What you can do
Pores are small holes in the skin through which oil and sweat is released. They are also associated with hair follicles.
If your pores appear larger, it could be due to:
acne
increased production of sebum, which causes oily skin
sun damage
non-comedogenic makeup
While you can't change the size of your pores, homemade methods can help minimize their appearance. Here's how.
1. Rate your skincare products.
It may be time to change the skincare products you regularly use.
If you are using a product designed to remove excess sebum and acne, it may work against you. Short-term use is normal, but long-term use can cause skin irritation.
These products are based on active ingredients such as salicylic acid to remove the top layers of the skin. This gives a drying effect, making the pores smaller. But if your skin gets too dry, your sebaceous glands increase sebum production to replenish the lost moisture. This brings you back to oily skin.
To avoid this, use the following products for only a couple of weeks at a time:
astringents
deep cleansing face scrubs
oil-based masks
Also, make sure all of your foods are non-comedogenic. This means they are water-based. Comedogenic or oil-based products are especially prohibited if you have oily skin. Too much oil can cause pores to expand. Looking for more tips? Here's a beginner's guide to creating a skincare routine.
2. Cleanse your face.
The best types of cleansers remove excess dirt and oil without completely removing moisture from the skin. For enlarged pores associated with oily skin, look for a gel-based cleanser. For normal to dry skin, creamy cleansers can be used.
Regardless of your skin type, avoid cleansers that
contain soap or exfoliators. It can enlarge your pores.
Note: There are various claims on the internet about the alkalinity of Cetaphil, but there is no scientific research to prove it causes problems. The PH of Cetaphil (6.5) is at a very low alkalinity level and is almost close to the normal range for the skin (4.5 to 6.2). Most other soaps are much more alkaline than this.
But even the best cleaning products won't do you any good if misused. Be sure:
Moisten your face with warm water (neither hot nor
cold).
Rub the cleanser in circular motions all over the face
and neck for at least 30-60 seconds.
Rinse well and pat dry skin. (No friction!)
Repeat this process every morning and evening to balance
your skin and keep your pores healthy.
3. Exfoliate with an AHA or BHA.
The American Academy of Dermatology recommends exfoliating only once or twice a week. Exfoliating helps remove excess scales that can clog pores without damaging your skin too much. If you are currently having acne breakouts, skip the exfoliation session to avoid irritating the acne.
Choose alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) or beta hydroxy acid (BHA) scrubs whenever possible. BHAs are also known as salicylic acids and should not be used if you are allergic to aspirin. While both ingredients can maximize exfoliating action, BHAs can also penetrate deep into pores to treat acne.
4. Moisturizing for balanced hydration.
One of the most common mistakes people with oily skin make is skipping a moisturizer for fear of adding oil to their face. Moisturizing products really help your natural sebum penetrate into the deepest layers of your skin. It not only reduces oiliness but also helps to improve the condition of the skin. Without it, your skin can release even more oil.
When it comes to enlarged pores, it's important to opt for a light, water-based moisturizer. Consider the following options.
5. Use a clay mask.
Clay masks can help remove oil, dirt, and dead cells deep in the pores to make them look smaller. You can use them once or twice a week, but not on the same days you exfoliate. Exfoliating and applying a clay mask on the same day can harm your skin and increase the risk of irritation.
6. Use sunscreen every day.
Everyone needs sunscreen, so don't let your oily skin stop you. Not only do the sun's rays increase your risk of cancer and wrinkles in the long term, but they can also dry out your skin and enlarge pores.
Use a product with an SPF of at least 30. Apply it at least 15 minutes before going outdoors. You can also opt for moisturizers and foundations that contain SPF. Try the following.
7. Don't sleep with makeup
Falling asleep with makeup on is bad for your skin. When left overnight, cosmetics can combine with dirt, oil, and bacteria left over from the day and clog pores. This can make them look bigger the next day when you wake up.
This is why it's so important to wash off your makeup at night, no matter how tired you are or how late you get home. For an added benefit, you can also use a makeup remover before cleansing, such as Dermalogica PreCleanse.
8. Avoid dehydration.
Good traditional water not only uses the right foods, but it can also benefit your overall skin health. In particular, water helps:
moisturizing your skin from the inside out
remove toxins from pores
improvement of complexion in general
A good rule of thumb is to try to drink at least eight glasses of water or other liquids a day. If plain water isn't your forte, try adding lemon, cucumber, or berry aromas.
Consult a skincare professional.
If your enlarged pores are not affected by changes in your routine and lifestyle, professional treatments can be helpful. Your skin care professional can recommend specific treatments to help with enlarged pores, such as microneedle and laser treatments.
If severe acne is causing your pores to widen, your skincare professional may prescribe antibiotics or retinoids to help clear your
skin. Be sure to ask your doctor about using over-the-counter acne treatments
in conjunction with professional treatments to avoid reactions.