What's the function of our pores?
Your pores are minuscule openings on the skin's surface, each with a distinct function. They serve as outlets for hair follicles, sebaceous glands, and sweat glands. These openings play a crucial role in maintaining skin health by allowing sebum (the skin's natural oil) and sweat to reach the skin's surface, keeping it hydrated and regulating body temperature. Essentially, pores are like tiny channels that help your skin breathe and function optimally.
Beyond the appearance of your pores
Pores are typically not visible to the naked eye when they're healthy and functioning as intended. However, certain factors can affect their appearance. Genetics, skin type, and age all play a role in pore size. Those with oily skin tend to have larger pores, while dry skin types may have smaller, less noticeable pores. Additionally, as we age, collagen and elastin production decreases, leading to a loss of skin elasticity and potential enlargement of pores. Sun damage can also contribute to the appearance of larger pores over time – so remember to apply SPF.
Enlarged and clogged pores: Causes & solutions
Enlarged pores often result from an overproduction of sebum, which can build up in the pore, stretching and enlarging its opening. When debris, dead skin cells, and excess sebum accumulates within the pore, the formation of blackheads or whiteheads is likely to occur. Additionally, clogged pores can make your skin appear dull and leave your complexion with an uneven tone and texture. Luckily, regular exfoliation with gentle scrubs or chemical exfoliants can help prevent and clear clogged pores, revealing smoother, healthier skin. Keep reading to learn more about some of our favorites!
Effective pore-unclogging ingredients
Several ingredients are renowned for their pore-unclogging abilities. And unclogging pores is a vital step in minimizing their appearance, as a clear pore will no longer have to stretch to keep in the build-up and bacteria that these ingredients help remove. When choosing what products to enrich your skincare shelf with, look for the following ingredients:
Salicylic Acid: This beta hydroxy acid (BHA) exfoliates deep within the pore, breaking down debris and promoting clear skin. Find it in our Skin Perfector 2% BHA and Deep Cleansing Mask.
Glycolic Acid: An alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) such as glycolic acid helps remove dead skin cells, preventing them from clogging pores. Find glycolic acid in our Intense Peel Mask, and Deep Cleansing Scrub (if you're struggling with active impurities, we recommend that you opt for chemical masks like our peel or cleansing mask, as mechanical scrubs can risk spreading the impurity-causing bacteria).
Niacinamide: This vitamin B3 derivative helps regulate oil production and reduce inflammation, preventing clogged pores. Find it in our Niacinamide Lifting Mist and Niacinamide Repair Body Lotion.
Retinoids: Derived from vitamin A, retinoids promote skin cell turnover, preventing dead cells from accumulating and clogging pores. Find it in our Vitamin A Treatment Cream.
Stay skin-smart
Understanding the function and how to care for your facial pores is essential for maintaining healthy and even skin. While factors like genetics and your age can play a role in pore size, you can come a long way with a consistent skincare routine and the use of pore-unclogging ingredients. Embrace the power of proper skincare, and you'll be on your way to smoother, radiant skin – no clogged pores included. Your pores may be tiny, but their impact on your skin's health and appearance is vital.
