Myth:
You can “shrink” your pores
If you’ve got skin, you’ve got pores. It’s just part of being human.
While you might be able to achieve that perfectly poreless, airbrushed look with your favorite Instagram filter, real life means real skin.
And thus, pores.
The size of your pores is determined by genetics. This means, sadly, you can never make your pores smaller than what your DNA dictates.
That said, excess oil, congestion, and collagen loss over time can cause pores to stretch out. When this happens, we can work to counteract these conditions to restore pores to their former size and condition.
So while “shrinking” pores is but a fairy tale, there are several ways to keep their appearance to a minimum and keep them from stretching out.
Exfoliate
One of the easiest ways to keep congested pores from garnering unwanted attention is with a gentle scrub like Niawen’s The Granules.
Regular exfoliation eliminates excess skin cells for a smoother complexion and gunk-free pores.
A gentle polishing session a few times a week will discourage the buildup that stretches pores and accentuates the natural texture of your skin.
Use a cleansing oil
Cleansing oil ( try Niawen’s Nurturing version) works on the principle of “like dissolves like.”
The oils in the product bind with the oils in your skin to whisk away any and all gunk that could threaten to clog, stretch, or just accentuate your pores.
And because a cleansing oil won’t strip the skin, your complexion is left clear, balanced, and calm.
Chemical peel
A professional chemical peel removes layers of dead skin and debris that can wreak havoc on pores.
This popular treatment produces dramatic results quickly and improves a bevy of skin imperfections. Just be sure to have a thorough consultation with your skincare professional ahead of time.
You’ll want to be prepared for any downtime involved and have clear instructions on treating your freshly peeled skin with care.
Periodic peels will keep your skin looking smooth and bright (and keep your pores practically out of sight)!
Extractions
Sometimes the only thing standing between you and a seemingly-poreless complexion are a few extractions.
“Extractions” refer to gentle manual manipulation of the skin to remove oil and debris from your pores.
You’ll want a licensed esthetician to do this as part of a pore-cleansing facial.
(Attempting DIY extractions could leave you with skin damage or even scarring, so resist the urge to try your own hand at it.)
Microneedling
Microneedling is a professional treatment that produces tiny micro-injuries in the skin’s surface. These precise and controlled mini wounds trigger the body’s healing response.
New collagen is created to rebuild the skin and with repeat treatments, you'll notice a gradual plumping effect. This lessens the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and—you guessed it—pores.
Retinol
Retinol is one of the best ingredients out there for combatting the signs of skin aging—and that includes enlarged pores.
Whether you opt for a prescription product or something over-the-counter, consistent use of this miracle ingredient will keep your skin firmer, smoother, and more youthful looking for as long as you use it.
Retinol has an exfoliating effect that encourages the creation of new collagen, but can also lead to irritation when used in excess. So start slowly to find a strength and schedule that’s right for your skin, and you’ll be saying “see you later” to those visible pores in no time.
Pore filling product/primer
In the short term, a makeup primer that fills in pores and/or helps to diffuse light can create the illusion of a more even skin texture.
These products prevent makeup from settling into pores for a smoother appearance immediately.
This is the perfect way to “fake” a smoother complexion while you wait on the gradual improvements you’ll see from the previous suggestions in this list.
Just remember, you can always improve skin’s clarity and texture, but there’s really no such thing as “poreless” skin.
Be patient and have realistic expectations, and you’ll be thrilled with the results you can achieve.
The best product to use to help ALL these Myths is Black Ash Exfoliating Cleanser. Use 1-2X per week for optimal results.
