The Ultimate Guide to Reducing and Treating Large Pores

Social media influence, skin care product promotions, peer pressure, and comparison have all changed the beauty standards of the current generation. Everyone tries their best to have fair and spotless skin, but not everyone gets it. Many people suffer from multiple skin conditions, and large pores are one of the most concerning skin problems out there. These pores can be caused by genetics, excess sebum production, loss of skin elasticity, sun damage, hormonal changes, and many more, which we will learn about in the later stages of this blog. While you can’t make them disappear completely, you can minimise their appearance with the right skincare routine, lifestyle choices, and sometimes treatments. This blog is the ultimate guide for all people looking to make their skin better by reducing the appearance of the pores.

What are pores?

Human skin has thousands of small openings on the surface for excreting oil and sweat. These pores are connected to hair follicles for the passage of sweat and oil glands for the passage of oil. While they may seem unattractive, they play a crucial role in keeping our skin moisturized and regulating the temperature based on the outside world.

How Are Large Pores Different from Normal Pores?

Large pores usually have bigger openings in the skin compared to the normal ones, making them more prominent and easily recognizable. The size of the pores varies due to several factors and external influences. One of the key things to note is that people with oily skin tend to have larger pores because of excessive oil production that stretches the pores’ opening.

• Size: Large pores are more visible to the naked eye, while normal pores are barely noticeable.
• Oil Production: Large pores are often linked to excess sebum, while normal pores have a balanced oil output.
• Texture: Large pores can create a rougher skin texture, whereas normal pores contribute to a smoother appearance.
• Clogging: Larger pores are more prone to clogging, leading to blackheads and acne.

5 ways to minimize large pores

While you cannot shrink the pores completely, they can be controlled with the right skincare and healthy lifestyle choices. Here are 8 detailed methods to reduce their appearance, including what to do, how to do it, when to do it, and why it works.

1. Cleanse, not just clean

All pores, including the smaller and larger ones, are caused by excess oil production. To reduce pores, one of the first steps is to clean the skin to remove all the dirt, oil, and impurities that can clog the pores, eventually making them appear bigger. This will prevent the dirt from settling deep inside the pores, thereby reducing their visibility.

How to Do It?

• Choose a gel-based or foaming cleanser for oily/combination skin.
• Use a mild, hydrating cleanser for dry or sensitive skin.
• Wash your face twice a day (morning and night).
• Use lukewarm water (not hot, as heat expands pores).
• Massage gently for 30-60 seconds to remove impurities effectively.

2. Exfoliation

Exfoliation helps in clearing all the dead skin and excess oil from the skin. We recommend people with severe large pores use chemical exfoliants (AHAs/BHAs) to remove all the dead skin cells and unclog pores more effectively.

How to Do It?

• Choose Salicylic Acid (BHA) (1-2%) for oily/acne-prone skin (deep cleans inside pores).
• Use Glycolic Acid (AHA) (5-10%) for dry/ageing skin (removes surface dead skin).
• Apply 2-3 times a week at night to avoid over-exfoliation.
• Use a cotton pad or your fingers to apply evenly.
• Follow with a hydrating serum/moisturizer.

3. Sunscreen and hydration

UV rays from the sunlight are one of the key factors that make pores stretch and look bigger, so we highly recommend people use sunscreen every time they go out to keep their skin hydrated and protected from sun damage.

How to Do It?

• Use SPF 30-50 (oil-free and non-comedogenic).
• Apply every morning, even on cloudy days.
• Reapply every 2 hours if outdoors.
• Choose mineral sunscreens (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) if you have sensitive skin.

4. Use retinol and niacinamide

Niacinamide is known to regulate oil production and overall skin texture, while retinol boosts collagen and refines skin texture.

How to use retinol?

• Start with 0.2% or 0.5% retinol if new to it.
• Apply only at night after cleansing.
• Use a pea-sized amount, avoiding the eye area.
• Follow with moisturizer.
• Start 2-3 times a week, then increase frequency.

How to use niacinamide?

• Use a 5-10% niacinamide serum (safe for all skin types).
• Apply after cleansing and before moisturising.
• Use 2-3 drops and gently pat into the skin.
• Pair with hyaluronic acid for hydration.

5. Consider professional treatments

While home care remedies may work, they are not really effective, especially if the pores are large in size and number. In these cases, it is highly advisable to consult a specialized skin care doctor and get professional advice and advanced treatments like chemical peels, microneedling, etc. Visit Dr. Health Clinic today and get reliable and safe treatment options for large pores that are specifically catered to your skin type. We offer a wide range of skincare products and advanced treatment options that can help you effectively cover your large pores and reduce their appearance.

Conclusion

Following these 4 steps can significantly increase your chances of controlling the pores and making them appear smaller. However, keep in mind that professional advice and recommendations are highly valuable as they evaluate the skin condition and offer expert advice. For people who are experiencing severe large pores, consult Dr. Health Clinic for reliable and effective solutions.