Remedies To Make Pores Appear Smaller

Though you cannot actually change the size of your pores, you can take steps to make them appear smaller and less noticeable. The size of your pores is genetically determined and they have reached their adult size by your teenage years. Larger pores tend to lead to more oily skin, while smaller pores are usually found on those with drier skin. The breakouts and acne that accompany oily skin can make your pores more noticeable; however, taking steps to keep your skin congestion-free can help you to attain clean, smooth skin.

Clean Skin

Maintaining healthy skin habits and keeping your skin clean can help your pores to appear smaller. Wash your face twice a day with a gentle soap and warm water, or one that helps control oil if that applies to you. Pat dry and apply a noncomedogenic, or oil free, moisturizer. Keep the cleansing to twice a day, unless you workout or something of the sort causes your skin to become dirty; over washing can lead to overdrying, which can prompt your skin to produce more oil.

Exfoliate

Exfoliate your skin three to five times per week at night after cleansing. Exfoliating helps to lift and wash away the dead skin that builds up on your face, which contributes to congestion. Exfoliates are sold over the counter and can be purchased along with cleansers, or you can make your own exfoliate at home by combining 1 tbsp. brown sugar with 2 tbsp. honey and gently massaging the mixture into your skin for a few minutes. Rinse with warm water.

Topical Retinoid

Topical retinoids, such as Renova or Retin-A, can help to make your pores appear smaller. Retinoids are synthetic forms of vitamin A and help to exfoliate your skin, spur new collagen growth and reduce congestion. The stronger dosages require a prescription but many popular cosmetic companies produce products, which contain milder doses and can be purchased over the counter. Topical retinoids leave your skin vulnerable to sun damage so always wear sunscreen during the day.

Mask

Masks are left on your skin for anywhere from 15 minutes to an hour or even overnight, depending on the product and your particular skin condition. Mask's work by pulling the oil, dirt and toxins away from your skin in order to unclog your pores and make your pores appear smaller. Mask's can be purchased or made at home. You can easily make a vitamin A mask, if you do not want to purchase a retinoid, by whisking a few egg yolks together and applying the yolks to your skin with your clean fingers. Leave the yolk on your skin for one to three hours and then wash off with gentle soap and warm water.