Want to know what’s lurking in your pores? Neither do we because it’s likely pretty gross. But fear not — we’ve got the inside scoop on some of the best, most effective ways to purge your pores and achieve the clear skin you crave.

Pore-purging tips

For some pore-purging help, we turned to Terese Linke, global education and spa training director for Amala, a line of natural and organic skin care products.

1

Exfoliate

If exfoliating isn’t currently part of your skin care regimen, then your pores might need a serious deep clean. “Regular exfoliation is key to clear skin and pores,” affirms Linke. “You need to exfoliate with a gentle, natural exfoliant at least one to two times a week,” she advises. Exfoliation is a great way to gently cleanse the skin and remove dead skin cells, which can build up and cause your complexion to get dull and drab, explains Linke. “It also helps to unclog the pores and deal with black and whiteheads.”

2

Don’t forget to wash your face

This one might seem simple but we know how easy it can be to fall straight into bed at the end of a long night — without heading to the sink first. We know you need sleep, but don’t skip your evening face wash. “Always cleanse your face at night before bedtime with a high quality, all-natural cleanser,” says Linke. “Never go to bed with makeup on.” Last night’s makeup can not only clog your pores, but it also has the potential to irritate your skin.

3

Invest in good quality products

Not all skin care products are created equal and some can actually do more harm than good where your pores are concerned, depending on their ingredients. In fact, the better quality the ingredients, the cleaner your pores will be, Linke says. “Use good skin care products that contain all-natural, preferably organic seed and plant oils,” she advises. “Synthetic or mineral oils can sit on your skin and can assist in causing clogged pores.”

4

Get regular facials

Though it might feel like a skin care splurge, facials are a great way to deep clean your pores. “It is important to get facials at least once or twice per month, or more if possible,” affirms Linke. “Facials help to maintain the oil and moisture levels of the skin and can also be focused on thoroughly cleansing the skin to remove impurities deep within the pores, for cleaner, healthier, more radiant looking skin,” she explains.

Pore-purging product picks

Along with the tips above, keep pores clean and skin clear with some products aimed at giving your complexion a boost.

• Sulwhasoo Clarifying Mask: This soothing honey-textured treatment not only feels great on your skin, but works to absorb impurities, exfoliate and purify the skin (sulwhasoo.com, $39).
• Obagi Medical Clenziderm M.D. Pore Therapy: Get some serious skin-clearing power with this effective product that unclogs pores and clears away dead skin cells, leaving skin feeling and looking fresh and revived (amazon.com, $24).

More skin care tips

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CLA and retinols: How these ingredients fight aging
Skin savers for your 30s