Many women, and probably a few men, would love skin that appears as new as the day they were born, but unfortunately for some, once damage is done to the pores, there is no way to reverse it. Several issues can cause enlarged pores, including, acne, oily skin, sun-damage, aging and heredity. Being aware of what causes the enlarging of your pores and taking steps to reduce the process can lead you to healthier-looking skin.
Acne
Acne can cause enlarged pores, especially if you experience blackheads. When the follicle becomes blocked, oil, dirt and bacteria accumulate inside the pore, causing the diameter of the pore to expand. Keeping your skin clean and using over-the-counter acne medications can help clear blackheads and stop the pores from getting bigger.
Oily Skin
Your pores contain oil glands that produce sebum, an oil substance that helps lubricate your skin. Large pores are a result of overactive oil glands. Your constantly shedding skin cells accumulate around the perimeter of your pores, making them appear even larger. Using cleansers and moisturizers for oily skin, along with toners whose active ingredient is salicylic acid, can help reduce the amount of sebum your pores produce and minimize the pore’s appearance.
Sun Damage
The ultraviolet A and B rays from the sun damage skin over a time, often leading to larger, more prominent pores. Use sunscreen whenever you are exposed to the sunlight to help stop sun damage.
Aging
As you get older, your skin loses its elasticity and gravity begins to pull and tug at your skin. The skin thins and the pores begin to dilate. Using a skin firming moisturizer can help add moisture and elasticity to the skin, reducing the appearance of large pores.
Heredity
If one or both of your parents have suffered from overactive oil glands, or acne, chances are you will suffer some of the same symptoms. Since both overactive oil glands and acne can lead to enlarged pores, you might be predisposed to suffering the same fate.
Shrinking Pores
Although you can’t reverse the size of your pores, you can help reduce their appearance through exfoliation. Using a home microdermabrasion treatment, or visiting a dermatologist for a more extensive microdermabrasion can help minimize the size and appearance of your pores. Microdermabrasion removes the dead surface cells on your skin that cling to the surface surrounding the pore openings. It also reveals new, healthier skin.
Reduce Appearance
Using a foundation primer over your face can help the appearance of large pores. Some primers can even help with reducing oil production, and since you can’t see them once they are applied, a man could use them. Talk with a dermatologist regarding the best primer for your skin.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Acne; Steven D. Ehrlich, NMD.; December 2008
- “Good Housekeeping”; Conquer Complexion Imperfections; Beth Janes
- MedlinePlus: Acne
- Clinique: About Pores
- “Fitness Magazine”; How Can I Shrink My Large Pores
- KidsHealth: Bye-Bye Skin Cells
- Skin Cancer Foundation: Understanding UVA and UVB
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