Understanding Enlarged Pores
A 30-something woman recently visited us at our Latham office for a skin care consultation. Her main concern wasn’t the common issues that we encounter regularly such as forehead wrinkles, crow’s feet, and sunspots. “It’s how larger than normal my pores are,” she said. “I have tried all kinds of pore-refining formulas but nothing seems to work!”
What Causes Enlarged Pores?
Pore size has to do with a combination of the following factors:
Genetics
Pore size is mostly genetically determined. Plus, genetics has a huge influence on whether or not you will have oily skin, which also affects pore size. In addition, excess oil can make the skin thicker, which makes pores appear more prominent. Having oily skin means an increased risk of clogging, which in turn leads to breakouts.
Collagen Loss
The skin gradually loses its ability to produce collagen with advancing age. Collagen is a naturally occurring substance that makes the skin appear plump and naturally youthful. It also acts as a supporting structure to the skin, so dwindling collagen levels lead to dull skin texture.
Sun Exposure
Aside from being primarily responsible for the appearance of wrinkles, sun exposure also influences the appearance of enlarged pores. Ultraviolet radiation robs the skin of collagen and elastin (like collagen, elastin is a natural substance found in the skin that helps promote healthy skin) and eventually influences the prominent appearance of pores.
Clogged Pores
Excess oil, dead skin cells, and surface debris can clog the pores and stretch the surrounding skin, giving your pores a larger appearance. Clogged pores also lead to blackheads and whiteheads which makes your pores more visible and dulls the skin’s complexion.
Treatments for Enlarged Pores
Collagen Stimulation
There are various treatments that stimulate collagen production to target signs of aging and other skin conditions. Microneedling uses tiny needles to create microchannels (tiny injuries) on the skin’s surface, which triggers the body’s natural wound-healing response and new collagen production. Fraxel is a laser treatment that also stimulates new collagen but uses non-invasive ablative laser energy to create tiny wounds in the skin.
Exfoliation
Chemical peels are a great way to unclog the pores and resurface healthy skin. We offer a variety of customized peels that target the skin at different depths, depending on your skin type and the conditions you hope to treat. Chemical peels slough off dead skin cells and surface debris to brighten the skin and restore a smooth texture.
Facials
Regular facial treatments can maintain your skin’s health and beautiful appearance. We offer customized facials with various serums and medical technology to target a variety of skin concerns, including enlarged pores. Some of our favorite facials include HydraFacial, microcurrent treatment, and the Oxygen Trio facial.
Schedule a Consultation
If you are frustrated by the appearance of enlarged pores, schedule a consultation today to discuss your treatment options in greater detail with Dr. Kayastha, a board-certified plastic surgeon in Albany, NY. We look forward to meeting you and helping you develop a customized treatment plan to renew your best possible skin!