When the pores on your face are enlarged and opened, it can cause your skin to become clogged with oils and bacteria. This can lead to acne breakouts and skin infections. Luckily, there are a few steps you can take to close and tighten your pores that will prevent bacteria and other impurities from causing acne. It is important to follow a pore-tightening routine three times per week to keep the pores clear of blockages, remove dead skin that can prevent your pores from closing, and increase skin cell turnover to keep your pores closed.
Step 1
Help your pores close by flushing them out with a non-comedogenic oil, such as castor oil. Pour 1 tsp of castor oil into a small bowl and use your fingers to spread the oil onto your skin. Massage in the oil using deep pressure and circular finger motions for 2 to 3 minutes. Drape a steaming washcloth over your skin, which will cause the pores to release oils, bacteria and other impurities. When the washcloth cools, wipe off the oil. Splash your skin with cold water to re-close your pores, which will be significantly tighter and smaller from the flushing.
Step 2
Remove pore-clogging dead skin cells using a natural exfoliant, such as baking soda, which will allow the pores to remain clear and tight. Pour 1 Tbsp of baking soda into a small bowl along with 1 tsp of water, mixing them together thoroughly. Smooth the baking soda mixture onto your skin and gently massage it in using light pressure. Avoid scrubbing your skin vigorously, which can scratch and damage your skin. After 1 to 2 minutes, rinse off your skin completely with cold water.
Step 3
Increase skin cell turnover by applying a toner high in vitamin C, which will support and encourage the production of new skin cells while sloughing away cells that prevent the pores from closing. Lemon juice makes an effective and gentle facial toner that is high in vitamin C. Fill an empty spray bottle with concentrated lemon juice and spray your skin liberally after cleansing or exfoliating it. Let the lemon juice dry onto your skin. Lemon juice can be used on your skin up to three times per day to help increase skin cell turnover.
Things You'll Need
- Castor oil
- Washcloth
- Baking soda
- Lemon juice
- Spray bottle
