It’s totally normal to have pores on your face; after all, they’re pretty much the gateway for sebum (natural oil) to rise from within the skin, and onto the surface. But did you know that there’s a reason for some people’s pores to be bigger than others?
“A larger gland will have a larger opening, and thickened skin through sun damage can make pores appear larger,” says Dr Katherine Armour of the Dermatology Institute of Victoria. “There’s also a really high concentration of sebaceous glands found on our face, which is why pores are so often noticeable in this location.”
“Oily skin, excessive use of occlusive makeup without adequate cleansing, and pure genetics can all contribute to large pores. Those who are genetically predisposed to acne will also have large pores.”
While it isn’t exactly possible for pores to disappear (just imagine the sebum build up on your face!), you can actually use topical products such as those that contain AHAs and retinoids to break down dead skin and help unblock these pores. Try Neutrogena Pore Refining Daily Cleanser, $14.99, which has an effective alpha and beta hydroxyl formula.
Also proving to be effective, is the ingredient Niacinamide (topical vitamin B3) found in lots of serums and moisturisers. “This ingredient may also be helpful as it has been shown to decrease oil gland function.” continues Armour. Try ASAP Super B Complex, $89
Looking to cover up large pores with some makeup? Add Benefit’s The POREfessional Agent Zero Shine to your shopping list; it’s a lightly tinted powder that smooths skin, minimises shine and discourages the production of natural oil through the day, so you won’t be left looking sweaty by lunch time. Try Benefit The POREfessional Agent Zero Shine, $44
This is a sponsored post by Neutrogena. All opinions expressed by the author are authentic and written in their own words.
