Skin pores play an essential role in the proper functioning of the epidermis. They are often perceived as imperfections, but they perform vital functions for the health and appearance of the skin. Understanding their role and how to maintain them allows you to improve skin texture and adopt care adapted to your skin type .
Pores: what are they?
Pores are small openings on the surface of the skin, connected to the sebaceous glands and sweat glands. Their main role is to evacuate sebum and sweat, thus maintaining good hydration and protecting the skin from external aggressions . They also participate in the elimination of toxins and contribute to the overall good functioning of the skin. Each pore contains a hair follicle, although some hairs are invisible to the naked eye.
Pore size varies from person to person depending on a variety of factors, including skin type , heredity, and environmental influences. Although they are essential for the skin to function, highly visible pores can be perceived as unsightly by some people.
Why do pores dilate?
Pore size can be influenced by several causes:
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Excess sebum : Pores are more visible in people with oily skin because their sebaceous glands produce more sebum. This overproduction can cause a buildup of sebum, stretching the pores.
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Dead cell buildup : When pores become clogged with dead cells , sebum, and impurities, they widen in an attempt to clear out these blockages. This can also promote the appearance of blackheads .
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Aging : As we age, our skin loses its firmness and elasticity due to a decrease in collagen. This leads to a sagging of the skin structure, making pores more visible.
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Exposure to external aggressions : Pollution, UV rays and tobacco can alter the quality of the skin and make pores more visible. These factors increase oxidative stress, weakening the structures that keep pores tight.
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Hormonal fluctuations : During puberty, pregnancy, or certain times of the menstrual cycle, hormonal changes can stimulate sebum production , which causes pores to dilate.
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Improper skincare habits : Using comedogenic products, insufficient cleansing or poor moisturizing can contribute to clogged and enlarged pores.
In short, the causes of enlarged pores are multiple, but they can be controlled by adopting an appropriate skincare routine and using suitable products .
How to take care of pores?
Adopting a proper skincare routine is essential to keep pores clean and minimize their appearance. Here are some tips:
1. Cleanse gently
Use a gentle cleanser to remove impurities, excess oil and dead cells without irritating the skin. Aggressive cleansing can further stimulate the sebaceous glands , making the problem worse.
2. Moisturize daily
Even oily skin needs moisture. Opt for a non-comedogenic moisturizer to maintain skin balance without clogging pores.
3. Exfoliate regularly
Exfoliation helps unclog pores and improve skin texture . Use a chemical exfoliant (like AHA or BHA acids) for effective action without irritation.
4. Use specific care
To tighten enlarged pores , rely on products containing active ingredients such as niacinamide or glycolic and salicylic acids. These ingredients regulate sebum production and improve skin texture.
5. Protect against external aggression
Apply sunscreen daily to prevent UV damage, which can make pores appear larger.
Mistakes to avoid
- Do not use products that are too aggressive, which can irritate the skin and disrupt the sebaceous glands .
- Avoid over-manipulating your skin, especially squeezing blackheads , which can cause inflammation.
A routine adapted to each skin type
For oily skin , focus on skincare that regulates sebum production and keeps pores clean. Those with dry skin should avoid harsh cleansers and focus on increased hydration to prevent tightness.
Conclusion
Pores, although often misunderstood, perform essential functions for the skin. To take care of them, it is essential to adopt suitable care and a consistent skincare routine , while choosing products adapted to your skin type . This will help you maintain an even skin texture and reduce the appearance of enlarged pores .