Enlarged pores a problem?

Pores are tiny openings on the surface of the skin for sebaceous and sweat glands.  Oil and sweat are secreted through these small holes, forming a hydrolipidic barrier to moisturize and protect skin.

Causes

Enlarged pores are generally associated with thick, oily complexions, which have more sebaceous glands, and skin lacking tone due to aging.

Here are the various factors that may be involved:

• Genetics
• Photo-aging  
• Overactive sebaceous glands
• A poor skin care regimen
• Inadequate skin care products

Skin care tips

Many of us consider enlarged pores unappealing and bothersome, especially since they usually involve shiny skin, cause blackheads when they get clogged and, in some cases, lead to acne.  Here are a few tips to help prevent and minimize their appearance.

• Wash your face morning and night – no more, no less.
• Exfoliate with a gentle scrub, once or twice a week.
• After exfoliating, apply a purifying mask to deeply clean the epidermis, absorb excess sebum and tighten skin texture.
• Rinse with lukewarm water and finish with cold water, for a tightening effect.
• Use toner to remove oily residue from skin – once a day if you have oily skin or a few times a week for other skin types.

A few skin care products have been specifically formulated to reduce the look of enlarged pores. Talk to your beauty consultant to find out which ones are best suited to your skin type.  

When buying products to fight this problem, look for the following ingredients: AHA, LHA, retinol, vitamin A and alcohol.

Professional help

If you are not able to solve the issue on your own and are ready to invest in professional treatments, talk to your dermatologist.

Photodynamic therapy (a combination of a photosensitizing agent and blue light) and radiofrequency therapy are two options used to help treat enlarged pores.

Concealing tips

Of course, concealing them is a viable option too. Start with well-moisturized skin and just follow these steps:

• Apply a primer or other special pore-minimizing product on problem areas.
• Follow with your foundation or BB cream.
• End with a light veil of matifying powder where skin tends to shine or where pores are more enlarged.

Pharmacy services

Do you have questions about enlarged pores and the products you can use to treat or conceal them? Talk to your Uniprix dermo-cosmetic consultant for help and advice!