🧴 Clogged Pores on the Feet
Clogged pores usually refer to blocked hair follicles or sweat glands, leading to:
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Comedones (blackheads/whiteheads)
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Inflammation (pimple-like bumps)
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Keratosis pilaris (small rough bumps)
🦶 Foot “Acne”
Acne specifically on the feet is uncommon due to fewer oil glands, but similar-looking issues can occur:
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Clogged sweat glands (eccrine poroma or miliaria rubra/”heat rash”)
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Fungal infections (like athlete’s foot) — often misidentified as acne
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Folliculitis — infection or irritation of hair follicles
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Contact dermatitis — reaction to socks, shoes, or topical products
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Pseudofolliculitis — ingrown hairs, especially if you shave or rub the tops of your feet
🔍 How to Tell the Difference
| Symptom | Possible Cause |
|---|---|
| Small, red bumps with pus | Folliculitis, acne |
| Itchy, peeling skin between toes | Athlete’s foot |
| Tiny blisters or red rash, especially in hot weather | Heat rash |
| Hard or rough bumps | Keratosis pilaris or clogged pores |
| Bumps after shaving/waxing | Ingrown hairs |
âś… Treatment Options
1. Cleanse Properly
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Use a gentle cleanser (like Cetaphil or Vanicream) daily
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Consider a benzoyl peroxide wash (2.5–5%) if bumps are red/pustular
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Use a salicylic acid or glycolic acid wash/pads (2–5%) to help clear pores
2. Exfoliate
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Chemical exfoliants (AHA/BHA) are better than physical scrubs for feet
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Don’t over-exfoliate—limit to 2–3x/week
3. Moisturize
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Use non-comedogenic moisturizers; look for urea or lactic acid for bumpy skin
4. Wear Breathable Footwear
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Use cotton socks and rotate shoes to keep feet dry
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Avoid occlusive materials like rubber or tight synthetics
5. Target Fungal Causes
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If it’s itchy, scaly, or between toes: try antifungal creams (like clotrimazole or terbinafine)
đźš© When to See a Dermatologist
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If the condition lasts >4 weeks with no improvement
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If it’s painful, spreading, or oozing
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If OTC treatments aren’t working
