Large pores: the best skin care routine for you
Whenever you look in the mirror do your eyes immediately dart to your enlarged pores? Enlarged pores can be a source of great frustration when it comes to your skin as they are difficult to minimize. However you may be able to reduce the appearance of your pores with the right skin care, however it will take time. Find out everything about why you have enlarged pores and how to tackle them in this article. You'll have smooth skin in no time!
What Causes enlarged pores?
Enlarged pores are the result of your skin producing too much oil. Hormones regulate how much oil passes through each pore and with normal oil production the oil easily flows out of the pore. However, if there is too much oil being produced, it combines with dead skin cells clogging the pores and making them appear larger.
How can you reduce the appearance of large pores?
To visibly minimize your pores you have to be conscientious of your skin care routine and also of external factors that might be affecting your skin.
Tip #1 Get the Right Skin Care Regimen
It's important to regulate sebum (an oily/waxy matter in your pores that waterproofs your skin) and oil production in your pores. Double check the products you own to make sure they say "non-comedogenic," which means they won't clog your pores. Avoid products that are too emollient (a.k.a. creamy) or greasy as this can lead to clogged pores.
Cleanse with a gentle cleanser that removes impurities without stripping your skin. We recommend charcoal cleansers like Garnier's Clean + Shine Control cleansing gel, which contains charcoal and removes build-up in your pores like a magnet. It also includes salicylic acid, which gently removes dead skin cells and exfoliates your skin's pores ensuring a deep, thorough cleanse.
Try to avoid using a harsh cleanser because it may make your pores produce more oil to balance out the dryness - this is the opposite of what you want.
Tip #2 Exfoliate at Least Once a Week
As we mentioned before, dead skin cells are part of the reason why your pores become enlarged, so try to exfoliate your skin at least once a week to ensure that those cells get removed from the surface of your face. Regularly removing dead skin cells will ensure that they don't stretch out your pores, increasing their prominence. You can use something as simple as a wet washcloth - just rub it gently over your skin to remove the dead cells on the surface of skin. We recommend that you use a clean washcloth after each use to avoid transferring bacteria as well as the removed dead skin cells back onto your face. Alternatively, you can also use a gentle exfoliator with fruit enzymes which also helps reduce the appearance of pores on your face
Tip #3 Use Antioxidants
Retinol (a form of Vitamin A) is a great tool in the fight against enlarged pores because it has an exfoliating and deep-cleansing effect on the way pores function. Vitamin C is also an effective ingredient. Use in a serum before you apply a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer.
Tip #4 Don't touch your Face
While it's tempting to touch your face from time to time, try to avoid it because your fingers transfer dirt and oils, which can encourage blemishes. Also do not pick or try to unclog your pores with your hands under any circumstances! You may damage your skin which can lead to your pores becoming permanently enlarged.
Tip #5 Use a Drying Clay Mask
A clay mask made with kaolin is a great way to minimize the appearance of pores particularly if you have very oily skin. Use once or twice a week as directed to draw out excess oils and minimize the appearance of pores.
By following these recommendations, you can change the appearance of your pores from large and in charge to discreet and dainty. No more looking in the mirror and complaining about your pores when you adopt these tips in your skin care routine
