Topical creams
Topical creams that are formulated with retinoids or Vitamin A are prescribed to treat acne and reduce the occurrence of outbreaks, blackheads, and whiteheads. Addressing acne results in a smoother skin and less visible pores.
Enlarged Pores
Facial pores are the small openings on the skin that release oil and sweat. Our pores are connected to the oil and sweat glands beneath the skin. While pores are important to keep the skin healthy and moisturized, blocked and enlarged pores could be a cause of concern.
Genetics play a major role in having large pores. Still, other factors such as aging, humid weather, and sun damage can make your pores look larger. Fortunately, several skin treatments are available to improve skin texture and minimize the appearance of enlarged pores.
What causes enlarged pores?
Enlarged pores are a common skin concern that is caused by various factors.
Genetics
The most important factor that determines your pore size is your genes. In most people, having large pores runs in the family.
Skin aging
Another cause of enlarged pores is skin aging. As we age, we naturally lose collagen and elastin in the skin. The low amounts of collagen and elastin in the skin cause the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and saggy skin. Old, dry skin makes the pores more visible and appear larger.
Clogged pores
Clogging of the pores is one of the most common causes of enlarged pores. Anything that could clog the pores, such as oil, dirt, dead skin cells, skin products, can result in enlarged pores.
Acne
When pores remain clogged for long periods of time, acne could develop. Acne blemishes include whiteheads, blackheads, pimples, and serious breakouts. These acne blemishes can further worsen the appearance of your pores.
Oily skin
Sebum, or oil, is produced in the sebaceous glands in the dermis of the skin. Sebum functions as a natural skin coating and is important in keeping the skin moisturized. However, excessive sebum can clog the pores and thus cause enlarged pores.
Sun damage
Skin damage due to prolonged exposure to the sun is one of the driving factors in skin aging. Sun damage can impair the production of collagen and elastin, resulting in sagging of the skin. When the skin starts to sag, pores appear larger and become more noticeable.
Biological Sex
Males have naturally larger pores and produce more sebum compared to females. Because of this, males are more likely to have more visible, clogged, enlarged pores.
Hormones
Female hormones may also cause enlargement of the pores, specifically during ovulation and in times of stress. Hormones may induce the sebaceous glands to produce more sebum, which may then block and enlarge the pores.
Use of comedogenic products
Comedogenic products are substances that clog the pores. These products may accumulate and block the pores, resulting in enlarged pores. Over time, clogging of the pores can result in the development of whiteheads, blackheads, and acne breakouts.
What treatments are available for enlarged pores?
Several skin treatments that improve the appearance of enlarged pores are currently available in Singapore. These treatments target the underlying skin issues that cause enlargement of pores, such as excessive sebum production, loss of collagen and elastin, and acne breakouts.
Oral medications
Oral medications, such as antibiotics and steroids, are also used to address acne and its associated redness and swelling. These medications can effectively eliminate acne-causing bacteria and control sebum production, resulting in a healthier, more balanced skin with less visible pores.
Chemical peels
Chemical peels are known to induce tissue remodeling, improve skin texture, and rejuvenate the skin. These result in refined pores, smooth texture, and young-looking skin.
Pico Laser
The Pico Laser is a powerful skin treatment technology that treats enlarged pores. The Pico Laser delivers concentrated energy beams into the skin to induce natural skin healing and stimulate the production of collagen and elastin. These processes help improve skin structure and texture and consequently, minimize pores.
Rejuran® Healer
Rejuran® Healer is an anti-aging injectable that contains highly purified concentrations of polynucleotides extracted from wild salmon. Rejuran® Healer restores skin integrity, enhances hydration and elasticity, reduces fine lines and wrinkles, and refines pores.
Skinboosters
The Pico Laser is a powerful skin treatment technology that treats enlarged pores. The Pico Laser delivers concentrated energy beams into the skin to induce natural skin healing and stimulate the production of collagen and elastin. These processes help improve skin structure and texture and consequently, minimize pores.