hopes of getting rid of those pores, the harsh reality is that it might not happen. When you think you’re getting rid of all that gunk, you’re actually just skimming the top off! But, there are methods that can help you to minimise the appearance of your pores. It’s kind of better than nothing right? And that’s what we have. 

How To Minimise The Appearances of Your Pores

1. Cleansing Your Skin

The first step to clear skin is to always cleanse it! Keeping your skin clean is the best way to reduce the appearance of pores. Not only that, but it’s also the best way to keep your skin clear. Washing your face twice a day is kind of the basic. Having a morning and skincare routine helps ensure that nasty buildups don’t stay on your skin. You can opt for any kind of cleanser ranging from gentle ones to those that provide mild exfoliation. Cleansing your skin also helps prevent breakouts and acne from showing up, as well as getting rid of all the dirt you don’t see. 

2. Hydration is Key

Now, those with oily skin types will probably be hesitant with this. But trust us when we say that you have to moisturise your skin! No matter if your skin is dry or oily, it still needs hydration. Excess oil actually comes from the fact that your skin is dehydrated. In order to compensate for the loss of moisture, it ends up producing way more oil than it needs to. Which can lead to congested and clogged pores. Therefore, invest in a good moisturiser that is good for your skin. Gel moisturises that are lightweight are a great pick for oily skin as they won’t leave your complexion looking greasy. 

3. Exfoliation

Exfoliating your skin is a great way to unclog pores. By exfoliating, you are removing all of the dead skin cells on and in your skin. There are also two types of exfoliation. So go with the option that you feel more comfortable with. Physical exfoliation requires you to remove those dead skin cells with either a brush or cloth. Chemical exfoliations, on the other hand, use either AHAs or BHAs to help slough away dead skin cells. Besides that, exfoliation can also help treat acne and hyperpigmentation. Since this method can be harsh on the skin, make sure to wear some sunscreen as your skin may be sensitive to UV rays. 

4. Retinols

Retinols are a great product to use if you are oily skin or ageing skin. When your skin loses its elasticity, it can cause pores to clog up too. With the help of some retinol, you can give your skin back its bounce and even help with acne! Since retinol can sometimes cause irritation to the skin, it’s best to start with retinol that contains lower strengths. Using it before bedtime is a great idea too! Although, pregnant and breastfeeding women should definitely stay away from retinol. 

5. Dermatology Treatments

Most importantly, you can always visit a dermatologist to help treat your pores. When methods at home aren’t in any of your favour, then it’s time to turn to the professionals. A few treatments you can get to help minimise those pores include skin peels, hyaluronic acid treatment, extractions and microdermabrasion. Skin peels can be used to help treat those with rough-textured and dull skin. Hyaluronic acid treatments are injected into your skin to help minimise the appearance of pores. Extractions require special tools and only dermatologists should be performing these. Lastly, microdermabrasion uses a crystal-shaped tool to exfoliate your skin and help improve uneven skin texture. 

Products to Help

1. The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane

The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane has the benefit to help reduce the ageing of the skin, fine lines and photodamage. With 0.5% pure retinol, it’s also a water-free solution. This serum is also vegan, nut, cruelty and gluten-free. With the absence of alcohol and silicone as well. At 0.5%, this makes it a safe product to start your retinol journey on. Slowly incorporate it into your skincare routine at night. Asides from helping to minimise the appearance of your pores, it also helps keep your skin looking healthy! Thus, you can regain your youthful glow and achieve smoother brighter skin! 

Price: $9.50

Where to buy: Hush

2. The Inkey List Retinol Serum

The Inkey List Retinol Serum is suitable for those with normal, dry, oily, combination and sensitive skins. Retinol is also a derivative from Vitamin A, which means that it has the benefit to help promote the renewal of skin and enhance the production of collagen. If you have problems with uneven skin tones, wrinkles and fine lines, this is the product you need. Retinol can also help you achieve skin that is brighter as well! What’s more, is that it is also paraben and fragrance-free. Even if you struggle with hyperpigmentation and clogged pores, this serum can help reduce the appearance of these concerns. 

Price: $20.00

Where to buy: Sephora

3. The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution

pores

A cult favourite product of The Ordinary is their AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution. This was one of the most popular picks of their products when it first went viral, alongside their Glycolic and Niacinamide serums. As this peeling solution works as an exfoliating facial, it should only be used once a week. Applying a light coat to your skin can do wonders with consistent use! As it deeply exfoliates your skin, it has the benefit to help unclog your pores and visibly improve any uneven textures on your skin. Besides that, it can also help fight acne as well! With Vitamin B5 and Black Carrot, which is rich in antioxidants, can help heal your skin and combat free radicals. 

Price: $12.00

Where to buy: Sephora

4. Tarte Knockout Daily Exfoliating Cleanser

pores

The Tarte Knockout Daily Exfoliating Cleanser is the perfect AHA and BHA cleanser to help you exfoliate your skin. Not only does it help refine all your pores, but it also leaves your skin feeling soft and smooth. It also has the benefit to even out uneven skin textures and is suitable for those with normal, oily, dry, sensitive and combination skin types. Its formula also consists of salicylic acid, glycolic acid and lactic acid. Thus, it is also a cleanser that is suitable for everyday use. 

Price: $20.00

Where to buy: Sephora

5. Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Framboos™ Glycolic Skincare Night Serum

pores

The Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Framboos™ Glycolic Skincare Night Serum is suitable for those dealing with dullness, dry skin, wrinkles, oiliness, pores fine lines and even wrinkles. Use this at night to help resurface skin that has been congested as it gets rid of dead skin cells. Besides that, it also helps exfoliate the skin, while salicylic acid helps unclog pores. To rehydrate your skin, its formula also contains Raspberry Fruit Extract. 

Price: $190.00

Where to buy: Sephora

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