The road to poreless skin! A complete guide to pore care for beginners

Aim for poreless skin! A complete guide to pore care for beginners

Hello, I'm John, a veteran beauty blogger! You may sigh every time you look in the mirror, thinking, "My pores have been really noticeable lately..." or "Is there anything I can do about these little bumps?" Don't worry, many people have problems with pores. And with the right knowledge and care, you will definitely be able to see the path to improvement. In this article, I will thoroughly explain everything from the basics of pore care to the latest information in an easy-to-understand manner even for beginners. Let's work together to achieve smooth skin that you can be confident in!

Why are pores a problem?

First of all, why do we worry so much about our pores? First, let's look at the basic role of pores and why they become so noticeable.

What is the role of pores?

Pores are the countless tiny holes in our skin. They actually play an important role in keeping skin healthy.

• Sebum secretion:Sebum is secreted from the sebaceous glands deep inside the pores, creating a film on the surface of the skin to protect it from dryness and external stimuli. This sebum film is like a natural moisturizing cream that keeps the skin moist.
• Body temperature regulation:It also helps regulate body temperature by producing sweat.
• Elimination of waste products:It is also an exit point for excreting old dead skin cells and waste products through skin turnover (metabolism).

As you can see, pores are essential for beautiful skin. They cannot be completely eliminated, and should not be eliminated.

The main causes of visible pores

So why do such important pores sometimes become a source of worry for us? The main reasons are as follows.

• Excessive sebum production:When excess sebum is secreted due to hormonal imbalance, diet, stress, etc., the pores are forced open and become more noticeable. The T-zone (forehead and nose) in particular has many sebaceous glands, so it is an area that is easily bothered.
• Clogged pores:When excess sebum, dead skin cells, makeup residue, etc. get clogged in the pores, they form comedones that block the pores and make them appear dark (the cause of strawberry nose!) or bumpy, making them more noticeable.Not all pores are cloggedRemember that the problem is these clogged pores.
• Dry skin:It may be surprising, but dry skin can cause the skin texture to become uneven, the areas around pores to become sunken and shadowed, and the pores to become more noticeable. In addition, in an attempt to protect the skin from dryness, excess sebum can be secreted.
• Age-related sagging:As we age, the collagen and elastin that keep our skin firm and elastic decrease, causing our skin to sag and our pores to become longer and more noticeable, like teardrops.
• Skin care mistakes:Improper care such as scrubbing your face or forcibly pushing out blackheads can damage your skin and worsen pore problems.

These factors often combine in complex ways to make pores more noticeable.

A thorough explanation of the types and causes of pore problems

Even if you say "your pores are noticeable," there are many different conditions. Here, we will take a closer look at the most common types of pore problems and their respective causes. Knowing what type of pores you have is the first step to effective care.

Clogged pores (keratin plugs and blackheads)

Characteristic:A condition in which white dots (keratin plugs) are visible in the pores, or the keratin plugs oxidize and appear black. This is particularly common around the nose and chin. It is also known as "strawberry nose."

Main causes:

• Excessive sebum secretion
• Accumulation of dead skin cells due to disrupted cell turnover
• Removes makeup stains, dust, and other residues

These substances mix together and clog the pores, forming keratin plugs. When the surface of the keratin plug comes into contact with air and oxidizes, it turns black.The important thing to remember is that not all pores are clogged.The problem is these "clogged pores" where comedones are formed.

Open pores (sebaceous pores)

Characteristic:This condition makes pores appear round and open, and skin texture appears rough, especially in people with oily skin and in the T-zone.

Main causes:

• Excessive sebum secretion (sebum outlet is expanded)
• Dry skin causing irregular skin texture
• Genetic factors

When excess sebum is secreted, the pores are constantly being pushed open. Also, when the skin becomes dry and loses elasticity, the skin around the pores can shrink, making the pores more noticeable.

Sagging pores (zonal pores)

Characteristic:This condition is characterized by pores that appear teardrop-shaped or oval, drooping. This condition is commonly seen on the cheeks, and the pores may connect to each other, creating the appearance of fine lines.

Main causes:

• Decrease in collagen and elastin due to aging
• Loss of elasticity of skin due to UV damage
• Weakened facial muscles

When the dermis layer, which forms the foundation of the skin, loses its elasticity, the skin succumbs to gravity and sags, causing the pores to be pulled downward and stretched.

Melanin pores (pigmented pores)

Characteristic:A condition in which the area around the entrance of a pore appears black in a ring shape. Unlike the blackheads caused by clogged pores, this condition can appear black even if there is no keratin plug.

Main causes:

• UV damage
• Pigmentation caused by inflammation or friction around the pores
• Incorrect pore care (such as forcing out blackheads)

It occurs when melanin pigment is produced excessively and deposited near the opening of the pores. Pigmentation from acne scars can also occur around the pores.

The mechanism of pore care: A scientifically based approach

Now that we know the causes of pore problems, we will discuss specific care methods. Here, we will explain the mechanisms of effective pore care based on scientific evidence. It is important to understand why care is necessary, rather than just taking care of your pores.

Proper washing and cleansing

This is the most basic of skin care basics, but it is also the most important step in pore care.

• cleansing:It thoroughly removes makeup, sunscreen, sebum, and other dirt. The key is to properly emulsify and lift out oily dirt that tends to clog pores. We recommend using oil cleansing or balm cleansing products.
• Facial Cleansing:Wash away old dead skin cells, dust, sweat, etc. Lather the cleanser well and wash gently without rubbing the skin. Water that is too hot can dry out the skin, so lukewarm water (around 32-34°C) is best.

Not washing thoroughly enough can lead to clogged pores, but washing too much can also strip the skin of necessary sebum, leading to dryness and a weakened barrier function, so care must be taken.

The Importance of Exfoliation

When skin turnover is disrupted, old dead skin cells do not fall off and instead accumulate on the surface of the skin, causing clogged pores and dullness. This is why regular exfoliation is so important.

• Enzymes:Proteolytic and sebum-decomposing enzymes break down dead skin cells and dirt from pores, making them easier to remove. Enzyme cleansing powders are a convenient solution. An article on mindbodygreen.com also states that enzymes help remove dead skin cells and improve the appearance of clogged pores.
• AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid):These include glycolic acid and lactic acid, which are water-soluble and help remove dead skin cells from the surface of the skin. They are also effective in improving dullness and stiffness.
• BHA (Beta Hydroxy Acid):The typical one isSalicylic acidIt is oil-soluble and easily penetrates deep into pores, dissolving sebum and clogged keratin plugs. Articles from Exponent Beauty and Lancôme also recommend salicylic acid for pore care.

However, exfoliation too much can put a strain on your skin, so it should be done about once or twice a week, keeping an eye on your skin's condition.

Moisturizing to improve barrier function

You may think that pores are a concern because of excess sebum, but in fact dryness is also a major cause of pores becoming more noticeable. When the skin becomes dry, not only does it cause the texture to become rough and pores to become more noticeable, but it can also cause excess sebum to be secreted in an attempt to protect the skin.

After applying a lotion to hydrate your skin, seal in the moisture with an oil-based lotion or cream to prevent the moisture from evaporating. We recommend products that contain moisturizing ingredients such as ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and collagen. Moisturizing can improve the skin's barrier function, protecting it from external stimuli and helping it stay healthy.

Sebum Control

Excessive sebum is a major cause of enlarged pores, so it is important to take care to moderate sebum secretion.

• Vitamin C derivatives:This ingredient has multiple applications in treating pore problems, including suppressing excess sebum secretion, antioxidant properties, and promoting collagen production.
• Niacinamide:It is expected to control sebum secretion and improve the enlargement of pores. It also has the effect of strengthening the barrier function and preventing rough skin. It is also listed as an effective ingredient in the Lancôme article.
• Astringent lotion:It has the effect of temporarily tightening pores, but products that contain a lot of alcohol can cause dryness, so choose a product that suits your skin type.

Lifestyle habits such as diet, sleep, and stress management also affect sebum balance, so don't forget to take care of your skin from the inside.

Expert-recommended ingredients and product selection tips

There are many pore care products lined up at drugstores and department stores. For beginners who are unsure which one to choose, we will introduce effective ingredients recommended by experts and tips for choosing a product.

Effective ingredients for pore care

We touched on this earlier in the "Mechanism of Pore Care," but let's review the ingredients you should pay particular attention to.

• Salicylic Acid (BHA):It is oil-soluble and directly targets keratin plugs and sebum deep inside the pores. It is effective for clogged pores and blackheads. According to neogenesis.com, regular use of products containing salicylic acid can reduce clogged pores and improve skin quality.
• Niacinamide (Vitamin B3):It works on pore problems from multiple angles, including sebum control, pore tightening, strengthening the barrier function, and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Retinol (a type of vitamin A):It promotes cell turnover and helps to expel dead skin cells. It also supports collagen production and is expected to be effective against sagging pores. It is recommended in articles by Lancôme and facebeautyscience.com. However, it may cause irritation, so it is recommended to try it in small amounts at a low concentration.
• Vitamin C derivatives:It has an all-round effect of suppressing sebum, anti-oxidation, inhibiting melanin production, promoting collagen production, etc. It is especially recommended for those who are concerned about melanin pores and open pores.
• Enzymes:It breaks down old dead skin cells and protein-based dirt, smoothing out rough, clogged skin.
• Glycolic Acid (AHA):Gently removes dead skin cells from the surface of the skin and supports cell turnover.

Choose a lotion, serum, cream, etc. that contains these ingredients to suit your skin concerns and skin type.

Choose "non-comedogenic" products

"Comedone" refers to the early stage of acne, where pores become clogged with sebum and dead skin cells."Non-comedogenic tested"Products labeled with this symbol mean that they have been made with consideration to making it less likely for comedones to form (however, this does not mean that all people will not develop comedones).

If you have clogged pores or are prone to acne, you should refer to this label when choosing cosmetics. An article on facebeautyscience.com also recommends using non-comedogenic products.

Choose the right product for your skin type

No matter how good the ingredients are, if they don't suit your skin type, they will not only be ineffective, but may also cause skin problems.

• Oily skin:We recommend skin lotions with a refreshing feel, gel-type moisturizers, and products that contain sebum-absorbing ingredients. Oil-free products are also good options.
• Dry skin:Choose moisturizing lotions and creams that contain plenty of highly moisturizing ingredients (ceramides, hyaluronic acid, etc.). Choose mild exfoliants and use them sparingly.
• Combination skin:It is ideal to use different products depending on the part of the body, such as a refreshing product for the T-zone and a moist product for the U-zone (cheeks and chin).
• Sensitive skin:Choose products with a hypoallergenic formula that is alcohol-free, fragrance-free, paraben-free, etc. Before using a new product, be sure to do a patch test (try it on the inside of your arm, etc.).

Daily skin care habits and future skin beauty effects

Pore ​​care is not something that will produce results overnight. What's important is to steadily continue proper skin care as a daily habit. Here, we'll talk about the basic steps of skin care, a routine that incorporates pore care, and the importance of continuing it.

Basic skin care steps (morning and night)

First, let's review the basic skin care routine that forms the foundation for beautiful skin.

Morning care:

1. Wash your face (to remove sweat and excess sebum while sleeping)
2. Toner (hydration)
3. Serum (Intensive care for specific skin concerns *Optional)
4. Milky lotion or cream (moisturizing and protective)
5. Sunscreen (UV protection is essential!)

Night care:

1. Cleansing (removes makeup and daytime dirt)
2. Wash your face (remove dirt and dead skin cells that were not removed by cleansing)
3. Toner (hydration)
4. Serum (intensive care tailored to skin concerns)
5. Milky lotion or cream (moisturizing and protective)

A routine that incorporates pore care

In addition to the basic steps, add items that are specifically designed to address pore problems.

• Facial Cleansing:If you're concerned about clogged pores, try using an enzyme or clay facial cleanser a few times a week.
• Toner:If you are concerned about sebum, use products containing vitamin C derivatives, and for enlarged pores, use products containing niacinamide.
• Serum:Contains beauty serums (salicylic acid, retinol, vitamin C, etc.) specifically targeted to pore problems.
• Special Care:Exfoliate (with a peeling gel or toner) and use a clay mask once or twice a week.

An article from La Roche-Posay recommends that a skincare routine for acne-prone skin starts with cleansing to remove excess oil, unclog pores, and exfoliate dead skin cells, which is a good idea for any pore treatment.

Persistence is power: Take your time and don't rush

Even if you start pore care, you won't see dramatic changes right away. The skin's turnover cycle is about 28 days (varies depending on age), so you should continue the same care for at least one month, and preferably about three months, before you see results.

Rushing and trying out different products or overdoing your skincare routine can be counterproductive. Taking the time to look after your skin, not overlooking small changes, and continuing your skincare routine patiently will lead to beautiful skin in the future.

Comparing different pore treatment methods: which one is right for you?

There are various options for pore care, from easy self-care at home to specialized treatment at a cosmetic dermatologist. Understand the advantages and disadvantages of each and choose the method that suits you best.

Self-care (home care)

merit:

• easy to get started
• Cost savings
• You can care at your own pace

Demerit:

• It may take some time to feel the effects
• If done incorrectly, it could make things worse.
• There are limits to serious pore problems

This includes daily cleansing, washing your face, moisturizing, and using exfoliating and pore-fighting serums. First of all, it is essential to take proper self-care measures.

Cosmetic dermatology treatment (specialized care)

If you find it difficult to improve your condition through self-care alone, or if you want to see results more quickly, you can consult a cosmetic dermatologist. This article from Eucerin also introduces treatments provided by dermatologists.

Typical treatments:

• Chemical peels:The medicine is applied to the skin to remove old dead skin cells and promote cell turnover. It is effective for acne scars, enlarged pores, and dark spots.
• Laser treatments (fractional laser, etc.):A laser is used to create tiny holes in the skin, and the skin's regenerative ability is utilized to promote collagen production, improving enlarged pores, sagging pores, acne scars, and more.
• Dermapen:By creating tiny holes in the skin with ultra-fine needles, the skin's natural healing ability is enhanced and collagen production is promoted. This is expected to be effective for enlarged pores and acne scars.
• Iontophoresis/electroporation:Using a weak electric current, beauty ingredients such as vitamin C and tranexamic acid are penetrated deep into the skin.

merit:

• Get expert diagnosis and appropriate treatment
• In some cases, it may be possible to expect greater or more immediate results than self-care.
• Can also be used to treat intractable pore problems

Demerit:

• The cost can be high
• Some treatments require downtime (periods of redness and swelling)
• Often requires multiple visits to the hospital

When undergoing cosmetic medical treatment, be sure to consult with your doctor and fully understand the risks, costs, downtime, etc. before making a decision.

Pore ​​care precautions and common mistakes

Sometimes the care you think is good for you may actually be making your pore problems worse... Here, we will explain the precautions to take when caring for your pores and the common mistakes beginners make.

Be careful not to overdo it! Excessive care can have the opposite effect.

Just because you are concerned about your pores, washing your face multiple times a day, scrubbing too hard, or using peeling or pore packs frequently is a no-no. These things can strip your skin of the sebum it needs, cause it to dry out, weaken its barrier function, and make your pores more noticeable.

In particular, when it comes to exfoliation, be sure to follow the frequency of use indicated on the product and monitor your skin's condition. "Too much is bad."

Do not forcefully push out blackheads.

Never forcefully push out blackheads with your fingers, nails, tweezers, etc.! This can damage the skin around the pores, causing inflammation and pigmentation, and even opening up the pores. It can also allow bacteria to get in and cause the pores to become infected.

If you are concerned about blackheads, use cleansing products, facial cleansers, and exfoliating products that gently dissolve the blackheads.

Be careful not to use too many pore packs

Stick-on, peel-off pore packs can remove keratin plugs and leave your skin feeling refreshed, but you need to be careful not to use too much. When you peel them off, they can also remove the dead skin cells on the surface of your skin, which can put a strain on your skin. Also, if you neglect to moisturize after using the pack, your pores may remain open.

If you use it, limit it to about once a week, and afterwards be sure to thoroughly moisturize with lotion or serum and take care to tighten pores.

The importance of sun protection

Ultraviolet rays are one of the major causes of pore problems. Ultraviolet A rays (UVA) penetrate deep into the skin, destroying collagen and elastin and causing sagging pores. They also promote melanin production, causing melanin pores, and can promote the oxidation of sebum, worsening clogged pores and darkening the skin.

Make it a habit to apply sunscreen all year round, regardless of the season or weather. Check the SPF and PA indications and use the right sunscreen for the right situation. It is even more effective if you also use a hat or parasol.

The latest trends in pore care and future prospects

The world of skin care is evolving every day. New ingredients and technologies are appearing in pore care as well, making more effective and personalized approaches possible. Finally, let's briefly touch on the latest trends in pore care and their future prospects.

Personalized Skin Care

"Personalized skin care" is gaining attention as it proposes optimal skin care products and care methods based on an individual's skin type, skin concerns, lifestyle habits, and even genetic information. With the emergence of AI-based skin diagnosis and custom-made cosmetics, it will become easier to find pore care that suits you.

The evolution of aesthetic medicine

Pore ​​treatments performed at cosmetic dermatology clinics are also being developed to be more minimally invasive (less traumatic to the skin) and more effective. With advances in laser technology and the emergence of new drugs, the options are expanding. Treatments with less downtime are also on the rise, so you may be able to receive specialized care more easily.

The relationship between intestinal environment and skin (microbiome)

It is said that "skin is a mirror of internal organs," and it is becoming clear that the intestinal environment has a significant impact on the condition of the skin. Research is also progressing that balancing the intestinal flora (microbiome) leads to improved sebum balance and prevention of rough skin, which in turn has a positive effect on pore care. A diet that takes probiotics and prebiotics into consideration will also become an important element of skin care in the future.

In the future, pore care will likely not only focus on external approaches, but also on internal care, and more scientific and individualized approaches will become mainstream. I'm looking forward to it!

Summary: Poreless skin is not a dream!

Well, we've talked about pore care from various angles so far. What do you think? Pore problems can be tricky, but with the right knowledge and perseverance in using care that suits you, your skin will definitely respond.

The important thing is to face your skin, observe it, and take good care of it without rushing.Starting today, take small steps one by one and aim for healthy, beautiful skin, even if you can't achieve "poreless" skin that you can be proud of! We're rooting for you!

Pore ​​Care FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Finally, we will answer some common questions that beginners have regarding pore care.

Q1: Can pores be completely eliminated?

A1: No, pores play an important role in secreting sebum and sweating, so they cannot and should not be completely eliminated. The purpose of pore care is not to "eliminate" pores, but to "make them less noticeable." By tightening pores and keeping them clean with proper care, you can aim to make them less noticeable.

Q2: How long does it take for the pore care to have an effect?

A2: The time it takes to see results varies from person to person depending on your skin type, pore condition, and skin care method. In general, taking into account the skin turnover cycle (about 28 days or more), it is best to continue for at least one to three months and observe the results. It is important to take your time and not rush.

Q3: Do only expensive cosmetics have any effect?

A3: Not necessarily. What's important is not the price, but whether the product contains ingredients that suit your skin type and pore problems, and whether you can use them correctly. There are many excellent products in the petit pla (low-priced) range. It's a good idea to look closely at the ingredients list and use a tester to check the feel before making your selection.

Q4: Will my pores get clogged even if I don't have oily skin?

A4: Yes, they can get clogged. Even if you have dry skin, your pores can become clogged due to irregular skin turnover, improper skin care, or not washing off your makeup properly. Dry skin can also weaken the skin's barrier function, making it more susceptible to irritation, which can lead to pore problems. Proper cleansing and moisturizing are important for all skin types.

Q5: Is makeup bad for pores?

A5: Makeup itself is not necessarily bad. The problem is not removing your makeup properly or using ingredients that tend to clog pores (such as oily foundations) for long periods of time. If you wear makeup, be sure to remove it thoroughly with a cleanser on the same day. It's also a good idea to choose a mineral foundation that is gentle on the skin and to give your skin a day to rest. Depending on the product, choosing a "non-comedogenic" product is one way to go.

Related links collection

Here are links to useful information sources that I used as reference when writing this article. Most of the sites are in English, but you can get more detailed information on pore care.

• Skin Care for Pores: Large Pores, Clogged Pores + More (Exponent Beauty) - Explains various pore problems and skin care.
• How To Unclog Pores, From Experts (mindbodygreen) – Expert tips on how to unclog pores. Also mentions the role of enzymes.
• Dilated pores & blackheads – Natural skincare (Typology) – Introduction of natural skin care products for enlarged pores and blackheads.
• Pores & Oil Control (COSRX) – A range of pore and sebum control products from Korean cosmetics brand COSRX.
• How to Find Products That Won't Clog Your Pores (NeoGenesis) – How to choose products that won't clog pores. Mentions salicylic acid.
• Unclog Facial Pores and Prevent Acne | Expert Skincare Guide (Eucerin) – The expert guide to unclogging facial pores and preventing acne.
• Clear, Tighten and Minimize Pores (Lancôme) -Introduces ingredients for pore care (salicylic acid, niacinamide, retinol).
• 6 Treatments To Shrink Large Pores Fast! (Face Beauty Science) – Skin care and treatments to shrink large pores.
• Skincare Routine for Acne-Prone Skin (La Roche-Posay) – Skin care routine for acne-prone skin.

This article is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult a dermatologist for any skin concerns you may have.

Pore ​​care, skin care, clogged pores, beautiful skin, blackheads