When it comes to being a teenager, one of the biggest problems most have is clogged pores. These pores get clogged by an excessive amount of sebum, a natural substance that helps keep the skin healthy. During puberty, and at other times in life, the amount of sebum that the body produces goes into overdrive. That is due to fluctuating hormones, especially DHT. The sebum attracts skin debris and the combination is what clogs pores. That can lead to bacterial growth and pimple development. Getting those pores clean is important for controlling acne of all sorts.

Here are some easy methods on how to clear pores:

  • Clean your face twice a day with a good soap made for fighting acne prone skin. Use warm water. The idea is to get rid of the excess skin cells and other debris as well as the excessive sebum. However, do not scrub the skin too hard. That will do damage to the surface skin cells.
  • Use an acne cleanser at night after washing your face. It should contain salicylic acid, which helps to keep the skin environment acidic while also clearing pores.
  • Another option for clearing pores is to dab on witch hazel with a cotton ball right after washing the face. This mild astringent helps to tighten the skins pores and remove excess sebum.
  • No more than once a week, it is a good idea to exfoliate the skin. With oily skin, the skin cells tend to stick around longer than they should. That contributes to acne skin. Exfoliation helps to remove the top layer of skin. Doing it more than once a week, though, can damage the skin.
  • Don’t go with heavy makeup. Heavy foundation, especially creamy types, can settle into the pores and make acne prone skin even worse. The first rule on how to clear pores is to keep stuff from clogging it in the first place.
  • Drink plenty of water. The body has the ability to keep itself healthy in most cases. However, you can help it along by consuming water. The water can help the body balance the amount of sebum being produced.
  • Take a steamy shower. This will help the skin pores relax and release some of the trapped debris.
  • Keep items you use around your face clear of excess oil. Glasses are a big one to keep an eye on. The oil can settle onto those surfaces and travel back on the skin where you don’t want it. It is also recommended to wash your pillow sheets at least once a week.

When you need to know how to clear pores, keep these suggestions in mind.