Do you know an average adult has around 20,000 pores only on the face?
Surprising, isn’t it?
These pores on your face (nose, forehead, and cheeks) keep your skin cool while also drawing out toxins. But the pores can be a pain in the ass when they are enlarged. It happens when they are clogged or due to bacteria buildup. The build-up and clogging issue can further lead to painful acne.
So how will you minimize all of them together or how to minimize pores for men? Well, there is a solution to it.
Answers to all your questions are in this blog. Plus, we have also discussed what causes large pores and the methods/products to shrink pores. So let’s know everything step-by-step.
Table Of Contents
Root Causes of Enlarged Pores
There is always a reason(s) behind every man’s success or failure; similarly, there is a reason behind the visible pores on your face. You are in search of a solution to minimize pores, but we would suggest you know the causes of large pores.
Clogged Pores
If you have a problem with blackheads, whiteheads, or acne, it can be caused by clogged pores. How do skin’s pores get blocked? The most common causes are – not cleansing your face thoroughly enough and/or sleeping in makeup. It’s also important to avoid touching your face throughout the day. While you may think that popping pimples will help, it actually makes the problem worse by pushing the bacteria and oil further down into your pores. These are a few of the reasons behind clog pores.
Sun Exposure
The second cause on our list is sun exposure since it is a major contributor to enlarged pores. UV rays emitting from the sun damages skin elasticity, resulting in the skin losing its firmness and pores increasing in size. With every losing year, the skin pores tend to become larger, which increases the risk of breakouts.
Genetics
The third reason for having large pores is genetics. If your parents have visible pores on their nose, forehead, and cheeks, you have got your answer.
Skin Type
It also depends on genetics. For instance, if your parents have oily skin, you are likely to have oily skin. And if you have oily skin, you are definitely having larger facial pores.
Excess Oil Production
How much oil do your sebaceous glands produce? How do you feel when it is hot, humid or you are exercising and sweating? Have you ever noticed that the more active you are, the greater amount of toxins pouring off your face? This excess oil production traps dirt and dead skin cells, causing skin pores to grow larger.
Climate
Climate plays an important role in how your skin looks and feels. In general, hot and humid climates are more likely to cause acne outbreaks, while dry and cold climates may be less harsh on your skin.
Blackheads
The combination of oil and dead skin cells can clog your pores, leading to blackheads, acne, and other skin problems.
Age
As men age, they are more likely to experience acne because their bodies tend to produce less collagen. Collagen is a protein produced in the body that helps keep skin firm and smooth. As you get older, your body produces less of this key component, leading to increased chances for blemishes due to larger pores or blocked hair follicles.
So, these are the reasons for large pores on the cheeks, nose, and forehead. If you remember we have discussed in the introduction about two different types of pores, let’s put some light on it.
Types of Pores
You might be thinking that the pores only discharge sebum oil but there is one more thing apart from natural oils.
Oil Pores
One of the main contributors to acne for men is oil pores. These are enlarged pores that produce an excessive amount of sebum, which is an oily substance that leads to pimples and breakouts.
Sweat Pores
These pores are not an issue when it comes to reducing pore size, however, they can become a problem if you have acne breakouts in conjunction with large facial pores. Sweat that mixes with oil is an incredibly effective way of spreading bacteria along your face, leading to more acne breakouts.
So, these are two types of pores. Now let’s know how to reduce the appearance of pores.
How to Minimize Pores for Men? How to Shrink Large Pores?
Use Cleanser
The first step in minimizing pores is to wash your face with a gentle cleanser. Be sure to cleanse your entire face, including the area around your nose and forehead. Use warm water and a dime-sized amount in a circular motion to work the cleanser into your skin. Rinse thoroughly and pat dry.
- Acne-prone Skin
Use salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide packed cleanser to avoid blackheads and shrink pores. These ingredients help to clear up any existing breakouts and prevent new ones from forming.
- Dry Skin
Use a gentle, non-foaming cleanser. Look for a product that is labeled “non-comedogenic” or “oil-free.
- Sensitive Skin
Use a fragrance-free, gentle cleanser. Avoid products that contain harsh chemicals or sulfates.
Wash your face with a cleanser twice per day. Use the product before applying any acne medication or treatment, and after using a medicated scrub or exfoliator.
Use Face Scrub
One of the best ways to shrink pores and get rid of blackheads is by exfoliation. You can use a face scrub for exfoliating dead cells that creates a blockage in your pores and makes pores look smaller. Since men’s skin is thicker than women’s, it is advisable to exfoliate twice a week, even though you have oily skin types.
Besides, you must use a facial scrub that is easy to blend and contains tiny exfoliation beads. Pores respond to something that deeply cleanses your skin while also making the exfoliating process smoother, better, and quicker. Also, it won’t dry your skin out.
Look for an exfoliator that contains glycolic acid, beta-hydroxy-acids, and alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), which are known to be effective in shrinking pores. These exfoliating ingredients bring a world of difference to your skin.
Apply Face Serum
Do you know that excess oil production and congested skin are a few of the reasons for larger pores, but are these reasons enough, or are there more?
Well, the decrease in skin elasticity is also one of the reasons since the skin loses elasticity as you age. The only solution to tighten pores is using a face serum.
Face serums infused with vitamins and minerals act as pore minimizers are the best to tighten pores and delay the aging signs like fine lines and wrinkles. Use a dime-sized amount on the areas where the pores are noticeable.
Apply Salicylic Acid Packed Acne Cream
Acne medications like salicylic acid work to exfoliate your skin and reduce pore size. Face Wash has the highest concentration of salicylic acid available over the counter, making it one of our most powerful acne treatments for oily or sensitive skin types.
Use a circular motion to apply the cream, and allow it to dry completely before applying any other products. Use this product twice a day for the best results.
Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid that exfoliates the skin. It is oil soluble, which means it can penetrate deep into the pores to dissolve sebum. This reduces the amount of oil that is trapped in pores, which can reduce their size.
Apply SPF Liberally
An SPF of at least 15 is recommended, but you should give yourself extra protection with sunscreen if your skin burns easily.
Don’t forget the neck and hands!
When outdoors or in direct sunlight, wear a hat with a wide brim to protect your face from sun damage.
If you are returning indoors after being outside for an extended period, use a cleansing towelette or makeup remover to remove the SPF.
This is necessary because your skin can be sensitive and easily irritated by cleansers with harsh chemicals that are not meant for daily use on such delicate areas of skin.
It’s important to moisturize after washing! Sun exposure causes dryness, so it’s essential to keep your skin hydrated.
Remove Blackheads
Blackheads and whiteheads can even fail your potential pore minimizing treatments if you do not get rid of them. You need to add a few extra steps to your skincare routine to banish the appearance of blackheads, such as washing your face with salicylic acid, using face masks, serums, and pore strips.
Use Face Mask
A men’s face mask is also one of the best pore minimizers if it is packed with Kaolin and bentonite clay. The ingredients are effective at absorbing impurities, removing dead cells, and making your skin clean. Another ingredient that you can consider when buying a mask is charcoal since it also has a 1000x absorbing capacity than its weight. Just apply a thin layer of face mask for 10-15 minutes and wash it with warm water. You can do this activity twice a week after washing and scrubbing.
Boost Collagen Production
One way to reduce the size of your pores is by boosting collagen production. Collagen is a protein that helps keep skin looking elastic and healthy. There are a few ways to boost collagen production:
- Use an anti-aging serum or cream with peptides to promote collagen production
- Eat foods rich in antioxidants, like berries, kale, and green tea
- Exercise regularly to increase blood flow to the skin
Shave
A morning shave is essential for a clear surface and a better idea of enlarged pores. You should always shave in a warm water shower to soften facial hair and achieve a close shave. Plus, it also prevents ingrown hairs. Shaving cleanses your pores and doesn’t let any pollutants settle in them.
Now that you know the causes and how to minimize pores on the face, you must also know the pore minimizing products. Along with that, you will also get to know a few factors that need to be taken into account when buying products.
Buying Guide for Pore Minimizing Products
Since you know how to close pores, you must also know a few things to consider, which are:
No Sticky Residue
The best pore minimizer product(s) should not leave a greasy or sticky residue. Since your skin also produces sebum oil, the products you use should not contribute to the stickiness.
Post-application Effect
The pores become the center of attraction when they are shining, which is why these skincare products offer a mattified look to distract the attention.
How Long Does the Pore Minimizer Products Last?
It varies from product to product. Some skincare products do the job in single while other skincare products do require multiple applications.
Fragrance or Fragrance-free
If you have sensitive skin, you must ensure that all the skincare products are fragrance-free since it irritates your skin. For dry, oily, and normal skin types, a mild fragrance would suffice.
Comfortability
No matter what skincare product you use, it should feel comfortable on your skin. It also means that neither it should cause redness nor make things worse. Do not use silicone-based skincare products since they leave a greasy residue. Besides, you must also check whether all the products are wearable under makeup because there are a few ones that slip or split when applied makeup.
Skin Type
Before buying any skincare product, it is imperative to know your skin type. It will decide which product will suit your skin and does it causes any side effects. Here are different skin types and their compatible product suggestions:
Oily Skin Types
You are required to use liquid or watery formulas. Also, you may use serum or gel-based products. Besides, the products that offer a mattified look should be on priority. Just make sure to not use products that add oil to the skin.
Dry Skin Types
For dry skin types, we suggest using products that have a creamy texture as they will hydrate and nourish. You can use a pore minimizer that offers a moisturizing finish.
Combination Skin Types
We would suggest using any formula that is neither too oily nor too dry. The sole aim is to gain a clear complexion.
So this is how you select products to shrink pores and make your skin healthy. We hope you are well-versed with everything related to clog pores and how to treat them. If you still have doubts or questions, just go through our next section.
Here is the expert dermatologist tip to minimize your pores.
FAQs:
1. How to Shrink Enlarged Pores?
There are a few ways to reduce the appearance of your pores and achieve a smooth complexion. One way is to steam your face. It opens up your pores, allowing easier removal of oils and debris. You can also use a pore strip to extract blackheads and other impurities. Finally, using a good-quality facial scrub daily will also help.
2. How to Shrink Pores Naturally?
Applying ice cubes, cider vinegar, baking soda, tomato scrub, and egg whites are a few home remedies to deal with pores.
3. How to Minimize Pores on the Face?
There are a few ways to minimize the appearance of pores on your face. One is to use a pore minimizer, which is a cream, serum, or balm that helps to tighten and shrink the size of pores. Another way is to use an exfoliator regularly to remove dead skin cells and dirt that can accumulate in pores. Many men will also use a facial scrub that helps to slough away dead skin cells and reduce the size of open pores.
4. What is the Best Product to Clean Pores?
There is no definitive answer to this question. Some people find that a gentle cleanser works well, while others need something more aggressive to get the job done. It really depends on your skin type and what’s causing your pores to become enlarged in the first place.
Conclusion
We hope this article has helped you understand the causes of acne in men and how to overcome them. By reducing pore size and eliminating breakouts, you can achieve a smooth, handsome complexion that will make you look and feel your best. For more information on skincare for men, please visit our website or contact us today. Thanks for reading!
