7 Steps to Clearing Clogged Pores on Nose

For some, clogged, oversized pores on the nose is an ongoing struggle. Whether you've tried a clay mask or your favourite clarifying mask, you can't help but wonder if there are additional techniques to incorporate into your skincare routine and lifestyle to keep these little buggers at bay.

Here at FirstBase Skincare, we are sharing our 7 tips and tricks to clear up this troublesome area for fresher, cleaner skin. From safe, at-home treatments to options to explore with a professional, we hope these guidelines will help you to reduce blackheads, congestion, and oversized pores on the nose.

WHAT DO CLOGGED NOSE PORES LOOK LIKE?

According to Healthline, "clogged pores typically consist of a combination of sebum and dead skin cells that get stored in the hair follicles beneath." After all this messy stuff is stuck beneath the skin, it then hardens within the follicle walls. Often referred to as a 'plug', these clogged pores may then turn black as the sebum undergoes a chemical reaction (oxidizes) and turns black.

Unfortunately, for most, the nose is an area where blackheads, as well as oversized pores, thrive. This is because the nose has more oil glands than any other area of the face, and blackheads are most common in the T-Zone (nose, forehead, and chin).

WHAT CAUSES ENLARGED AND CLOGGED PORES ON THE NOSE?

1. GENETICS

If your parents suffer from overactive sebaceous glands, this will most likely be the case for you. Overactive sebaceous glands mean there is an overproduction of oil, especially in the t-zone, leading to a higher chance of congestion and oversized pores.

2. HORMONES

A common hormonal imbalance is suffering from an excessive amount of male hormones. When there is excess androgen and testosterone, this over-stimulates the production of sebum, leading to pimples, whiteheads, blackheads, cysts, pustules, and papules.

3. LIFESTYLE FACTORS

Your lifestyle choices deeply affect your skin health. Your nose is constantly the first part of your face to inhale debris and harmful environmental pollutants. It is important to eat well, exercise to detoxify the skin, and practice clean hygiene.

HOW TO CLEAN AND UNCLOG PORES

1. WASH YOUR FACE

Cleansing the skin should always be the first step in your skincare routine. This nourishing step will remove makeup products, harmful bacteria, excessive dirt and oil, and will also balance the pH levels on your nose. We recommend a gentle, non-drying cleanser with active ingredients such as salicylic acid or lotus flower extract. Cleanse daily with lukewarm water.

2. EXFOLIATE WEEKLY TO REMOVE DEAD SKIN CELLS

Exfoliation is key in the treatment of nose pores. We recommend opting for a chemical exfoliant with enzymes like papain (derived from papaya), bromelain (derived from pineapple), baobab extract, or glycolic, lactic, and salicylic acid. Exfoliation can be done once weekly.

3. TRY STEAMING OR A HOT CLOTH

Before cleansing, place a hot cloth over the nose to help open up the pores. Steaming the face has also been shown to release and break up trapped sebum, while hydrating and soothing the skin.

4. LOCK IN MOISTURE

It's a common misconception that oily skin does not require added moisture. Choose a non-comedogenic, oil-free, lightweight moisturizer with ceramides and hyaluronic acid. These will help make your skin stronger and maintain more water and hydration with continued use.

5. WEAR SUNSCREEN

The biggest correlation between excess sun exposure and nose pores is an increase in pore visibility. Apply SPF 30+ daily to protect from harmful pollutants, irritants, and sun damage. Look for oil and fragrance-free, non-comedogenic formulas.

6. AT-HOME TECHNIQUES

Never pick, squeeze, or pry at your nose pores at home. In addition to steaming and hot cloth techniques, incorporate a nose clearing strip into your routine to help pull out unwanted oils and reduce the visible size of your nose pores.

7. SEEK PROFESSIONAL HELP

We always recommend seeking professional help if your skin health has not improved. Dermatologists can provide treatments such as micro-needling, laser treatments, chemical peels, and mechanical extractions for oversized, clogged pores on the nose.

Every individual has their own skin journey, but we hope that incorporating some of these tips and tricks will allow you to stress less over those stubborn clogged pores on your nose.

Questions, comments, or concerns? We'd love to hear from you. Simply reach out at info@firstbaseskincare.com.