Did you know that the average adult has around five million pores? In this article, we'll explore what pores are and provide tips on how to reduce their visibility if you're looking to address this common skincare concern. 

What are pores? 

Pores serve as small openings on the skin, mainly responsible for facilitating hair growth and allowing sebum, oil, and sweat to be released. They are a natural part of the skin and are typically not visible without magnification. It's important to remember that while you may be hyper-aware of your pores, others are not as observant. However, if you're looking to minimize their appearance, the following tips may be helpful. 

Why can I see my pores? 

When pores become clogged, they can appear enlarged. This is commonly seen in individuals with naturally oily skin and those prone to blemishes, or due to factors such as increased sebum production, pollution, or the use of non-comedogenic makeup. Other factors like sun damage and genetics can also play a role in the appearance of pores. 

What can help to reduce my pores? 

Regular Cleansing

Keeping your skin clean is essential to prevent pores from becoming clogged with dirt, oil, and impurities. Use a gentle cleanser twice daily, once in the morning and once in the evening, to remove excess oil and debris.

• For oily & blemish prone skin, try the best-selling Salicylic Acid Cleansing Wash 150ml
• For dry & sensitive skin, try the hydrating Rosehip Creamy Cleanser 150ml
• For skin that lacks hydration, try the Vegan Collagen Rejuvenating Cleanser 150ml

Exfoliation 

Scrubs can really help to reduce the size of pores. Ones that contains AHA or BHA as a key ingredient would be an ideal choice as this specifically tackles oily skin. 

Our Salicylic Acid Anti-Blemish Face Scrub would be a great addition to your skincare regime, it’s combination of acid and biodegradable microbeads open up the pores and deep cleanse the skin, exfoliating out dead skin cells. 

It’s recommended to exfoliate 1-3 times a week if you have oily skin. Anymore could cause irritation as you skin could be stripped of its natural oils. 

Watch skincare expert Charlotte Connoley share her best tips for using a face scrub:

Retinol 

Retinoids, such as Retinol, have been a buzzword in the beauty industry for years and continues to be popular for its anti-aging benefits and ability to deep clean pores, minimising their appearance.

Retinol can help to promote cell turnover and unclog pores. It also stimulates collagen production, which can help improve skin texture and minimise the appearance of pores over time.

Our Super Facialist Anti-Ageing range features Retinol as a key ingredient, along with other scientifically-backed compounds. However, it's essential to handle this potent ingredient with care.

While Retinol can significantly benefit the skin, prolonged use of high concentrations can cause skin thinning and irritation. We recommend starting with a low percentage and gradually increasing it as your skin adjusts and develops tolerance. Additionally, it's best to use Retinol as a treatment, applying it for 6-8 weeks a few times a year for optimal results. 

Clay Face Masks

When it comes to targeting excess oils and pesky pores, a clay-based face mask can be a game-changer.

Our award-winning Super Facialist Salicylic Acid Pore Purifying Clay Mask is specially designed to remove excess oils from the skin quickly. It features a combination of oil-absorbing Sea Mud, skin-enhancing Niacinamide, and Salicylic Acid, which work together to provide the skin with a five-minute detox.

Oil-free skincare formulas 

Opt for products that are non-comedogenic and oil-free to avoid ingredients that may clog the pores, and make them appear larger. 

Best oil-free moisturisers:

• Clear Skin Pore-fect Daily Moisturiser 75ml with 3% Niacianmide
• Salicylic Acid Anti-Blemish Gel Moisturiser 

In need of more info? Here’s some general tips and tricks: 

• If you're struggling with excess oils and clogged pores, a cleansing oil may be worth trying. While it may sound counter-intuitive, oil-based cleansers can remove excess oils more effectively than their water-based counterparts. For optimal results, follow up with a traditional cleanser with a gel, foam, or creamy consistency to remove any oil residue as part of a double-cleansing routine. Try our Vitamin C Cleansing Oil here. 

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• It’s really important to apply SPF daily. Sun exposure can damage the pores and cause them to be enlarged. 
• Try not to touch your skin apart from when you’re doing your skincare regime. Your pores can become aggravated if bacteria gets in. 

Shop the best products for oily skin, pores and blemishes here.

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