2 things to do at night to reduce open pores

All pores on your skin need to be open but the ones that are visible and easily catch the eye are termed as ‘open pores’. If you’re on the lookout for ways to reduce open pores, you’re at the right place. Open pores can lead to forming of sebaceous glands that release oil to lubricate and protect the skin. After a while, the oil turns into blockages and causes tiny pores on the skin to stretch. It can lead to the appearance of acne, fine lines and pores, and several other skin conditions. Open pores are generally caused due to different reasons.

To understand the causes of open pores and ways to treat them, HealthShots spoke to Dr Monica Kapoor, a celebrity cosmetologist, Director at FLAWLESS Cosmetic clinic & ILACAD Institute.

What causes open pores on skin?

1. The most common reason for open pores is genetics. Genetically, the amount of pores and how much oil they make is determined. Hence, if someone in the family has open pores genetically then the person would have the same condition.
2. Apart from genetics, open pores can also be caused due to using excessive skincare products. Excess sebum, products, and dead skin can clog pores, making them appear larger.
3. Acne and oily skin also contribute to the increased pore size.
4. Open pores can also be caused due to over-exposure to the sun, which causes the loss of collagen in the skin. Collagen is an important component of the skin that promotes elasticity and hydration.

2 things to do at night to reduce open pores:

1. Always double cleanse

Do not act too lazy to remove makeup at night. Sleeping in makeup overnight is a skincare sin that can cause the pores to become blocked due to a buildup of makeup, oil, and bacteria. To prevent that switch to a double cleansing routine. As the name suggests, you need to clean your facial skin twice for this process. For this, use two products: an oil-based cleanser followed by a water-based cleanser.

“Choose a gel-based cleanser with salicylic acid, niacinamide, or green tea to reduce oil secretion. It is suitable for people with oily skin who want to make their pores less visible. It is best to avoid oil-based or alcohol based cleansers, as these can irritate the skin. A moisturizing cleanser may leave residue in the pores and increase oiliness. A gel-based cleanser helps clear oil from the pores, reducing their appearance,” says Dr Kapoor.

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2. Say Hello to Aloe!

Nothing shrinks your pores better than aloe vera. Each night, apply a thin layer of fresh aloe vera gel on your face. Massage the gel on your face in gentle circular motions. Leave it on if you don’t wish to apply any skincare products on top. Or else, wash off after about 10 to 15 minutes. Once you wash it off, you’ll notice that your skin feels fresh and all the oil and dirt from your pores will be removed without making your skin dry.

Here are few more tips to reduce open pores on nose and cheeks:

1. Opt for oil-free producs

Choose oil-free and water-based products including makeup products. These products are high in humectants rather than oils, which is good for oily skin . Dr Kapoor suggests that oil-based products contain petroleum, coconut oil, and other kinds of oil. They effectively moisturize the skin but may not be suitable for people with oily skin and open pores.

2. Always moisturize

Use an oil-free moisturizer that can help to reduce pore enlargement. First wash and pat the skin dry, then gently apply a moisturizer to help hydrate and soften the skin. It allows the oil from the sebaceous glands to penetrate more deeply into the skin, rather than staying in the pores on the surface. Moisturizing prevents pores from becoming clogged with oil, reducing their appearance.

3. Keep your skin clean

Wash your face twice a day. Use lukewarm water and gently apply a cleanser with clean fingers. choose a gentle cleanser that is nonabrasive and does not contain alcohol. Avoid scraping or rubbing the skin patting the face dry with a clean towel. It helps to wash away oil and dirt from the pores.

4. Exfoliate

Dr Kapoor says, “Exfoliate once or twice a week to remove matter that can clog pores. If you have oily skin, then you should exfoliate once or twice a week to remove matter that can clog the pores, such as: dirt, dead skin cells, excess oil. It is important not to exfoliate more than twice a week, as this can dry out the skin. Although exfoliation helps keep pores unclogged, pores can look bigger if the skin becomes too dry.”

4. Apply clay masks

Apply a clay mask once or twice a week. It helps to remove additional oil from the pores. Clay absorbs sebum. Removing that oil can help prevent pores from becoming enlarged and make them less visible. Over applying a clay mask can cause irritation on the skin. Irritation can cause pores to appear enlarged and can lead to blemishes.

5. Use Retinol

Using retinol on the skin can control the amount of sebum produced by your pore. Retinol or retinoids will also increase collagen to help tighten pores.

6. Never miss sunscreen

Use sunscreen regularly. It is crucial to care for the skin when in the sun. Sun exposure can dry the skin, making pores appear larger. Choose a sunscreen with an SPF 30 or over.

7. Consider dermatologist treatments

Consider treatments like micro-needling, gold plasma, neo facial, and erase or pixel-perfect laser for pore reduction.