It may seem like some people have no facial pores at all, but, of course, everyone has them. Pores are frequently at the top of the list when it comes to skin care issues. Nonetheless, they serve an important function in skin health.

These tiny gaps in your skin have a natural function in your body. Pores are responsible for removing sweat and oil from the deeper layers of the skin. Pores are linked to hair follicles, which contain sebaceous oil and sweat glands. These openings in our skin allow natural oil (sebum) to reach and moisturise the surface of our skin.

When the pores become blocked, however, it can cause a variety of skin problems, such as the formation of whiteheads, blackheads, and even acne.

Below are the frequently asked questions about pores.

 

Do pores become bigger?

Yes, pores can become stretched out when they are constantly blocked with dirt, oil, and dead skin cells. Moreover, as a result of sun damage, bad habits, or aging, our skin will lose some collagen, which makes up the skin’s support structure. When this happens, our skin won't quite easily snap back to its original shape, even when the pores have been unclogged.

 

What causes the pores to enlarge?

When oil from sebaceous glands rises to the surface, sometimes it can become trapped by dead skin cells, makeup, dirt, and dust. As a result of this obstruction, the pores appear enlarged. If the pores are not taken care of, whiteheads, blackheads, and most likely pimples, will form.

Can enlarged pores actually shrink?

When the pores are unclogged, enlarged pores can shrink, but they can only return to their base size. The elasticity of the skin's collagen structure that surrounds the pores is a determining factor for how much the pores can contract.

It may not be able to get rid of large pores entirely, but there are techniques to make them appear smaller.

 

Are there treatments at the skin clinic that can improve the pores’ appearance?

There are a variety of professional treatments to clear clogged pores and treat oily and breakout-prone skin. Chemical and laser treatments help get rid of damaged skin that gets in the way of deep pore cleaning.

Laser resurfacing is a less invasive way to help build up the skin’s collagen. Collagen supports the skin structure. Having healthy collagen levels can allow the pores to contract to a size close to their original size.

Another procedure that can help is micro-needling. The process of micro-needling works by inducing the skin to produce more collagen. The idea behind this treatment is that by causing minor damage to the skin, it will then repair itself by making new collagen-rich tissue.

 

 

What steps to take towards a more refined skin texture at home?

Even though you may dislike the appearance of your pores, it is important to bear in mind that they serve an important function for your body. They are natural, not a defective part of your skin's surface.

Another thing that might be helpful is coming to terms with the knowledge that your genes have a role in determining your pore size. Therefore, you are unable to make them smaller than their base size or eliminate them totally.

In light of this, the following are some easy steps that may be taken at home to help reduce the appearance of large pores:

 

Be gentle

Take a few slow, deep breaths whenever you feel the urge to pick at, squeeze, or scrape your pores until they disappear completely.

Going on the offensive won't do much to help reduce the appearance of your pores. Most of the time, being rough with your skin will just make it irritated, which can make your pores look even bigger.

When you cleanse your skin, massage it softly rather than scouring it raw with a washcloth or a scrub.

 

Use the right skincare products

Look for products that are labeled noncomedogenic, as they are unlikely to clog pores.

Also, check that you're using products specifically for your skin type. For example, if you have combination or oily skin, a light cleansing foam or gel may be ideal, whereas creams and balms are best for dry skin.

Moisturising is a must, even if you have oily skin. Lightweight and water-based moisturisers will help balance your skin's oil production.

 

Check your cleansing routine

Pores that are clean will always appear smaller. Washing gently in the morning and evening can help maintain clean and less visible pores.

If you have oily or combination skin, washing your face twice a day is recommended. In addition to this rule of thumb, you should clean your face after sweating, such as after exercise or sports.

To avoid irritation, use gentle cleaners that are alcohol-free.

 

Buff off dead skin

If you don't wash your face twice a day, pores can easily become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. When pores get clogged, it can lead to breakouts, which make pores look even bigger.

Exfoliating can help you get rid of dirt and dead skin, thereby allowing a deeper clean. Exfoliating once or twice a week is recommended for people with oily skin, more than that might cause skin dryness. Even though exfoliating helps keep pores clear, if the facial skin becomes too dry, pores can appear larger.

 

Apply clay masks

Using a clay mask once or twice a week can help clean out the pores of extra oil. This happens because clay soaks up oil. Clay also calms irritation and breakouts.

It's best to do this on a different day than when you exfoliate, to avoid possible skin irritations.

 

Mind your make-up

While make-up has the ability to temporarily hide pores and refine skin texture, it can also clog them. Check if your make-up is non-comedogenic. Don't use any cosmetics that have alcohol or fragrance in them, because they can irritate and dry out your skin.

Other make-up tips for smaller looking pores:

 • Avoid shimmery, glittery make-up on areas of the face where you want to minimise the appearance of pores.

 • Use pore-minimising primers to create the blur effect.

 • Always have blotting paper handy to prevent oiliness and clogged pores.

 • Always thoroughly remove make-up before going to bed.

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