How do I unclog my pores with a mask?

Pores: we all have them, and we've all been frustrated with clogging at some point. “A clogged pore is caused by increased sebum (the oils produced by skin), dead skin cells, and dirt—stuff from the outside world, even makeup,” says dermatologist Mona Gohara, MD, Associate Clinical Professor at Yale University.

Table of Contents Show

1. Use salicylic acid.
2. Mask with charcoal or clay once a week.
3. Invest in a comedone extractor.
4. Use retinol in your routine.
5. Indulge in a weekly pore strip.
6. Opt for in-office acne facials.
How do I clean my pores with a mask?
What is the best mask for clogged pores?

Meet Our Experts: Mona Gohara, MD, dermatologist and Associate Clinical Professor at Yale University, Joshua Zeichner, MD, dermatologist and Director of Cosmetic and Clinical Research in Dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City, Shari Marchbein, MD, dermatologist and fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology

And, if you think you have large pores, it could just be that they're clogged and drawing more attention to themselves. “The size of your pores don't change," says dermatologist Joshua Zeichner, MD, Director of Cosmetic and Clinical Research in Dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. Think of a plastic grocery bag—when it's empty, it's tight and stuck together; when you fill it up, it expands. The same thing happens when your pores are full. So, if you want to make your pores appear smaller, keep them clean. Here, the safest and most effective ways to do so.

1. Use salicylic acid.

To get the gunk out of your pores, you need the best gunk buster around—salicylic acid. "Gentile exfoliating cleansers of the salicylic acid variant are great because salicylic acid is a Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA) that cuts through sebum and breaks it down," says Dr. Gohara. If using a cleanser, leave it on a little longer than you normally would before rinsing to give it some extra time to work its magic.

The Ordinary Salicylic Acid 2% Masque

The INKEY List Salicylic Acid Acne + Pore Cleanser

Kate Somerville ExfoliKate® Intensive Pore Exfoliating Treatment

2. Mask with charcoal or clay once a week.

It's no surprise that these OG acne-fighting heroes are great ingredients for unclogging pores. "Some of my favorite ways to unclog pores are by using either clay or charcoal masks which can help draw impurities, bacteria and sebum/oil out of pores," says Shari Marchbein, MD, dermatologist and fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology. But, she cautions that masking is only a temporary fix, and should be repeated at least once a week to truly benefit your skin and reduce the appearance of pores.

3. Invest in a comedone extractor.

As satisfying as it is to squeeze a blackhead, it is the hands-down worst way to to treat a clogged pore. But, using a comedone extractor is not only safe and effective, it's also dermatologist recommended. "Comedone extractors are regularly used in extraction treatments at a dermatologists office, so they are good and safe tools to use when dealing with clogged pores," says Dr. Gohara. Just be sure to thoroughly clean it with rubbing alcohol after each use.

Tweezerman Tweezerman No-Slip Skin Care Tool

4. Use retinol in your routine.

For people who are prone to breakouts, or even for those who aren't but face pore insecurity (shout out to my big pore people!) Dr. Marchbein suggests using prescription retinoids like Retin A or over-the-counter options like Differin gel. "Retinoid creams can build collagen over time, thereby strengthening the walls of pores and making them appear smaller. They also act to exfoliate the skin," she says.

5. Indulge in a weekly pore strip.

It turns out those super satisfying pore strips are actually derm approved! Dr. Marchbein says, "adhesive pore strips can temporarily improve clogged pores by removing trapped dirt and oil by using an adhesive. However, these treatments need to be repeated at least once a week as pores will naturally fill back up." Keep in mind: It may be satisfying, but Dr. Marchbein says there's no permanent change or improvements on the skin from using the strips.

HydroPeptide HydroPeptide Bambusa Blackhead Banisher Pore Perfecting Nose Mask (8 piece)

6. Opt for in-office acne facials.

Acne facials are an effective and great way to unclog pores, just ask any dermatologist. "In office treatments, such as Hydrafacials and microdermabrasion are good examples of less aggressive in-office treatments that can improve the appearance of pores by mechanically exfoliating the skin," says Dr. Marchbein. They also allow pore clearing ingredients like salicylic acid to go deeper into the skin, "which can further contribute to glowing skin, even pigmentation and the appearance of smaller pores," she adds.

Julia Paolercio is a Beauty Intern for Women's Health Magazine. You can always find her reading on the train and finding a way to put glitter on everything.