Clogged pores is a common skin problem that affects many people. When sebum, dirt, dead skin cells, and other impurities get trapped in pores, they become clogged and can lead to acne, blackheads, whiteheads, and other skin issues.

In this article, we’ll discuss the top causes of clogged pores and how to fix them.

Cause #1: Excessive Oil Production

One of the most common causes of clogged pores is excessive oil production. When your skin produces too much oil, it can mix with dirt and dead skin cells, and create a breeding ground for bacteria. This can lead to clogged pores and acne.

To fix this issue, try using oil-free skincare products and incorporating ingredients like salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide into your routine to help control oil production.

Cause #2: Hormonal Fluctuations

Hormonal fluctuations can also lead to clogged pores. When your body experiences hormonal changes, it can lead to an increase in oil production, which in turn can clog pores.

This is why many people experience acne during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause. To combat this issue, consider using hormonal birth control, which can help regulate hormone levels and reduce oil production.

Cause #3: Dead Skin Cells

Dead skin cells can also lead to clogged pores. When dead skin cells accumulate on the surface of your skin, they can mix with sebum and bacteria, and form a plug in your pores.

To prevent this from happening, make sure to exfoliate regularly with a gentle exfoliator that contains ingredients like alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs).

Cause #4: Pollution

Pollution is another common cause of clogged pores. When pollutants in the air come into contact with your skin, they can mix with sebum and dirt, and create a barrier that can lead to clogged pores.

To protect your skin from pollution, try using a daily antioxidant serum that contains vitamin C, which can help neutralize the harmful effects of pollution.

Cause #5: Using Heavy Makeup

Using heavy makeup can also lead to clogged pores. When you wear thick, heavy makeup, it can mix with oil and dead skin cells in your pores, and create a plug that can lead to acne and blackheads.

Related Article How to Unclog Your Pores: A Guide

To prevent this from happening, try using lighter, more breathable makeup that won’t clog your pores.

Cause #6: Not Cleansing Properly

Not cleansing your skin properly can also lead to clogged pores. When you don’t cleanse your skin regularly, dirt, oil, and dead skin cells can accumulate on the surface of your skin, and create a barrier that can lead to clogged pores.

To prevent this from happening, make sure to cleanse your skin twice daily with a gentle cleanser that is suitable for your skin type.

Cause #7: Genetics

In some cases, clogged pores can be caused by genetics. If your parents or other family members have a history of acne and clogged pores, you may be more likely to experience these issues.

To combat this, consider using skincare products that contain retinoids, which can help improve the overall health and appearance of your skin.

Cause #8: Using Comedogenic Skincare Products

Using comedogenic skincare products can also lead to clogged pores. Comedogenic products contain ingredients that have a tendency to clog pores and can lead to acne and other skin issues.

To prevent this from happening, make sure to read the labels of your skincare products and avoid products that contain ingredients like lanolin, cocoa butter, and coconut oil.

Cause #9: Sweating

Sweating can also lead to clogged pores. When you sweat, it can mix with oil and dead skin cells on the surface of your skin, and create a plug that can lead to acne and blackheads.

To prevent this from happening, consider using a gentle exfoliating cleanser after exercise or other activities that cause you to sweat.

Cause #10: Stress

Stress can also have a negative impact on your skin and lead to clogged pores. When you’re stressed, your body produces more oil, which can mix with dirt and dead skin cells and lead to clogged pores.

To combat this issue, try incorporating stress-reducing activities into your daily routine, like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises.