How To Close Blackhead Pores

Pores play an important role in the health of your skin by protecting it from dehydration. However, sometimes pores can appear larger than you would like. Blackheads and enlarged pores often go hand-in-hand. Blackheads are a type of acne known as comedone, which lead to yellowish or blackish infections of the skin. Blackheads can expand pores -- even after blackheads have been removed -- or draw attention to enlarged pores. Fortunately, there are a number of ways to close pores associated with blackheads.

Step 1

Be proactive in taking care of your skin. Washing your face regularly -- twice a day -- with a gentle facial cleanser can help to reduce oil, bacteria, dirt and make-up that may be present on your skin. By keeping your skin clean, you can prevent blackheads.

Step 2

Remove blackheads. Use pore stripes or a blackhead extractor to safely remove blackheads from your skin. If you are not confident in your own ability to safely remove blackheads, visit a dermatologist.

Step 3

Use azelaic acid. Azelaic acid can be found in a number of prescription as well as over-the-counter facial ointments and cleansers. Azelaic acid is also found in barley, wheat and rye. It can help to reduce the prevalence of bacteria on the skin as well as reduce the formation of blackheads on your skin.

Step 4

Use a topical vitamin A treatment. Vitamin A can help to exfoliate skin, minimize pores and keep skin cells looking healthy. Topical vitamin A is found in a number of prescription acne creams. Talk to your doctor about the use of a topical vitamin A cream.

Step 5

Watch the amount of oil on your face. Use an oil control facial cleanser. Also, only apply oil-free make-up and use oil blotting pads throughout the day. This will control the amount of oil on your face to help minimize pore clogging. Clogged pores make pores much more noticeable.

Tips and Warnings

To prevent pore clogging, always remove make-up before bed. Prevent the spread of bacteria to your pores by touching your face as little as possible. If you must touch your face, wash your hands first.