As we journey through life, it's common to notice changes in our skin — even with our pores  — as it appears larger with age.

As we get older, the skin naturally loses collagen and elastin, which are responsible for maintaining its firmness and elasticity. As a result, the support structures around the pores weaken, causing them to stretch and appear larger.

And unfortunately, having an enlarged or visible facial pore can be frustrating, especially when you're aiming for smooth, flawless skin. While pore size is largely determined by genetics, sun damage, and decreased skin cell turnover — still there are skincare and makeup mistakes that make the matter worse. 

Here are 10 common mistakes that can make your facial pores look bigger.

Neglecting Proper Cleansing

One major mistake that we unintentionally do is over exfoliation, inadequate, and improper cleansing. Failing to remove makeup, dirt, and excess oils can clog pores, leading to pore enlargement. Meanwhile, over exfoliation can lead to skin drying which eventually largen your pores as well.

Ensure you cleanse your face thoroughly, especially at night, using a gentle cleanser that suits your skin type and isn't too harsh on the skin.

Using Harsh Products

Here's a rule of thumb that almost all skin experts suggest: Use a gentle cleanser. It's because using a harsh skincare products can cause inflammation, dryness, and ultimately lead to the appearance of larger pores.

Make sure to stay away from skincare products that contain alcohol, paraben, sulfates, and fragrances, as they can strip the skin's natural moisture barrier. Stick to a natural, gentle, and non-comedogenic products that are specifically formulated for your skin type.

Over-Exfoliating

It's important to exfoliate once or twice a week, yet, if it's done too much can exacerbate the problem. but overdoing it can strip away essential oils and irritate the skin. Excessive exfoliation can trigger increased sebum production, making pores appear larger. Stick to a gentle exfoliation routine, 1-2 times a week, using a mild scrub or chemical exfoliant.

Picking at Your Skin

Though it may be tempting to squeeze that visible pimple so it dries faster, however picking at your skin or squeezing blackheads can cause inflammation. This can damage the pore walls and can lead to an enlarged pore or even scarring. Instead, treat blackheads with salicylic acid or consult a dermatologist for professional extraction if necessary.

Skipping Moisturization:

Our skin needs to be hydrated.  When the skin is dehydrated, it produces more oil, this leads to more clogged pores and an enlarged appearance. Choose an oil-free, lightweight moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated without clogging your pores.

Ignoring Sun Protection

Much has been said about the importance of protecting your skin against harmful UV rays. It's because sun damages can weaken collagen and elastin, making pores appear larger over time.

So, make sure to always apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to protect your skin from harmful UV rays and minimize sun-induced pore damage.

Applying Heavy and Pore-Clogging Makeup

We often hide our skin imperfections with make-up, however overdoing it can do more harm than good. Using heavy foundations, powder, and primers can clog pores and make pore more visible and noticeable.

Stick to a non-comedogenic, oil-free, and lightweight makeup products. Natural and mineral-based foundations are an excellent choice as they provide coverage without clogging your skin.

Overusing Powder

Matt-finish is still a trend these days, however excessive application of face powder during the day can result in pore blockage. As the day progresses, our skin accumulates oil and dirt — applying an additional layer of powder on top of this buildup can further congest the skin, leading to clogged pores. 

Not adequately removing makeup

Sleeping with makeup on not only clogs pores but also stretches them out over time. Make it a habit to remove all traces of makeup before going to bed using a gentle cleanser or makeup remover.

If you've tried various skincare strategies and still struggle with enlarged pores, it may be beneficial to consult a skin expert or dermatologist. They can recommend professional treatments like chemical peels, microdermabrasion, or laser therapies to address pore size and improve skin texture.

While it's impossible to change your genetic predisposition for pore size, avoiding these common mistakes can help minimize the appearance of enlarged facial pores. By adopting a consistent skincare routine, using appropriate products, and seeking professional guidance. 

Love + miracles,