Facial pores are tiny openings in the skin that allow oil and sweat to reach the surface. While everyone has pores, these openings may appear larger on some people due to various factors such as genetics, age, and skin type.
If you have acne-prone skin, you might also have enlarged pores on the face, which become clogged and inflamed due to excess oil production. You may also find that your pores become more noticeable as you age and your skin loses its elasticity.
Keep reading to find out how to close pores, the right skincare products to consider, and when you should consider professional treatments like chemical peels or lasers.
What Can Treat Large Facial Pores?
Figuring out what’s causing your enlarged pores is one way to establish a treatment plan. The most common causes include:
- Genetics
- Increased oil production
- Acne
- Sun damage
- Aging
- Wearing pore-clogging makeup
- Poor lifestyle habits
To treat large facial pores, it's essential to take a multi-pronged approach:
- Develop a skincare routine that keeps skin clean and protected from environmental stressors
- Use skincare products and treatments that target the various causes of enlarged pores
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle
- Consult a dermatologist if you need more support
Keep Your Skin Clean
Keeping your skin clean is crucial for minimizing the appearance of large pores. Use a gentle non-alcohol cleanser twice daily to remove dirt, oil, and impurities without stripping the skin of its natural moisture. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, in addition to using a gentle cleanser, you should wash your face with warm water and refrain from scrubbing, which can irritate skin.1
Exfoliate Regularly
Regular exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells that can clog pores and make them appear larger. Once a week, use a gentle exfoliator with ingredients like salicylic acid or glycolic acid to unclog pores and promote cell turnover. Just be sure not to overdo it. Exfoliating the skin too frequently can lead to irritation and inflammation.
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Use a Clay Mask
High-quality clay masks help to reduce the appearance of pores by drawing out impurities that may be causing them to appear larger than they are. Look for ingredients like kaolin and bentonite which are associated with fewer pore blockages in some research.2
Apply Retinoids
Retinoids have powerful benefits for your skin, from helping to improve skin firmness and elasticity to controlling inflammation associated with acne breakouts. But powerful doesn’t have to mean irritating. While many retinol products are not suitable for sensitive skin, retinoids like those found in Foundation Skincare’s Night Renewal Cream are gentle enough for all skin types. Pores often appear larger on aging, sagging skin, and retinoids help to increase collagen synthesis to tighten skin (which in turn tightens pores). Retinoids also accelerate cellular turnover to help renew skin, giving way to improved skin texture.
Protect Your Skin from the Sun
Aging isn’t the only contributor to the loss of elasticity and firmness. Excess sun exposure and sun damage can make skin start to sag prematurely, leading to more noticeable pores. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen every day with an SPF of 30+ (50+ preferred) to prevent sun damage. Be sure to do this even if it’s cloudy outdoors, as harmful UV rays can penetrate through the clouds.
Choose the Right Skincare Products
In addition to retinoids, incorporate skincare products like azelaic acid and niacinamide to fight acne-causing bacteria, which often leads to clogged–and thus larger–pores. Hyaluronic acid is another helpful product, which boosts moisture levels in the skin, counteracting excess oil production that can lead to clogged pores.
Foundation Skincare offers all three products, and they can be layered together without risk of irritation. Our Azelaic Acid 14% Cream contains a medical-grade concentration of the active ingredient, making it more effective than other OTC competitors, our Niacinamide Lotion 10%
Is formulated with hyaluronic acid to moisturize skin while balancing oil production, and our Hyaluronic Acid Lotion is so moisturizing it can be used alone or underneath your favorite moisturizer for deeply-penetrating hydration that will last all day.
Consider Professional Treatments
In some cases, professional treatments like chemical peels and laser resurfacing may help minimize the appearance of enlarged pores. Chemical peels exfoliate the skin, while laser resurfacing supports collagen synthesis for smoother, tighter skin. But don’t underestimate the power of a basic facial either, which can clear dead skin cells and unclog pores, promoting a clearer overall complexion.
Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
Whether you’re trying to get rid of enlarged pores or prevent them altogether, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is one of the best things you can do for your skin and your health. This includes staying hydrated to nourish your skin internally and remove toxins from your pores. And be sure to nix bad habits like sleeping with your makeup on, which can lead to clogged pores and prematurely age your skin.
Consult a Dermatologist
Dermatologist-formulated products like those in the Foundation Skincare collection are a great defense against enlarged pores, but if you need more support, you may want to consult your dermatologist. They can offer more extensive solutions based on your skin type and specific needs.
For more tips and resources on maintaining healthy skin, visit the FS Journal.
