Contrary to the most popular skincare myth, you cannot make your pores disappear. You can minimise their appearance temporarily but sooner or later, they will regain their original form. Keeping this in mind, it is important to note that clearing your pores and unclogging them of dead skin cells and sebum is key to making them appear smaller. If you’re spending too much time worrying about how to do this, here’s a complete guide.
What are open pores?
This refers to nothing but enlarged pores on the face. Everyone has pores and they’re entirely normal. Often, the images of celebrities we see on social media can be deceiving as skin is heavily edited to make it look smoother. Pores have a bad rep but did you know, they play an essential role in keeping skin moisturised and healthy? They release natural oils on the surface of the skin and protect it. Large open pores are commonly seen on the cheeks, nose, and forehead.
Different types of open pores
There are three different types of open pores that we see on skin. O-shaped ones appear on the T-zone of people who have oily skin. U-shaped pores are seen on dry skin and Y-shaped pores are the result of ageing.
Causes of open pores
• Excessively oily skin
Production of extra sebum can lead to enlarged pores.
• Sun exposure
Being exposed to the harmful rays of the sun can lead to a decline in the production of collagen. This may lead to the appearance of early signs of ageing.
• Using the wrong skincare
Using heavier skincare products can lead to clogged pores. This makes them more visible.
• Genetics
Your genes play a huge role in the way your skin looks.
• Hormones
Hormones affect the rate at which the sebaceous glands produce oil. If thrown in a frenzy, they can cause over secretion which leads to oily skin.
• Smoking
The chemicals from cigarettes accumulate in your pores and make your skin look dull and tired.
• Improper cleansing
Not cleansing your face properly is the most common cause of clogged pores. The dirt and gunk stretch out the pores and make them more visible.
How to clean open pores
Exfoliate skin
To clear out your pores, make sure you exfoliate your skin once or twice a week. Consult your dermatologist and add AHAs or BHAs to your skincare routine. The former strip away the dead skin cells from the surface and the latter goes deep into the pores and dissolves sebum and dead skin cells.
Steam it
Contrary to popular opinion, steaming your face won’t open your pores. It however does make skin soft enough for you to easily get rid of the gunk that may have settled in your pores.
Moisturise it
Most skin types need moisturising. Dry skin will try to overcompensate by producing excess oil so always moisturise it. Oily skin on the other hand, if provided with a daily dose of moisturisation, will eventually balance itself out and produce less sebum.
Types of treatments for open pores
Icing
Easily the easiest treatment that we can all try, icing requires…well just ice. Use it on your skin to minimise the appearance of pores. For best results, take a cube of ice on a piece of thin fabric and dab it on your face gently. Pat your face dry and then continue with the rest of your skincare routine.
Retinol
Retinol can help increase cell turnover, which means it can help the skin to look smoother.
Extractions
To get rid of the grime and dead skin cells in pores, you can opt for extraction. This is a method in which the skin is squeezed to remove any impurities from pores. It is advised to not try this by yourself at home as it can leave behind redness and scars.
Solutions to open pores
Microneedling: This process includes piercing the skin to boost collagen production and wound healing.
Laser: About six sessions of laser treatment can help boost collagen production and minimise the appearance of pores.
Chemical peels: These include the use of exfoliating acids on skin that remove the top layer of dead cells.
Common misconceptions about open pores
• Pores can be opened and closed.
• They can disappear over time.
• Visible pores mean your skin is unhealthy.
• Chemical peels can permanently clear out pores.
• Suction tools are the best way to clean your pores.
Preventative skin care for open pores
Double cleanse: The first step to minimising pores includes making sure you don’t sleep with the day’s dirt and grime on your face. If you wear make-up or sunscreen, it is essential you really cleanse your skin. Begin with an oil-based cleanser and then follow up with a cream one to remove all traces of the product.
Earth Rhythm Matcha Green Tea Cleansing Balm, Rs 549
FAE Beauty No Bs Natural Cleanser, Rs 450
Exfoliate: Depending on your skin type, use a chemical or a physical exfoliant twice a week.
Forest Essentials Facial Ubtan Soundarya, Rs 1175
Conclusion
Pores are normal but if you feel like this is a skin concern, you can always consult a dermatologist to address it. The key to minimising the appearance of pores is being consistent with your routine.
FAQs
Can you shrink pores?
Yes, but only temporarily.
Is it advisable to try extracting blackheads at home?
No, it isn’t. For best results, maintain a consistent skincare routine that involves cleansing, moisturising, exfoliating and protecting.