Top 5 for Congestion-Free Skin

Congested pores, dull complexion, uneven skin, whiteheads and blackheads are actually signs of clogged skin and it does not happen only on young people but also on adults. Blackheads are actually small plugs that seal the pores and are made of oils, dead cells and sebum. Due to exposure to the air, the plug darkens and becomes more visible. On the other hand, whiteheads stay under the skin surface and covered by debris, so they remain lighter in color.

Whiteheads, blackheads, and clogged pores occur due to a few factors, such as accumulated toxins, excess fat and sebum. In addition, pollution, dead skin cells, make-up and dirt can enter the open pores, which continuously producing sebum and oil. Each factor contributes to congestion differently, but still significantly.

The real cause of congested skin is a buildup of dead skin cells and the solution is regular, gentle exfoliation.

• Pore Suction Device

Honestly, if your skin is prone to congestion, it is good to have a little something extra to make sure the pores are deep cleaned. A suction cleansing device comes really handy in this case. These device work on vaccum/suction method and sucks all gunk, blackheads/whiteheads giving a clear skin. I have been enjoying Sensse Beauty Deep Pore Suction Cleanser | £69.99 for a while now and this cleanser instantly lifts toxins (dirt, impurities, blackheads or whiteheads) out to clear pores. This splash-proof, gentle yet powerful cleanser removes dead skin cells and purifies pores. For a more intense treatment, use the mist nozzle for deep and thorough cleansing to unclog stubborn pores and leave skin feeling squeaky-clean. The cleanser comes with 3 nozzle heads (Small – for sensitive & delicate areas such as sides of nose, Big – for stronger suction on larger areas, Blackhead attachment). The device is also available on Amazon and comes with 2 year warranty.

• AHA/BHA Cleanser

Using an AHA/BHA Cleanser in your skincare routine also helps exfoliating any dead skin and avoiding any congestion. Murad Skincare AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser | £35 for 200 ml is one of the best ones available. This intensive cleanser polishes away dullness and impurities for a smoother, younger-looking complexion. It smooths the texture of skin, clearing pores of dead skin cells and removing trapped dirt and impurities, helping to leave skin soft, smooth and supple, to revealing a younger-looking complexion. You can also use this cleanser all over the body, ensuring super-soft skin from head to toe.

• Exfoliating Toner/ Chemical Exfoliation

I am not a fan of physical exfoliation as it makes me think of delicate skin rubbing against harsh abrasives! Chemical exfoliating toners melt the dead skin and impurities revealing a brighter, smoother skin. The cult-favourite Pixi Glow Tonic | £18 for 250 ml is an alcohol-free gycolic acid toner which gently melts all dead skin and helps helps tone, firm and tighten the skin. The toner removes all dead skin cells, blackheads and whiteheads for healthier looking skin. I remember the first time I used this toner and the difference was instantly visible and it wowed me. My skin looked amazing after first use and since then it is a part of my skincare routine. I won’t say you will be wowed with every use as your skin will get used to it and it will become a necessity. However, when you stop using it, you will notice dullness and lacklustre skin.

• Clay mask

Clay Masks are proven to clear your pores and shrink them temporarily. They are an easy and cost-effective way to give your skin a boost without hitting a spa. Almost all skincare brands do clay masks and my long-time favourite is Caudalie Instant Detox Mask | £22 for 75 ml. This mask deeply cleanses and minimises pores. purifies stressed city dwelling skin, treating all forms of free radical damage. Its 99.3% natural clay formula draws away impurities and toxins. Skin texture is left refined, pores are tightened, the complexion is even. The mask clears out pores and lefts skin smoothed, plumped and moisturised rather than stripping moisture and aggravating. It also works well as an overnight spot treatment to reduce swelling and redness.

• Mud Mask

The minerals in mud are highly effective for absorbing oil and for toning the skin. Mud is often used to detoxify and tone skin and is used as an anti-inflammatory agent for skin disorders. A mud mask gently works away impurities by absorbing into skin, unclogging pores, and tackling pesky signs of aging. Omorovicza Ultramoor Mud Mask | £68 for 50 ml is a detoxifying face mask that works to purify, energise and define your facial contours. This clay mask with Hungarian Moor Mud and Hectorite clay expertly energises, hydrates and protects your skin, penetrating deep down to visibly lift and brighten your skin. Dead skin cells are eliminated to reveal a brighter, smoother, more refined complexion. The mask is quite expensive but its totally worth it!

Until next time

Ashh xo

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*This post also features some PR samples. Opinions are my own & unbiased.