Free Your Pores and Glow: Causes and Solutions

Even if you don't suffer from acne or hyperpigmentation, your skin still may not be clear. Congested or clogged skin is skin with large pores and blackheads. It appears thick and dull in appearance. Many people think dirt is the culprit for clogged pores, since blackheads are dark in color making them look like dirt stuck in the pore. The real cause of congested skin is a buildup of dead skin cells and the solution is regular, gentle exfoliation.

Every three to four weeks the skin replenishes new cells, causing a layer of dead skin cells to form on the top of the skin. Once these cells mix with excess oil they sink down into your pores and form the dark-colored clogs known as blackheads. This problem can also lead to the formation of whiteheads and acne blemishes when left untreated.

In order to stop this cycle of congested pores and gain a healthy looking glow, you need to slough off the dead cells from your skin. Even though excess dead skin cells are to blame for clogged skin, it is important to make sure you are using the right type of exfoliation product to remove the congested layer.

Scrubs with large exfoliating grains are too harsh for the skin, resulting in damage to the healthy cells. An exfoliant with soft beads or grains will effectively remove the dead buildup without causing harm. These products should be used after gentle cleansing, that removes your makeup and daily buildup, preparing your skin for exfoliation.

Alpha Hydroxy Acid treatments are a great way to help clear your pores of debris in between weekly exfoliations. Glycolic Acid, Mandelic Acid, Malic Acid, and Lactic Acid all work to renew the surface layer of the skin, clearing out dead skin cells. After cleansing and toning, you can apply an AHA serum in a light layer to your entire face to aid in skin clearing.

If your skin is too sensitive for any type of scrub or Alpha Hydroxy Acid, Fruit Enzymes are a gently way to break up the bonds between the dead cells and clear them away. Products with Pumpkin, Papaya, and Pineapple unplug your pores without the need for scrubbing. These ingredients are usually contained in peels or masks and should be used once weekly, depending on the level of exfoliation needed.

Once your skin is free of clogs, you will be amazed at how much healthier and brighter it will look. The texture of your skin will be smooth, supple, and radiant.

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