How to Minimise the Appearance of Pores

Pores are like the unsung heroes of our skin, working hard to keep everything in check for optimum health and function. They're the gatekeepers regulating oil production, temperature, and overall skin well-being. Now, we've all been there - some of us have pores that seem to take the spotlight more than others. But fear not! With the right skincare approach, we can conquer the common concern of enlarged pores and unlock the secret to radiant skin. In this blog, we're spilling the beans on the incredible world of K-beauty, where effective solutions meet the latest and greatest in skincare innovation.

What Causes Large Pores?

Excessive Oil Production

Increased oil (sebum) production can cause pores to become enlarged as the excess oil mixes with dead skin cells and becomes trapped, stretching the pore lining. Oily skin tends to have larger pores due to increased oil production, as the excess oil can mix with dead skin cells, enlarging the pores. Similarly, individuals with combination skin may observe larger pores in oilier areas, like the T-zone.

Ageing

With age, the skin loses collagen and elasticity, contributing to a reduction in skin firmness. This loss of support structure can make pores appear larger over time.

Genetics

The size of pores is largely determined by genetics, and if there's a familial predisposition to large pores, it's likely to be inherited.

Key Ingredients

BHAs: Exfoliates within the pores, reducing oil and debris.

Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): Improves skin texture and has anti-inflammatory properties.

Retinoids (Retinol): Stimulates collagen production and promotes cell turnover.

Hyaluronic Acid: Hydrates and plumps the skin, minimising pore visibility.

Clay: Absorbs excess oil, temporarily tightening the skin.

Vitamin C: Supports collagen production for firmer skin.

Skincare Tips to Minimise the Appearance of Pores

While it's not possible to permanently change the size of pores, several skincare practices can help minimise their appearance:

Always Double Cleanse at Night

Keeping your skin clean helps prevent the buildup of oil, dirt, and debris that can contribute to enlarged pores. In double cleansing, the oil cleanser dissolves and lifts away oil-based impurities, and the water-based cleanser then removes water-based debris, ensuring a thorough cleaning, preventing pore congestion, and promoting a clearer complexion.

ANUA Heartleaf Pore Control Cleansing Oil (200ml) - £19.95

Check out the latest viral cleansing oil, ANUA Heartleaf Pore Control Cleansing Oil! This pore-controlling formula effortlessly removes makeup, blackheads, and sebum, featuring a non-comedogenic blend with 10,000pm Heartleaf ideal for acne-prone skin. Infused with anti-inflammatory Heartleaf, along with Jojoba, Grape Seed, and Macadamia Seed Oils, it nourishes and moisturises while maintaining a light texture for daily use.

MIXSOON Centella Cleansing Foam (150ml) - £16.00

Experience the soothing power of MIXSOON's Centella Cleansing Foam! This low-pH, extra-gentle formula boasts 32.8% Centella Asiatica, sourced from their organic farm in Jeju Island, providing a hydrating and purifying cleanse. With Basil and Neem Extracts, it not only cleanses but also shields the skin from environmental stressors, minimising breakouts and promoting a refreshed, soothed complexion without any tightness.

Exfoliate the Skin Regularly

Exfoliating the skin 2-3 times a week can remove dead skin cells, preventing them from accumulating and stretching out pores. Beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), like salicylic acid, improve the appearance of pores by exfoliating within the pore lining, effectively removing excess oil, dead skin cells, and debris.

COSRX One Step Original Clear Pad (70 Pads) - £22.00

Discover award-winning acne-fighting pads, COSRX One Step Original Clear Pad - crafted through extensive dermatological research. Soaked in Willow Bark Water and natural BHA Betaine Salicylate, these pads gently exfoliate, clearing excess sebum and dead skin cells to unveil clearer, brighter skin.

If your skin is more on the sensitive side, choosing a milder exfoliant is recommended. Opt for products with alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or polyhydroxy acids (PHAs).

AXIS-Y PHA Resurfacing Glow Peel (50ml) - £19.50

With 10% PHA, AXIS-Y PHA Resurfacing Glow Peel exfoliates and soothes, clearing clogged pores for a glowing, clear complexion. Formulated with 5 fruits and vegetables to nourish, reduce inflammation, and fade acne scars, plus Camellia Flower Extract for sebum control and anti-aging benefits. Suitable for all skin types, even sensitive skin.

Use Retinoids at Night

Products containing retinoids, like retinol, can improve skin texture and stimulate collagen production, which may help reduce the appearance of pores over time. As retinoids can increase sensitivity to the sun, it's crucial to use them exclusively at night to minimise the risk of sun-related reactions.

SOME BY MI Retinol Intense Reactivating Serum (30ml) - £32.00

SOME BY MI Retinol Intense Reactivating Serum is a potent anti-aging solution with Retinol, Retinal, and Bakuchiol, promoting skin elasticity, fine line prevention, and rejuvenation. Its unique formula deeply penetrates, preventing sagging, improving texture, and soothing irritated skin.

Add Vitamin C

Vitamin C has antioxidant properties that can support collagen production, enhance skin elasticity, and promote a more even skin tone, contributing to a smoother complexion overall.

GOODAL Green Tangerine Vita C Dark Spot Care Serum (40ml) - £28.00

GOODAL Green Tangerine Vita C Dark Spot Care Serum, enriched with 70% Green Tangerine Extract, brightens the complexion and fades dark spots with Niacinamide and Vitamin C. Effective in targeting pigmentation, revitalising dull skin, and providing long-lasting hydration.

Clay Masks

Clay masks are effective in absorbing excess oil and impurities from the skin's surface, and they help to temporarily tighten the skin, providing a smoother texture and reducing the visibility of enlarged pores. Regular use of clay masks (1-2 times a week) can contribute to a clearer complexion and improved skin tone.

ISNTREE Mugwort Calming Clay Mask (100ml) - £19.50

Get a deep pore cleanse with Isntree's popular Mugwort Calming Clay Mask. Combining 6 types of clays, including Kaolin and Bentonite, it eliminates excess oil and unclogs pores. Kaolin soothes irritated skin, Mugwort fights bacteria, and Red Bean Powder scrubs away dead cells.

Sun Protection

Protect your skin from sun damage by using sunscreen with at least SPF 30. Sun damage can decrease collagen and elastin, making pores appear larger. For effective sun protection, it is recommended to reapply every 2-3 hours to maintain its function during the day.

HARUHARU WONDER Black Rice Moisture Airyfit Daily Sunscreen SPF50+ PA++++ - £16.00

HARUHARU WONDER Black Rice Moisture Airyfit Daily Sunscreen is your daily skincare hero, offering maximum UV protection with nourishing ingredients. Featuring Black Rice Extract for antioxidant power, Adenosine for anti-aging care, Heartleaf and Ceramide NP for soothing and barrier-strengthening, and Niacinamide for brightening, this sunscreen achieves a nourished, brightened, and hydrated complexion.