While everyone has different skin types and issues, we all have those little openings that cover our skin – pores.
Whether your pores are blocked or enlarged, or blackheads like making an unwelcome appearance on your T-zone, they can be incredibly difficult to deal with.
That’s why we spoke to Kristina Dimovska, Brand Manager for Kao Australia, to get down to the nitty gritty – so to speak – on the pore issues that may affect your skin, and how to go about fighting them and improving their appearance.
What’s the difference between a ‘normal’ pore and a ‘large’ pore?
The difference between a large and small pore comes down to millimetres, with many women concerned about enlarged pores. As Kristina says, “Pores have a very important role in our body. However, regardless of age, noticeable pores on the face are one of women’s biggest skin concerns. A large pore can be up to 0.7 millimetres or about 1/32 of an inch wide. This is the size of a medium point ballpoint pen or the width of lead for a mechanical pencil! A normal pore would be approximately half that size, around 0.3 millimetres or less than 1/64 of an inch.”
What is the difference between a blackhead and a clogged pore?
Thought a blackhead and a clogged pore were the same thing? Think again! “Pores are more conspicuous if the impaction darkens (oxidises) from exposure to air. This is what distinguishes a blackhead from a clogged pore,” explains Kristina. “Pores appear larger if clogged. The impaction can press against the walls of the pore, stretching it.”
Why shouldn’t you squeeze blackheads?
You’ve heard many times that squeezing a pimple is a big no-no, and the same goes for blackheads. According to Kristina, squeezing pores yourself not only can damage your skin, but it can also spread bacteria. “Fingernails and squeezing can actually leave behind tiny tears of skin. Also, if you squeeze blackheads, you risk spreading bacteria. Using Bioré® Pore Strips targets the plug without leaving fingernail marks, and stops the bacteria from getting on your hands!”
How can you treat clogged pores and blackheads?
Not only will pore-targeting skin care work to unclog pores; it’ll also whisk away dirt and impurities from the surface of your skin, to help prevent preventing future clogging.
It’s essential to avoid using products that tend to dry out or irritate your skin. This can cause pores to overproduce oil to compensate for the oil that’s being stripped from your skin. The overproduction of oil is a culprit for causing pores to become blocked and enlarged.
Cleansers
Known for its ability to attract and absorb impurities, black charcoal is ideal for drawing pore-clogging dirt and grime out of pores. Infused with Charcoal and Skin Purifying Technology, Bioré® Deep Pore Charcoal Cleanser is a liquid-to-foam cleanser, which has molecules that seek and wash away dirt.
Other products work to tighten pores so they appear less visible. Those containing natural astringents and antiseptic, like the Danne Montague-King Deep Pore Pure Cleanser, close pores, making them less noticeable as well as less susceptible to becoming clogged with dirt and oils.
Pore strips
Once applied, Bioré® Original Deep Cleansing Pore Strips use patented bonding ingredients to lock on to dirt, oil and stubborn blackheads, and instantly lift them away when removed.
“The number of pores is highest along the centre of the face and decreases as you move towards the outer face. Pore strips target the bullseye,” explains Kristina.
“If you use the Bioré® Original Deep Cleansing Pore Strips and Bioré® Deep Pore Charcoal Cleanser combination, you will remove approximately twice as much blackheads than you would using the cleanser alone. When used regularly, Bioré® Original Deep Cleansing Pore Strips actually diminish the appearance of pores,” says Kristina.
Masks
Ideal for drawing out deep-down toxins and impurities, pore-specific masks are the key to unclogging pores and helping to prevent. Aim to apply a mask once a week.
When it comes to giving pores a thorough clean, it’s essential to make sure they’re open. To open your pores and prep your skin for the application of a deep cleansing mask, allow warm water and steam to penetrate your skin. Better yet, the Bioré® Self-Heating One Minute Mask is a thermal mask that warms on the skin once applied, dissolving 2.5 times more dirt, oil and surface toxins than a basic cleanser for a truly thorough clean.
Clay is an excellent ingredient for purifying skin. Its absorption properties draw out excess oil, toxins and dirt, leaving pores looking and feeling clear and refined. The Alpha-H Balancing and Pore Refining Mask contains absorbing white clay as well as antibacterial lavender to further clear the skin of impurities – and, of course, prevent future clogging.
Thanks to their astringent properties, skin care products that contain antioxidants are incredibly beneficial for tightening the appearance of pores. The Eminence Organic Skin Care Raspberry Pore Refining Mask contains antioxidant-rich blueberry, raspberry and blackberry juice to reduce the visibility of pores. Say hello to a more refined complexion!
Read reviews for the pore-purifying Bioré® Deep Pore Charcoal Cleanser
Read reviews for the deep cleansing Bioré® Self-Heating One Minute Mask
Read reviews for the dirt-removing Bioré® Original Deep Cleansing Pore Strips
Do you suffer from blackheads or large or blocked pores? Do you look for products specially formulated to treat your pore concerns?
I continue to use Biore products, in particular the pore strips.