Having enlarged pores is very common and absolutely normal. But not treating them can lead to a bunch of skin problems. Think – recurring pimples, scars, and uneven skin texture. It’s safe to say you definitely could do without them.
Contrary to popular belief, pores cannot be opened and closed. Their appearance can only be minimised. And thankfully, there are ways to minimise the appearance of pores and keep them in healthy condition. All you need to do is make the following tweaks to your skincare routine.
Wash Your Face Twice A Day
The simplest way to ensure your pores are clean is to make sure to wash your face twice every day. And don’t use a harsh face wash that is too dry or has exfoliating particles. Instead, cleanse with a hydrating face wash that can contain natural ingredients or AHAs or BHAs to keep your pores clean.
The Aqualogica Detan+ Smoothie Face Wash contains radiance-boosting tomato extract and glycolic acid that helps keep the pores clean.
Don’t Skip Toners
including a toner in your routine is beneficial in treating enlarged pores. Just make sure the toners you pick are alcohol-free. Check for key ingredients like hyaluronic acid or tea tree in toners for the best results because such products will gently hydrate and clear your pores without causing any redness or irritation.
A simply refreshing toner to add to your skincare routine for enlarged pores is the Organic Harvest Acne Control Mattifying Face Toner: Green Tea & Moringa.
Chemical Peels FTW
Ditch your physical face scrubs that contain grainy exfoliating particles and opt for a chemical exfoliator instead. Typical face scrubs can cause a lot of damage and make your pores look even more enlarged. Those granular particles can cause tears in the skin and that’s not what you want. A chemical peel removes dead skin, deep-rooted impurities, excess oil, and more just like a face scrub but without being abrasive. Chemical peels contain skincare active ingredients like AHAs and BHAs which exfoliate the skin.
One of my favourite chemical peel exfoliators that unclogs pores and exfoliates my skin is the Quench Yuzu Fine Brightening Peeling Gel as it contains natural ingredients as well.
Niacinamide Is Your BFF
A niacinamide face serum is one of the best ways to soothe existing acne and heal scars which also reduces the appearance of large pores. This serum can be used at day or night and it’s gentle enough to suit all skin types.
My go-to niacinamide face serum to use even when my skin is acting up is the Minimalist 10% Niacinamide Face Serum for Acne Marks, Blemishes & Oil Balancing with Zinc.
Always Moisturise
Not moisturising the skin is the biggest mistake you can make when it comes to enlarged pores. The moisturiser will actually prevent your pores from producing excess sebum while providing a layer of protection from dirt and pollution.
Since enlarged pores are usually associated with oily acne-prone skin, a gel-based moisturiser like the Manish Malhotra Amla Moisturising Gel is a great pick.
Sunscreen Is Non-Negotiable
Just because you use a moisturiser doesn’t mean you skip sunscreen. Sun damage can cause enlarged pores and worsen skin texture even if you are indoors. Whereas when you do apply sunscreen, your pores are protected and can heal properly without harmful sun rays ruining your skin’s progress.
One of the best sunscreens that can help treat enlarged pores while offering sun protection is the Hyphen All I Need Sunscreen as it contains niacinamide and kojic acid as well.
Consider Retinol For Real
If you aren’t using retinol, you’re totally missing out! This powerful skincare active ingredient is the quickest to visibly reduce enlarged pores and also prevent and heal acne scars, regulate sebum production, and improve overall skin texture. The only thing to remember is to use retinol face serums only at night and apply a hydrating moisturiser after.
The best beginner-friendly retinol face serum that I swear by because it has never caused any skin irritation whatsoever is the Innisfree Retinol Cica Repair Ampoule.
Quickly incorporate these skincare steps and products to your routine to reduce the size of enlarged pores at home.
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