Dealing with clogged pores has been a popular topic of conversation amongst skincare enthusiasts and newbies alike, with numerous myths surrounding what pores can and cannot do. Dr. Taruna Yadav, Senior Ayurveda Doctor at Forest Essentials, explains what actually are clogged pores, what causes them, and how can you unclog with a consistent routine.

Pores, found all over our face, are small openings on the skin that allow it to breathe and perspire. Our pores can get clogged when dead skin cells find themselves trapped within pores, causing the pores to become clogged. Clogged pores affect the skin negatively, making it difficult for the skin to function at its best. It also reduces the efficacy of one’s skincare routine and the products — much like a clogged sink where water simply floats, skincare sits atop clogged pores instead of being absorbed into the skin. Clogged pores reduce the efficiency of one’s entire skincare routine and, in fact, attract more grime to collect on the skin.

A popular myth surrounding pores is that they open and close — this is untrue. While pores may contract and expand, they do not ‘open’ or ‘close’. Similarly, pores cannot be made to vanish — pores are a necessary part of our skin’s mechanism and keep the skin alive by allowing it to breathe and perspire. Having poreless skin is, therefore, both impossible and unhealthy as it restricts necessary biological processes.

However, pores can be minimised by indulging in a targeted routine that reduces the appearance of pores while making the skin smooth and healthy, using products by Forest Essentials.

Pores get clogged for a variety of reasons, most of which can be averted by using a consistent routine that involves cleansing, toning and moisturizing the skin. Regular, bi-weekly exfoliation helps prevent dead skin cells from building up on the skin.

Forest Essentials’ Facial Ubtan Multani Mitti is a gentle, daily cleanser with mild exfoliating properties that deep cleanses and purifies the skin with a potent blend of Ayurvedic herbs including Neem, Turmeric, Fenugreek, and Multani Mitti. The cleanser gently exfoliates the dead skin and can be used as a mask when left applied to the skin.

Toning the skin is of paramount importance to restore balance to the skin’s pH. Toners can help reduce acne, tighten pores, and alleviate inflammation for blemish-free, clear skin. Toners also help treat the skin, with Forest Essentials’ Shudhi Clarifying Facial Spray designed to eliminate toxins and lock in moisture and nutrients into the skin. The Spray is also designed to strengthen the skin’s natural barrier and stimulate its innate antioxidants.

With regular exfoliation, the need to protect the skin becomes even more pronounced. Using regular sun protection is key to preventing dark spots and pigmentation from forming on the skin. The Forest Essentials Eladi Day Cream with SPF 30 is specially designed to regulate sebum production, balance and hydrate the skin while protecting it. By regulating the oil produced by the skin, the cream prevents pores from getting clogged in the future.

Along with a regimented routine, it is important to not touch one’s face and to cleanse the skin well at the end of the day. Makeup, sunscreen, and sweat all contribute to pores getting increasingly clogged and forming acne and breakouts. Using ice on the skin, wrapped in a muslin cloth, is also incredibly beneficial to reduce the appearance of pores and to manage the skin’s oil production.

Taking these steps can help minimize the appearance of pores on the skin and help achieve the look of healthy, blemish-free skin while maintaining the skin’s integrity and health.