Oily skin and enlarged pores are two skin conditions that often seem to go hand in hand. These conditions can cause the skin to appear greasy or dull due to excess oil production. Knowing how to prevent and treat these skin conditions can help you obtain and keep clearer skin.
Causes
Two uncontrollable factors account for most of the causes of large pores, according to Doc Shop. The first is genetics---meaning, if your family members have large pores, it's likely you will as well. The second is age. As you age, your skin loses elasticity, causing the pores to dilate. Genetics also can affect skin oiliness, according to Medline Plus. Fluctuating hormone levels also can signal the body to produce more oil.
Misconceptions
Many misconceptions exist surrounding oily skin and enlarged pores. The first is that diet causes your oily skin or enlarged pores. Diet has little effect on your skin, according to Medline Plus. Another misconception is that utilizing products to reduce oil production will increase sebum---skin oil---production. This also is false, according to Dr. Audrey Kunin, a dermatologist writing on DERMA Doctor, a skincare resource website.
Prevention
Following a good skin care regimen is one of the best preventive methods to minimize oily skin and enlarged pores, according to "The Doctors Book of Home Remedies for Women." Washing the face twice per day to remove excess dirt and oils from the pores and applying a skin cream that contains alpha hydroxy acids can help to treat these conditions. Alpha hydroxy acids encourage cell turnover, which can prevent skin cells from clogging the pores. Wearing sunscreen on a daily basis also can help to prevent sun damage that can cause the pores to enlarge, according to Dr. Kunin.
Solution
Treatment options for enlarged pores and skin oiliness include the application of a skin primer or pore-minimizing lotion prior to applying makeup, according to "The Doctors Book of Home Remedies for Women." These topical applications act as putty and are smoothed over the skin to create a more even surface. Be sure to allow the primer time to fully dry before applying other skincare products, such as loose powder. Use only non-comedogenic products to avoid clogging the pores with additional oils.
Warning
Exfoliating or scrubbing vigorously at the skin to remove oil may actually have a negative effect on the skin, according to Dr. Kunin. Excess scrubbing can irritate the skin and may cause the skin to produce excess oils to respond to the irritation. If you do exfoliate the skin, exfoliate no more than one to two times per week.
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