Acne breakouts are caused when oils, sebum and bacteria become trapped inside the pores. When the pores are especially enlarged, acne breakouts can be more frequent and severe. To avoid this, it is helpful to use facial products that keep the pores clear and minimized.
Baking Soda
Baking soda is an alkaline substance that can be used to reduce pore size by exfoliating dead skin, oils, bacteria, and dirt on the skin. By removing these impurities, the pores can remain clearer and smaller. To apply baking soda, combine a small amount with water. Gently massage it into wet skin for a few minutes, then rinse it off with water. Baking soda can be used on the skin to reduce pore size once per day.
Castor Oil
Castor oil is a non-comedogenic oil that is also highly purgative. When massaged onto the skin, castor oil soaks deeply into the pores and attaches to the impurities and oils trapped within. Once hot water or steam is applied to the skin, the pores will open, and the castor oil and impurities are able to drain out of the skin. This allows the pores to be clearer, which in turn will allow them to shrink to a smaller size. Castor oil can be used to decrease pore size once per day.
Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid is typically purchased in a gel form, which is applied to the skin in order to regulate and balance out skin cell turnover. This prevents the dead skin cells from blocking the pores, and will allow them to avoid becoming as clogged and enlarged. Salicylic acid gel should be used twice per day to effectively keep the pores clear and small.
Lemon Juice
Lemon juice contains vitamin C, which can help remove dead skin cells and keep the pores clearer and smaller. Lemon juice can be used on the skin as a toner and as a compress. To use lemon juice as a toner, it should be splashed onto the skin after cleansing. To use lemon juice as a compress, cotton pads should be soaked in the juice, then allowed to stay on the skin for at least 10 minutes. The skin can then be allowed to dry naturally or washed off with water. Lemon juice can be used on the skin up to three times per day.
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