Pores are tiny skin openings that release sweat and oil, but they can get clogged more easily in some people. This usually happens when excess oil gets trapped by dead skin cells, makeup, dirt, or pore-clogging (comedogenic) ingredients, explains dermatologist Dr. Geeta Yadav.
These ingredients don’t directly cause acne, but they increase the chances, especially in those with oily skin or acne-causing bacteria, says Dr. Rachel Nazarian—like adding fuel to the fire.
