Getting Rid of Large Pores — Everything You Should Know

If you’re concerned about the appearance of your pores, you’re not alone. How large your pores appear depends mostly on your skin type. There are plenty of home remedies and treatments to help reduce the visibility of large pores — but it’s important to first understand how they become enlarged in the first place.

How did they get so big?

Our bodies are covered in tiny hairs (with exception of our palms and bottoms of our feet). On top of those hair follicles are pores, and each pore has a gland that produces oil. These gland are called sebaceous glands. The oil that is produces rises to the top of your skin, and collects inside the gland. Alright, enough science talk.

When oil builds up, combined with makeup, dead skin or dirt (yes, dirt), the pores can become blocked. This will stretch your pore and make them look, well…bigger. Too much blockage and you end up with acne, but that’s another story.

The best way to keep your pores from looking enlarged is to keep them from getting clogged in the first place. Keeping your skin healthy and supple will help reduce pores from getting enlarged.

Some people may simply have overactive sebaceous glands — this is genetic, so there may be no way around it. But there are ways to reduce the appearance. That’s why you’re here.

Here are some effective ways to reduce the appearance of enlarged pores:

Washing your face is obvious. But be sure you’re using a cleanser and warm water. Making a habit out of washing your face in the morning and at night will help rid your pores of oil and dirt, reducing the appearance of your pores.

Water-based products are great for people that have overactive glands. Because your skin is already producing a ton of oil, you don’t need to be covering your face in more of it.

Exfoliating will help get rid of excess dead skin, oil or dirt that may be clogging pores. At least twice a week, use products that contain salicylic acid. This natural acid helps get rid of debris that is building up in your pores. This is a balancing act though, over exfoliating can be just as damaging and you’ll end up with dry skin, which can also make pores appear enlarged.

Clay masks once or twice a week can be great as well. These will help remove oil from the skin and prevent pores from becoming enlarged. Try and do this on days where you are not exfoliating, because you’ll irritate your skin. Love your skin, don’t annoy it.

Removing your makeup at night is rough, we know. But if you don’t want to wake up with massive pores, just do it. Keep some cleansing wipes nearby for a quick fix, or a backup if you know you’re going to be a zombie.

Sunscreen or products that contain UV protection will help your skin from drying out, which as we said before, can lead to enlarged pores. Keep your skin supple, wear a big hat, sit in the shade and wear sunscreen — regardless of the season.

On top of that make sure you’re eating well, exercising daily and drinking plenty of water. Rinse your skin after you workout too, because sweat can cause more blockage.