Do you feel like your large pores are always on display? Are you constantly searching for new products or remedies to reduce their appearance? Enlarged pores can be a source of insecurity for many people.
Many factors contribute to the pores’ appearance. One example is acne. In a survey, around 40% struggle with acne, making pores appear more visible. About 59% of Americans aren’t confident and uncomfortable with their skin appearance.
While you can’t completely get rid of pores, there are some things you can do to reduce their visibility, such as using a natural skin exfoliator product or any skincare cosmetics. These products could help remove dead skin cells and debris clogging your pores. But before getting into that, let’s talk a bit more about what pores are and what causes them to become enlarged.
What are pores?
Pores are tiny openings on the surface of your skin. They’re essential for allowing your skin to breathe and release sebum, an oily substance that helps keep your skin moisturized.
According to research, the average person has approximately 5 million pores, with 20,000 pores on the face alone. Pores can become clogged with dirt, makeup, dead skin cells, and other impurities. When that happens, they can be noticeable and more prominent, which may lower your self-esteem and can be frustrating.
There are many products and treatments available that may help minimize large pores. Here are some ways:
1. Exfoliate regularly
The skin sheds dead skin cells every day. If these dead skin cells aren’t removed, they can accumulate and clog your pores. As mentioned earlier, exfoliating helps eliminate dead skin cells and other impurities from your pores, reducing their appearance.
There are many ways to exfoliate your skin. You can use a physical exfoliator, like a scrub, or a chemical, like alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) or beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) products. Finding exfoliating products that work well for your skin type is essential. Those with sensitive skin should be extra careful when choosing a product, as some may not be suitable for you. In that case, a skin exfoliator with organic, gentle ingredients would be a better choice.
Exfoliating once or thrice a week is ideal as long as you’re not overdoing it and your skin can handle it. You can exfoliate in the morning or at night. Ensure to follow up with a moisturizer afterward to soothe your skin.
2. Use the right facial cleanser
Did you know that the global facial cleanser industry is expected to reach USD$7282.3 million by 2028 at a compound annual growth rate of 4.9% during the forecasted period? That’s a lot of cleansers! This figure shows how essential facial cleansing is for achieving and maintaining clear, healthy skin.
Your choice of cleanser can impact the pores’ visibility. A good facial cleanser should be able to remove grimes, oil, and other impurities without stripping your skin of its natural moisture. This is important because if your skin’s natural oils are extracted, your sebaceous glands will go into overdrive to produce more oil to make up for the loss. This will result in clogged pores and breakouts.
Gel-based or foaming cleansers are usually the best options for oily or acne-prone skin. These cleansing types remove excess oil without drying out your skin. On the other hand, if you have dry or sensitive skin, you may go for a cream-based or milk-based cleanser as these are gentler hydrating.
3. Wear sunscreen
You may not realize it, but sunscreen isn’t just for protecting your skin from sun damage. It can also be a preventive measure against large pores.
Ultraviolet (UV) rays can cause your skin to produce more sebum. When that happens, your pores can become clogged, leading to blackheads, whiteheads, and pimples.
To prevent it, ensure to wear sunscreen every day, even if you’re just staying indoors. Choose a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30 and apply it generously to all exposed areas of your skin, especially on the face. Reapply every two hours or after sweating or swimming.
4. Apply a primer before makeup
Sometimes, the cosmetics you use can make your pores visible. This is because some makeup products, particularly foundation and powder, can settle into your pores, making them more noticeable. This is where primer comes in handy.
A primer is a product that you apply before your foundation. It creates a smooth canvas for your makeup, filling in your pores and fine lines. This gives your skin a more even appearance and helps your makeup go on smoothly, creating a glowing complexion.
If you have large pores, a pore-minimizing or hydrating primer could be an excellent choice. These primers usually contain ingredients that help to control oil production, such as silica or kaolin clay. Organic primers are also a good option, especially for sensitive skin, as they don’t contain harmful chemicals that can irritate.
Conclusion
Though pores are an essential part of your skin, it doesn’t mean you have to show them off. If you’re unhappy with the size of your pores, don’t worry. Follow the tips outlined in this article, and you should see a noticeable difference in no time. Remember to be patient and consistent with your skincare routine, and you’ll achieve the clear, smooth skin you’ve always wanted. Let your skin breathe and be good to it—it’ll repay you in kind.
