Open pores: Causes, symptoms, treatment and prevention

Your skin is your body’s largest organ and has billions of pores that are not even visible to the naked eye. A person’s pores may be visible depending on their skin type. There are two types of pores: one that release the natural oil of the body called sebum and the other that release sweat. Both these secretions can affect the appearance of your pores. Open pores are a common skin concern affecting people of all ages. They are the small openings on the surface of the skin where hair follicles reside, and while they are a natural part of the structure of your skin, enlarged pores can be bothersome. While plenty of beauty products claim to help you get rid of your pores, it is not completely possible. Still, there are ways to reduce open pores on skin.

What are open pores?

Your skin has billions of pores but some of them become more visible due to various factors. While they are commonly seen on the face, you may notice them around the nose, cheeks, and forehead. Some of the main causes of open pores include excess sebum production, dead skin cells and debris, and loss of skin elasticity, according to a study published in the journal Dermatologic Surgery. Open pores generally appear uneven and textured, which can be exacerbated by environmental factors and lifestyle choices. Making some changes to your skincare routine may help minimize the appearance of keeping pores clean and improve your skin texture.

What are the causes of open pores?

There are several factors that lead to open pores, as per dermatologist Dr Atula Gupta:

• Genetics: If your parents have large pores, there is a higher likelihood that you will too.
• Excess sebum production: Overactive sebaceous glands can lead to excess oil production, which can cause enlarged pores. This is more common in people with oily skin.
• Ageing: The skin loses its elasticity and collagen as you age, which can cause the pores to appear larger.
• Sun damage: Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays of the sun can damage the skin, leading to the thickening of the skin layers and loss of collagen, which results in more visible pores.
• Clogged pores: Pores can easily get clogged with dirt, oil, and dead skin cells. This can cause your pores to stretch and appear larger.

Improper skin care routine: It is important to take care of your skin, especially after the age of 25. Habits like inadequate cleansing can leave residues which can lead to clogged pores.

Are there any skincare ingredients that can help with open pores?

While there are several ways to deal with open pores, Dr Gupta recommends the following skincare ingredients to help you with open pores:

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1. Retinoids

Retinoid is a term used for a group of vitamin A derivatives. Retinoids help stimulate collagen production and increase cell turnover, by helping to minimize the appearance of pores. Dr Gupta says prescribed retinoids such as tretinoin can be particularly effective, but over-the-counter options such as retinol can also be effective in dealing with open pores.

2. Salicylic acid

Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid. It penetrates the skin and targets the dead skin cells that clog your pores. It helps to exfoliate and remove excess oil as well, two of the reasons behind open pores. Using salicylic acid can help reduce the size of the pores by preventing clogging. A study published in the journal Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, found that unclogged pores break down bonds between dead skin cells and oils such as sebum, which can help with open pores and acne.

3. Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs)

AHAs include glycolic acid and lactic acid, which exfoliate the surface of the skin. It also improves skin texture and minimizes the appearance of enlarged pores by promoting cell turnover. It can also help reduce the appearance of acne.

4. Niacinamide

Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3 that will help regulate oil production, improve skin elasticity and enhance barrier function, reducing the size of enlarged pores.

5. Benzoyl peroxide

Considered an effective acne treatment, benzoyl peroxide helps reduce oil production and kill acne-causing bacteria. This will also help you prevent clogged and enlarged pores. A study published in Pharmacology and Therapeutics found that benzoyl peroxide works as a peeling agent and helps clear pores.

Treatment for open pores

You can reduce the appearance of open pores with the help of some treatments suggested by Dr Gupta, including:

1. Fractional laser resurfacing

This treatment uses laser beams to create micro-injuries in the skin, promoting collagen production and skin renewal. Fractional CO2 and Fractional Erbium lasers significantly reduce pore size and improve skin texture by stimulating collagen production.

2. Non-ablative laser treatments

Non-ablative lasers are effective in stimulating collagen and elastin production which help tighten the skin and reduce pore visibility. Pulsed Dye lasers reduce redness and improve texture.

3. Microneedling

Microneedling involves using fine needles to create micro-injuries in the skin, stimulating collagen and elastin production. Derma rollers and Radiofrequency microneedling are effective techniques to reduce pore size and tighten skin.

4. Chemical peels

Chemical peels involve applying a chemical solution to the skin, causing it to exfoliate and peel off, promoting new skin growth. Glycolic acid peels help reduce pore size by removing dead skin cells and stimulating collagen production. Salicylic acid peels are particularly effective for oily skin and unclogging pores.

5. Combining treatments

You can also use a combination of topical medications and laser treatments to yield the best results. Here’s how to create an effective treatment for yourself:

• Start with topicals: Incorporate retinoids, salicylic acid, or AHAs into your daily skincare routine. These help to keep pores clean and reduce the appearance of enlarged pores over time.
• Consult a dermatologist: Before starting laser treatments, it is essential to have a professional assessment. A dermatologist can recommend the most suitable laser therapy based on your skin type and condition.
• Follow-up with maintenance: It is important to maintain the results of the laser treatment with appropriate skincare routine. Continue using recommended topicals and practice good sun protection habits to preserve the benefits of laser treatments.

While these treatments can help you, consult your doctor to determine the cause of enlarged pores and the most suitable treatment based on your skin type and condition.