Clogged pores can happen to all of us – regardless of the skin type – and keeping them squeaky-clean is no easy task. With daily pollution, makeup, sweat, bacteria and oil all prone to getting ‘stuck’ and causing breakouts.
Luckily, there are a few simple things we can do to minimise pore blockages, clear out junk and give skin a new life.
Here, four easy steps to improve the appearance of open or troublesome pores…
1. Cleanse For The Gods
Implementing a good cleansing routine is key when it comes to taking care of your pores. A well-formulated cleanser will remove excess sebum, dead skin, pollution, sun screen and makeup. Skip the makeup wipes (they leave behind a layer of gunky residue that lead to break outs) and opt for an oil, foam or cream cleanser.
2. Gently Exfoliate… And We Mean Gently
Exfoliating is essential when it comes to good skincare, but so many of us get it wrong by using scrubs with harsh beads, seeds or shells. Using a gentle, clarifying exfoliator will remove dead skin cells whilst avoiding any damage. Go for a product that has natural enzymes and/or water molecules that won’t cause redness and further open up pores. After exfoliating, your skin should feel instantly smooth, clean, refreshed and ready for the absorption of your next skin product.
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3. Decongest And Strengthen
A secret weapon in decongesting pores is niacinamide (also known as vitamin B3). This miracle nutrient is being increasingly used in good toners and serums, and for good reason. It is an important skin communicator to minimise pore size appearance and reduce photo damage, and assists in regulating signs of oil for a youthful and balanced look. It also has the ability to strengthen our skin barrier, which is great news for those currently suffering “maskne” aka breakouts caused by wearing face coverings.
4. Stay Hydrated, Stay Moisturised
When it comes to protecting our pores, drying them out is not the answer. In fact, it’s a lack of moisture that could be causing your sebum levels to become so unbalanced in the first place. But don’t go reaching for the Shea butter or coconut oil. While they can be super hydrating, heavy lotions, thick creams or oils can also be culprits for blocked and enlarged pores. Just like Goldilocks, you want to find a hydrating routine that’s juuuuust right.
If you’re yet to add a Retinoid into your routine, now is a good time to start. The Vitamin A derivative clears out blocked pores and blackheads, making it a godsend if you’re dealing with breakouts. It also helps banish hyperpigmentation, fights against fine lines and wrinkles, and boosts collagen production. Winning! The Retinoids from ACTIVITA and Dermatology Science Formula by NO FACE contain encapsulated micro retinoids through patented technologies, so that you can get the maximum results through their gentle delivery system!
Retinol is pretty potent, so you have to be careful with what other products you use with it. Following it up with a simple, light moisturiser will keep your skin hydrated while helping balance out your natural oils, keeping you from looking greasy and your pores looking less obvious and congested.
Brought to you by NO FACE, an advanced natural and active skincare solution backed by science. The Australian brand originated in Queensland in response to community members suffering sensitive skin. NO FACE has won multiple skincare awards and is used by young, old and famous, including 9 times world champion and recent Tokyo Olympics medallist Mariafe del Solar, who uses the full range including NO FACE Photo Corrector for UV damage and pigmentation.
Instagram: @nofaceskincare
