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Whether you’re beginning to experience the signs of ageing or you’ve always struggled with larger pores, shrinking them down is an obsession for many people. But while it’s impossible to completely erase your pores, you can make them appear smaller – an easy shortcut to healthy, young-looking skin. Here’s how.
Sun cream
As with most things, prevention is better than a cure. And one of the best ways to keep your pores looking small is to always wear sunscreen. With prolonged exposure to UV light, skin loses its elasticity, causing your pores to appear bigger – so nip this in the bud by protecting your face and body from the sun.
Treat oily skin
Typically, those with oily complexions suffer more from pronounced, large pores. So if you want them to appear smaller, it’s a good idea to begin with a product designed to remove excess moisture from your skin. If you’ve got both dry and oily patches, you can use spot treatments to deal with the affected area.
Wash and exfoliate
For a short-term solution to large pores, simply wash and exfoliate your face. By removing all of the debris that has built up on your skin throughout the day, you prevent your pores from expanding any further. However, experts note that this only stops the problem from getting worse. If you actively want to reduce pore size, you’ll need specialist skincare or laser treatment.
Skincare products
Fortunately there are some ingredients, such as retinol, that actively work to reduce pores. By boosting the collagen-producing abilities of your skin, products containing this magic formula will leave you with a smooth, younger-looking complexion. While some retinoids can irritate at first, the end effect is impressive enough to warrant any minor discomfort.
Laser treatment
If money is no object, you can shrink your pores into oblivion courtesy of a laser treatment. By zapping tiny holes in the skin, dermatologists can address issues such as large and uneven pores. Expect to pay handsomely for the privilege though – most programs cost upwards of £300 per session.
