Pores work to keep the skin hydrated and soft, but large pores can be embarrassing and increase the likelihood of acne outbreaks. According to DERMAdoctor, large pores are caused by a combination of genetics, sun damage and poorly treated acne. While there is no way to eliminate pore enlargement in most cases, knowing how to care for large skin pores can help minimize their appearance and make them less prone to clogging and inflammation.
Step 1
Exfoliate daily to remove dead skill cells and keep your pores unclogged. Large skin pores are more likely to become clogged with dead skin cells and oil than smaller pores. Use a gentle exfoliating cleanser with small grains to minimize irritation and redness.
Step 2
Use a toner on your skin to clean and reduce the appearance of large pores. Apply the toner with a clean cotton ball each morning and night. Witch hazel is an inexpensive and effective alternative to commercial products.
Step 3
Rinse your face with cold water after washing. The shock of cold water on your skin will help close your pores, making them less noticeable and less prone to clogging.
Step 4
Moisturize your skin every day, even if you have normal or oily skin. A water-based moisturizer is essential to the health of your skin. If you are prone to acne, you may want to speak with your dermatologist about a product that is right for your skin type.
Step 5
Try a pore-reducing mask to care for your large pores. Mashed papaya, tomato juice, whipped egg yolk, lemon juice and oatmeal may all help reduce pore size for some people. You can make these masks at home using food purchased from any grocery store, and can use each item alone or in combination with other ingredients. Apply the mask to your face and let it sit for 20 to 30 minutes. Wash with water.
Step 6
Apply a topical vitamin A cream to your skin to shrink large pores and loosen blackheads. Vitamin A medications, such as Retin A and Avage, are only available by prescription.
Step 7
Undergo microdermabrasion, a procedure that can help keep pores unclogged while reducing their appearance. Microdermabrasion works by scrubbing off the top layer of skin. This procedure is available at most dermatology offices, at some plastic surgery centers and at larger health spas across the country.
Step 8
Try products made to minimize large pores, such as refining creams that include glycolic acid and antioxidants. Some of these refining creams go on invisibly, while others are available with a tinted base to use in place of foundation.
Tips and Warnings
- Avoid applying cosmetic foundation to areas of your face where the pores are enlarged. Foundation will call attention to your pores and increasing the likelihood that they will become clogged and irritated.
Things You'll Need
- Exfoliating cleanser
- Skin toner or witch hazel
- Cotton balls
- Water-based moisturizer
- Over-the-counter pore refining cream
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