Reduce Pore Size

Large pores are believed to be a product of both genetics and aging skin. As we age, skin loses its natural elasticity which helps to keep the skin and the pores tight. While aging plays a large role in pore size, some people are prone to enlarged pores due to their skin’s natural and genetic makeup.

How to Reduce Pore Size

Enlarged pores contribute to a variety of skin challenges including visible pores, uneven makeup application, increased breakouts and loose, untoned skin which can be unsightly.

Unfortunately, once pores have enlarged, there’s not a permanent or effective way to reduce them permanently. The only methods of treating pore size is through minimizing their appearance and preventing future pore enlargement and skin changes.

Cleansing and Toning Pores

Targeted skin care products are often the first over the counter remedy for treating enlarged pores.

Cleanse: Cleansing skin is the first step in preventing enlarged pores, breakouts and irritation while maintaining the integrity of the skin’s structure. Always cleanse the skin first thing in the morning to remove dead skin cells and embedded oil. A bar soap, cleansing gel or cleansing oil works to remove pore clogging residue, keeping the complexion clean and supple while minimizing the occurrence of enlarged pores.

Exfoliate: Exfoliating the skin with a gentle scrub removes dead skin cells and debris that can commonly clog pores and enlarge them. An exfoliant or facial scrub should be used after the cleanser once or twice per week. Several scrubs use natural ingredients, such as salt or sugar, and work too remove surface skin in a gentle and effective manner.

Tone: Toning the skin after cleansing or exfoliating is an excellent way to close the pores and tighten the surrounding skin tissue, reducing the visibility of clogged and enlarged pores. A simple astringent or alcohol based toner used liberally after cleansing or exfoliating will help prevent enlarged pores.

Moisturize: Although many people suffering from enlarged or clogged pores worry that lotions and moisturizers may clog the pores, the opposite is true. Properly moisturized and supple skin produces less natural oil. For those suffering from oily skin, moisturizers are the cure.

Steam: Steaming the facial skin is a wonderful way to open up the pores and remove the dirt and debris that is clogging them. For a do it at home steam session, place head over a pot of hot water with a towel draped over the head and the shoulders. Be careful to avoid hot water burns. Steam facial skin for five to ten minutes. Follow with a light moisturizer.

Masks: There are a multitude of over the counter masks and deep cleansing treatments that treat skin and clean embedded dirt and oils which eventually enlarge pores. A facial mask should be used once per week in order to best reduce pore size.

Professional Treatments

Facialists and estheticians are able to treat the condition of enlarged pores and help minimize their appearance. A salon or spa visit with a professional is a wonderful way to seek advice and treatment options for enlarged pores.

Although pores can not be permanently minimized, proper cleansing techniques can help reduce their visibility. For best results, always address the concern of enlarged pores promptly to treat the condition before it progresses.