Acne is a troubling skin condition that is not only painful, but also can be hard on your self-esteem. Acne is the result of clogged pores. If pores become clogged with sebum and skin cells, pimples will form. If you see blackheads and whiteheads on your skin, that is a sure sign that pores are clogged. One way to prevent them, along with cysts or nodules, is to clean clogged pores. Examine your pores regularly to find out of they are clogged.
Examine your skin with a hand-held mirror to look for the signs of clogged pores. Pores that are clogged are often large, as they are stretched with the skin cells and other matter that is inside of them.
Scrutinize your skin for whiteheads and blackheads. If you have them, that is evidence that the pores are clogged. Run your fingers over the skin to find small whiteheads and blackheads.
Holding the mirror in front of your face, look for pimples, either with pus on top, or flesh-colored. You will see and feel them, as they are painful to the touch. Feel the skin on your face for cysts. They are painful, large bumps that are under the skin and may not be be easily visible. They are caused by clogged pores that break under your skin.