It’s true. We’re all pretty obsessed with pores, right? With skin-smoothing, face-blurring filters being everywhere, it can sometimes feel hard to appreciate them. 

But pores represent real skin, and they’re crucial in keeping our skin healthy - so let’s take a look at them in a little more detail….

What are pores?

Pores are a natural part of the skin structure where oil glands & hair follicles open on the skin surface. They enable the oil, sweat and sebum to go from our glands to the surface of our skin - which is essential for healthy skin.

Who has pores?

Everyone has pores, but they are more visible in oily, combination & acne-prone skins, due to actively releasing oil through wider openings.

Can pores open & close? 

This is skincare fiction. Pores cannot open and close. They don’t have muscles attached to them so they can’t contract & relax. 

How can I reduce the size of my pores? 

Pores cannot change in size, but you can take steps to make pores less visible, by avoiding them being stretched or sagging. 

 

Do environment or lifestyle factors have an impact on pore size?

Pores can appear larger over time due to ageing process. With a reduction in collagen & elastin, the structural support around pores can make them appear larger over time.

Skin ageing can be accelerated by UV radiation & pollution. Ageing can also be accelerated through lifestyle factors including smoking, sugar & caffeine consumption.  

 

How to reduce pore visibility

1. Reduce excess oil production: 

- Cleanse regularly

- Regulate sebum production with Niacinamide, Salicylic Acid & Retinoids (Clarity Concentrate Serum contains 10% Niacinamide & 1% Salicylic Acid)

- Decongest skin by exfoliating with Salicylic Acid, AHA's & Retinoids (Radiance Ritual Resurfacing Treatment Mask contains 10% AHA Glycolic Acid & 2% BHA Salicylic Acid)

- Use non-comedogenic skincare products (none pore-clogging)

 

2. Environmental & lifestyle factors: 

- Use SPF daily. Without fail. 

- Instigate collagen synthesis with Glycolic Acid & Retinoids 

- Use anti-pollution skincare to protect against environmental aggressors 

- Consider a diet rich in antioxidants, zinc, omega-3 & supplement if appropriate*

 

*Always consult with your Doctor ahead of considering any dietary changes