When it Rains, it Pores

When it Rains, it Pores

If it appears that the facial pores of your skin are getting worse as you get older…you are right.

While large pores are a concern for younger skin also, the laxer pores that occur with age is a result of lack of the support structure and tensile strength that your skin needs to be toned and firm. Age, sun and even sugar all affect the two most important proteins for your skin, elastin and collagen. The strength of these two proteins determines how toned, fresh and radiant your skin looks. 

As you age, your skin thins, begins to sag and becomes dry, even if you have avoided the three S’s: sun, smoke and sugar. Of course abusing your skin with the three S’s expedites this decline and deterioration. While genetics determines some role in how your skin reacts to age, the three S’s can sabotage even the best genetics. “The gene loads the gun, the environment pulls the trigger.

Furthermore, with dryer skin, dead skin cells tend to accumulate in your pores and stretch them out even more. With a lack of elasticity, there is nothing to prevent these stretched out pores from bouncing back. Like an old damaged elastic waistband of your underwear, everything starts to sag. 

While avoiding damaging your skin with sun, smoke and sugar is important you can also treat these pores by having a skin care routine that gently removes dead skin cells (exfoliation), moisturizes and keeps moisture locked in (humectant) and tones the skin making it firmer. Also use non-comedogenic makeup so your pores are not clogged and stretched.

Some other tips on preventing large lax pores as you age:

  • Treat acne if you have it, as pores are further enlarged and weakened by acne inflammation.
  • Avoid hot water on your face, which can further dry and irritate the pores.
  • Use a high SPF (30 or more) sunscreen every day to mitigate the damage.
  • Do not pick, squeeze or dig at your pores.
  • Perform a regular routine for skincare that incorporates a cleanser, preferably twice a day.
  • Use an effective moisturizer and humectant (keeps moisture locked in)
  • Gentle exfoliation, do not scrub hard or use harsh peels.
  • Reverse skin damage by using antioxidants, Vitamin C and niacinamide in your skincare routine.
  • Choose an exfoliating pore scrub with an active ingredient like salicylic acid or glycolic acid.