There are two types of pores on our bodies. One that releases sweat and other releases natural oils of the body known as sebum. Pores can be more or less visible, depending on the skin type. It could feel like an endless battle to deal with large pores. They seem to appear more on a sunny day.
But know that, you are not alone, and there are multiple ways to minimize the appearance of pores. Such as:
- By using water based products
- Avoiding sun explore, and protect skin against it
- Using a clay mask.
5 Ways to Treat Large Pores
Here are five tried-and-true ways to treat pores.
1. Cleanse Twice Daily
A consistent cleansing routine is a must. Best to use gel-based cleansers and avoid alcohol or oil based cleansers. Do double cleansing at night in case of wearing makeup or sunscreen. It will clean the dirt from all day and make your skin fresh.
Reference: Kuehl BL, Fyfe KS, Shear NH. “Cutaneous cleansers.” J Am Acad Dermatol. 2003;48(5):673–684.
2. Exfoliate (but Keep It Light!)
Salicylic acid gets deep into the skin, while glycolic acid removes dead skin on the surface. Although, do not over-exfoliate, it may cause dryness on the skin. Pores look enlarged when skin gets dry. Use it 1-3 times a week and see how your skin responds to it, when you first start.
3. Use a Clay Mask Once a Week
Clay masks work as a magnet to impurities, soak up oil and clear the pores effectively. Best to have kaolin and bentonite, because of their oil absorbing and gentle nature. Use it ones a week as excessive use may lead to dry skin.
4. Try a Retinoid for large pores
Retinoid promote collagen growth and increase cell turnover. It derives from vitamin A. Go slow at the beginning as it is strong.
5. Don’t Forget to Moisturise
You are supposed to moisturize your skin, even when you have oily skin. It lowers the chances of excess oil .
Pick non-comedogenic moisturiser, it won’t block the pores. You may use gel or water based moisturiser on oily skin.Wash and let the skin dry before using moisturiser.
Extra Tips to Help with Large Pores
Have some tips to help skin look best.
- Always remove makeup before going to bed or else it could block the pores, which will result in larger pores.
- Choose a sunscreen cream with at least SPF 30, to protect the skin from sun damage.
- Avoid touching your face with dirt on your hands, it will clog the pores eventually.
- Eating a balanced diet will also enhance skin health.
- Always rinse your skin after exercise as sweat can clog the pores.
- Product high in humectants (honey and urea) help people with oily skin.
- Regular and consistent skincare will help to have healthy and smooth skin. Must know your skin type before going for the products for your skincare.
Why Do Pores Become Enlarged?
Basically our body hair follicle has pore at the top of it. Sebaceous is a gland, each hair follicle has. Sebaceous releases oil that rises up to the top of skin and collects there.
According to a 2022 review following are common causes of pores.
1. Excess Oil Production
When a Sebaceous gland produces extra oil, it leads to an oily skin. You may notice this on a hot day or after a workout. When this oil mixes with dead skin cells, this stretches the pore and makes it more visible.
2. Aging and Loss of Elasticity
Our skin gets less supple as we get older, pore is not as tight because of the less collagen, which makes them look bigger.
3. Sun Damage
UV could cause the breakdown of collagen in your skin. That is to make pore look larger.
4. Genetics
Genes are another reason for large pores. Some of us are born with these.
We can minimize the appearance of the large pores with consistent care. Having pores is not a health concern and it is a natural part of our skin.
You are supposed to be patient while creating your pores. Many start seeing improvement in a few weeks, consistency and regular skin care for a few months will drive noticeable results.
Natural remedies like tea tree oil can help, but it won’t be as effective as scientifically proven methods.