What Is the Definition of Clogged Pores?

Turn on the television any time of the day or night, and you'll likely hear something about clogged pores, acne and some sort of product designed to get rid of them. Pimples are usually associated with the teenage years, but a number of adults suffer from skin blemishes as well.

Clogged Pores

A pore is an opening of the skin through which sweat and other materials can pass. A skin pore can become clogged when it fills up with sebaceous fluid or dead skin, and is overcome by bacteria on the face.

Causes

Any oil, dirt or bacteria on the skin can cause clogged pores. Clogged pores cause pimples, blackheads and whiteheads.

Skin Type

People with oily skin are more likely to suffer from clogged pores than people with other types of skin. People with dry skin are more likely to suffer clogged pores, because of the buildup of dead skin cells.

Keeping Skin Clear

Washing your face helps. Using an antibacterial soap kills bacteria that cause an acne outbreak.

Free for Life

The use of exfoliants, facials and lightly abrasive chemicals can prevent the buildup of sebaceous fluid, which is the principal culprit in the formation of acne, whiteheads and blackheads.