Symptoms and Causes What causes clogged pores? A buildup of dead skin cells, oil or dirt can clog pores. Possible causes include:

Dry skin or skin that produces extra skin cells. Face products, like cleansers, lotions or cosmetics. Medications that change how much oil your glands produce. Oily skin due to your age, hormones ogenetics. Some things that don’t directly cause clogged pores, but can make them worse, include: ,Certain foods., Clothing, backpacks, helmets or other garments or equipment that rub against your skin. .Humid conditions. ,Picking at pimples. , Pollution., Stress and anxiety., Washing or scrubbing your skin too hard.