Enlarged pores are a common skin concern for many people, so I recently discussed the issue in this Instagram reel. While you can’t change the primary size of your pores, there are some things you can do to reduce their appearance.
What Are Enlarged Pores?
Simply put, pores are literally channels of your oil-producing sebaceous glands. These channels get clogged and then dilated, which is what we see on the surface of our skin.
Large pores can be caused by a variety of factors, such as:
Genetics
Age
Sun damage
Acne
High sebum excretion
Decreased elasticity around pores
Increased hair follicle volume
Sex hormones
Skin care regimen
Keep your face clean and properly moisturized
When trying to reduce large pores, many patients ask whether lasers and chemical peels can treat pores. The answer is no, not on their own; pore-shrinking starts with proper cleansing. Making sure pores are clean creates a foundation for other treatments to build on.
The next step is to exfoliate, which clears the skin of dead cells that may be clogging pores. This is where treatments such as lasers and chemical peels can effectively reduce the appearance of dilated pores.
Using the appropriate moisturizer is also important. When the skin is dehydrated, it can overcompensate by producing excess oil, which can lead to clogged pores and breakouts. By using light, non-comedogenic (specifically formulated to not block or clog pores) moisturizers that contain beneficial oils, the skin is able to maintain its natural oil balance, which can reduce oil production and minimize the appearance of enlarged pores. Jojoba and broccoli seed oil contain high levels of antioxidants, fatty acids, and vitamins that help repair and protect the skin. By incorporating these types of oils into your skincare routine, you can help balance and nourish your skin, reducing the appearance of enlarged pores and promoting a healthy, glowing complexion.
Finally, you need proper sun protection to shrink your pores. When used consistently, a mineral-based sunscreen can increase hydration while decreasing oil loss and production. This is the key to good skin!
Good skincare practices can also help reduce enlarged pores, such as:
1. Stay hydrated by getting enough water and electrolytes
2. Eat less processed foods and more foods with antioxidants, like berries, avocados, and leafy greens
3. Take supplements to boost the nutrients in your body–your skin will thank you for it!
4. Get between 7-9 hours of solid sleep every night for beautiful, bright skin
5. Avoid smoking and drinking
Remember, when it comes to the skin, you’ve got to stay consistent with these practices to see results.
Use skincare with the right ingredients: The Trifecta minimizes the appearance of large pores
After realizing there wasn’t an affordable, effective skincare line for my patients that they could easily follow, I spent five years creating the groundbreaking KaramMD skincare line. The Trifecta provides all the vital ingredients to reduce the appearance of large pores in an easy, three-step system suitable for all skin types.
These ingredients are vital for keeping the skin clean to minimize large pores, preventing the signs of age, and rejuvenating the skin:
Retinol
Vitamin C
Hyaluronic acid serum and lipids
Niacinamide
Peptides
Non-hydroquinone lighteners
Used together with the exfoliator Polish, the Trifecta provides everything your skin needs to be as beautiful, supple, healthy, and youthful as you want.
Amir Karam MD
Dr. Amir Karam is a world renowned facial cosmetic surgeon and an authority in his field, with over two decades of experience helping patients achieve a younger, refreshed appearance. His dedication to helping people extends beyond his surgical procedures and into the world of skincare. With Dr. Karam's guidance and products, patients and customers can experience a truly transformative skincare journey, and feel confident, beautiful, and empowered in their own skin.
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