1. Enlarged pores result from two causes: abnormal keratinization of hair follicles and sebaceous gland openings, and increased keratinization due to skin aging. Though seemingly simple, treating enlarged pores is challenging.
2. Astringents (like witch hazel) provide visible short-term results but fail to address the root cause, as pores quickly revert to their enlarged state.
3. Retinoic acid corrects abnormal keratinization of hair follicles and sebaceous ducts, offering genuine pore-tightening effects. However, its high irritation and significant side effects limit its use.
4. Huahua Ling (a topical treatment) can reduce pore size. Based on usage feedback and a 12-day follow-up of over 30,000 customers, only 6% of those over 30 reported satisfaction; among those under 25, satisfaction reached 60%.
4. Huohualing can reduce pore size. Based on usage experience and a 12-day follow-up survey of over 30,000 customers, only 6% of customers over 30 reported satisfaction; however, 55% of customers under 25 were satisfied. This indicates that younger customers experience faster and more noticeable pore-reducing effects.
5. Pores appear visibly smaller after cleansing, making daily cleansing essential.Daily cleansing also removes blackheads, further aiding pore reduction.
6. Avoid exfoliation—while enlarged pores result from abnormal follicular keratinization, exfoliation fails to clear pore blockages. Instead, it weakens skin hydration, damages the skin barrier, and causes atrophy of cells surrounding the pores.
7. Avoid facial steaming—Temperatures above 50°C (122°F) damage skin, causing pores to dilate and surrounding cells to atrophy. Severe cases may develop visible capillaries.
8. Additional factors worsening enlarged pores include: dehydrated skin, frequent consumption of spicy or fried foods, improper cleansing, etc.—all should be avoided.
Note: Some believe alternating hot and cold water washing shrinks pores. This mimics astringents by stimulating follicles with temperature contrast, creating a temporary tightening effect. However, it's merely a temporary fix—pores quickly return to their enlarged state. Moreover, cold water abruptly closes pores, hindering skincare absorption.