Pores are tiny openings in our skin that release sweat and oil, but they can become clogged for various reasons. When oil gets trapped by dead skin cells, makeup, dirt, or comedogenic ingredients (those that clog pores), it prevents proper oil flow, leading to clogged pores. Board-certified dermatologist Geeta Yadav explains that overproduction of oil, combined with dead skin cells, can block pores. Comedogenic ingredients can exacerbate this problem, increasing the likelihood of pimples, especially for people with oily skin or those prone to acne