How to Reduce Enlarged Pores on Face
Enlarged pores, often a result of factors like excess oil, ageing, or genetics, can affect the skin’s appearance negatively. They tend to collect more dirt, which can lead to issues like blackheads and acne. Proper skincare, including cleansing and toning, can help minimise their visibility and promote smoother, healthier-looking skin.
Contents
7 Ways to Reduce Enlarged Pores on the Face
1. Follow CTM regularly
CTM in skincare means “cleansing, toning, and moisturising.” It’s a basic daily skincare practice with three main steps:
• Cleaning: This begins by using a cleanser to remove dirt, makeup, and impurities from your skin, ensuring it’s clean for further skincare products.
• Toning: After cleansing, a toner is applied to balance the skin’s pH, tighten pores, and prepare the skin for moisturising. Some toners offer extra benefits like hydration or acne control. Invest in a good pore tightening toner online for best results.
• Moisturising: Moisturisers keep your skin hydrated, smooth, and protected. They seal in the benefits of the previous steps and prevent dryness. CTM is essential for healthy skin and can be tailored to individual needs.
2. Remove make-up at night
Consistently removing makeup before bedtime is a crucial part of a healthy skincare routine. Leaving makeup on while you sleep can lead to clogged pores as it combines with oils and bacteria, potentially causing skin issues. For quick makeup removal, cleansing wipes are a convenient option. They efficiently clear away makeup residue, helping to keep your skin clean and free from potential breakouts. Prioritising makeup removal at night ensures your skin can breathe and rejuvenate during sleep, promoting a fresher and healthier complexion.
3. Use sunscreen every day
Sun exposure can lead to dry skin and enlarged pores, so it’s important to use sunscreen regularly. Opt for a moisturiser with an SPF of 30 or higher to safeguard your skin. To keep your skin supple, consider wearing a wide-brimmed hat, applying sunscreen daily, and seeking shade during the sun’s peak hours.
4. Exfoliate the skin
For those with oily skin, it’s beneficial to exfoliate once or twice weekly to clear out pore-clogging elements like dirt, dead skin cells, and excess oil. This can be done with products that include ingredients like salicylic acid, lactobionic acid, and gluconolactone, which enhance skin’s barrier function. Over-the-counter products generally contain 7–10% of these active ingredients. Avoid excessive exfoliation, as it can dry out your skin, potentially making pores appear larger. Stick to a maximum of twice a week to maintain balanced, clear skin.
5. Use water-based products
Choose water-based products for your skincare routine. Moisturisers contain different active ingredients, such as oils. The American Academy of Dermatology suggests using oil-free products, including water-based makeup. If you have oily skin, opt for products with humectants like honey and urea rather than oils. Oil-based products, like those containing petrolatum or coconut oil, are effective at moisturising but may not be suitable for those with oily skin and large pores, as they can make pores appear larger due to excess oil.
6. Treat your acne
Dealing with acne is important because it can lead to clogged pores, making them stand out. A good solution is using a salicylic acid-based cleanser. Research suggests that salicylic acid can effectively clear pores. Some of these cleansers are gentle for daily use. If salicylic acid causes dryness or irritation, you can switch to a milder, non-comedogenic cleanser in the morning and use the salicylic acid one at night. However, some individuals with acne may require additional treatments to manage their condition effectively.
7. Be gentle on skin
Avoid vigorous scrubbing, as it won’t make your face cleaner and can actually irritate your skin, causing pores to appear larger. Similarly, picking, squeezing, or digging into your pores can worsen this effect. To maintain healthy skin and minimise pore visibility, it’s crucial to treat your face gently. Never engage in harsh scrubbing, rubbing, or picking. Gentle care is the key to keeping your skin looking its best and your pores less noticeable.
Conclusion
Enlarged pores can significantly impact the appearance and health of your skin, potentially leading to issues like blackheads and acne. To address this concern, it’s essential to follow a consistent CTM routine, remove makeup at night, use sunscreen daily, exfoliate wisely, choose water-based products, treat acne effectively, and be gentle with your skin. These practices collectively promote smoother, healthier-looking skin and reduce pore visibility.
