Hi!!
Some fun facts!
1. Number of pores and how oily/acne prone can be genetically inherited!
2. For some skin types, the oiliness of skin is increased when the skin is dehydrated i.e. after a long flight.
To answer your question, we will probably need to take a better look at the skin. Is the clogged pores referring to black heads around the T zone or is it closed comedones/white heads around the jawline/sides of cheeks. The diagnosis is quite different and treatment plan is VERY different.
In general, cleansers can remove excess grim and oil from surface of the skin. This is important to prevent acne and to give us a clean surface for skin care products to be applied. Generally cleaners do not get rid of clogged pores!
If you are the former i.e. black heads around T zone… You will likely be younger and the T zone gets oily quite soon after lunch time…. Then consider adding AHA/BHA and/or a retinoid to your skin care regime.
If you are the latter i.e. clogged pores around jawline/sides of cheeks… You are likely in your mid 20s - 30s and conditions seems to worsen prior to menses. The condition could also have been aggravated by a stressful event or wrong skincare/make up. This is hormonal acne and it's best to see a dr who has experience treating this condition. A combination of treatment including the following may be necessary.
1) gentle skin care with selected actives I.e. retinoids
2) comedone extraction professionally done
3) hormonal medication i.e. OCP/Spironolactone
If your clogged pores are becoming painful large pimples then there is an actual risk of scarring. You will need to see a dr as soon as possible to commence treatment!
Good luck!
Dr Yanni
