Try:
Gentle, non-stripping cleansers
Exfoliating acids like salicylic acid or AHAs
Clay masks to absorb excess oil
The Risk of Picking or Over-Extracting
Applying too much pressure to your pores can easily damage your skin barrier.
“Forceful extraction can lead to scabbing, infection, or even long-term scarring,” warns Dr. Joshua Zeichner, a New York-based dermatologist.
Other risks include inflammation, hyperpigmentation, and even new breakouts — exactly what you were trying to avoid.
The Truth About “Skin Gritting”
You may have seen the viral skincare trend called skin gritting, which claims to purge sebaceous filaments using layers of oils, acids, and clay masks. While it may look effective, dermatologists remain skeptical.
“While the combination can help remove surface buildup, most of what you’re extracting is just leftover product,” says Dr. Engelman. “Over time, this aggressive routine can actually make pores appear larger and skin look looser.”
How to Care for Skin with Sebaceous Filaments
The goal isn’t to erase your filaments — it’s to keep them balanced and less noticeable. Healthy skin will always have texture.
