There are several ways that a person can minimize their large pores. Depending on your skin type, your pores may be more or less noticeable. It is important to note that there are two different types of pores. One releases oil otherwise known as sebum, while the other releases sweat. It’s impossible to completely get rid of large pores but it is possible to reduce their appearance. You can do this by using water-based products compared to oil-based products. Applying frequent clay and reducing your sun exposure are all helpful practices in reducing large pores.
It is important to choose water-based products because oil-based products contain ingredients such petrolatum and coconut oil and are not compatible with people with oily skin and have large pores. The excess of oil builds up on the skin and makes pores appear larger. It is essential that you wash your face in the morning when you wake up and at night right before bed. If you lead a very active lifestyle that causes you to sweat, make sure to wash your face multiple times a day. Always use lukewarm water and gently apply your favorite cleanser with clean fingers.
Make sure to choose a gentle cleanser that is nonabrasive and does not contain alcohol. Also, avoid scrubbing or rubbing the skin and pat your face dry with a clean towel.
When choosing an appropriate cleanser for reducing pore size, make sure to choose a gel-based cleanser. Gel-based cleansers are hydrating and don’t contain alcohol or oil that can dehydrate the skin. It is equally important to exfoliate at least once to twice a week in order to remove dirt, dead skin cells, and excess oil. When looking for the perfect exfoliators for your skin type, look for exfoliators that contain beta hydroxy acids, such as salicylic acid. Polyhydroxy acids, such as lactobionic acid and gluconolactone, help strengthen the skin’s barrier function.
You might think that moisturizing daily might enlarge your pores, but that is entirely dependent on the type of moisturizer you’re applying. Use an oil-free moisturizer and apply it while your skin is still damp. Gently apply the moisturizer into the skin instead of just rubbing it on. You want to ensure that the product is penetrating the skin. Additionally, it is important to wear sunscreen to keep the skin protected at all times. Lastly, you can try using a lay mask at least once a week to remove any additional oil. Clay absorbs sebum which is the natural oil our body produces. Make sure you aren’t applying a clay mask on the same day you are exfoliating as you can overwhelm the skin.
