What Do Clogged Pores Look Like?

January 12, 2026

By: Truly Beauty

If you’re wondering, what do clogged pores look like? We're going to show you - and the best products for clean, gunk-free skin.

Clogged pores are one of the most common skin concerns, affecting people of all ages and skin types. Ahead, we're going to show you how to identify and treat clogged pores so you can look forward to clear, smooth skin.

What Are Clogged Pores?

Clogged pores happen when hair follicles or skin pores become blocked by dead skin cells, excess oil (sebum), dirt, or bacteria. Everyone has pores, but areas like the nose, cheeks, and forehead are more prone to blockages. When left untreated, clogged pores can lead to blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, or even acne.

What Do Clogged Pores Look Like?

Common signs of clogged pores include small bumps and uneven texture. Here are the main types of clogged pores.

1. Blackheads

These small, dark spots typically appear on the nose, forehead, or chin. The dark color comes from oxidized sebum, not dirt.

2. Whiteheads

These tiny, flesh-colored bumps are caused by trapped oil and dead skin cells. They are closed at the surface and often subtle.

3. Small Bumps or Rough Texture

Clogged pores may create a slightly bumpy or rough skin texture, noticeable when touched.

4. Enlarged Pores

Blocked pores can stretch, appearing larger than normal, especially on the cheeks and nose.

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What Causes Clogged Pores?

Several factors contribute to clogged pores:

• Excess Oil Production – Overactive sebaceous glands produce too much oil, especially during hormonal changes.
• Hormonal Fluctuations – Teenagers, pregnant women, or adults under stress may notice more clogged pores.
• Dead Skin Cell Build-Up – Skin naturally sheds cells, but if not exfoliated, these can accumulate and block pores.
• Environmental Factors – Dust, pollution, and humidity can settle on your skin, increasing pore blockages.
• Improper Skincare Products – Heavy creams, oily makeup, or comedogenic products can worsen the problem.
• Lifestyle Factors – Diets high in sugar and dairy, smoking, and lack of sleep can affect sebum production and pore health.

How to Get Rid of Clogged Pores

Now that you know what do clogged pores look like and you recognize them, here's how to treat them. 

Step 1: Cleanse With Salicylic Acid

24K Gold Black Soap Luxury Impurity Cleanser

Impurity-Erasing Exfoliating Cleanser

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Since clogged pores are caused by the buildup of dead skin and dirt, you'll need to cleanse daily to keep those pores squeaky clean. And there's no better choice than salicylic acid, a BHA that breaks down oil and promotes cell turnover to visibly clear pores.

Apply Truly's 24k Gold Black Soap Cleanser to affected areas, massage into skin, and rinse thoroughly. It blends salicylic acid with African black soap to exfoliate, draw out impurities, and leave you noticeably clearer.

Step 2: Moisturize With a Refining Face Cream

Cloud Cream Pro-Peptide Facial Moisturizer

Plumping Gel Cream

Add to Bag $36

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Hydration prevents oil overproduction, keeping your skin clear. Use a lightweight gel cream like Truly's Cloud Cream Pro-Peptide Facial Moisturizer to plump dry skin without clogging pores. 

Besides moisturizing your skin, it's made with a blend of lactic and glycolic acid to gently resurface and exfoliate textured skin for a smoother, more refined appearance.

Read next: Does Shea Butter Clog Pores?

FAQ About Clogged Pores

What Do Clogged Pores Look Like?

They appear as blackheads, whiteheads, small bumps, enlarged pores, or occasional pimples.

What Causes Clogged Pores?

Excess oil, dead skin cells, hormonal changes, poor skincare, environmental factors, and lifestyle habits all contribute.

How Can I Prevent Clogged Pores?

Maintain a regular cleansing routine, exfoliate gently, use non-comedogenic products, stay hydrated, and manage stress.

Can Clogged Pores Turn Into Acne?

Yes. If bacteria enter a clogged pore, it can become inflamed, forming pimples or cystic acne.

When Should I See a Dermatologist About Clogged Pores?

Consult a dermatologist if clogged pores are severe, persistent, or causing scarring.

Photos by cottonbro studio & Angela Roma 

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