Don’t like what you see in the magnifying mirror? If your pores appear too large, there are many ways to reduce their size or minimize their appearance.

Causes
Two of the most common causes of enlarged pores are oily skin and sun damage. Oily skin increases the appearance of pore size because when oil collects in your pores, it makes them look larger, and in turn makes them collect dirt and dead skin cells, thus enlarging them further. Sun damage coarsens your skin and reduces its collagen and elasticity, both of which will enlarge your pores.

Unfortunately, some of the factors contributing to large facial pore size cannot be combated. Genetics, for instance, play a significant role, as does the natural aging process. Even without sun damage, skin loses its elasticity over time; that’s why a baby’s skin looks almost pore-free!

Prevention
One of the first steps in preventing the appearance of enlarged pores is to prevent clogging. To start, look for cleansing and moisturizing products that include the terms “non-comedogenic,” “won’t clog pores,” “non-greasy,” or “oil-free.” Gently clean and moisturize your face twice a day to keep your pores clog-free.

You can also prevent clogged pores by exfoliating your skin once or twice a week. This removes the dead skin cells that can get inside pores and make them look bigger. Exfoliating can keep skin looking fresher and brighter.

Another important step—and one that needs to happen over the long term—is to avoid sun damage. Always wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen that fits your skin type to keep pore size as small as possible.

At-Home Treatment
Beyond prevention, many at-home treatments can reduce the appearance of enlarged pores. Products containing low levels (around one percent) of salicylic acid or other beta hydroxy acids work by shedding dead skin cells and preventing their buildup.

Products with retinol, a derivative of vitamin A, promote the healthy turnover of skin cells. Retinol and other retinoids have been successful in reducing acne and wrinkles, as well as minimizing the appearance of pore size.

Schedule a complimentary skin care consultation with our esthetician, Jessica Shea to learn about the products that will work best for your skin type and also fit your budget!

Professional Treatment
Two kinds of professional treatment can help minimize the appearance of enlarged pores: microdermabrasion and chemical peels.

Microdermabrasion has an effect that is similar to at-home exfoliation in that removes dead skin cells, revealing brighter and clearer skin. Because our professional Med Spa staff carefully perform the microdermabrasion procedure, they can safely remove more layers of dead skin cells, achieving better results than home treatments.

Chemical peels are also a form of exfoliation, but whereas microdermabrasion involves physical exfoliation, peels use chemicals like alpha hydroxy acid to penetrate the upper level of the skin, breaking its bonds so that it sloughs off. Chemical peels leave the skin looking more refreshed and clear, and are one of our favorite treatments for improving overall skin tone, texture, and complexion.