Beat the Struggle against Large Pores

PORES – everyone has them! Pores are nothing but hair follicles that are spread almost all over the body. They are essential for the body to release natural oils on the skin surface and keep it moisturized and healthy. However, when these ‘holes’ turn large and prominent, they turn into a huge blight on the canvas of the face.

In reality, most people constantly struggle against large, open or clogged pores. Large pores could be due to genetics, stress or hormonal imbalances. Improper skin care or prolonged skin exposure can also unduly enlarge the pores on the skin. What’s more, they tend to worsen with age as the skin loses its collagen and elasticity.

We absolutely hate those large and open pores on the face because –

• They look quite unsightly and make the skin dull and rough.
• They accumulate oil, dirt and bacteria which clogs the pores.
• They are home to whiteheads, blackheads and can even lead to acne.
• These make the pores more visible.
• They can lead to ugly blemishes too.

Pores are a fact of life and they cannot be eliminated completely. However, there are certain measures that can help you to shrink and minimize those unbecoming pores as much as possible. Such as:

Proper skin care routine – Stop being sloppy when it comes to skin care. Develop a proper cleansing, toning and moisturizing routine with good quality skin care products. If your skin is oily (is the case for most people with large pores), using a cleanser with salicylic acid or glycolic acid followed up by a toner will keep the pores clean and unclogged. Clear pores automatically appear smaller. While you need to protect your skin and its pores with a moisturizer, keep in mind that slathering heavy or hydrating ones in the winter season can also block and ultimately, enlarge the pores.

Protect against sun – If your skin is exposed to the sun for long periods, protect it with an appropriate sunscreen or sun damaged skin products (if needed).

Exfoliate – Dead cells can clog and stretch the pores. Gentle exfoliation (once or twice a week) will clear out all the accumulated dead cells and reduce the oil on the skin as well.

Primer – Makeup can further clog your pores and make them look bigger. Apply a primer on the skin before you do your makeup. This will effectively protect the pores and keep the beauty products from seeping into them.

Masks – Regular application of clay masks or other skin tightening ones can effectively reduce large pores and make the skin look blemish-free.

Home remedies – Applying ice, baking powder, cucumber, yoghurt, oatmeal or egg whites at home can tighten the skin over a period of time, thus reducing large pores.

Consult a dermatologist – If all else fails and the pores turn truly stubborn, turn to a professional for help. A dermatologist can prescribe retinol products or a strong exfoliant. Medical treatments like peels or laser can effectively tighten the pores. You skin will appear clear, smooth and ‘poreless’ in a few sittings itself!

The author Christina Mills is an eminent skin care specialist and writer of anti aging facial products. She is well reputed for his writings on skin care products for women.