Depending on the skin type, pores can be more or less obvious. Thankfully, you can improve the appearance of large pores with home remedies.
There are two types of pores – one that releases the body's natural oil (called sebum) and the other that releases sweat. Sometimes, the oil-releasing pores can get larger. Although it is impossible to eliminate large pores completely, there are some ways to minimize their appearance. Pores can become more prominent as you age, but you can still unclog them and reduce their appearance with some simple changes to your skin care routine. Here are ways to reduce large pores:
Go for water-based products
The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends using oil-free products, such as water-based makeup. Products high in humectants will be extremely beneficial for oily skin.
Wash your face regularly
Basic skin care includes washing the face. The AAD recommends the following:
Wash your face at least twice daily, and more if you sweat a lot or do sports.
Use lukewarm, clean water to wash your face.
Choose a gentle cleanser that is not abrasive and doesn't contain alcohol
Avoid scrubbing and rubbing your skin
Pat the face dry using a towel
Choosing gel-based cleansers
People with oily skin will find a gel-based cleanser more effective. It is best to avoid oil-based or alcohol-based cleansers, as these can irritate the skin. Moisturising cleansers can leave residue on the skin and increase oiliness. Gel-based cleansers remove oil from your pores and reduce their appearance.
Exfoliate
Oily skin should be exfoliated once to twice per week in order to remove any debris that could clog pores such as dirt, dead skin cells, and excess oil. However, exfoliating more than once a week can cause the skin to dry out.
Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize
It may seem counter-intuitive to moisturize oily skin. But you should know that an oil-free moisturizer may help to reduce pore size.
First, wash the skin and then pat dry. Next, apply a moisturizer to soften and hydrate the skin. This allows oil from the glands to penetrate deeper into the skin than if it stayed in the pores.
Clay mask application
A clay mask can be used once or twice per week to remove excess oil. This is because clay absorbs sebum. This should be done on a different day to exfoliating. Over-treating skin can cause irritation. It can make pores appear larger and lead to skin blemishes.
Remove your makeup every night
Makeup must be removed before you go to bed. Overnight makeup can block pores and cause oily skin and enlarged pores.
