Can Cicaplast Baume B5 cause clogged pores?

Why can a moisturizer contribute to clogged pores?

Pores become clogged when dead skin cells, oil or dirt get trapped inside them. Face products, including lotions and cosmetics, can contribute. Very oily skin is more prone to clogged pores, but dry skin can also be a factor. Moisturizing and avoiding clogged pores are not mutually exclusive: gentle cleansing followed by an oil free moisturizer is part of caring for clog prone skin.1

Excess skin hydration from moisturizers or humid conditions can also contribute to comedones, the blocked pores called blackheads and whiteheads. That is general guidance about moisturizers, not a reason to declare every balm unsuitable. A moisturizer can have a useful job without receiving diplomatic immunity from the rest of your routine.3

What do clogged pores look like?

Whiteheads are raised white or flesh coloured bumps caused by a blocked pore opening. Blackheads are clogs in pores with wider openings; their dark appearance is not a sign of dirt. Comedonal acne, where most blemishes are these blocked pores, often affects the forehead and chin. Enlarged pores alone do not mean your pores are clogged.13

What should you do if bumps appear?

Use these general steps for suspected moisturizer related breakouts, rather than treating them as Cicaplast label directions.

1. 1If you suspect Cicaplast is contributing, stop using it and choose a moisturizer labelled noncomedogenic, meaning designed not to clog pores, or oil free.
2. 2Keep cleansing gentle. Wash twice daily with warm rather than hot water, and after sweating. Do not scrub the bumps or pick at them.
3. 3Keep the rest of your routine steady instead of introducing several new products. Frequent changes can irritate skin and worsen breakouts.
4. 4If you already have a prescribed acne routine, follow your doctor's instructions rather than dropping parts of the treatment.

Noncomedogenic is a useful label to look for, but some people still break out with products carrying it. The word belongs on the shopping checklist, not on a certificate of diplomatic immunity.2

What if the clogged pores persist?

Persistent blackheads need treatment that unclogs pores, not just a different moisturizer. Adapalene can unclog pores and prevent new blackheads. Acne treatment takes weeks rather than days: allow about 6 to 8 weeks to see improvement. Seek a dermatologist's help for deep, painful breakouts, uncertainty about what the bumps are, or acne that has not cleared with treatment available without a prescription.24