Some habits that cause enlarged pores are not always obvious or easily noticeable. Many of your daily actions may seem harmless, but they can secretly damage your skin, causing pores to become larger and more prone to clogging. Here are 5 common habits that many people fall victim to without even realizing it.
1. Over-washing Your Face
According to dermatologist Dr. Whitney Bowe, washing your face more than 3 times a day can strip away the natural protective oils from your skin. When this barrier is compromised, the sebaceous glands go into overdrive to compensate for the lost moisture, leading to clogged pores and their enlargement.
A study published in the Journal of Dermatological Science also found that over-washing stimulates excess sebum production, resulting in enlarged and acne-prone pores. Hence, it is recommended to wash your face twice a day (morning and evening) to maintain healthy skin without causing any harm.
Over-washing your face can lead to increased sebum production and acne breakouts.
2. Using Hot Water to Cleanse
While many believe that hot water provides a deeper cleanse, it actually has the opposite effect. Dr. Joshua Zeichner of Mount Sinai Hospital, USA, explains that hot water can:
- Dilate the capillaries in the skin
- Weaken the protein structure of the skin
- Reduce natural elasticity
These factors make the skin more susceptible to irritation and enlarged pores. Opt for warm, not hot, water when cleansing to effectively clean your skin while maintaining its natural moisture and elasticity.
3. Inadequate Makeup Removal Before Cleansing
Cleansing your face without properly removing your makeup first is a habit that can lead to enlarged pores. If sunscreen, makeup, or dirt remains on your skin, it can quickly clog your pores.
The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) emphasizes the importance of proper makeup removal, especially for those living in polluted, dusty environments. Even if you don’t wear makeup, it’s crucial to cleanse your skin every evening to get rid of excess oil, dirt, and residual cosmetics lodged in your pores.
4. Using a Cleanser That Doesn’t Suit Your Skin Type
A cleanser with a high pH or harsh surfactants can disrupt the skin’s moisture barrier, resulting in dry, irritated skin that overproduces oil. Research published in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science found that imbalanced pH and acne breakouts are two primary causes of enlarged pores.
Look for a cleanser that is:
- Gentle and sulfate-free
- Has a pH between 5.5 and 6.5
- Suits your skin type (oily, dry, combination, sensitive)
5. Aggressively Rubbing or Towel-Drying Your Face
The habit of using force when washing your face or towel-drying it vigorously can damage your skin without you even realizing it. According to Dr. Anjali Mahto, a UK-based dermatologist, this action can cause:
- Micro-tears in the skin
- Mild inflammation and weakened connective tissue
- Loss of support for pores, making them more visible
Instead, gently cleanse your face with your fingertips and pat it dry with a soft towel, avoiding any harsh rubbing.
Aggressively rubbing or towel-drying your face can damage your skin and enlarge pores.
6. Expert Tips to Minimize Pore Size
To improve the appearance of enlarged pores, make some adjustments to these small but impactful habits:
- Wash your face twice a day with warm water
- Always properly remove your makeup before cleansing
- Choose a suitable cleanser with a mild pH
- Niacinamide: Evens out skin tone and reduces pore size
- Retinol: Stimulates skin renewal and smooths the skin’s surface
- BHA (Salicylic Acid): Deeply cleanses pores and reduces congestion
Effective skincare is not about the number of steps but about performing each step correctly. By making subtle changes to your cleansing routine, you can significantly improve your skin’s texture and minimize the appearance of enlarged pores.
