Pores are really small openings in the skin that allow oil and sweat to reach the surface of your skin from the oil and sweat glands beneath.
Technically you have two types of pores: the oil pores which are on the vast majority of your body, except for the soles of your feet and the palms of your hand. You also have sweat pores, which are super small.
In general, when people are talking about how their pores are too large or clogged, they are referring to the oil pores.
How Do Pores Get Clogged, Anyway?
There are a number of reasons that your oil pores will become clogged. For instance, if your body is dealing with hormonal changes, excess oil may be created and may get stuck in the pores. Dry skin can also get into the pores as can dirt, dead skin cells, makeup and bacteria.
How Can I Tell if My Pores are Clogged?
A clogged pore will reveal itself by looking larger and possibly darker. Also, if a clogged pore gets infected with bacteria, it will form a pimple. Pores that are blocked up with dead skin cells may result in acne.
Why Are My Pores So Big?
If you feel that your pores are larger than those on your friends’ faces, you can probably blame genetics. Pore size is generally influenced by your family tree. If dear old great-grandma had big pores, you probably will as well. Also, if you have naturally oily skin, you are more likely to have more visible pores because they have to be larger to accommodate the oil needing to get out. In addition, if you have spent quite a bit of time in the sun, your pores will respond over time by getting bigger. And the simple act of growing older means your body is producing less collagen, which—you guessed it—will also make your pores larger.
How Can I Keep My Pores Clear and Clean?
Fortunately, if you have signs and symptoms of clogged pores or you are unhappy with how visible they are, there are tangible steps you can take to help with both situations. The first thing you should do is use a proven acne treatment for teens and adults that focuses on pore care. For instance, Rodan + Fields offers a two-step method that is designed to deep clean the pores, eliminate acne and make the skin less oily. This type of product will not only clear out clogged pores, but may prevent new blemishes from forming. To minimize the appearance of your pores, be sure to wear sunscreen every day, drink a lot of water to up your hydration, and exfoliate your skin in addition to cleaning it well morning and night. And if you smoke, please stop—not only will your lungs thank you, but your pores will as well.
Great Looking Pores are Definitely Possible
Genetics may have caused you to have a face full of large pores, your skin may be on the oily side, and you may get so tired at night you often skip washing your face. Fortunately, by knowing the reasons behind having larger and clogged pores, you can take a number of steps to improve the situation, which in turn will help your skin to look healthier, younger and blemish-free.
