Image by Natálie Šteyerová from Pixabay
Pores.
We’ve all got them. Some of us have a love/hate relationship with our pores while others will rarely give them a second thought. There are a LOT of myths out there about pores (the word “pores” has almost 3 billion hits on Google!) and a lot of old wives tales which claim to give you skin that’s smoother and more pore-free than glass, but does any of it actually work? With this in mind, we thought we’d give you a run-down of everything you need to know about your pores while also sorting the myths from the facts:
What are pores?
Pores are tiny openings around hair follicles and sweat glands that help gases and liquids move through the surface of your skin. They are present anywhere on your skin where there are oil glands, though they are more concentrated on your face, such as the pores on your nose.
Can I use steam or cold water to make my pores open and close?
The concept of “opening and closing” pores is a complete myth as pores do not have any type of muscle structure. However, cold water can make blood vessels constrict, making pores appear smaller for the short time they’re cool, while hot water and steam can loosen up the sebum and debris inside the pore, enabling it to be squeezed out more easily. Aromatherapy Associates Mattifying Purifying Facial Scrub is perfect for getting excess dirt and sebum out of clogged pores.
Can I make my pores disappear?
Nope! Pore size is genetically determined, so you can’t actually shrink pores. However, some products and treatments can minimise the appearance of pores. Pore-minimising products work by stimulating and plumping the collagen that surrounds pores. REN Clean Skincare Clarimatte Invisible Pores Detox Mask is a thick clay mask for combination skin, that works to minimise the appearance of pores
Are there any other products which are good for dealing with pores?
Dermalogica Blackhead Clearing Fizz Mask is a unique mask with an active fizzing formula that effectively cleans pores and helps target blackheads.
Elemis Clarifying Serum is a lightweight, soothing serum clinically proven to reduce the appearance of blemishes, visible pores and blackheads in just 2 weeks. Skin is left looking calmer, clearer, more even with improved texture and smoothness.
Evolve Organic Beauty True Balance Lotion is a balancing moisturiser to help reduce the appearance of pores whilst still providing hydration for oily skin.