As if acne wasn’t bad enough, you might be one of many people who has to contend with large pores. While perhaps not quite as unsightly as red pimples or deep scars, large pores can keep your complexion from looking as smooth as you’d like. So is there anything you can do? Is it possible to make your pores smaller?
Okay, first the bad news: no, you can’t actually make your pores physically smaller. Several factors do affect pore size – genetics, for one. Also, oilier skin tends to show off the pores more, and sun-damage can actually increase the size of pores. [1]
Another factor that can contribute to stretching out your pores is when oil and dead skin get trapped inside the pore. This is what creates a pimple. [1] So keeping your skin clean is the primary thing you can do. But basically, your pores are your pores, so you need to work with what you have.
However, there are ways to shrink the appearance of your pores. Also, healthy pores of any size are less noticeable than unhealthy ones – and the health of your pores and surrounding skin is something that is within your control.
In addition to simple cleansing of your face, here are a few other techniques to consider to help you minimize the appearance of your pores:
- Exfoliate. Gentle abrasion helps to remove those dead skin cells that cause clogged pores and pimples. [1]
- Cleanse with products containing retinol. Retinol (vitamin A) helps to unclog pores and reduce bacteria that can contribute to acne. [2]
- Always remove makeup and cleanse your skin before going to bed.
- If you still struggle with enlarged or inflamed pores, there are medications and laser treatments available. [3]
So no need to get depressed if your pores are larger than you’d like. Just remember that if healthy skin and healthy pores are your goal, then your pores might wind up being less noticeable than you think!
References: