What Are Enlarged Pores?
Enlarged pores, also known as open pores, are a common skin concern that can also appear as scars from acne or through repeated extraction trauma (see acne scars treatment). The presence of enlarged pores causes an uneven/rough skin texture and uneven skin tone appearance. They are usually due to two factors: 1) overproduction of sebum (oil) and 2) loss of collagen leading to skin laxity.
How To Get Rid Of Enlarged Pores?
The first step towards how to treat enlarged pores involves examining the pores to determine their type, followed by your doctor suggesting effective large pores treatment options. The doctor will also consider the common causes of enlarged pores while also assessing your individual factors for enlarged pores.
Causes of Enlarged Pores
Some of the most common reasons for enlarged pores include:
- Environmental factors: Environmental factors such as dust, pollution, humidity, or drastic temperature rates can become the cause of enlarged pores.
- Accumulated dead skin: If you don’t exfoliate properly or often enough, your pores will trap dirt. This can lead to suffocated pores, causing them to enlarge.
- Hormonal imbalances: Fluctuations in hormones, particularly during menstruation or pregnancy, can increase oil production and result in visible pores. If you’re a teen who’s hitting puberty or if you’re on birth control – heads up for this change.
- Aging process: As we age, our skin loses its elasticity and vitality. This is called skin laxity. You can experience drier patches and even possibly larger pores.
- Heavy sun exposure: UV rays can degrade collagen and other proteins in the skin’s extracellular matrix. Degradation compromises skin structure and can lead to enlarged pores.
Types of Enlarged Pores
Blackheads
Enlarged pores on the nose, paranasal (areas next to the nose), chin and glabella (central lower forehead area) are referred to as blackheads. If the pores have oxidised sebum, they are commonly called “blackheads” due to the black colour sebum changes into after reacting with air.
Chemicals / Irritants
Some individuals are genetically predisposed to enlarged pores and may experience them from a young age, while some can be caused by factors such as ageing, sun damage, or prolonged exposure to certain chemicals or irritants.
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Treatments For Enlarged Pores
Topical Open Pores Treatments
Topical treatments such as retinoids, alpha-hydroxy acids, and salicylic acid can help reduce sebum production and unclog pores, thus improving the appearance of enlarged pores.
Laser therapy
Various types of laser therapy can help stimulate collagen production, tighten the skin, and reduce sebum production, which can improve the appearance of enlarged pores and is also an effective skin laxity treatment option.
Microneedle Radiofrequency (RF)
Microneedle RF involves small needles very quickly penetrating the skin perpendicularly and emitting RF energy to stimulate collagen and reduce sebum production before exiting the skin. (This is different from roller-type microneedle devices)
Hydro-Microdermabrasion
This can help exfoliate the skin, remove sebum via suction, and thus, temporarily improve the appearance of enlarged pores.
Challenges
Enlarged pores can be challenging to treat, and the results of treatment may vary depending on the severity and types. If they are combined with various types of scars (from acne or extraction), this can make the treatment and prognosis more complex.
Find the Right Doctor for Enlarged Pores Treatment in Singapore
Selecting the right doctor for treating enlarged pores is essential for achieving smooth, refined skin. With Dr Jeslin’s years of experience, you can be assured that we will come up with an effective treatment plan for large pores in Singapore.
By customising treatment plans based on individual skin needs and using effective technologies, our doctor can improve the condition of your skin, minimising the appearance of pores.
Ready to address large pores issues? Book an appointment with Aeon Medical today!
Disclaimer
The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and is, in no way, intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We make no representation or warranty of any kind regarding the accuracy, availability, adequacy, or validity of the information or procedures outlined on the website. Always consult professional medical and aesthetic advice for your skincare and medical concerns.
References:
- Sang Ju Lee, Joon Seok, Se Yeong Jeong, Kui Young Park, Kapsok Li, Seong Jun Seo, "Facial Pores: Definition, Causes, and Treatment Options", National Library of Medicine, National Center for Biotechnology Information, 2016, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26918966/
- Joanna Dong, Julien Lanoue, Gary Goldenberg, "
Enlarged facial pores: an update on treatments", National Library of Medicine, National Center for Biotechnology Information, 2016, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27529707/
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