When the pores are enlarged, they may become clogged with oils, bacteria, sebum and other impurities. Clogged pores lead to blackheads and acne, which are painful, unsightly and difficult to eliminate. In order to keep the pores small and tight, thereby preventing them from becoming blocked, it is helpful to first flush out the skin with a purgative oil, exfoliate the skin with a gentle yet effective facial scrub and then tone the skin with a substance high in vitamin C.
Step 1
Empty the pores of blockages by flushing the skin with a non-comedogenic oil, such as castor oil. Pour 1 tbsp. castor oil into your palm, and rub your hands together to distribute the oil evenly. Spread the oil onto your face, and use your fingers to massage the oil deeply into the skin for 2 to 3 minutes. Fill a bowl with nearly boiling water, and lean 12 to 18 inches over the bowl. Drape a towel over your head, and let the steam waft over your skin for 5 minutes. Lift your head, and wipe off the oil using a damp washcloth. Repeat two times per day. Once the pores have been flushed out, they will be tighter and smaller.
Step 2
Remove dead skin cells that can become lodged inside the pores by exfoliating the skin with baking soda. Baking soda is an alkaline substance that can be used as a gentle and effective scrub that can remove dead skin cells that could clog the pores. Pour 1 tbsp. baking soda and 1 tsp. water into a small bowl. Spread the mixture onto your skin, and gently rub it around for about 2 minutes. Rinse off the skin thoroughly with water. Repeat two times per day.
Step 3
Increase skin cell turnover by applying a substance high in vitamin C, such as concentrated lemon juice. Soak five to six cotton pads in concentrated lemon juice. Squeeze out the cotton pads with your fingers, and lay the pads onto your skin. Let the pads remain on your skin for at least 10 minutes, then remove them to let the skin air dry. Repeat up to two times per day. Because lemon juice is high in vitamin C, it helps slough off dead skin cells, allowing the pores to become clearer and tighter.
Tips and Warnings
- For best results follow the steps in sequential order: Flush out the pores, remove dead skin cells, and increase skin cell turnover two times per day--once in the morning and again at night.
Things You'll Need
- Castor oil
- Towel
- Baking soda
- Lemon juice
- Cotton pads
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