We’re putting the spotlight on enlarged pores…helping you take them to task
Thousands of pores exist on every face, but it’s only when they become enlarged that they’re really noticeable – and problematic.
First off, it’s important to note that we all need our pores! Without them, we’d overheat because we wouldn’t be able to sweat. Tiny openings in the skin, they also help our bodies flush out toxins, regulate body temperature and naturally moisturise the skin.
Why do pores get bigger?
Our pores become larger due to three main factors: oily skin, age and exposure to the sun.
If your skin naturally produces lots of oil (or sebum) you’re more likely to have larger pores: when the excess oil collects in your skin, your pores swell and look bigger than normal.
Plus, there’s the ageing process to contend with. Skin loses its elasticity as you get older, which can cause your pores to look bigger.
An accumulation of sun exposure also affects the appearance of pores. UV damage makes your skin thicken: this causes skin cells to collect around the pore edges, stretching them out.
Once pores are enlarged, it’s easier for them to become blocked: that’s when excessive dirt and oil buildup can cause acne and breakouts, but even if the pores are clear, they can make skin look older if they’re enlarged.
Can they be shrunk?
It’s nearly impossible to shrink oversized pores – but it’s not all bad news.
Whatever your age or skin type, there are plenty of products you can use to make pores appear smaller and to keep them clear, avoiding pimples and breakouts and enjoying your most beautiful, healthy-looking skin.
Here are just some of our favourites:
Dermalogica Hydrablur Primer – new from Dermalogica, Hydrablur Primer offers three benefits in one formula: intense hydration, neutral coverage and pore-refining properties.
Medik8 Blemish Control Pads – new from Medik8, these effective all-in-one treatment pads are designed for blemish-prone skin and suitable for sensitive complexions. Completely free from alcohol they contain the maximum strength (2%) salicylic acid to unclog pores and exfoliate skin.
Dermalogica Charcoal Rescue Masque – helping to detoxify, brighten and invigorate all skin types, this fast-acting, easy-to-remove masque rescues tired, lacklustre or dull skin and contains Chilean wild mint leaf extract to improve skin texture and reduce pore visibility.
Ren Skincare Clarimatte Invisible Pores Detox Mask – with French clay to absorb excess sebum, this detoxifying clay mask draws out impurities and helps reduce the appearance of oiliness, large pores, blackheads and whiteheads.
Murad Blackhead and Pore Clearing Duo – working together to extract stubborn impurities from deep within pores, this two-step treatment helps reduce blackheads and seals pores for the ultimate protection against pore-clogging impurities.
Dermalogica Clear Start Clearing Pore Control Scrub – helping skin feel cleaner and fresher, Clearing Pore Control Scrub contains purifying bentonite clay to help control shine and absorb excess oil and debris from skin, and refreshing botanicals to reinvigorate skin.
Elemis Dynamic Resurfacing Serum – smoothing the skin’s surface to reveal a stunning complexion, this product also helps to reduce the appearance of pores and wrinkles: it contains mineral and vitamin-rich selastin, which has been shown to reduce the size of pores.
Medik8 Beta Gel – designed for use on individual blemishes or larger problem areas, this product penetrates deep inside the pores to remove excess sebum and aid the prevention of future breakouts by neutralising bacteria.
PureLogicol Cellular Renewal Face Wash – a skin purifying formula that decongests pores and targets uneven skin tone, this luxurious foaming wash leaves skin feeling soft, supple and glowing.
Decleor Micellor Oil – a powerful formulation that stimulates microcirculation and leaves skin deeply cleansed, Decleor’s Micellor Oil contains Micellor particles that work deep into the pores, dissolving and dispersing impurities. The specifically formulated complex gently removes all traces of make-up, including waterproof formulas.
