The Best Skincare For Comedones and Clogged Pores
Comedones, commonly known as clogged pores, are a prevalent skin concern manifesting as small bumps on the skin's surface. They are primarily categorised into two types:
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Open Comedones (Blackheads): These occur when a pore is clogged with sebum and dead skin cells, and remains open. The exposure to air causes the clogged material to oxidize, leading to a black or dark appearance.
- Closed Comedones (Whiteheads): These form when a pore is clogged and closed at the surface, resulting in a small, flesh-colored bump. Unlike blackheads, the trapped material isn't exposed to air, so it doesn't darken.
Identifying comedones involves observing the skin for these characteristic bumps, which may be more prevalent in areas with higher oil production, such as the forehead, nose, and chin.
Common Causes of Comedones
Several factors contribute to the development of comedones:
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Excess Sebum Production: Overactive sebaceous glands can lead to oilier skin, increasing the likelihood of clogged pores.
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Accumulation of Dead Skin Cells: Without regular exfoliation, dead skin cells can build up, combining with sebum to block pores.
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Hormonal Fluctuations: Changes in hormone levels, especially during puberty, menstruation, or stress, can stimulate increased oil production.
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Use of Comedogenic Products: Skincare or cosmetic products containing ingredients that clog pores can exacerbate the formation of comedones.
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Products and Ingredients To Avoid - And What To Choose Instead
Some products have a higher likelihood of clogging pores than others. Here are some common culprits to watch out for:
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Heavy Creams & Moisturisers
- Thick creams with rich emollients may be too occlusive for acne-prone skin.
- Look for gel-based or lightweight moisturisers instead.
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Oily Sunscreens
- Some sunscreens contain pore-clogging oils, making them unsuitable for those with congestion-prone skin.
- Opt for non-comedogenic, lightweight sunscreens formulated for oily or sensitive skin.
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Makeup with Thick or Oil-Based Formulas
- Foundations with mineral oils or waxes can block pores and contribute to breakouts.
- Choose lightweight, non-comedogenic makeup that allows the skin to breathe.
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Cleansers with Harsh Sulphates
- Sulphates like Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) can strip the skin, leading to overproduction of oil, increasing the risk of clogged pores.
- Sulphates like Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) can strip the skin, leading to overproduction of oil, increasing the risk of clogged pores.
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Occlusive Lip Balms & Glosses
- Many lip products contain waxes or lanolin, which can lead to clogged pores around the lips (perioral acne).
Addressing Comedones with Korean Skincare
Korean skincare routines are renowned for their multi-step approach, focusing on gentle yet effective methods to maintain clear and healthy skin. Here's how you can tailor a Korean skincare regimen to combat comedones:
1. Double Cleansing
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Oil-Based Cleanser: Begin with an oil-based cleanser to dissolve makeup, sunscreen, and excess sebum. Try the Purito From Green Cleansing Oil – a gentle cleanser that effectively removes impurities without irritating the skin.
- Water-Based Cleanser: Follow up with a gentle foaming cleanser to remove any remaining impurities and water-based debris. Try the Face Shop Rice Water Bright Cleansing Foam - a revitalising cleanser that brightens the skin while ensuring a thorough cleanse.
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Oil-Based Cleanser: Begin with an oil-based cleanser to dissolve makeup, sunscreen, and excess sebum. Try the Purito From Green Cleansing Oil – a gentle cleanser that effectively removes impurities without irritating the skin.
2. Exfoliation
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Chemical Exfoliants: Incorporate products containing Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs) like salicylic acid. BHAs penetrate oily pores to exfoliate from within, effectively reducing blackheads and whiteheads. Try the COSRX AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner – combines multiple acids to exfoliate and clear pores effectively.
- Frequency: Exfoliate 1-2 times a week to prevent over-exfoliation, which can irritate the skin and worsen comedones.
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Chemical Exfoliants: Incorporate products containing Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs) like salicylic acid. BHAs penetrate oily pores to exfoliate from within, effectively reducing blackheads and whiteheads. Try the COSRX AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner – combines multiple acids to exfoliate and clear pores effectively.
3. Toning
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pH-Balancing Toner: Use a toner to restore the skin's natural pH and prepare it for subsequent products. Try the Dr Jart+ Cicapair Intensive Soothing Repair Treatment Lotion - calms and balances the skin, preparing it for the next steps in your routine.
- Ingredients to Look For: Toners with tea tree oil or witch hazel can provide additional antibacterial benefits.
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pH-Balancing Toner: Use a toner to restore the skin's natural pH and prepare it for subsequent products. Try the Dr Jart+ Cicapair Intensive Soothing Repair Treatment Lotion - calms and balances the skin, preparing it for the next steps in your routine.
4. Essence
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Hydration: Apply a lightweight, hydrating essence to plump the skin and enhance absorption of subsequent products. Try the COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence – Hydrates and repairs the skin, improving overall texture.
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Ingredients to Look For: Essences containing snail mucin can aid in skin repair and hydration.
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Hydration: Apply a lightweight, hydrating essence to plump the skin and enhance absorption of subsequent products. Try the COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence – Hydrates and repairs the skin, improving overall texture.
5. Treatment
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- Targeted Serums: Utilise serums with active ingredients like niacinamide to regulate sebum production and improve skin texture. Try the Mary & May Niacinamide + Chaenomeles Sinensis Serum – targets hyperpigmentation and uneven texture, promoting a clearer complexion.
6. Moisturising
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Non-Comedogenic Moisturizer: Opt for a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer to hydrate the skin without clogging pores. Try the COSRX Oil-Free Ultra Moisturising Lotion – provides lightweight hydration suitable for oily and combination skin types.
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Non-Comedogenic Moisturizer: Opt for a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer to hydrate the skin without clogging pores. Try the COSRX Oil-Free Ultra Moisturising Lotion – provides lightweight hydration suitable for oily and combination skin types.
7. Sun Protection
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- Daily Sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily to protect the skin from UV damage, which can exacerbate comedones. Try the Beauty of Joseon Aqua Fresh SPF - offers effective sun protection with a light, non-greasy finish, ideal for daily use.
By adopting a consistent skincare routine with these carefully selected products, you can effectively manage and reduce the appearance of comedones, leading to a clearer and healthier complexion.
More Information
- Learn all about blocked pore and pimples with the Medical News Today 'What to know about comedonal acne' guide.
- Derm Net NZ has a photo guide to help you dientify different types of
- Comedones in their 'Comedonal Acne' guide.
Finally, heathline get into the finer details with their article 'What Is Comedonal Acne and How Is It Treated?'
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