Pores become clogged when they fill with oil, dirt, makeup, and dead skin cells. Cleansing daily will help minimize this buildup. Clogged pores can occur at any age and can form anywhere on the body, including the face, chest, back, shoulders, and arms. The most common areas of occurrence are the chin, nose, and forehead – collectively known as the T-zone. If left untreated, clogged pores can develop into whiteheads, blackheads, and pimples – all forms of acne that can cause permanent scarring.
Causes of Clogged Pores
Clogged pores are commonly caused by hormonal changes, which can trigger glands to increase the production of an oily substance known as sebum. Common life stages that cause hormonal changes include puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause. Taking birth control pills can also increase hormone levels and cause acne. Other factors include certain medications, greasy makeup, cleansers, lotions, clothing, perspiration, and a family history of acne occurrence.
Clogged pores are sometimes confused with skin irritation or allergies. To rule out allergies or irritation, use topical hydrocortisone cream or Benadryl for a few days. If the outbreak disappears after using these products, then it was most likely caused by a reaction to an irritant or allergies and not clogged pores.
Prevention
To prevent clogged pores, wash your face and take showers daily, especially when wearing waterproof makeup and sunscreen. Use exfoliating cleansers and treatments, as they will help improve your skin’s renewal rate. Chemical exfoliation is typically more effective than manual exfoliation because the acid in chemical exfoliants can help “melt” away the sebum that is forming the clog. Salicylic acids are great for clogged pores. Microdermabrasion, chemical peels, and using a Clarisonic brush daily will help remove buildup.
Treatment
DermaHealth offers a wide variety of treatments to help prevent and manage acne. A short description of some treatments we provide can be found below, or visit our Acne page for a complete list of our service offerings.
Clarisonic
The Clarisonic cleansing device employs a soft, gentle brush that oscillates back and forth more than 300 times per second. This effective cleansing technique allows products to better absorb into the skin, leaving the skin softer, smoother, and more radiant. Oily areas and dry patches are reduced, and pores appear smaller. At DermaHealth, we encourage all of our clients to be kind to their skin and use a Clarisonic every day. You will see a noticeable difference, and your skin will thank you.
Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion is a gentle exfoliation that removes the top layer of skin, leaving it supple, smooth, and vibrant. This treatment also promotes the growth of healthy new skin. Microdermabrasion helps treat acne by removing excess oils, bacteria, and blackheads from the skin.
DermaSweep
The DermaSweep MD system is a type of microdermabrasion that gently vacuums away the top layer of dead, dry skin and cleans your pores. This treatment is ideal for rosacea clients or older individuals with thinning skin. DermaSweep stimulates blood flow, thus encouraging collagen growth that firms and tones the skin.
Chemical Peels
Chemical peels can range from mild to deep treatments. They chemically exfoliate the outer layer of skin, giving the skin a healthy, fresh glow. Peeling (if any) is dependent upon the type and depth of the peel and your individual skin.
Isōlaz
Isōlaz is a laser treatment focusing on the elimination of acne and the reduction of large pores. It is a painless, chemical- and medication-free treatment. Isōlaz works by creating a light vacuum on the skin, which gently lifts and loosens dirt, dead cells, excess oil, and impurities. It then emits a painless broadband light that destroys acne-causing bacteria, leaving the skin clean and rejuvenated. Studies show that 85% of clients experience clearer skin. Skin types IV-VI require a test pulse 72 hours before the first treatment.
For more information and to see if you are a candidate for our acne treatments, schedule a complimentary consultation with DermaHealth today.