Pores on the skin are a very normal and healthy phenomenon. Their existence on our skin actually keeps the skin healthy. It is unrealistic to think that we can achieve poreless skin because it is very natural to have pores through which your skin breathes.
Large Pores, however, are of concern because they may be a consequence of oily skin and rejected skin health. Having large pores may hamper the appearance of the face, which may reduce confidence in public appearance. If any skin concern is known to be strenuous to treat, it is the large pores.
To make things easier for your skin concern, we have brought expert recommendations and tips from our in-house dermatologist, to serve the best skin health for you. A series of causes leading to open pores and product recommendations by our experts are discussed below.
In This Article
Reasons for Large Pores
1. GeneticsLike any other skin and body-related concern, enlarged pores can also be genetic. If it has prevailed in the family, chances are your skin might have adopted it from your parents. Nevertheless, it is not very difficult to alter a large percentage of your genes. Enlarged Pores wouldn’t show up on pre-mature and young skin. Thus it is important to guard the skin as early as possible, to restrict them from showing up on the skin.
2. Sun Damage
Sun Damage is a parent cause of numerous skin issues you might be facing. Large Pores are one of them. With Large Pores, the skin tends to sag and look beaten up. This is because the skin has lost its elasticity due to sun exposure and the damage that has followed. Sun rays make the skin very vulnerable, making them dehydrated and depleted of collagen. All of these skin conditions then lead to bigger-looking pores and aged-appearing skin.
3. Active Sebaceous Glands
Excessive oil secretion is highly responsible for enlarged pores and becomes a breeding ground for bacteria, which might activate acne and breakouts later, worsening the appearance of the pores. Those with oily skin, have a sebaceous filament. These filaments may fill the sebum plug, resulting in expanded pores.
4. Age Factor
Similar to sun damage, the decrement of collagen in the skin takes place and intensifies the condition of large pores. As we age, our collagen production decreases, which causes the skin to sag and the appearance of large pores to become more prominent. Our skin functions like a pillow where the pores sink deeper into the skin, worsening it.
Expert Treatment for Large Pores
1. Masking For Better ResultsFor porous skin, it is important to use active ingredients infused clay masks. These clay masks soothe the skin, tighten the pores, and the active ingredients penetrate deeper into the skin.
Experts suggest that clay masks absorb more oil and help in extracting sebaceous filament. Clays like Kaolin clay helps draw the oil efficiently. With this, active ingredients such as Salicylic Acid & Niacinamide combat oiliness further leading to minimizing the pores. Clay-based mask from SkinQ- Oil Control Mask, is infused with Niacinamide, Mandelic Acid, Saw Palmetto and Zinc PCA. Niacinamide minimizes pores, while Saw Palmetto controls the production of oil. Mandelic Acid in the mask exfoliates and unclogs pores and Zinc PCA, fights and controls breakouts.
2. Using the Right Serum
Serums are designed to sponge up the skin with their potent nature. The right serum with the right active ingredient is a holy grail for those suffering from enlarged pores. Serums work perfectly for this skin concern, as their nature targets the skin concern, and treating it from within the layers is what the skin needs.
To begin with, Niacinamide serums should be incorporated into your skincare routine if large pores are your skin concern. Niacinamide regulates sebum, refines pores, and helps diminish its appearance. With its hydrating properties, it helps the skin balance out its pH level. Improving overall health is the key to treating a skin concern as stubborn as large pores. SkinQ’s Oil and Acne Control Elixir is a rare find that works wonders for large pores. Niacinamide in this serum reduces acne breakouts. Apart from that, it has Salicylic Acid, which helps dissolve skin debris and minimizes the appearance of enlarged pores.
3. Usage of Non-Comedogenic Products
Since large pores are prone to getting their sebum plugs filled with dirt and oil, using non-comedogenic skincare products is advised. Non-comedogenic products are those which do not clog the pores further. Filling up those enlarged pores with products that might clog your pores is a skin hazard, hence one needs to check labels before experimenting with skin.
SkinQ’s Moisture Balm, is a dermatologist-formulated moisturizer, infused with active ingredients like Hyaluronic acid, Ceramides, Sodium Hyaluronate, Niacinamide and Vitamin E. This moisturizer improves the natural skin barrier, brightens the skin, provides intense hydration, and most importantly doesn’t clog pores.
4. Using SPF daily
Previously we discussed the problems associated with exposing yourself heavily to the sun, without applying sunscreen. For those suffering from large pores, a broad-spectrum sunscreen is a must-have. Genetic mutation and skin damage occur because of the UV rays, thus prevention of it is only possible with a sunscreen of at least SPF 30, say the dermatologists.
Choosing a sunscreen that is non-comedogenic, non-greasy and of gel texture, is important for enlarged pores. Formulated by Dr. Chytra V Anand, an Internationally renowned Celebrity Cosmetic Dermatologist, and Indian Beauty Guru, SkinQ’s Sun Protect Ultra Light Gel is par excellence. The sunscreen has a SPF of 40 PA++++, with inbuilt vitamin C. Vitamin C is a collagen-producing active ingredient, responsible for improved cell turnover. For those with enlarged pores, vitamin C helps repairs the skin which in turn improves the appearance of the pores.
5. Adopting Collagen Producing Serums
Enlarged Pores are destined to have a loss of collagen and elasticity, which is what gives the skin that droopy look. Thus including serums that help in improving skin elasticity and the production of collagen will in turn reduce the appearance of large pores.
Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin C, Ginseng, and Aloevera Gel are a few ingredients that help in improving skin’s elasticity by improving collagen production. Hyaluronic Acid is a great fit to include in the skincare routine, however we recommend Vitamin C for it serves dual benefit to the skin. Vitamin C serum is a versatile serum, used for collagen production and added protection against the sun. Vitamin C is also very handy when it comes to improving skin elasticity and producing collagen. To recommend the best vitamin C, which not only protects and increases collagen but also hydrates the skin, try SkinQ’s 15% Vitamin C Glow Serum.The serum is formulated with Sodium Hyaluronate, which prevents drying out of the skin and imparts hydration.
Overview
Enlarged Pores are one skin condition that needs critical care of the skin from within and topically. As discussed there are several reasons for large pores to show up on your face. Recognizing what is causing your open pores and following a suitable skincare routine will provide significant results.
Apart from ageing, large pores could be an issue caused by a neglected skincare routine. To begin with, it is advised to know your skin first. If this still confuses you, try out SkinQ’s AI Mirror to get in-depth detail about your skin and product recommendations.
FAQ's
What ingredients should I avoid if I have sensitive skin?
If you have sensitive skin, certain ingredients can trigger irritation and redness. Here are some common culprits to watch out for:
Fragrances: These, whether natural or synthetic, can be irritating.
Sulfates: Found in shampoos and cleansers, sulfates can strip away natural oils, leaving skin dry and itchy. Look for products labelled "sulfate-free".
Alcohol: While alcohol can be helpful for oily skin, it can be overly drying and harsh for sensitive types.
How can I tell if my pores are clogged or enlarged?
You can spot clogged pores by looking for a few telltale signs. One is if your pores appear larger than usual, often accompanied by a bumpy texture. Sometimes, you might even see visible buildup within the pore itself. Another clue is the presence of blackheads or whiteheads, which arise from clogged pores that have oxidized (blackheads) or remained closed (whiteheads). If you're unsure, consult a dermatologist for a professional diagnosis and personalized advice.
Are there any side effects to consider when using pore-minimizing makeup products?
While pore-minimizing makeup can temporarily blur the appearance of pores, there are some potential downsides to consider. Some formulas can contain ingredients that clog pores, leading to breakouts. This can be especially true for people with oily or acne-prone skin. Additionally, heavy makeup can trap dirt and oil throughout the day, further hindering your skin's natural function. To minimize these risks, look for oil-free and non-comedogenic products, which means they won't block pores. Remember, a good skincare routine with cleansing and exfoliation is key to truly keeping pores clear.
Is there a difference between minimizing pores and shrinking pores?
Yes, there's a key difference between minimizing and shrinking pores. Pores are like tiny tubes in your skin with important jobs like releasing oil and keeping your skin healthy. Unfortunately, we can't permanently shrink them because their size is mainly determined by genetics. However, minimizing their appearance is achievable! This involves keeping them clear of dirt and oil, which can make them look bigger. By following a good skincare routine, you can create the illusion of smaller pores for a smoother-looking complexion.
How often should I be exfoliating?
The ideal exfoliation frequency depends on your skin type. For most people, two to three times a week is a good starting point. If you have oily or combination skin, you might tolerate daily exfoliation with a gentle product. However, those with dry or sensitive skin should exfoliate less often, perhaps once or twice a week. Pay attention to how your skin reacts. If it feels tight or irritated, ease back on exfoliation. Remember, healthy skin shouldn't be raw or flaky!
What are some alternatives to oil-based cleansers for people with oily skin?
While oil-based cleansers can be great for some, those with oily skin might prefer a different approach. Luckily, there are plenty of alternatives! Foaming cleansers with ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide can effectively remove excess oil and fight acne. Micellar water is another option, attracting dirt and oil with tiny micelles without leaving a greasy residue.
For a more natural touch, try cleansing with ingredients like green tea or clay, which have astringent properties that help control oil and minimize pores. Remember, patch testing is always a good idea before introducing a new product to your routine.
Are there any side effects to using chemical peels or retinoid creams?
Yes, both chemical peels and retinoid creams can cause side effects. Chemical peels, especially deeper ones, can lead to temporary redness, dryness, stinging, and swelling. In rare cases, there might be permanent changes in skin pigmentation or scarring. Retinoid creams are known to cause irritation, dryness, and sun sensitivity. These effects are usually mild and temporary, but it's important to be aware of them before using either treatment.