Let’s talk about resources – specifically, what they are, why we have them, and what we can do about them.
It’s not uncommon for our skin to yo-yo back and forth between silky smoothness and texture, especially as we age. This progression is natural as we age, but in some cases, the size of our pores can continue to expand beyond reasonable limits. That’s when we have to ask ourselves if we’re living with enlarged pores and how we can better support our skin.
As we age, our focus on skin care should be preventative. Addressing concerns directly with clean ingredients and consistency is the best way to maintain taut skin and a youthful glow. Let’s get to the bottom of enlarged pores and share some techniques and natural products to achieve smoother skin.
What is an enlarged resource?
Although we like to think of our skin as our largest organ, in this case let’s imagine it as a fabric. The tighter and more uniform the weave, the smoother the fabric. So the less uneven the skin on our face, the smoother our skin will look – and the less visible pores. Due to a variety of factors – many of them natural – there are usually pores on our skin that we can definitely see.
Pores are not one size fits all and the size can vary greatly depending on where the pore is on the face and your skin type. Let’s describe these porous areas as a “loosely woven” fabric. Since a typical pore is anywhere from nearly invisible to smaller than the tip of a mechanical pencil, an enlarged pore can be as large as a small seed (think poppy or sesame seeds).
An enlarged pore enhances the textured appearance of the skin. Common signs of enlarged pores can be raised skin and redness or discoloration with visible darkness within the pores. While an enlarged pore is certainly not the end of the world, it can be a sign of further skin problems to come.
Expanded Resources: Cause & Effect
Sometimes enlarged pores are just a natural behavior of the skin. This can be due to age, hormones or just genetics – but there are a few other causes too. Because enlarged pores can be unavoidable for some, this is where consistent skin rituals can really improve pore conditions. And beyond physical factors, there are other causes of enlarged pores that could make things worse.
In many cases, enlarged resources are not permanent. It is often the result of debris such as excess oil, dirt and dead skin that accumulates in the pores. Along with hormones and genetics, frequent or harsh sun exposure can also lead to enlarged pores.
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When a pore is enlarged, the skin doesn’t just change physically. Our pores actually have a function: they allow our skin to release dirt, sweat, oil, heat and toxins. So when a pore gets enlarged from clogging, all that junk comes back into our skin.
Once our resource is expanded, we may face additional problems. Since enlarged pores are most common in the T-zone of our face, one of the first issues that follows is excess sebum. Not only can this lead to skin imbalance, but the build-up of oil and debris can lead to some serious breakouts. From simple pimples to large, dark blackheads, an enlarged pore is a breeding ground for blemishes.
If pores have enlarged due to increased sun exposure or in reaction to irritating skin care products, we may notice increased redness and raised skin. And depending on your skin type and hair type, it’s not uncommon to experience ingrown hairs on enlarged pores, or even ingrown hairs.
Newly expanded resources are relatively easy to care for. Instead of going through the blemishes, here are some ways to help heal the skin.
Can we control our resources?
Most of us will experience enlarged pores in our lifetime, but even if it’s natural or genetic, it doesn’t mean skin care can’t help. While we will never be able to prevent them completely, we can certainly improve the appearance of enlarged resources and prevent some of the associated problems.
Here are 6 ways to check your enlarged resources:
#1. First, stick to a consistent skin care routine. We sound like a broken record at this point, but really, consistency is key. Since pore residue can build up within a day, sticking to a daily cleanse will definitely pay off in the long run. Using natural or chemical exfoliants once a week can help keep the younger, fresher skin on the surface.
#2. A single wash with an antioxidant-rich facial scrub can boost circulation, reduce visible pore texture and help restore youthful elasticity. The fine soft texture removes flakes and visible dead skin while unclogging pores of debris.
#3. Enlarged pores hate to see a cleanser coming, so using a daily toner can help minimize pores. Skin dealing with excess sebum caused by enlarged pores will love Tea Tree & Willow Clarifying Astringent, with antibacterial herbs that clear pores and kill acne-causing bacteria.
Using toner is another great way to minimize resources. Toners shrink pores by constricting them, which also stops the secretion of excess sebum. Our Flower Water Toner is a perfect example of a formula that quenches thirsty skin cells with hyaluronic acid and contains organic witch hazel to tighten and clear your pores.
This alcohol-free hydrating facial toner also features insoluble floral ingredients like rose water and calendula water to reduce redness and calm and clear your skin for a healthy glow.
#4. Choosing non-food products is another big factor. Lightweight and compatible formulas will reduce the risk of pore clogging and breakouts, which only worsen skin texture. If you’re looking for a skincare and travel-friendly formula, Lavender Niacinamide Pore Minimizer Tonique is the perfect companion for any beauty arsenal. This pore-minimizing facial mist cleans and unclogs pores to reduce the appearance of facial pores, lines and wrinkles, while reducing inflammation, increasing firmness and evening out skin tone.
#5. SPF is another big help in keeping pores tight, as pollutants and UV damage can damage the skin’s structure.
#6. Supporting your skin’s collagen and elastin levels is another strategy for reducing enlarged pores. Our skin becomes loose as we age, due to the natural decline of collagen. This makes the pores look loose and stretched. By using vitamin C and other ingredients that support collagen, you can keep pores tighter for longer.
Our skin is sensitive, so even the most innocent daily activities can cause clogged and enlarged pores. Knowing how to spot and guard against these culprits can help clear up your skin and give you the clear, smooth complexion you deserve!
Extended Resources FAQ
What causes enlarged pores and can they be permanently reduced in size?
Enlarged pores are mainly caused by excessive sebum production, aging and genetic factors. They can also be aggravated by improper skin care, sun damage and clogged pores. While you cannot permanently reduce the actual size of pores (as they are genetically determined), you can minimize their appearance. Effective skin care routines, regular cleansing and treatments that improve skin elasticity can make them less noticeable.
How does exfoliation help reduce the appearance of enlarged pores?
Exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells and unclog pores, which can make them appear smaller. Chemical exfoliants such as alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) are particularly effective as they penetrate deep and unclog pores. Regular exfoliation can also boost cell turnover, preventing dead skin and sebum from building up in pores.
Are there specific skincare ingredients that target enlarged pores?
Yes, certain skin care ingredients are particularly effective at targeting enlarged pores. Salicylic acid, a BHA, is great for penetrating pores and dissolving the mixture of sebum and dead skin cells. Niacinamide helps regulate oil production and improve skin texture, thereby reducing the appearance of pores. Retinoids can increase skin renewal and improve elasticity, making pores less visible.
Can regular cleansing routines reduce the appearance of enlarged pores?
Absolutely. Maintaining a regular cleaning routine is vital to keeping pores clean and less visible. It is important to cleanse your skin twice a day to remove impurities and excess oil that can stretch and enlarge pores. Using a gentle cleanser that doesn’t strip the skin of its natural oils is key, as over-cleansing can cause more oil production.
How does sun protection affect the appearance of pores?
Sun protection plays an important role in the appearance of pores. UV rays can break down collagen and elastin in the skin, which are essential for maintaining pore structure. As these fibers weaken, the pores may enlarge. Therefore, daily use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen is vital to protect skin elasticity and keep pores tight.
