What are the best ways to get rid of large pores?

A person's pores may be more or less noticeable depending on their skin type. If a person is concerned about the appearance of their pores, there are some home remedies that may help.

There are two types of pores. One releases the body's natural oil, called sebum; the other releases sweat. Sometimes the oil-releasing pores may appear enlarged.

It is not possible to get rid of large pores, but there are ways to reduce their appearance. This article explores how to make large pores less visible. It also discusses how to promote skin health and what further treatments are available.

Why do pores become enlarged?

When oil collects in the pore and combines with dirt or makeup, the pore can become blocked. This stretches the pore, making it look bigger than it is. If the pore remains clogged, a pimple may develop.

Eight ways to minimize large pores

Here are eight effective ways to reduce the appearance of pores:

1. Choosing water-based products

If a person has oily skin, they should ensure they use products that are water-based. Using water-based products avoids extra oil getting into the pores.

A person with oily skin and large pores should avoid oil-based products. These may lead to excess oil on the skin, making pores appear larger.

2. Washing the face both morning and evening

Washing the face is basic skin care. But with so many products available, a person may forget just to use warm water and a cleanser.

Having a good face washing habit is essential. Washing the face every morning and evening helps to wash away oil and dirt from the pores, which helps to reduce their appearance.

3. Choosing gel-based cleansers

If a person has oily skin and wants to reduce the appearance of their pores, they should choose a gel-based cleanser.

A moisturizing cleanser may leave residue in the pores and increase oiliness. A gel-based cleanser helps to clear oil from the pores, reducing their appearance. Various products are available for purchase online.

4.Exfoliating

A person with oily skin should exfoliate once or twice a week. Exfoliating helps to remove things from the pores that can block them. This includes:

dirt
dead skin cells
excess oil

Look for exfoliating products containing salicylic acid, which is a natural acid that helps to release debris from the pores.

It is important not to exfoliate more than twice a week, however. Exfoliating too frequently with products that contain salicylic acid or alcohol can dry out the skin.

Although exfoliation keeps the pores unclogged, they can look bigger if the skin becomes too dry.

5. Moisturizing daily

The idea of moisturizing oily skin may be counterintuitive. However, it can help to reduce pore enlargement.

Although moisturizing cleansers may clog the pores, in contrast, moisturizing lotions used after washing and patting the skin dry are beneficial.

This is because moisturizers hydrate and soften the skin. This allows the sebum to penetrate deeper into the skin, rather than sit in the pores on the surface.

In this way, moisturizing prevents pores becoming clogged with oil, reducing their appearance.

6. Applying a clay mask

Using a clay mask once or twice a week can help to remove oil from the pores. This can prevent them from becoming enlarged, and reduce their appearance.

However, it is a good idea to do this on a different day to exfoliating. Over-treating the skin may cause irritation. When the skin gets irritated, pores may appear enlarged and blemishes may occur.

7. Always removing makeup at night

It is essential to always remove makeup before going to sleep.

Sleeping with makeup on overnight can lead to a person's pores becoming blocked. This is because makeup, oil, and bacteria build up in the pores.

Using cleansing wipes is a quick way to remove makeup if a person is short on time.

8. Wearing sunscreen

It is crucial to care for skin in the sun. If a person's skin becomes sun damaged, this can be very drying. When the skin is dry, pores may appear larger.

Keeping the skin protected from the sun keeps it supple. The best ways to do this are:

wearing a wide-brimmed hat
wearing sunscreen every day
staying in the shade when the sun is strongest

Other treatment options

There are several treatments available for acne and enlarged pores. These include:

Microneedling: This is a non-invasive skin treatment using a dermaroller (a hand-held roller with tiny needles on it) or a microneedle pen (a device with a motor that causes piercing of the skin with tiny needles). Piercing the surface of the skin causes micro-injuries, which prompt the skin's healing response. This can reduce the appearance of large pores.
Antibiotics: A doctor may prescribe antibiotics to help treat acne.
Retinoids: These are a stronger prescription medication that a doctor may offer a person with ongoing problems with acne.