Mistakes not to make when you have dilated pores

Mistakes not to make when you have dilated pores

Dilated pores are a common aesthetic concern, especially for people with combination or oily skin. They give the skin an irregular, sometimes granular appearance, and can encourage the appearance of blackheads and blemishes. Many people try to reduce the appearance of blackheads and blemishes but, lacking information, make certain mistakes that aggravate the problem. To avoid accentuating the appearance of your dilated pores, let's discover the mistakes not to make and the right gestures to adopt.

Understanding dilated pores

Pores are small openings on the surface of the skin. They allow the evacuation of sebum and sweat. When they widen, they become more visible, giving the impression of a less smooth complexion. The main causes are :

  • Overproduction of sebum.

  • Age-related loss of skin elasticity.

  • The accumulation of impurities and dead cells.

  • Exposure to the sun, which alters collagen.

Contrary to popular belief, it's impossible to completely "close" a pore. However, it is entirely possible to reduce their appearance and prevent them from enlarging further.

Mistake #1: Using overly aggressive products

Many people think that scouring the skin with abrasive cleansers will reduce their enlarged pores. In reality, the opposite is true.

  • Soaps that are too alkaline or aggressive cleansing gels destroy the hydrolipidic film.

  • Aggressed, the skin produces even more sebum to defend itself.

  • Result: clogged, dilated pores.

✅ To do: Use a gentle sulfate-free cleanser suited to your skin type.

Mistake #2: Neglecting hydration

There's a common misconception that moisturizing oily skin will accentuate dilated pores. It's not true.

  • Dehydrated skin produces more sebum, which clogs pores.

  • Without hydration, skin loses its elasticity and pores become more visible.

✅ Do: Use a non-comedogenic, lightweight moisturizer, preferably with hyaluronic acid, aloe vera or niacinamide.

Mistake #3: Overusing mechanical scrubs

Exfoliating too often or too aggressively irritates the skin and weakens the cutaneous barrier. Dilated pores become even more apparent.

✅ To do:

  • Limit mechanical exfoliation to once a week.

  • Use chemical exfoliants (AHA, BHA, salicylic acid) to gently remove dead cells and unclog pores.

Mistake no. 4: Forgetting sun protection

The sun is a formidable enemy for dilated pores:

  • UV rays destroy collagen and elastin, causing the skin to slacken.

  • Pores appear larger and more visible.

✅ Do: Apply SPF 30 or 50 sunscreen every day, even on grey days.

Mistake n°5 : Piercing blackheads yourself

Many people try to tighten their pores by squeezing out blackheads. Big mistake:

  • This causes inflammation and scarring.

  • Bacteria spread, leading to even more imperfections.

✅ Do: Use specific anti-blackhead skincare or consult a dermatologist for professional cleansing.

Mistake no. 6: Careless make-up application

The wrong makeup can accentuate the appearance of dilated pores:

  • Foundation that's too thick will seep into pores, making them even more visible.

  • Heavy powders mark relief and weigh down the complexion.

✅ To do:

  • Choose fluid, non-comedogenic foundations.

  • Use a smoothing base before applying makeup.

  • Remove makeup thoroughly every evening.

Mistake no. 7: Believing in miracle solutions

Some products promise to "instantly close" dilated pores. This is an illusion.

  • Pores don't have muscles, so they can't close.

  • So-called "tightening" products only act by temporarily reducing their appearance.

✅ To do: Be patient and regular in your care routine.

Mistake #8: Neglecting your lifestyle

The appearance of enlarged pores doesn't depend on cosmetics alone. Your lifestyle plays a key role.

  • Tobacco and alcohol reduce tissue oxygenation.

  • Chronic stress increases sebum production.

  • An excessively fatty or sugary diet can lead to clogged pores.

✅ To do:

  • Eat a balanced diet rich in antioxidants (fruit, vegetables, oily fish).

  • Drink enough water.

  • Sleep 7 to 8 hours a night.

Mistake 9: Forgetting about professional care

Some people think that a home routine is enough. But in some cases, dilated pores require more advanced care:

  • Chemical peels to stimulate cell renewal.

  • Microdermabrasion to smooth the skin surface.

  • LED light to improve skin texture.

These professional treatments can significantly improve the appearance of dilated pores.

The right reflexes to adopt

To avoid mistakes and improve the appearance of your enlarged pores, here is a simple and effective routine:

  1. Gentle cleansing morning and evening.

  2. Chemical exfoliation once or twice a week.

  3. Serum with niacinamide or salicylic acid to regulate sebum.

  4. Daily moisturizing with a light cream.

  5. Sun protection essential.


Dilated pores are part of skin's nature, but certain habits can accentuate them. By avoiding common mistakes - over-aggressive products, forgetting to moisturize, excessive exfoliation, unprotected sunlight or even piercing blackheads - you can considerably improve the appearance of your skin. The key is to focus on regularity, gentleness and prevention. With the right routine and a few targeted treatments, your dilated pores will appear less visible and your complexion will regain its radiance and evenness.

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