Understanding Enlarged Pores

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!

+ posts

Dr. Kayastha is a board certified plastic surgeon who serves Albany, NY and the entire Capital Region. Dr. Kayastha completed his undergraduate studies at Cornell University and graduated with distinction in all subjects. He then attended medical school at SUNY Buffalo. During his time in Buffalo he also completed a fellowship in surgical pathology at Roswell Park. Following medical school Dr. Kayastha gained a much sought after position in the Michigan State-Grand Rapids integrated plastic surgery residency. After finishing residency training Dr. Kayastha completed a one year fellowship in hand and microsurgery at the Buncke Clinic in San Francisco. To round out his training before starting private practice Dr. Kayastha spent an additional 6 months learning from some of the best cosmetic surgeons in San Francisco. Dr. Kayastha is Board Certified in Plastic Surgery by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.