can you shrink your pores?
The good ‘ol question: “How do I shrink my pores?” We hate to be the bearer of bad news, but technically, you can’t. Yes, their appearance can be frustrating, but they are necessary for maintaining healthy skin and who doesn’t want that? We all have different skin and levels of oil production, but let’s get into some ways we can make our pores less problematic.
5 things that influence pore size:
Their appearance is largely determined by genetics.
Hormones can play a role too as they can kick oil production into high gear, which is why pregnancy, menopause, and puberty can make pores appear larger.
Trapped impurities can stretch out pores’ structure and make them appear larger.
As we age, collagen breaks down over time, loosening pores’ structure and increasing their width.
Sun damage causes a similar effect as UV rays deplete collagen levels.
SO WHAT’S A GIRL TO DO?
1. cleanse your skin twice a day (for 60 seconds!)
This will help to remove makeup, oil, dirt and debris.
Find a cleanser suited to your skin type and be careful not to over cleanse as that can actually cause your skin to produce more oil.
2. exfoliate
Exfoliate to ensure you are removing inactive/dead skin cells and smoothing out surface texture that can make pore openings appear larger.
3. spf is mandatory
Apply sunscreen year-round to prevent collagen depletion and protect the integrity of your skin.
4. don’t be scared of retinol
Incorporate a retinol into your routine to curb excess oil production, refine enlarged pores and boost collagen.
5. don’t look too close
Step away from the magnifying mirror and know that pores are completely normal! Tell yourself you love your skin..
