How to Clean Pores in 4 Easy Steps

As small as they are, skin pores continuously wreak havoc on our complexion when they become clogged, which is often for most people. Good thing there are ways to unclog enlarged pores easily and keep them free of impurities as much as possible. Clogged pores and blackheads make the skin’s surface appear dirty, oily, and less refreshed than when it’s been scrubbed clean of all of the dirt and grime that piles up throughout the day. 

Ready to take back control of your skincare with clean beauty tips? Learn how to unclog pores in four easy steps and return to your naturally glowing self. Though simple, these steps will deep clean your pores, remove blackheads, and exfoliate the skin for pore minimizing effects.

Step #1: Always Remove Your Makeup

We’ve all encountered falling asleep without washing off our makeup, but it’s not a good habit to get into as it can lead to congested pores. Forgetting to remove your makeup or wash your face is one of the quickest ways to clog your pores and cause breakouts. The barrier of makeup works against the natural regeneration of skin cells while you sleep. Even if your makeup looks wiped away by morning, it’s already made its way deep down into your pores getting prepped to erupt when you least expect it. 

Learning how to remove makeup properly is important and should be part of your regular skincare routine. With our convenient, Honest Makeup Remover Wipes, it takes mere seconds to do. Even after a late night out or during your laziest moments, there’s no excuse not to swipe one over your face. Even when the thought of washing your face may seem daunting, it's fundamental that you at least take the makeup off. 

Infused with a blend of grape seed and olive oils, our time-saving facial wipes lift away makeup, dirt and oil without causing dry skin. By using them on a regular basis, you’ll instantly have fresher, cleaner skin. The best part? They are formulated for every skin type!

Step #2: Keep Your Face Clean

This step may seem like a no-brainer but your face is collecting grime and impurities throughout the day. A good facial cleanser is a must-have skin care product at the center of every skincare routine. Keep the face free of buildup by using facial wipes or the Honest Magic-Gel-to-Milk Cleanser post-workout, after a long flight, or whenever your skin needs a boost. While it’s not necessary to break out a full skincare routine everywhere you go, when time is limited, this will help to prevent and clean blocked pores.

Also, give your face a chance to breathe by taking off your makeup as soon as you get home or simplify your makeup routine altogether. Do you know how to reduce the appearance of enlarged pores? Consider primer your best friend. Using lukewarm water, wash your face with a facial cleanser, moisturizer. Next, apply primer, dot on concealer, skip the foundation, and set with a light powder. Finally, add a pop of color using our Creme Cheek + Lip Color.

Step #3: Exfoliate the Skin 

Exfoliation is one of the most powerful methods for unclogging pores. Every once in a while the pores will become so clogged, a regular wash simply won’t do. That’s when you rely on the powerful benefits of exfoliating regularly. If you have sensitive skin, use a milder product and a damp washcloth to gently slough away dead skin cells. You may even reach for our Skin Sweep Exfoliating Powder Cleanser. However, for combination or oily skin types, look for a product that contains hydroxy acids such as glycolic acid or a beta hydroxy acid like salicylic acid to actively remove impurities and leave the skin looking more radiant.

The first step in knowing how to exfoliate your face is that you must rub the product in gentle circular motions on the skin. This motion will help penetrate skin pores and can help release blackhead and sebum buildup. You want to make sure the product absorbs fully for a deep pore cleansing, but don’t scrub the skin's surface to the point where it causes aggravation or tiny tears. Regardless of your skin tone, these layers are delicate so be firm but gentle during exfoliation.

Step #4: Apply a Detoxifying Mask

A detoxifying face mask reaches down deep to the dirt and excess sebum. Apply the 3-in-1 DetoxMud Mask generously to the face, avoiding the eye area. Leave the creamy formula on for 10 to 15 minutes and then rinse with lukewarm water and pat the skin dry. The combination of ingredients, which include activated charcoal and shea butter, removes impurities, helps to minimize the appearance of pores, and leaves the skin feeling soft. 

Run yourself a warm bubble bath, apply this face mask, and ease into the end of your day in a relaxing way. De-stress and let the mask go to work for you for a pampering dose of self-care. 

The Dos and Don’ts to Clearer Skin

Following these four easy steps will help you get cleaner pores and brighter-looking skin. As you find new products and tips that work best for you, keep in mind these few dos and don’ts. 

• Do use products that are made without parabens, synthetic dyes, or fragrances. 

• Don’t pick at your pores. It may seem tempting, but doing so can result in scarring or inflammation. Leave the extractions and chemical exfoliations for a professional dermatologist to perform.

• Do give your skin a breather whenever possible, especially if you wear makeup daily. Pick a day to go makeup free. 

• Don’t skip out on your skincare routine. Missing even one day can lead to blocked pores. 

• Do get plenty of sleep. A good night’s rest maximizes the effects of your skincare regimen by promoting the skin’s natural cell renewal process. 

• Don’t let clogged pores get you down. They happen to the best of us. Luckily, you have the tools to combat them.

Next time you notice your skin isn’t looking as glowing as you’d like it to be, remember to remove your makeup, keep your face clean throughout the day, use an exfoliator on a regular basis, and apply a detoxifying mask as an added defense. You can even learn how to do an at-home facial to thoroughly cleanse your skin from the comfort of your home. Once you know how to clean pores and unclog pores consistently and easily, you’ll have brighter, healthier skin in no time.

Here at Honest, we aim to provide you with the most honest and credible information possible. This article was reviewed for accuracy by The Honest Team and was written based on trusted sources that are linked at the bottom of the article.