Minimize Pore Size on Face

If you want to minimize the pore size on your face, the easy answer is to exfoliate. There are several methods of exfoliation that will work to both clean out your pores and reduce the number of dry skin cells that hold onto the edges of the pores, which makes the openings appear larger.

Why Some Pores Are Large

According to skincare expert Renee Rouleau's blog, pore size is determined when you're a teenager and is based on how oily your skin is. Those with oily skin all over will have larger pores, those with oily T-zones will have larger pores in that area, and those with dry skin won't have very large pores at all. As time goes on and the skin loses its elasticity and tightness, however, pore size may seem to increase. Thank gravity for that.

The skin isn't pulled back as tightly anymore, so the indentations in the skin become more obvious. The pore size can then be exacerbated by dry skin holding onto the pores or dirty pores in general. The key to minimizing pore size on the face, then, is to exfoliate regularly and keep the pores oil-and-dirt-free.
Methods That Minimize Pore Size on the FaceMicrodermabrasion: According to SkinAbrasion.net, microdermabrasion will remove the outer layer of skin and, with the help of suction, help clear away the blackheads that cause the appearance of enlarged pores. This is one of the more expensive methods for decreasing the appearance of large pores and often involves making an appointment with a professional.

Microdermabrasion has also been shown to improve collagen production and fight large pores from an anti-aging standpoint.Cold water: This is a temporary fix, but if you have a special date or event and want tightened pores for a few hours, rinsing your face with very cold water is a solution. It doesn't take days or weeks of use to see an improvement and you don't have to order anything online and wait for it to be shipped to your home before you can put it to use.Home facial scrubs: Make sure you get a facial scrub with round beads in order to avoid tiny tears in your skin. You may also use a damp washcloth with your regular facial cleanser. This will remove the dry skin that collects around the edges of the pores and makes them look deeper than they are.

CosmeticsCop.com reports that this method of exfoliation isn't as effective as others because you only have access to the very top layer of skin when you use a scrub or a washcloth.AHA: This is a type of chemical exfoliant that works well for dry or sun-damaged skin, and it is available in more than one strength. AHAs are used to dissolve dead skin cells on the surface of the skin and supply some moisture, though they don't replace a normal moisturizer. An example of an AHA, or alpha-hydroxy acid, is glycolic acid.BHA: According to CosmeticsCop.com, BHA is ideal for those with oily, acne-prone, or very sensitive skin that turns red easily (as with rosacea). It cleans the pores from the inside out and works through the oil that's clogging the pores, which makes them appear smaller.Choosing the Right Method

None of the methods will actually shrink the size of your pores. However, they will minimize their appearance and give the illusion of smaller pores. It's impossible to actually decrease their diameter. The right choice for your needs will depend on your budget, time constraints for appointments or the skin care regimens that involve AHAs and BHAs, and other skin issues you may have, such a rosacea, oiliness, or sun damage. Be sure to only try one new product per week so that you won't overload your skin. If you do have a reaction, you'll know which one to eliminate from your routine. With patience and effort, your skin will reap the rewards and look clearer and feel softer.