You may not always be aware of the habits that are causing your pores to appear larger. Many of your daily actions, seemingly harmless, can secretly wreak havoc on your skin, leading to enlarged and clogged pores. Here are 5 common habits that many people unknowingly fall prey to.
1. Over-washing Your Face
According to dermatologist Dr. Whitney Bowe, washing your face more than three times a day can strip away the natural protective oils from your skin. When this barrier is compromised, your sebaceous glands go into overdrive to compensate for the lost moisture, leading to clogged and enlarged pores.
A study published in the Journal of Dermatological Science also found that over-washing stimulates excess sebum production, resulting in enlarged pores and acne breakouts. Hence, it is recommended to cleanse your face twice a day (morning and evening) to maintain healthy skin without causing any damage.
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 prone to irritation and enlarged pores. Opt for warm, not hot, water to cleanse your face, ensuring effective cleansing while maintaining the skin’s natural moisture and elasticity.
3. Inadequate Makeup Removal Before Cleansing
Cleansing your face without properly removing your makeup first is a common habit that leads to enlarged pores. If sunscreen, makeup, or dirt remains on the 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 double cleanse each evening to eliminate excess oil, dirt, and residual cosmetics lodged deep within 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 to compensate. Research published in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science found that imbalanced pH levels and acne breakouts are two primary causes of enlarged pores.
Look for a cleanser that is:
- Gentle and sulfate-free
- Has a pH level between 5.5 and 6.5
- Suits your skin type (oily, dry, combination, sensitive)
5. Aggressive Rubbing or Towel Drying
The habit of using force while cleansing or drying your face with a towel can damage your skin without you realizing it. According to Dr. Anjali Mahto, a UK-based dermatologist, this action can lead to:
- Microscopic tears in the skin
- Mild inflammation and weakened connective tissue
- Loss of support for pores, making them more noticeable
Instead, gently cleanse with your fingertips and pat your face dry with a soft towel, avoiding any harsh rubbing.
Aggressive rubbing and towel drying can cause microscopic tears and inflammation, leading to enlarged pores.
6. Expert Advice for Minimizing Pores
To improve the appearance of enlarged pores, make subtle adjustments to your daily habits:
- Cleanse your face twice a day with warm water
- Always double cleanse to ensure thorough makeup removal
- Choose a suitable cleanser with a gentle pH level
- Niacinamide: Evens out skin tone and reduces pore size
- Retinol: Stimulates skin renewal and refines texture
- 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 gentle adjustments to your cleansing routine, you can significantly improve the appearance of your pores and achieve a smoother, more refined complexion.
