Large Pores

The Solution to Large Pores

While it can be very frustrating to know that large pores are not easy to get rid of, it is calming to know that there are many large pore treatments available that can shrink the pores on the face. Large pores on the face are caused by three main factors: oily skin, age and gender. Sebum, the oily substance that our face produces, is more likely to cause large pores if the skin produces too much sebum. This is because as the dirt and debris enters into the skin, they make the pores swell and look larger. As we age, we often find that our skin loses its elasticity, which will make the pores on our faces appear larger. Interestingly, males are more likely to have larger pores than females, however, females will often have larger pores during their monthly cycle.

Genetics also plays a role! In fact, increasing research shows that your propensity to enlarged pores is influenced by whether or not your parents had enlarged pored. If one or both of your parents have large pores, there is a likelihood that you too will eventually experience large pores.

How to Reduce Large Pores

Large pores can be treated at home using a gentle cleanser two times per day. Take caution not to scrub the skin too much, as skin may dry out, which will cause the pores to produce more oil to compensate. Look for products that contain zinc and magnesium, as this will help to clear out the pores by restoring the skin’s oil. After cleansing the skin, it is recommended that a toner be used to swipe the face clean. This will help to remove excessive oil on the face, as well as any cleanser that was left there that may get trapped into the pores. Toners with rosemary and lavender can help to calm the skin by preventing pores from stretching out.

Those of us that have experienced large pores on the face know what a wonder exfoliation is. Performing this simple step two or three times per week is enough to clean out the pores, removing the excessive oil and debris that is trapped underneath them.

Large pores on the cheeks can be reduced by wearing sunscreen when outdoors, as this will keep the large pores from becoming bigger. The sun can make the skin thicken, which will cause the skin cells to collect around the edge of the pores, which stretches them out and makes them bigger. Applying a topical retinol solution can help to reduce large pores and dissolve the bacteria that is on the face that can make the pores bigger.

Large Pore Treatments

There are many large pore treatments available today that can be done in the comfort of your dermatologist office. These include:
• Skin needling- As the needles of the roller are moved over the skin, they will pull out what is blocking the pores, such as sweat, dirt and dead skin cells. As this debris is moved from the face, the pores will look smaller.
• Fractional laser treatment- Tiny channels are created deeply on the skin to promote new collagen and healthy skin cells to form. Three to five sessions are typically needed that are spaced apart 4 to 6 weeks.
• PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma)- A patient’s blood that has a high platelet concentration above baseline may opt to have this injected into the skin in order to promote healing of the skin. Side effects of this procedure are very limited.
• Refirme NXT- Radio frequencies and infrared light work together to heat the deeper layers of the skin. Up to 6 treatments can be needed, scheduled 2 to 4 weeks apart.