Enlarged pores. What’s the deal with large pores! Why do we get them? Can you treat them? Can you prevent them? Who gets them?
The answers go something like this.
Everyone is subject to large pores. All skin types. All skin tones. But don’t worry. You can reduce pores on the face. We will explore that shortly.
Enlarged pores arise from two main factors.
We can try to minimize excess oil on the skin, but we do not have control over dirt and debris. Nor can we stop our cells from “dying” or turning over. And we certainly cannot stop the aging process (believe me, I have tried!). But there are things we can do at home to shrink pores.
Follow these tips for smooth, flawless-looking skin!
Wash your face with an appropriate cleanser every morning and every night. This unclogs pores by removing dirt, debris, excess oil, and dead skin cells to make them less noticeable.
Not sure what cleanser to use? Isomers Double Duty Cleanser is a cream cleanser ideal for all skin types that leaves the skin looking healthy and fresh.
Exfoliating gives you a deeper clean to unclog stubborn pores. Clogged pores expand, making them more noticeable. When the pore is unclogged, it allows the pore to shrink back to its more refined size.
Exfoliate weekly. Exfoliation does not need to be harsh to be effective. Even sensitive skin can tolerate weekly exfoliation with the right skincare product.
An ideal option for all skin types is Isomers Enzyme Peel Acid Free Restoration. This works to dissolve debris that causes large pores. Gentle enough for the whole face, including the eye area.
Retinoids (an umbrella term for vitamin A-derived skincare treatments) are multi-functional. Retinoids fight two relevant factors that cause large pores: acne and aging. Acne-prone skin is subject to oil buildup causing large pores and aging skin loses firmness making pores more noticeable.
It is easy to find retinoid treatments, but they are not all created equally. Look for one that is paired with niacinamide. Niacinamide keeps skin calm while the retinoid fights acne and aging.
Isomers Retiniacin Night Renewing Treatment is a 10% blend of retinol and niacinamide. A suitable option for all skin types.
Aging (and gravity) can lead to saggy, droopy skin. Our skin loses firmness and structure. Pores are larger and more visible.
We cannot stop aging, (nor gravity!) but we can help keep our skin firm. To reduce pore size on mature skin, look to Isomers Ultimate Super Skin Serum. An anti-gravity serum to help regain skin firmness.
Wear it, use it, apply it. Say it anyway you want, just as long as you do it! Protecting your skin from the sun is super important.
The harsh effects of sun exposure show up as we age. With repeated exposure, the skin will be less firm. According to Health Canada, applying sunscreen protects against sunburn and premature aging. So, to prevent the look of aging and large pores apply sunscreen daily.
Choose a sunscreen that will protect the skin from UVA and UVB. The keyword to look for is ‘broad-spectrum.’ You also want to look for ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium oxide. These sit on top of your skin creating a physical block with effective protection.
Sunscreen with an SPF (sun protection factor) of 20 is ideal for daily use. To be effective, remember to re-apply every 2-3 hours, after heavy sweating and/or towelling. Isomers Sunscreen with UV Pearls Broad Spectrum SPF 20 is an optimal choice. Super effective formula for all skin types.
Canada, H. (2017, November 7). Sunscreens. Canada.ca. Retrieved March 24, 2022, from https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/sun-safety/sunscreens.html