Our skin is continuously excreting oils in order to keep it healthy. Yet this same process often leads to a build-up of dead skin cells which can lead to clogged pores, often in the form of pimples and blackheads.The nose is typically the worst offender for clogged pores because they tend to be larger here and are on an area that stands out (literally) from the rest of your face.
The good news is,with the right skin care routine clogged pores can be reduced or even completely eliminated…but it takes more than simply washing your face.Here are a few simple and cost-effective ways to clean out your pores at home.
How to Remove Clogged Pores from the Nose:
1.Exfoliate
Exfoliate at least once a week but two to three times a week is optimal. Exfoliating removes dead skin cells which are the culprit behind clogged pores. Always exfoliate prior to cleansing and concentrate on problem areas, such as the bridge and sides of your nose. Remember,if you keep the dead skin cells away, you keep the clogged pores away.
Exfoliating scrubs can be purchased at your local pharmacy or made using ingredients found in your own kitchen.This simple scrub can be made in less than five minutes and if stored in a sealed container, will last for several uses.
Sugar and honey exfoliator
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup honey
- 1tbsp olive or coconut oil
- 1 drop of your favourite essential oil (optional)
To use:
- Wet your face with lukewarm water
- Massage the mixture onto your face (concentrating on the nose)
- Wash off with a wet cloth
- Once the exfoliator has been completely removed you are ready to steam, or if you are not steaming, splash your face with cool water and apply moisturizer.
2.Steam
Steaming is a great way to open up pores and flush dirt out. But before you start, it is essential to make sure your face is clean and all make-up is removed. For even better results, exfoliate (see above) prior to steaming.
To do your own steam treatment, you will need a pot of water, a stove, and a towel.
- Heat the water on the stove over medium-high heat
- Once the water is warm enough to emit steam, remove from heat and pour into a bowl
- Place the towel around the back of your head and let it fall to either side of the bowl and around your face. This will ensure the steam concentrates on your face and not the rest of the room
- Keep your face at least 18 inches away from the bowl
- Relax and enjoy the steam treatment for about ten minutes
- Splash cool water on your face to tighten your pores and apply moisturizer
Although steaming is great for clearing out clogged pores, using this method too often can dry out skin in the long run. For best results, steam only two to three times a month.
3.Clay Mask
Clay masks are great for drawing out impurities and are easy to find (at health and beauty stores) or make yourself. This method can be used once or twice a week but to reap all the rewards, you have to use them properly.
– Remove all make-up and gently cleanse your face
- Apply mask evenly over your face
- Wait until the mask starts to dull in colour but is still sticky to the touch
- Remove with a wet wash cloth
It is important not to let the mask fully dry because this will draw out moisture and lead to skin dehydration.
4.DIY clay mask
- 1tbsp bentonite clay (available at health stores)
- 1tbsp water
- 1tbsp oatmeal
- Mix ingredients together and apply following instructions above.
5.Castor Oil
Castor oil is rich in ricin oleic acid which fights off acne-causing bacteria making it a great option not only to remove clogged pores but also as a skin cleanser.
To use the castor oil method:
- Remove all make-up and rinse your face with lukewarm water
- Pour 1tsp of castor oil into your hand and massage on and around your nose
- Let sit for 3-5 minutes
- Soak a washcloth in hot water and place over your face. This will open pores and allow dirt and bacteria to escape
- Once the washcloth has cooled, use it to wipe excess oil away
Use the above methods sparingly and vary them to keep your nose and face fresh, healthy and clogged-pore free.Finally, to maintain a clean, clear, pore-free complexion wash your face twice a day, every day. First thing in the morning and before bed every evening with a gentle skin cleanser. Add a third wash if you have worked up a sweat throughout the day.