We all have tiny openings on our skin called pores that allow our skin to breathe, regulate internal temperature, and remain naturally moisturized with sebum. These pores are undetectable unless their size falls outside the normal range.
Our genetics and skin type have a huge say in the size of our pores. When pores become noticeable on our face, they can lead to an unattractive appearance, which may be a concern.
Open pores are harmless, but you might seek solutions to reduce their appearance for cosmetic reasons. To find the most effective open pore treatment in Bangalore, you need to first understand open pores and their causes. This read has everything that you need to know about open pores before consulting a dermatologist.
What are Open Pores and Their Types?
Open enlarged pores are the noticeable tiny dots/pits on the skin surface that make the skin uneven or rough, and even aged.
They can be classified into three types, based on their appearance and location:
- U-shaped pores- These are apparent in areas with very dry, flaky skin.
- O-shaped (round) pores- These are apparent on very oily, acne-prone skin.
- Y or water droplet-shaped pores- These are apparent on aging skin, especially on cheeks.
Common Reasons Behind the Occurrence of Open Pores Occurrence
Here are the causes of open pores on the face:
- Heredity/Genetics- One can inherit the open pores trait from biological parents with open pores.
- Aging- With advancing age, the skin’s collagen and elastin levels decline, leading to textural changes that make open pores more visible.
- Thicker facial hair growth- Pores that are openings to thick hair follicles appear enlarged or open.
- Extra sebum production and clogging of pores- Pores on the skin surface are the openings to sebaceous glands. Overactive sebaceous glands produce excess natural oils that can reach the surface and mix with skin cell debris, sweat, and dirt, leading to clogging. This makes the pores appear larger than usual.
- Over sun exposure - Frequent exposure to sunlight can cause the breakdown of collagen and elastin fibres, leading to a subsequent decline in skin firmness and elasticity. This leads to the occurrence of open pores.
- Poor skincare habits- Inadequate cleansing of the skin or improper skincare routines can stretch pores and lead to open pores over time.
- Hormonal fluctuation- It is very common during adolescence, pregnancy, or menopause and is the main reason for overactive sebaceous glands, which is the reason for an increase in pore size.
- Oxidative stress and inflammation- Environmental pollutants and dirt, when they build up on the skin, can lead to oxidative damage and inflammation of the skin, thereby causing open pores.
Open Pores Treatment- Dermatologist Options to Fix Open Pores
Open pores are manageable, but here are some medical treatments to get manage these visible pores:
- Topicals- Dermatologist-recommended creams or serums containing salicylic acid, re-tinol, or alpha-hydroxy acid can help with gentle exfoliation and increase skin cell turnover, thereby reducing open pores appearance.
- Laser Therapy- A focused beam of a non-ablative laser can be directed to open pores, promote collagen remodelling, and tighten the skin, thereby shrinking them.
- Chemical Peels- These are specific exfoliating acids that work at a specific depth of the skin to get rid of the dead skin layers and stimulate collagen remodelling, as well as encourage skin cell turnover that makes open pores less noticeable.
- Microneedling Radiofrequency- This combined therapy involves micro-puncturing of the open pores with fine needles and delivery of radiofrequency energy deeper into the skin to boost collagen and elastin growth. The new skin formation reduces the appearance of open pores.
- PR-P therapy- It involves injecting a small portion of growth factors. These growth factors promote collagen production, improve skin texture, and enhance overall rejuvenation, thereby reducing pore size.
When to Seek Dermatologist Attention?
Open pore appearance may be improved with natural remedies and certain skincare products. But such options usually are not successful for most patients. If you have been experiencing open pores accompanied by other symptoms or have tried to improve open pores with DIY treatments but failed, it is advisable to consult an experienced dermatologist.
Dermatologist Dr. Rasya Dixit can best analyze your skin condition, identify the cause of your open pores, and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan for managing open pores in Bangalore.
The skin expert first checks your skin health and provides a sustainable treatment plan that can help you rejuvenate your skin and improve collagen production, promote skin tightening, manage open pores, and help you look youthful.
Expert-Recommended Tips to Prevent or Reduce Open Pores
- Make it a habit to remove makeup and other cosmetic product residues, as well as impurities, before going to bed. Be consistent with a dermatologist-recommended morning and evening skincare routine
- Avoid or limit intake of high glycaemic index foods, greasy foods, dairy foods, processed and junk foods, red meat and saturated foods, whey protein, and alcohol. Instead, have a diet rich in antioxidants and other essential nutrients in balance
- Keep skin hydrated with enough daily water intake
- Regular exercise improves blood circulation and helps keep skin in good health.
How Dermatologists Can Help with Open Pores?
A dermatologist can provide a suitable plan to help them achieve their overall skin health. The treatment provided by them enhances new skin cell development, promotes collagen production, helps the skin rejuvenate, and tightens the skin pores.
Self-treatments or DIYs can harm the skin and may lead to skin irritation or burns. A skin doctor can advise what is best for your skin health.
FAQs Around Open Pores
Can open pores be closed forever?
No. Open pores can only be made less noticeable by reducing their size through dermatologist-recommended products and in-clinic treatments.
Which is the best treatment for open pores?
A dermatologist must be consulted to know the most effective, safest approach to improve open pores.
Does aging worsen open pores?
Yes, aging leads to reduced collagen growth and weaker/looser skin, which makes the pores appear more enlarged.
Can a change of diet help with open pores?
Yes, incorporating foods rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and lean proteins in the diet can help manage and reduce open pores.
How to clear open pores naturally?
Use gentle, natural cleansers like clay masks and egg whites, and be consistent with a skin-healthy diet and enough hydration. However, these are temporary fixes; one will need a dermatologist-recommended treatment.
How do open pores appear?
Open pores show up on the face as small pits in the skin. They are the large, visible pores, especially seen in areas with highly active sebaceous glands.
