When skin produces too much oil it mixes with dead skin in
the pore, forming a clog that causes it to enlarge.
If the oil becomes trapped by dead skin, it oxidizes,
forming a blackhead.
Although you can’t really make the pore smaller, the right
products and routine will help minimize the appearance of the pore and help you
have a smooth, clear complexion.
Enlarged pores can be frustrating, not only from an aesthetic
point of view but you may feel like you've tried everything to minimize the appearance
only to find it doesn’t seem to help at all.
Using the right products consistently can help with these
issues, but you need to know exactly what works and what doesn't.
What Causes Enlarged Pores?
When your oil glands make too much oil, excess oil mixes
with other substances (such as dead skin) in the pore, causing a clog. This
clog makes it difficult for the oil to flow freely, which causes the pore to
enlarge.
Even though the pore enlarges to provide extra room for the
oil to flow out, the oil still can become confined by dead skin and the oil and
dead skin at the end of the clogged pore is exposed to the air, it oxidizes,
forming a blackhead.
Avoid Bar Soap
The ingredients that keep bar soap it in its solid form can
clog pores. You should also avoid products that are thick or greasy —especially
if you have oily skin.
Use gentle, water-soluble cleansers and avoid products with
drying, harsh ingredients as these can make oiliness worse.
Avoid Scrubbing
The harshness of scrubbing the skin makes skin dry and
flaky, creating more dead skin that can block pores.
Wash off Makeup before Bed
It’s been said over and over - Never go to bed without
washing off your makeup but neglecting to remove all your makeup can make
clogged pores worse.
Exfoliate
This step is huge. Exfoliating on a regular basis will make
your pores appear smaller. If you're routinely removing the dead skin cells
that clog your pores, your pores won't stretch out and look larger.
You can use a clean washcloth with your daily cleanser to
gently exfoliate your skin.
If you’re looking for a deeper exfoliation, invest in a
Cleansing Brush. It uses a massaging motion to gently remove dead skin cells,
leaving your skin clean and soft.
It’s important to not go overboard with exfoliation.
Sometimes, using a gentler product more regularly is better
than a stronger product.
Absorb Excess Oil
Clay masks are great for helping to minimize the appearance
of enlarged pores due to their oil-absorbing properties. Use a clay mask once
or twice a week for noticeable benefits to the look of your pores.
Don't Pick
When your pores are clogged, fight the urge to squeeze and pick.
When you pick or pull your skin so roughly, you can cause
serious damage to your pores that can leave them permanently enlarged or
scarred.
You also add dirt and oil from your fingers to the pore,
which leads to more breakouts.
~Jennifer
