6 Ways to Tackle Enlarged Pores

Let’s talk about pores – specifically, what are they, why we have them, and what we can do about them.

It’s not uncommon for our skin to yo-yo back and forth between silky smooth and textured, especially as we age. This evolution is natural as we age, but in some cases, our pore size can keep expanding beyond reasonable limits. That’s when we must wonder if we’re living with enlarged pores, and how we can better support our skin.

As we age, our focus on skin care has to be proactive. Addressing concerns right away with clean ingredients and consistency is the best way to maintain taut skin and a youthful glow. Let’s get to the bottom of enlarged pores, and share a few techniques and natural products for achieving smoother skin.

Though we like to think of our skin as our largest organ, in this case let’s imagine it as fabric. The tighter and more uniform the weave, the smoother the fabric is. So, the less uneven the skin on our face, the smoother our complexion will look – and the less pore visibility there is. Due to a variety of factors – many of them natural – there are usually pores on our skin that we can definitely see.

Pores aren’t a one size fits all type of deal, and size can vary greatly depending where on the face the pore lives and your skin type. Let’s describe those porous areas as “loosely woven” fabric. Since a typical pore is anywhere from virtually invisible to smaller than the tip of a mechanical pencil, an enlarged pore can be as big as a small seed (think poppy or sesame seeds).

An enlarged pore enhances the textured appearance of the skin. Common signs of enlarged pores can be raised skin, and redness or discoloration with visible darkness inside the pores. While an enlarged pore certainly isn’t the end of the world, it can be a sign of further skin troubles to come.

Sometimes enlarged pores are just a natural behavior of the skin. This can be due to age, hormones, or simply genetics – but there are a few other causes, too. Because enlarged pores can be inevitable for some, this is where consistent skin rituals can really improve pore conditions. And beyond just natural factors, there are other causes of enlarged pores that could be making matters worse.

In many cases, enlarged pores aren’t permanent. They’re often the result of debris like excess oil, dirt, and dead skin building up in the pores. Along with hormones and genetics, frequent or harsh sun exposure can also lead to enlarged pores.

When a pore becomes enlarged, the skin doesn’t just change physically. Our pores actually have a function: they allow our skin to release dirt, sweat, oil, heat, and toxins. So, when a pore is enlarged from being clogged, all that gunk is backing up in our skin.

Once our pore has become enlarged, we can experience additional issues. Since enlarged pores are more common in the T-zone of our faces, one of the first issues that follows is excess sebum. Not only can this lead to imbalanced skin, but the build-up of oil and debris can lead to some serious breakouts. From simple pimples to large, darkened blackheads, an enlarged pore is a breeding ground for blemishes.

If the pores have become enlarged due to an increase in sun exposure, or as a reaction to irritating skin care products, we may notice increased redness and raised skin. And depending on your skin type and hair type, it’s not uncommon to experience hair growth in the enlarged pore, or even ingrown hairs.

Newly enlarged pores are relatively easy to take care of. Rather than go through the blemishes, here are a few ways to help treat the skin.

Most of us will experience enlarged pores in our lifetime, but even if it’s natural or genetic, it doesn’t mean that skin care can’t help. While we’ll never be able to totally prevent them, we can certainly improve the appearance of enlarged pores and prevent some of their associated issues.

Here are 6 ways to control enlarged pores:

#1. First, stick to a consistent skin care routine. We’re sounding like a broken record at this point but truly, consistency is key. Since pore debris can build within a day, keeping up with daily cleansing will definitely pay for itself in the long run. Using physical or chemical exfoliants once a week can help keep the newest, freshest skin on the surface.

#2. A single wash with an antioxidant-rich face scrub can boost circulation, diminish the visible texture of pores, and help restore youthful suppleness. The fine scrubby texture sloughs away flakes and visible dead skin, while freeing the pores of debris.

#3. Enlarged pores hate to see a clarifying product coming, which is why using a daily toner can help minimize pores. Skin dealing with the excess sebum caused by enlarged pores will love the Tea Tree & Willow Clarifying Astringent, with antibacterial herbs to clear pores and kill acne-causing bacteria.

Using a toner is another great way to minimize pores. Toners shrink pores by constricting them, which also stops the secretion of excess sebum. Our Flower Water Toner is a perfect example of a formula that quenches thirsty skin cells with hyaluronic acid and contains organic witch hazel to constrict and purify your pores.

This alcohol-free hydrating face toner also features undiluted floral ingredients like rose hydrosol and calendula hydrosol to reduce redness, and calm and clarify your skin for a healthy glow.

#4. Choosing non-comedogenic products is another big factor. Lightweight and compatible formulas will lessen our risk of pore clogging and breakouts, which only worsen skin texture. If you’re looking for a skin care and travel-compatible formula, our Lavender Niacinamide Pore Minimizer Tonique is the perfect companion for any beauty arsenal. This pore minimizing face mist cleans and purifies pores to lessen the appearance of facial pores, lines, and wrinkles, while reducing inflammation, increasing firmness, and evening the skin tone.

#5. SPF is another big help for keeping pores tight, as pollutants and UV damage can damage skin structure.

#6. Supporting your skin’s collagen and elastin levels is one more strategy to lessening enlarged pores. Our skin becomes lax as we age, due to a natural drop in collagen; this causes pores to look loose and stretched. By using vitamin C and other collagen-supporting ingredients, you can keep pores firmer for longer.

Our skin is sensitive, so even the most innocent of daily activities can cause clogged and enlarged pores. Knowing how to identify and guard against these culprits can help clean up your skin, and give you the clear, smooth complexion you deserve!

What causes enlarged pores, and can they be permanently reduced in size?

Enlarged pores are primarily caused by excess sebum production, aging, and genetic factors. They can also be exacerbated by improper skincare, sun damage, and clogged pores. While you can’t permanently reduce the actual size of pores (as they are genetically determined), you can minimize their appearance. Effective skincare routines, regular cleansing, and treatments that improve skin elasticity can make them less noticeable.

How does exfoliation help in reducing the appearance of enlarged pores?

Exfoliation helps in removing dead skin cells and unclogging pores, which can make them appear smaller. Chemical exfoliants like alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) are particularly effective as they penetrate deeply and clear out pores. Regular exfoliation can also boost cell turnover, preventing dead skin and sebum from accumulating in pores.

Are there specific skincare ingredients that target enlarged pores?

Yes, certain skincare ingredients are particularly effective in targeting enlarged pores. Salicylic acid, a BHA, is excellent for penetrating into pores and dissolving the mix of sebum and dead skin cells. Niacinamide helps in regulating oil production and improving skin texture, thereby reducing the appearance of pores. Retinoids can increase skin turnover and improve elasticity, making pores less noticeable.

Can regular cleansing routines reduce the appearance of enlarged pores?

Absolutely. Maintaining a regular cleansing routine is crucial for keeping pores clean and less visible. It’s important to cleanse your skin twice a day to remove impurities and excess oil that can stretch and enlarge pores. Using a gentle cleanser that doesn’t strip the skin of its natural oils is key, as over-cleansing can trigger more oil production.

How does sun protection affect the appearance of pores?

Sun protection plays a significant role in the appearance of pores. UV rays can break down collagen and elastin in the skin, which are essential for maintaining pore structure. As these fibers weaken, pores can become more dilated. Therefore, using a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily is vital to protect skin elasticity and keep pores tight.