How to Effectively Minimize Pores for Clear, Flawless Skin
With technology bringing more innovations to the beauty business, achieving radiant and smooth skin is becoming increasingly viable. However, one of the most common skincare complaints is enlarged pores. While a problem for many, there are already several ways to minimize their size and achieve your desired flawless skin. With a little dedication and good products, maintaining a good skincare routine is the key to getting that youthful glow.
The first step to fixing the problem is understanding that pores are not the enemy. Quite the contrary pores are necessary for your skin to breathe. However, certain precautions are essential to keep them from standing out on your face. The natural pore size can be aggravated by several issues such as skin aging and sun damage. Therefore, it's important to know the best ingredients and products that can assist in regulating your skin. L'OFFICIEL spoke with Dr. Joyce Rodrigues, a biochemical pharmacist specialized in cosmetology, to understand more about the subject.
L'OFFICIEL: What is the best routine for those looking for more uniform skin and smaller pores?
DR. JOYCE RODRIGUES: The enlarged pores can be a sign of aging, as well as wrinkles or age spots, and are caused especially by sun damage, which weakens the "walls" of the pores and leaves the skin with "aged air," hence, the importance of an intelligent skincare routine.
When we talk about oily skin, cleaning steps are very important, especially with products that balance the skin's barrier, or microbiome. Hydration is key, so choose serums that don't weigh down the skin, and use a pore reducer (with light texture) for greater control of shine and oiliness, thus providing comfort during the day. And never forget the sunscreen.
L'O: For those with extremely apparent pores, which products are the most essential?
JR: A pore-reducing serum is definitely important! It will guarantee a routine with controlled brightness, but without leaving the skin with an opaque aspect, preserving the radiant appearance. This will improve imperfections and relieve the skin. To attain this, it's important to pay attention to the formulation and the ingredients used.
L'O: To avoid excessive shine and enlarged pores, what texture should be sought in the products?
JR: Lighter formulations like serums and gels are perfect. They do not leave the skin looking heavy. In addition, products that offer the matte effect are excellent.
L'O: What shoulld people use to get to smooth pores? What should we look for in formulas?
JR: Opt for products with light textures, with specific actives that control oiliness, and, of course, sun protection. The first step in your skincare routine is the cleansing gel. Look for a formulation that cleanses deeply without causing damage to the skin. You want it to promote the balance of the skin's microbiome, unblock the pores, and eliminate excess sebum, which will unify the skin's texture.
I also recommend niacinamide, which is an essential vitamin B complex that controls sebum production, thereby reducing excessive oiliness. It also has antioxidant action, stimulates cell renewal, improves barrier function, promotes uniform skin tone, prevents aging, and reduces fine lines and wrinkles.
In addition, there's salicylic acid that acts against the formation of pimples, inhibits the formation of blackheads, helps control sebum production through exfoliation, and renews the skin by removing dead cells. We also have P-refinyl, which compresses the pore, softens roughness, and limits excessive shine. This ingredient strengthens the skin's barrier and improves skin texture. These are some the things I look for in different formulations from soap to sunscreen.
