Pores are openings on the skin that allow oil from sebaceous glands in the skin to spread and soften the skin, according to DocShop.com. While pores serve a purpose in keeping your skin healthy, large pores can cause the skin to be oily in appearance and keep the skin from looking smooth and healthy. Using natural remedies can help shrink the pores.
Create a Natural Exfoliator
Exfoliation is one of the best ways you can reduce the size of your pores. Over time, the pores can become clogged with dead skin cells and oil, causing them to appear larger. Exfoliation helps rid the pores of these clogging materials.
You can make your own exfoliating scrub at home using materials found in the house. Examples include adding water to oatmeal and making a paste, according to Skinway.com. You also can moisten the skin and gently rub sea salt onto the skin. Equal parts baking soda and water can be mixed into a fine paste to provide exfoliating properties as well.
It's a good idea to exfoliate after you have taken a shower or placed a hot towel on the face for a few minutes--this further open the pores, allowing for maximum exfoliation. Avoid exfoliating more than once a week, however. More can damage the skin and actually trigger your pores to emit more oil.
Cold Compress
Creating a cold compress can help shrink pores because cold temperatures can cause the pores to temporarily shrink. Milk contains the alpha hydroxy acid known as lactic acid, according to The Doctors Book of Home Remedies. Lactic acid not only helps soothe the skin, it also can encourage cell turnover.
Take a washcloth and dip it in cold milk. Wring out the excess liquid, then apply the cold compress to the face, leaving on for five to 10 minutes. Rinse the face with cool water to remove any excess from the face. While this may serve as only a temporary fix, it can prevent makeup from seeping into the pores and making them appear larger.
Weekly Face Mask
Applying a weekly face mask to the skin can help remove impurities and oils from the skin, which can shrink the pores. This does not have to require purchasing an expensive application, however. Make a mask at home using ingredients in your refrigerator. One recipe combines a mashed banana with a few tablespoons of natural honey.
Mix this combination together, apply to the skin for 10 minutes, and rinse off with warm water. The banana has fruit acids that can encourage skin exfoliation while the honey will help soften the skin. You can also mix mashed grapes or strawberries with honey to experience similar benefits.
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