I have very dry, sensitive skin. I also suffer from a lot of blackheads and whiteheads. What can I use to unclog my skin without drying it?Updated a month ago
Dry skin that also gets congested is an awkward combination, because a lot of what clears congestion also dries you out. Gentle, regular exfoliation is usually what helps.
The exfoliating step
This Is Me Enzyme Exfoliator, once or twice a week, is the one we'd reach for. It uses fruit enzymes rather than grit, so it lifts away dead skin and buildup without scrubbing at skin that's already dry. Start with a short first application and see how you go.
Pig-In-Mud Mineral Mask, once a week, is better at drawing out congestion, but clay is drying by nature, so go easy to begin with. You can soften it by mixing it with yoghurt or honey instead of water, as long as you've got no issue with either.
Daily, around it
- Cleanse - Cloud 9 Deep Cleansing Balm, lifted off with a warm, damp Konjac Sponge. The sponge is gentle daily exfoliation in itself, and it comes in four versions so you can pick the one you like the feel of. Cloud 9 carries mandarin, lemon myrtle and sandalwood oils, so swap that step if you're avoiding essential oils or citrus.
- Hydrate - Raindrops Hydrating Face Mist, straight onto damp skin.
- Moisturise - Over the Moon Rich Repair Cream, or Laugh Out Loud Nourishing Facial Oil if you'd rather an oil. Both are unscented and essential oil free.
If your skin is irritated rather than just dry and congested, leave the exfoliator and the mask alone until it has settled. Masks and exfoliants aren't the thing to reach for on skin that's already unhappy, and our routine for skin that flushes easily is the better starting point.
With anything new, try it along the jawline or behind the ear first and leave it a day or so before using it all over. Add one thing at a time so you can tell what your skin is responding to.