Open pores

Excessive sebum secretion

People with oilier skin often have enlarged pores, as too much sebum can increase the size of the pores.

Genetics

If your parents had large pores, there's a good chance you will too. Genetics also influence how prone your pores are to enlargement.

Aging

As we age, the skin loses collagen and elastin, which can cause skin to sag and pores to enlarge.

Hormonal changes

Hormonal fluctuations, especially during puberty, pregnancy, or menopause, can affect sebum production and increase pore size.

Inadequate skin care

The use of comedogenic (clogging) products can cause pores to become clogged, resulting in enlarged pores.

Dirt and pollution

Environmental pollutants, such as dust, smog and polluted air, can accumulate in pores and cause them to enlarge.

Visible enlarged pores

Pores are wider and more visible on the skin, especially in the T-zone (forehead, nose, chin), where more sebaceous glands are present. In some cases, enlarged pores can also be seen on the cheeks or around the mouth.

Uneven skin texture

The skin can look uneven and rough, as enlarged pores can cause irregularities in the skin's structure. This can lead to the skin feeling uneven.

Increased sebum production (oily skin)

Due to excessive sebum secretion, the skin may be oilier and pores may appear enlarged, especially in areas that have more sebaceous glands.

Increased visibility of pores after cleansing

After cleansing the skin, pores may temporarily appear more visible because they are cleansed of sebum and impurities, making enlarged pores stand out even more.

Blackheads and acne

Enlarged pores can often become clogged, leading to the formation of blackheads or acne, as higher levels of sebum and impurities accumulated in the pores can cause inflammation.

Increased tendency to skin irregularities

Enlarged pores can lead to the presence of pimples or irritation, as impurities can more easily accumulate in larger pores, which can result in inflammation.

Regular skin cleansing

Thorough cleansing is key to reducing enlarged pores, as it removes excess sebum, dirt, and dead skin cells that can clog pores.

Use gentle gel or foam cleansers that suit your skin type (if you have oily skin, choose a cleansing gel with a mattifying effect).

Exfoliation (peeling)

Chemical peeling using products with AHA (alpha-hydroxy acids, eg glycolic acid) or BHA (beta-hydroxy acid, eg salicylic acid) can help remove dead skin cells, unclog pores and reduce their visibility.

Salicylic acid is particularly effective for oily skin and acne, as it penetrates the pores and removes impurities that can cause clogging.

AHA acids improve skin texture and aid in cell renewal, reducing the appearance of enlarged pores.

Using tonics

Toners with ingredients like salicylic acid, niacinamide, or clay can help reduce the appearance of pores and reduce sebum production.

Hydration

It is important to keep the skin hydrated, as dehydrated skin can increase sebum production, which can worsen the appearance of pores.

Sun protection

Always use sunscreen, as UV damage can worsen the appearance of pores and accelerate skin aging.