Blackheads, whiteheads and bumpiness are just a few telling characteristics of this skin type, which, if ignored, can reward you with acne, inflammation and more. We asked dermatologists on their best advice on dealing with congested skin
Between environmental aggressors, humidity, sweat, sebum and dead skin cells, it’s safe to conclude that your pores don’t have it easy. The penalty for clogged pores ranges from blackheads to untimely acne breakouts, but recurring blockages could be a harbinger of congested skin. What exactly does it mean and how do you find your way out of this skincare landmine? It’s too easy to go with your first instinct—to go exfoliation-crazy and try to slough off all bumps while cleansing enough times to totally strip the skin of oil. It might work in the short term, but the lack of oil and the over-exfoliation will likely cause the skin to fight back—leaving you stuck with more breakouts and redness than you had in the first place. We got celebrity dermatologist Dr Jamuna Pai and Hinaa Khan, education head at Dermalogica India, to detail everything you need to do for returning balance to congested skin.
What is congested skin?
Dr Pai says, “Congested skin is characterised by its appearance which is rough in texture and has multiple open pores and comedones. The latter is caused due to dead skin cell buildup and related debris, further compounded by the lack of easy lymphatic drainage.” Khan further elaborates, “Congested skin isn’t just one thing; it’s the summation of a lot of things. If your skin is congested, you might notice bumpiness underneath the skin, blackheads, small whiteheads, breakouts and a general dull appearance.”
What are the causes and symptoms of congested skin?
“This skin condition can occur due to overactive sebaceous glands, triggered by hormonal fluctuations, an unhealthy diet, the lack of a regular skincare routine, using incorrect skincare products and so on. Congested skin feels bumpy to touch and has prominent whiteheads and blackheads, especially on the cheeks and the T-zone,” recommends the Mumbai-based dermatologist.
Khan explains, “Tackling skin congestion can feel like a never-ending process; you might try things that your friend swears by, but don’t quite work for you. But if you follow the basics of adequate cleansing, exfoliation and hydration, you’ll be on your way to glowy skin again. In order to return balance to your skin, it’s important to get to the root of the problem, which means clearing out your clogged pores. The best way to clean the surface of your skin is a strict cleansing routine, regular exfoliation with hydroxy acids and using non-comedogenic skincare products. Ensure that you remove make-up with an oil-based cleanser, followed by a soap-free, purifying cleanser and hydration.”
Dr Pai adds, “A healthy lifestyle, well-balanced diet and regular exercise can go a long way for dealing with congested skin. Apply an oil-free moisturiser on your face on a regular basis, and opt for routine facials and cleanups to exfoliate the dead cells and maintain the hydration of your skin, thereby reducing congestion. Pay special attention to the T-zone, and apply a mud pack once in a week to keep the sebum production under control, while using a fruit-based pack to hydrate the rest of the face. Rubbing ice on the T-zone can also help tighten the pores. Consuming vitamin C or antioxidant supplements daily can further prevent the skin from looking dull.”
“Look to clay-based cleansers, mildly granulated scrubs and topical creams containing AHA (alpha-hydroxy acids) and salicylic acid,” she says, while Khan suggests plant-based ingredients to combat the issue. “Quillaja Saponaria is a naturally foaming botanical extract that gently removes impurities and excess oils. Lavender also serves as a natural antiseptic extract that helps soothe and purify the skin. Papain helps stimulate natural exfoliation to help clear clogged follicles, while tea tree oil is known for its antiseptic and anti-bacterial properties.”
The main takeaway? Work with your skin rather than fighting it, say both doctors. Supporting the natural skin barrier, by reinforcing it with antioxidants, hydrating and soothing ingredients can protect the skin from damage by pollution, bacteria and outside aggressors.
