A very small percent of the population is naturally blessed with perfect skin?but the rest of us are doomed to wander the earth trying to figure out how to get rid of clogged pores (a.k.a. blackheads) and closed comedones (a.k.a. those flesh-looking bumps that never really come to a head).
Whether from inflammation in the skin due to an excess of white blood cells, stress or too much oil, clogged pores are pretty much inevitable. We’ve sought out some relief in the form of at home remedies, products and tips?so that the small problem of clogged pores doesn’t turn into a bigger problem (like acne).
1. Invest in a Clarisonic
The Mia 2 two-speed facial brush from Clarisonic is great to use on skin with enlarged and clogged pores, and using the brush head is said to cleanse skin six times more than your hands alone. Use the machine with a good cleanser and a detox mask right after and you’re well on your way to unclogged pores. (Mia 2, $169; at Clarisonic) 2. Find a mask with active charcoal ingredients
A paraben-free option is always a plus. Origins’ Clear Improvement Active Charcoal Mask contains activated charcoal that is used to remove anything under or on top of the skin contributing to clogged pores. You can use this mask once every week or every day but either way you choose, your pores will be sure to thank you. (Origins Clear Improvement Active Charcoal Mask to Clear Pores, $26; at Sephora)
MORE: The Best Korean Pore Strips to Totally Annihil...