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Some things are good when they’re large: a paycheck, for example. When it comes to enlarged pores, however, bigger isn’t better. Just because you have large pores doesn’t mean you have to live with them. By using moisturizers designed to clear your pores, you can have smooth skin and smaller pores. Now that’s a combination that doesn’t need super-sizing.
Causes
Several factors can determine why you have large pores, and the bad news is that not all of them are things you can prevent. What you can’t change: the genes your parents passed down to you that made you have large pores. However, too much oil in your skin that makes you prone to blemishes and breakouts can be prevented. Also, if your skin cells don’t turn over often enough, the extra dead skin cells can build up in your pores and make your pores look bigger. Think of your pores like a big cloth purse -- the more you put them in, the larger they are.
Skin Smoothing
What’s silky-smooth and can help reduce the appearance of your pores? Silicone, which can be added to pore-minimizing moisturizers to glide over pores. When you apply a silicone-containing moisturizer, it temporarily minimizes the appearance of your pores by filling them in. Allure magazine recommends DDF Wrinkle Resist Plus Pore Minimizer Moisturizing Serum because it contains silicone along with vitamins B3, B5 and E to help minimize fine lines and encourage skin cell turnover.
Oil-Free
Since enlarged pores are often due to excess oil, the last thing you want to put on is a moisturizer that contains even more oil. Use a moisturizer labeled “oil-free” or “non-comedogenic,” meaning it won’t clog your pores. You get bonus points if you choose a moisturizer that contains hyaluronic acid and/or panthenol, which smooth and soothe your skin. Dr. Jessica Wu, a Los Angeles-based dermatologist, recommends Kiehl’s Sodium PCA Oil-Free Moisturizer, according to Glamour magazine.
Skin Cell Turnover
With moisturizers that contain alpha hydroxy acids, you can give the oil and dead skin cells in your pores an eviction notice. Moisturizers with AHAs such as glycolic, lactic, malic and tartaric acids dig into your pores and kick out dead skin cells and break up oil plugs. Start by applying twice a day, and you’ll likely notice your pores shrinking in a few weeks or so.
