PORES NO MORE
Pores are small openings located in the epidermis layer of the skin. All of us have plenty of them, but we all have different sizes of pores. The function of pores is to excrete sweat and sebum. Sebum is our natural lubricant that our skin produces, made up of triglycerides, wax esters, squalene and it protect us from dry, and flaky skin. It also helps clear away dead skin cells and acts as a waterproof barrier. Some produce excessive amounts of sebum than others. When you see the pores appearing larger in size, it could possibly be because they are clogged with impurities and dead cells, therefore they are simply dilated. They tend to stand out more so in the middle of the forehead, nose, inner cheeks, and chin, (T-zone area).
The best ways to reduce the size of pores:
Start with Hydration. Consume at least 8 glasses of water a day, preferably alkaline or spring water. If the pores are clogged hydration is key to flushing your body, which will naturally help balance your skin.
Once you are properly hydrated see an esthetician, and receive a professional, yet gentle Exfoliation, nothing to strong starting out. Stay towards the natural side if possible. A wonderful decongesting facial can unclog a great deal, thus reducing the size of the pores, almost right away in many cases.
If you are acneic or sensitive, it is best not to have scrubs used as the method of exfoliation. Instead have an enzyme, AHA, or BHA exfoliation treatment. Scrubbing acneic and sensitive skin can sometimes only agitate the skin more, keeping it off balance.
Mask at least once a week to keep pores clean and tight. I recommend a clay mask if you are extremely oily, it really helps pull up debris, and tighten skin. Follow with a light moisturizer or serum so the skin stays balanced and not overly dry.
After you’ve received a professional treatment the most important part to maintaining clear pores is having a great Home Care Regimen. Remember to gently cleanse your skin every night. It is important to remove all makeup before going to bed. Splash with cool water after every cleanse. Gently sweep the face with a rose toner or one containing a very small amount of AHA or BHA , following the cleanse. For moisturizing use a light cream or serum. Try not to use a moisturizer that is very heavy and oily with mineral oil. Look for a moisturizer that consist of jojoba, and or rosehip oils, these oils actually resembles sebum, therefore the skin will react well to them. They are generally non-clogging oils. And a hyaluronic acid serum works wonders at keeping the skin hydrated, supple and plump.
Our skin is fascinating and is always working to protect us, so remember to treat it well. Protect your skin when under the sun with a safe non-nano, coated, zinc- oxide sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher. Sun damage can cause pores to appear larger due to thickening of the skin. Drink plenty of water and get your beauty sleep.
DIY Tip: Make rose toner ice cubes and massage face for a refreshing, skin tightening tone up.
Until next time!
Take Care Of You.
