Focus & Fixes – Blackheads & Clogged pores
Congestion can affect any skin type, from the oiliest to the driest.
What causes congestion?
Congestion occurs when sebum and skin debris gets stuck within pores. If the opening is exposed to air, it oxidises and appears as a blackhead. Otherwise, it remains enclosed and becomes a flesh-coloured bump under the skin known as clogged pore.
Some people are naturally predisposed to congestion. However, it can also be caused by using products that are too rich for the skin.
Daily routine focus
- Right technique
- Rinses off completely
Make sure you are cleansing long enough (at least 50 seconds). Apply circular motions, going through every crevice of your face, emphasising on areas prone to congestion.
Your cleanser removes unwanted oil by binding them to itself. Thus it’s important that it rinses off completely, without leaving any residue on your face.
- Salicylic acid
- AHAs
Being oil-soluble, it can dissolve the sebum trapped within pores, clearing them out. It’s particularly great for combination to oily skins.
AHAs prevent congestion by promoting skin renewal i.e removing dead skin build-up on skin surface.
- Oil-free
- Light-textured
Certain oils e.g. plant butters/oils, waxes, encourage blocked pores due to their chemical composition. Choose oil-free versions instead.
Products of thick/heavy consistency occlude skin thus promoting clogged pores.
Other tips
Sometimes there’s nothing like manual extraction for stubborn congestion. If you are doing it yourself, the best time is after a warm shower, with clean face and hands. Focus on one blocked pore at a time, apply light pressure on opposing sides to release its content. Do not exert or force anything out!
Prevention is key in treating congestion. Find products right for you and be diligent with your routine!
