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First things first, there are so many causal factors for large, visible pores and they are not limited to genetics only. Acne, increased sebum production (which causes oily skin and sun damage) and non-comedogenic makeup are factors too. These pores, the small holes in the skin that allow oil to reach the surface can become clogged with the oil and dead cells that the skin sheds on a daily basis.
Unfortunately, visible pores cannot be magically removed but with intentional skincare routines, reducing the pores and preventing them from becoming clogged is possible. According to experts, there are effective ways to reduce the appearance of large pores. Continue reading to learn more about them.
How to Get Rid of Visible Pores
Everyone has got pores all over their body except at the soles of their feet. If you look closely at your skin, you’d discover the points from where your hair follicles sprout. The pores that would bother you are those ones wider, deeper, and so visible, especially on the nose. Thankfully, you can now do something to unclog your pores and make them recede to the point where they are shrunk. The following are what dermatologists recommend according to the American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD) and they’re great DIY hacks:
Using Water-Based Products
Water-based products are moisturizing products that contain a variety of active ingredients, including oils. These oil-free cosmetics, such as water-based makeup, are recommended by the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD).
Washing the Face twice a Day (morning and night)
Washing the face helps you get rid of excess oil and sweat and all of the residues that accumulate on your face as your day progresses. Do this morning and night and see your pores visibly unclogged and less oily. To wash your face, AAD recommends that you;
- Use warm water. Hot water can irritate your skin, causing pores to look larger.
- Gently wash your face. Scrubbing can irritate your skin, causing inflammation. When skin is inflamed, pores tend to be more noticeable.
- Find a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser. Again, you want to do everything you can to stop irritating your skin and stop clogging your pores.
Using Retinol
Using a skin care product containing retinol may aid in the treatment of oily skin, mild acne, or sagging skin. Retinol-based products should be used at night. AAD says “Some people find that this type of skin care product irritates their skin”. But you can prevent this irritation by washing your face and then waiting 30 minutes to apply the product.
Using only non-comedogenic skin care products and makeup
A non-comedogenic substance is one that does not have the ability to clog skin pores. Products labeled “noncomedogenic” are believed not to cause clogged pores. AAD says, to avoid clogged pores, look for one of the following terms on everything you apply to your face:
- Non-comedogenic.
- Oil-free.
- Won’t clog pores.
If you don’t see one of these terms, don’t use the product.”
Treating Acne
Acne is a common skin condition that results in clogged pores and pimples on the face, forehead, chest, shoulders, and upper back. AAD says to treat acne, “Using a cleanser with salicylic acid may help. Studies show salicylic acid can unclog pores. Some cleansers containing salicylic acid are gentle enough to use every day.” These dermatologists also suggest that “If the salicylic acid dries or irritates your skin, try alternating cleansers. Use a mild, non-comedogenic cleanser when you wake up and the salicylic acid cleanser before bed.”
Wearing Sunscreen
It’s not enough to carry out one skin care and leave the other. When you’re out in the sun, it’s critical to wear sunscreens. This is because, when the skin is exposed to the sun, it dries out, causing pores to appear larger. Sunscreen is found in many moisturizers and people should choose one with at least an SPF of 30. AAD says “Applying a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF 30 or higher helps prevent sun-damaged skin.”
