Battling with congested skin can be super frustrating and leave your complexion looking lacklustre, feeling uneven and prone to breakouts such as acne. Skin congestion is very common, caused by a buildup of dead skin cells, oil, and impurities that clog pores over time. If your skin feels bumpy, uneven, or constantly in need of exfoliation to remove expired skin cells, it may be congested.
The term congested is defined as overloaded and blocked, and when it comes to your skin, congestion occurs when pores become clogged with a combination of excess oil, dirt and dead skin cells.
Different types of acne, such as blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, and cystic acne, can begin to emerge because of these clogged pores.1 Bacteria tends to thrive in this micro-environment created by the trapped oil inside the pores, which can result in infection and inflammation1.
Bumpy texture – Small, non-inflamed bumps that give the skin a rough feel1.
Dullness - A lack of radiance due to built-up debris on the skin’s surface2.
Blackheads and whiteheads – Plugged hair follicle either open (blackhead) or closed (whitehead)2.
Enlarged pores – Excess oil can stretch out pores, making them more visible2.
Well, while they are related, they are not the same. Congested skin in combination with certain bacteria can lead to acne3. Firstly, when pores or the openings in your skin become congested with oil (sebum), dead skin cells, and sometimes dirt, it creates a blockage. This obstruction can trap bacteria inside, leading to inflammation and acne3.
There are two types of acne that may result from congested skin:4
Blackheads – Congested pores that stay open at the surface of your skin. The trapped oil and dead skin obstructs hair shafts, which oxidises when exposed to air, turning dark (that’s why they look black).
Whiteheads – Similar to blackheads, but these blocked follicles stay sealed under the skin, showing up as small, white bumps.
Papules – Small, pink, and often tender bumps that are inflamed but with no pus.
Pustules – Think of these as papules topped with a white or yellow pus-filled centre.
Nodules – Deeper, larger, can become red and swollen, they feel hard and sit deep within the skin, making them harder to treat.
Cysts – These are large, pus-filled lumps are due to blocked pores. They’re not only painful but can also leave permanent scars if not treated properly.
There are several steps you can take to help clear congested skin, prevent future buildup, and support a smoother, healthy looking complexion. They include:
Using Non-Comedogenic Skincare – The entire QV Face range is non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores. Products like QV Face Gentle Cleanser help remove dirt and oil without stripping the skin.
Exfoliating Regularly – Gentle mechanical exfoliants like QV Face Exfoliating Polish help slough off dead skin, keeping pores clear.
Hydrating with Lightweight Moisturisers – QV Face Oil-Free Moisturiser uses a combination of humectants, emollients and occlusives for increased skin hydration, while omitting oil-based ingredients to help avoid congestion and support your skin barrier.
Double Cleansing at Night – Especially if you wear makeup or sunscreen, cleansing twice ensures all impurities and residues are removed. Try a refreshing cleansing wipe like QV Face Cleansing Wipes followed by an oil-free cleanser such as QV Face Oil-Free Foaming Cleanser.
By choosing gentle, non-comedogenic products and maintaining a consistent skincare routine, you can help to prevent and clear congestion for a smooth, healthy glow.
