How To Close Open Pores on Face - Types, Causes, Treatment Methods

Have you been noticing visibly large pores on your skin? These are nothing but open pores, which can be the result of oily skin, acne, dry skin and aging. This article will take you through some tips on how you can help improve the condition.

Highlights:

• What Is A Pore?
• What Are The Types Of Open Pores?
• What Causes Enlarged Pores?
• If My Pores Are Always Open, Why Do People Talk About Closing Them?
• How Can You Reduce The Size Of Your Pores?
• In-Office Methods To Help Reduce Pore Size
• Natural Ways Of Closing Large Pores
• Tips To Prevent Large Pores

What Is A Pore?

Dr. Harish Kautam says, "Pores are tiny openings on your skin. These openings allow your skin to breathe. Each pore contains a hair follicle and sebaceous glands. These glands produce sebum that keeps your skin hydrated and moist. It is also responsible for smooth texture."

What Are The Types Of Open Pores?

1. O-Shaped Pores

These are likely to be seen on your T-zone. They are round in shape. If you’re prone to acne or have oily skin, these types of large pores tend to appear.

2. U-Shaped Pores

Dry skin is the cause of these types of pores.

3. Y-Shaped Pores

As you age, collagen production in your skin reduces. This can give your pores the shape of a water drop, also known as Y-shaped pores. They tend to appear on the cheeks.

What Causes Enlarged Pores?

Multiple factors are responsible for enlarged pores.

If My Pores Are Always Open, Why Do People Talk About Closing Them?

All pores in the skin are open. Due to their appearance, large pores or visible pores are referred to as “open pores.”

Pores can’t be closed. However, you can improve their appearance and make them less visible.

How Can You Reduce The Size Of Your Pores?

1. Topical Retinoids

Topical retinoids work by removing the top layers of your skin. Research indicates that they can reduce the appearance of large pores. (1)

However, topical retinoids can result in sun-sensitivity, redness and dry skin. Do not use it more than once a day.

2. Exfoliate Regularly

Exfoliating your skin not only removes its top layer but also removes excess dirt. It prevents clogged pores. Exfoliating regularly will help your skin appear tighter, firmer and smooth. Exfoliation also improves skin elasticity.

Remember that exfoliating everyday can stimulate sebum production in your body. It can also strip off your skin’s necessary oils and dehydrate your skin. Exfoliating your skin once in 3-4 days is ideal for any skin type.

3. Wear A Clay Mask

Using a clay mask to tighten your pores is recommended. It reduces inflammation and reduces the appearance of lesions. (2)

These masks tend to dry up sebum from deeper layers of your skin. This results in tighter pores and firm skin.

4. Cure Acne

Acne can be a major culprit for your open pores. Treating it will help reduce the appearance of enlarged pores and prevent future breakouts.

5. Use Essential Oils

Essential oils like cinnamon bark oil have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. (3) They can improve the overall texture of your skin and make it firm.

Mixing your essential oil with a carrier oil is recommended for better results. If you have oily skin, do not leave the mixture on for more than 10-15 minutes.

6. Alpha-Hydroxy Acids

Studies suggest that physically applied alpha-hydroxy acids reduce pore-size. (4) This can make your skin look tighter and smoother.

Alpha hydroxy acids work as exfoliators and boost collagen production in the body. This improves elasticity and keeps the skin firm. One of the most commonly used AHAs to reduce pore size is Glycolic acid. It is also used in chemical peels. (5)

7. Antibiotics

If you have acne, you have to treat it before addressing your enlarged pores. Your dermatologist may prescribe antibiotics to help you get rid of acne.

In-Office Methods To Help Reduce Pore-Size

1. Chemical Peels

Your dermatologist may recommend a chemical peel based on your skin type and how deep and large your pores appear.

If your large pores are the result of oily skin, peels with hyaluronic acid are recommended. (6) These peels work as exfoliators. They speed-up the process of exfoliation and improve elasticity.

2. Microneedling

This process uses tiny needles to stimulate collagen production in the skin. It improves texture and makes the skin look firm. Microneedling can be used to tighten large pores.

Like every other in-office procedure, microneedling comes with its own set of side-effects.

These include temporary swelling, redness and bleeding.

3. Laser Resurfacing

Certain laser treatments help in reducing pore-size. (7) Laser therapy rejuvenates the skin, resulting in a smooth texture and even tone.

Before going for laser therapy, talk to your dermatologist. He will recommend it based on your skin type and medical history.

Natural Ways Of Closing Large Pores

1. Aloe Vera Gel

Zinc in aloe gel is said to help tighten pores. (8) This helps reduce the appearance of large pores and smooths the texture of your skin. Aloe vera gel also cleanses the skin and helps remove oil and dirt from your pores.

2. Egg-White Mask

Egg-whites tighten the skin and help in shrinking pores. (9) This makes your pores look smaller and not too prominent. An egg-white mask when used regularly can also help improve skin elasticity.

3. Multani Mitti

Multani mitti or fuller’s earth is a great way of soaking up excess oil from your skin. It removes dirt and bacteria that clog pores and makes the skin appear tighter.

Tips To Prevent Large Pores

1. Wear Sunscreen

Wearing a broad-spectrum sunscreen will prevent your skin from dehydrating. It also prevents the production of excess sebum by keeping your skin moist. This will prevent large pores. If you have oily skin, choose a mineral sunscreen to avoid it from clogging your pores.

2. Drink Lots Of Water

Keeping your skin hydrated is vital to avoid it from drying up. Drink at least two litres of water everyday. Dehydrated skin can result in enlargement of pores.

3. Remove Makeup Before Bed

One of the main factors responsible for clogging your pores is leaving your makeup on for long hours. Make it a point to remove your makeup every night before you sleep. Cleanse your makeup tools from time to time.

4. Healthy Diet

Avoid eating foods rich in carbs and oils. Studies suggest that a high carb diet can result in acne breakouts. This may be the culprit of your enlarged pores. Diets rich in vitamins and essential nutrients help keep the skin radiant, firm and healthy.

Large pores can make your skin appear dull. By following a skincare regimen and staying hydrated, you can prevent enlargement of your pores and allow your skin to look smooth, firm and healthy.

Begin By Knowing Your Skin