Clogged pores on chin, nose, around the mouth, face or anywhere on the body is a common problem that affects many people especially the teens and those undergoing lots of hormonal changes. They are likely to trigger various acne forms such as whiteheads (white bumps on chin), blackheads and if infected they can lead to pimples and other severe forms of acne. Some won’t go away easily or will keep reccuring.
Causes or triggers
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Clogged pores are a common issue that can be triggered by a number of factors. They include improper skincare routine such as sleeping with your makeup on, excessive sebum production, genetics, skin type among others.
Hormonal changes in the body could also lead to their appearance. For instance, young adolescents, or pregnant mothers are likely to exhibit the condition. The increase in hormones such as androgens causes a chain reaction in the body which ultimately affects the skin to these groups of affected people. The pores become large and produce the sebaceous oil. In the end, the excess oil blocks the pores leading to clogged pores. Therefore, it is ok to conclude that the physiology of the skin along with changes that happen within and outside the body can lead to blocked pores.
Understanding the skin on the face
There are three layers that constitute the skin: the dermal layer, the epidermal layer, and the subcutaneous layer. The outermost structure is the epidermal layer. It constitutes of various cells including the keratinocytes, and dendritic cells. The pores that open up at the epidermal layer are formed by the folding of the epidermis tissue into the dermal layer.
Consider the pores as a pipeline or an outlet in which the inner parts of the skin get things out. These “things” include oil from the sebaceous glands. Whereas this oil is necessary for keeping it hydrated and protecting the top-most layer from bacteria, over-production of the oil contributes to clogged pores.
Alternatively, the frequent cell rejuvenation by the keratinocytes means that there is a constant supply of dead cells on the epidermal layer. As a consequence, these dead cells can clog the pores.
Finally, dirt from the outside world, as well as make-up build-up, also results in the same effects-Clogged pores.
Therefore clogging occurs due to excess sebum production, accumulation of dead skin cells and/or dirt such as dust particles from the environment.
Let us now look at the common skin types in relation to this problem.
Common skin types and clogged pores
The below types that are susceptible to clogging of pores. These include people with:
- Oily skin: People with oily skin tend to have large pores. As a result, they are susceptible to bacterial infection, oil-build-up, dirt build-up that may irritate the skin leading to conditions such as acne, whiteheads, blackheads, and rashes.
- Combination dry: People with combination dry skin (overall dry skin with oily patches at the nose and chin) have a high risk of developing clogged pores. Such people may have their pores clogged in the nose, chin, forehead or the t-zone area. Their skin may be dry and poreless at the outer edges of the face.
- Combination oily: Mostly oil on the T-zone including the forehead, nose, and chin, with the rest of the face being dry and having small pores. Highly susceptible to clogged pores.
- Acne-prone Skin: This type is susceptible to this problem. The person may have open comedones (Blackheads) and closed comedones (whiteheads).
The skin on the face is more exposed to the elements of the outside world compared to that in other parts of the body. Factors like stress, anxiety, worry can exacerbate the condition leading to worse problems, for instance, acne, and itching. Furthermore, the excessive use of cosmetics such as moisturizers, concealers, or foundation as well as certain chemicals, and dyes found in these products could make the situation worse.
Causes or why the chin?
The answer to this question has to do with the genetic make-up of your skin and the underlying processes occurring within it. Some people are more likely to develop clogged pores on their chin due to the nature of their skin. The skin on the chin may be sensitive and therefore more vulnerable to disruptions in this functions. For instance, if you have the habit of frequently touching your chin with your hands, then you are likely to transfer dirt and bacteria on to that part leading to clogged pores.
Similarly, hormonal imbalances can trigger the condition. According to Harold Lancer, a Celebrity dermatologist, hormonal imbalances in the body can trigger an overproduction of oil
Solutions to try at home to unclog your chin area
Determining the root cause of the problem is one step towards the right treatment. If the clogging is as a result of overproduction of oil, then products containing acne-fighting ingredients can help with the situation.
Alternatively, if the clogging is due to dead cells, a gentle exfoliator can produce great results. Go for organic Clay mineral masks, such as Releve Organic Skin Care. Do not exfoliate it too frequently as it may aggravate the face. Consider steaming your face as well to loosen or unclog the pores on the chin.
Purchase products that are natural and designed your skin type, for instance, go for those with sensitive skin. Follow a simple care routine that includes the use of a “paraben-free” gentle cleanser. Also, opt for non-comedogenic products for your face. Lastly, topical comedolytic products should be applied only in the affected area for better results. Remember the golden rules for beauty; Keep your hands away from your face. Do not sleep with make-up on. Good luck!
References:
- https://www.livestrong.com/article/520634-how-to-close-pores-after-unclogging-huge-blackheads-whiteheads/
- https://www.bioclarity.com/blogs/clear-skin/jawline-acne-causes-and-treatment
- Milady Standard Cosmetology, Cengage Learning
- https://naturalbeautytips.co/get-rid-of-clogged-pores-nose-face-chin/