Pores are tiny, microscopic openings in the skin that allow perspiration to the surface to cool the skin. Pores also release oil to protect the surface of the skin. Sometimes though, pores become enlarged so that they are quite noticeable.
Generally, having large pores is not a medical condition, although enlarged pores, if not properly taken care of, can become clogged pores. At this point pimples and/or blackheads may form, making them even more visible.
The most common reason behind large pores is genetics. It’s nothing you did or didn’t do – you were just born with them. Oily skin can also cause enlarged pores. If oils or skin cells which would usually be shed collect in your pores, then those pores have the tendency to become clogged and enlarged.
With regard to aging skin, large pores are typically associated with sun damage. Ultraviolet light emitted by the sun damages the collagen that ‘plumps’ your skin. Without the firming effect of collagen, pores can lose elasticity and become dilated. The American Academy of Dermatologists claims that sun exposure is the main cause for enlarged pores, noting sun damage is responsible for 80 percent of all cases.
As is usual, prevention is the best treatment. You can avoid large or clogged pores by keeping them cleaned out in the first place. Our HydraFacial treatment makes this task easy and quick to do (you think your skin is clean until you have one of these treatments – then you know what clean skin is all about!). Regular use of sunscreen will help you avoid additional enlarged pores. At our skin care centre we use Fraxel Laser and IPL Photorejuvenation and Laser Genesis to reduce the size of enlarged pores. These treatments can also stimulate the collagen in your skin to additionally improve the appearance of your pores.
You can also use cosmetics to cover enlarged pores. Just make sure the product is completely free of oils and preferably mineral-based like Jane Iredale Mineral Makeup. Mineral makeup will allow your skin to breathe and doesn’t promote bacterial growth in your pores. Plus, the minerals have great reflective and light absorbing properties to protect the skin from UVA and UVB radiation.
If you have questions about enlarged pores, please contact us to book your complimentary consultation with a member of our skin care team to develop the right solution for your needs.
