Enlarged facial pores affect 80% to 90% of women over the age of 25. Previously, we narrowly attributed pore issues to excessive oil production in oily skin. However, evidence shows enlarged pores result from multiple factors, primarily skin cell aging leading to sagging skin, dehydration, and slow exfoliation of the stratum corneum. So what causes enlarged pores?
Skin Dehydration
Many assume enlarged pores and excessive sebum production stem from overly oily skin, neglecting hydration. In reality, dehydration is a major culprit behind enlarged pores and oiliness. When skin lacks moisture, surrounding cells contract and the stratum corneum dries out, making pores more visible. Therefore, combating enlarged pores begins with replenishing skin hydration.
Aftereffects of Popping Pimples
Many people instinctively want to squeeze pimples, blackheads, or whiteheads. This is a huge mistake—popping them only makes the problem worse.Blackheads and whiteheads will only multiply with each squeeze, and pores will become increasingly enlarged. The correct approach is to focus on cleansing, hydration, and maintaining oil-water balance to prevent blackheads and whiteheads. If you wish to remove them, visit a professional beauty salon and have an aesthetician perform the extraction. Never skip the pore-tightening step afterward.
Irregular Lifestyle and Diet
Chronic sleep deprivation disrupts hormone secretion, leading to imbalanced oil production and enlarged pores. Similarly, those who frequently consume fried foods and sweets tend to have larger pores for the same reason. To avoid enlarged pores, it's best to avoid staying up late and reduce intake of fried foods and sweets.
Neglecting Pore-Tightening Steps
Deep cleansers and deep cleansing masks effectively remove impurities and oil from pores. However, many people skip the pore-tightening step afterward. While the pores are cleaned, they remain in an expanded state. Over time, this only makes pores larger.Therefore, always use pore-tightening products after deep cleansing.
Excessive Oil Production During Puberty
Teenage skin produces abundant oil. When not metabolized promptly, it accumulates in pores, stretching them wider and often leading to acne and blackheads.
Incomplete cleansing
Most women wear makeup nowadays, and even those who don't often apply sunscreen or BB cream. If these products aren't thoroughly removed, residue can clog pores and cause them to enlarge. Therefore, meticulous makeup removal is crucial—even sunscreen requires thorough cleansing.