Clogged pores? This is exactly how to treat them, plus the best formulas to try

“Build-up of these toxins can result in everything from lack of luminosity to clogged pores, dry, irritated skin, breakouts and even acne,” she adds. She recommends the CeraVe Blemish Control cleanser which penetrates pores to eliminate the cause of spots & blemishes, while respecting the skin’s natural barrier thanks to ceramides.

Exfoliation

Exfoliate once or twice a week using gentle exfoliating acids such as glycolic or salicylic acid, says Dr Maruthappu. “Use products containing salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide as they help to unclog pores and prevent pimples,” she adds.

Retinol

“Consider a retinol product that can help to reduce sebum (oil) production which reduces the likelihood of blockages developing,” concludes Dr Maruthappu.

Best products to unclog pores

Best resurfacing toner for clogged pores

Ren Clean Skincare Ready Steady Glow Daily AHA Tonic

The OG of pore-unclogging formulas. This skincare mainstay earns its stripes thanks to a cocktail of active ingredients that help slough away dead skin cells, remove blackheads and impart a serious glow.

Best multi-tasking product for clogged pores

Find those pesky blackheads just won’t go away? Trust us when we say this hardworking clay-infused mask by Soho Skin really lives up to the hype, thanks to salicylic acid that helps decongest pores and a probiotic ferment to support skin cell renewal.

Best clarifying treatment for clogged pores

If you’re familiar with the brand’s famed Rice Polish (a blackhead-clearing formula supposedly loved by Meghan Markle) can we turn your attention to this tonic? Thanks to AHAs, niacinamide and Japanese mugwort, it helps clear and clarify your skin for a glowier, smoother-looking complexion.

Best salicylic acid product for clogged pores

Farmacy Deep Sweep 2% BHA Pore Cleaning Toner

A brand making waves for its farm-to-face formulas and dedication to sustainability, this toner harnesses 2% salicylic acid, papaya enzyme and chlorella to help boost your glow, unclog pores and exfoliate the skin, all without stripping your precious skin barrier.

Best mask for clogged pores

A science-backed favourite, Murad’s cult mask harnesses microfine kaolin and bentonite clays to effectively get rid of blackheads and whiteheads.

Best cleanser for clogged pores

Kate Somerville Eradikate Clarifying Blemish Gel Cleanser

Designed for oily and blemish-prone skin, this cleanser helps keep your skin clear on the daily, thanks to the likes of pore-improving salicylic acid and brightening niacinamide.

Best essence for clogged pores

Fresh Kombucha Facial Treatment Essence

To help unclog pores and deliver a hit of hydration, look no further than Fresh’s tea-powered essence, which adds additional protection from environmental aggressors all while making your skin glow, too.