Visibly minimize enlarged pores – with gentle natural cosmetics

Enlarged pores, especially on the nose, chin, or forehead, are an aesthetic concern for many people. Even with consistent care, they can become visible, often leading to frustration. If you'd like to avoid dermatological treatments like chemical peels, laser therapy, microdermabrasion, or microneedling, there are a number of cosmetic ingredients and methods that can help reduce pore size and refine the appearance of your skin.

What are skin pores and what function do they have?

Skin pores are tiny openings in the skin's surface, each containing a hair follicle and a sebaceous gland. Their primary function is to supply the skin with sebum, an oily substance that keeps the skin soft and supple. Sebum protects the skin from dehydration and harmful environmental influences and contributes to the stability of the skin's microbiome. This protective layer consists of lipids such as triglycerides, wax esters, free fatty acids, and cholesterol.

Causes of enlarged skin pores

The size of skin pores depends largely on genetic and external factors. The following causes can play a role:

• Genetic predisposition and skin type : Oily skin often tends to have enlarged pores because they are stretched by excessive sebum production.
• Excess sebum production and clogged pores : When the skin produces too much sebum and this combines with dead skin cells and dirt, blockages occur, which makes the pores appear larger.
• UV radiation : Excessive sun exposure can reduce collagen production in the skin. This causes the skin to lose firmness and elasticity, leading to enlarged pores.
• Smoking : Nicotine promotes skin aging and reduces blood flow and oxygen supply to skin cells. This leads to loss of elasticity and thus enlarged pores.
• Incorrect skin care : Overly aggressive cleansing products weaken the skin barrier, dry out the skin and encourage the penetration of dirt and bacteria, which can lead to blemishes and inflamed, enlarged pores.
• Skin aging : As we age, our skin loses elasticity, which makes pores appear larger.

Effective ingredients to refine pores

To reduce enlarged pores and improve skin texture, the following active ingredients can be helpful:

• Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) : Niacinamide has anti-inflammatory properties, calms redness, and regulates sebum production. It also strengthens the skin barrier, which can refine the skin's appearance and minimize enlarged pores.
• Bakuchiol (plant-derived retinol) : Bakuchiol, a plant-derived active ingredient with similar effects to retinol, stimulates collagen production and promotes cell renewal. This tightens the skin and reduces the appearance of pores.
• Willow Bark Extract : This natural ingredient contains salicylic acid, a beta hydroxy acid (BHA), that penetrates deep into pores to cleanse them. Willow bark helps remove dead skin cells and refines the skin's texture.
• Hyaluronic acid : Hyaluronic acid provides intensive moisture, plumps the skin and smoothes the appearance of enlarged pores.
• Lactic Acid (AHA) : Lactic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that gently removes dead skin cells and smooths the skin's texture. Pores appear finer due to improved skin texture.

Practical tips for preventing enlarged pores

Regular and targeted care can help minimize pore size in the long term:

• Consistent skin cleansing : Cleanse your face thoroughly morning and night to remove sebum, dead skin cells, and dirt. This prevents congestion and inflammation.
• Use non-comedogenic products : Non-comedogenic skincare products are specially formulated to avoid clogging pores. They are especially suitable for skin types prone to blemishes and acne.
• Strengthen the skin barrier : An intact skin barrier is essential for a healthy moisture balance. Products with moisturizing ingredients, such as myrto DMS day and night creams, support the natural skin barrier.
• Sun protection : UV radiation can cause pores to enlarge, so daily sun protection is essential. Myrto Sunshine Day Oil protects the skin from UV rays without interfering with vitamin D production. A mineral sunscreen without nanoparticles can be applied additionally to protect the skin from photoaging.
• Regular exfoliation : For oily skin, exfoliants containing alpha and beta hydroxy acids (AHAs and BHAs) can help remove dead skin cells and unclog pores. These chemical exfoliants promote a smoother skin surface and a more refined complexion.
• Diet and behavior : A balanced, anti-inflammatory diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables and adequate water intake supports skin health. Also, avoid touching your face frequently to minimize the transmission of bacteria.

Conclusion

Enlarged pores are often genetic, but can be minimized with proper care and a conscious lifestyle. By using products with targeted pore-refining ingredients and establishing a gentle skincare routine, you can sustainably improve your skin's appearance and reduce the size of your pores.

❓ Frequently asked questions about enlarged pores