Skin conditions - Enlarged Pores
Seeking pore-minimizing options
"Make my pores smaller". Here are some truths about your pore size, what you need to know, and how to achieve it. First genetics determine pore size, your skin type and age can play a role. If your skin is oily or combo that oil gets trapped inside the pores, it oxidizes and can turn dark. There is logic behind the sometimes irrational impulse. Beauty is associated with perfect skin, and pores are a huge part of that equation. Reality check! Pores are a vital part of the skin, and getting rid of them is completely is impossible. While we can't shrink our pores with any permanency, the right skin-care products and treatments can help keep the skin clear and tight, making pores less noticeable. When pores are tighter, light reflects better. You get an overall appearance of vitality and youthfulness.
The truth is you may never completely be satisfied, because there isn't a permanent solution. If you use products or treatments on a regular basis, you will see improvement, however in time once you stop, your pores will go back. It is a constant battle.
My best advice is to STOP looking in the magnifying mirror. Why subject yourself to larger than life pores size. Don't do it! And remember you don't look like that to the world. You are standing still, very close up and focused on that area. The only one who sees this is you. People around you see you in motion and it's almost impossible for someone to see what you see unless you stop, be still and point out your pores.
Stay out of the sun and wear sunscreen. Over exposure to the sun can speed up the loss the collagen and elastin that support the pores. Then they begin to stretch and sag around the edges, which can make them look bigger.
Pore minimizing products will help your pores look clearer and therefore appear smaller.
Look for BHA/AHA products with 0.5 to 2% Salicylic Acid or lactic, mandelic, or glycolic acids. This helps to stimulate cell turnover and keep pores clean.
Our Best Salicylic, Mandelic, Glycolic, and Lactic Acid Products (AHA/BHA) Click here
Only if your skin is oily you should be sure to use oil-free. The idea is to get reduce the oil but not get rid of it. Going beyond can dehydrate the skin causing it to produce even more oil.
At-home masks work over the long term. Using clay based to help absorb some of the oils. And some can firm the skin. You may notice changes right away but regular maintenance is best.
Clay Masks
Rhonda Allison Perfection Clay
Hydration and Anti-Aging masks
Rhonda Allison Grape Seed
Rhonda Allison Pumpkin Enzyme Mask
There is no cure for enlarged pores. However with a good regimen the enlarged pores can be diminished allowing the appearance of the pores to be smaller.
What causes enlarged pores?
Pores appear enlarged for many reasons. Probably the most common is genetics, you are just born with them. The pores over time can appear enlarged because when the oil and dead skin cells collect around and in the pore it begins to expand. In addition, sun damage is also a key factor. Years of sun causes the outer layer of skin to become thickened which leads to this appearance. Also, the loss of collagen, elastin and water in the skin from sun damage causes the tissues beneath the skin to shrink pulling down the edges of the pore. Thus causing them to appear enlarged.
The best defense against enlarged pores is regular exfoliation, reducing the oil production by hydration, increasing the skin's collagen, elasticity, and protecting the skin from the sun.