Having large or enlarged pores is a common problem these days. Pores can make your skin look dull and uneven. Large pores are prone to getting clogged causing acne and blackheads! It is very necessary to shrink the pores in order to reduce the chances of getting blackheads, whiteheads and acne. You obviously cannot shrink the pores overnight but some remedies, lifestyle changes and hacks can help:
AVOID PRODUCTS CONTAINING SILICONE
Silicone is the main ingredient in a variety of makeup products. If you feel your foundation gliding on smoothly and feels soft and slippery, it is the silicone! It is the same ingredient that is used in conditioners that coat your hair in order to make it silky. When you slather on products that contain silicone (check for ingredients ending with –one), it forms a layer on top of your skin. If you use primer, which of course contain the highest silicone, you are actually filling up the pores to give a smooth base. This can cause clogged pores and result into acne, blemishes, white and black heads etc.
EXFOLIATE REGULARLY
Exfoliating the skin keeps pores from clogging and prevents protein and dirt build up that leads to white and blackheads. Use a mild scrub every day and a heavy duty scrub once in a week to keep skin clean and pores smaller. You can also use baking soda or sugar as a natural scrub and they work very well too. Here is a natural scrub recipe for pores >>
USE A TONER
Using a toner makes your skin tighter, pores smaller and cleanses it. It keeps acne and other skin related problems at bay. There are a lot of toners available in the market but it is always the best to use natural toner from the kitchen! You can use diluted lemon juice or apple cider vinegar as a toner. DIY toner for pores >>
ALWAYS USE ICE AFTER A FACIAL
If you get facials regularly done, make sure you use ice or chilled water on face in order to close the pores. Facials include face steaming that opens the pores and cleanses it. If you do not close it, pores will enlarge gradually. After you are done with your facial or just face steaming, splash chilled water on your face or massage your face with an ice cube.
USE FACE MASKS
Pores look larger when they are clogged with dirt, oil and protein deposits. Regular cleansing of the pores prevents it from enlarging and also keeps acne at bay. Use clay masks and charcoal masks- they work great for the pores. Here are some DIY mask recipes for pores >>
AVOID TOO MUCH MAKEUP
It is the best to keep your pores free of any layers in order to keep them clean and small. You can use makeup but avoid layering too much of it, especially if you have oily skin. Wear good quality makeup that is non-comedogenic if you have an event to attend and have no other option other than layering.