Oxygen Bubble Facial Series (Part 1)｜Why Is the Skin "Dirty, Rough, Clogged, Dull"? What Are the Root Causes of Recurring Pore Problems?

Oxygen Bubble Facial Series (Part 1)｜Why Is the Skin "Dirty, Rough, Clogged, Dull"? What Are the Root Causes of Recurring Pore Problems?

1. The Formation Mechanism of Skin Problems

1.1 Dual Buildup of Sebum and Keratin
Excess sebum produced by the skin combines with dead keratinocytes that fail to shed normally, forming a sticky mixture at the pore openings—the first step toward clogging.

1.2 Long-term Retention of Clogging Substances in Pores
This mixture gradually solidifies within the pores, forming keratin plugs. The exposed parts oxidize and turn black, becoming blackheads, while the completely enclosed portions form whiteheads, firmly blocking the pore passages.

1.3 External Pollutants Aggravate the Burden
Airborne PM2.5 particles, makeup residues, and other pollutants adhere to the already-clogged skin surface. Harmful components within these pollutants can trigger and exacerbate inflammatory reactions in the skin.

1.4 Micro-inflammation Leads to a Vicious Cycle
Inadequate cleansing allows clogs to persist, leading to chronic micro-inflammation. This damages the collagen structure around the pores, causing them to enlarge, while simultaneously stimulating melanin production, resulting in dull and uneven skin tone.

2. Three Core Conditions for Pore Clogging

Excess Sebum: Influenced by hormones, stress, diet, and other factors, overactive sebaceous glands produce excess oil, providing the foundational material for clogging.

Abnormal Keratin Metabolism: When the skin barrier is compromised or metabolism is disrupted, dead keratinocytes fail to shed properly, acting as a "binding agent" for clogging substances.

Bacteria and Pollutants: Propionibacterium acnes proliferates within the pores, and its metabolic by-products irritate and inflame the skin. Pollutants penetrate the skin, causing oxidative stress. Together, they worsen clogging.

3. Why Does the Skin "Get Worse with More Washing"?

Limitations of Manual Cleansing: Cleansing only reaches the surface and cannot remove deep-seated clogs within the pores. Excessive rubbing can damage the skin barrier and stimulate further sebum production.

Harm from Improper Exfoliation: Harsh exfoliating products can compromise the skin barrier, leading to sensitivity and weakened natural defenses.

Consequences of Uneven Cleansing: Using the same cleansing intensity across the entire face can result in over-cleansing dry areas while insufficiently cleansing oily T-zones, allowing clogging to persist in problem areas.

4. Scientific Solutions

To fundamentally improve pore problems, it is essential to break the "sebum-keratin-pollutant" clogging triad:

1. Adopt cleansing techniques that can penetrate deep into the pores.

2. Gently regulate keratin metabolism.

3. Strengthen skin barrier repair.

4. Implement targeted antioxidant and anti-inflammatory care.

By restoring the skin's natural balance through systematic care, the recurring issues of "dirtiness, roughness, clogging, and dullness" can be addressed at their root.

ELsen