Enlarged or open pores on the skin affect many women around the world. Although nothing more than an aesthetical problem, they can seriously ruin your appearance and self-esteem. Just like blackheads and acne, they’re more common in people with oily skin. The main cause of enlarged pores is excess production of sebum, which, along with dirt and bacteria, can clog the pores and enlarge their appearance.
The open pores may collect even more debris, causing even bigger problems. The cosmetic industry offers numerous commercial solutions for the problem, yet none of them are really effective. The good news is that there are many natural remedies that can help, and we have the best ones for you below.
The Best Remedies for Enlarged Pores
1. Egg Whites
Thanks to their skin-tightening properties, egg whites are a perfect remedy for enlarged pores. Whisk a few egg whites and apply them on the skin to tighten it and regulate your sebum production as well. Let the egg white (or whites) dry on your skin before slowly peeling the mask off. Rinse with lukewarm water and let your skin dry. Repeat the process a few times per week for best results.
2. Ice Cubes
A simple thing such as rubbing ice cubes over your enlarged pores can help close them quickly. Ice will boost the circulation in your skin and minimize the pores, effectively reducing their appearance. Wrap an ice cube in tissue or a towel first, though – direct contact with the skin may harm it.
3. Baking Soda
A commonly used ingredient in many folk remedies for skin problems, baking soda has a slew of great benefits for your skin. It has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, while also possessing skin-tightening properties at the same time. To use it, make a paste of 2 tablespoons lukewarm water and baking soda, then rub it on the affected areas. It should tighten your skin and close the pores, while also improving its tone.
4. ACV
Another folk remedy used to treat various skin problems, ACV can help with the treatment of enlarged pores. It will restore your skin’s pH levels and help close the pores. When using it, though, make sure to dilute ACV with water, especially if your skin is too sensitive. Let the ACV dry on your skin for up to 15 minutes before rinsing with water, then apply a high-quality moisturizer.
Use the remedy a few times per week in order to reduce the appearance of your enlarged pores.
5. Lemon Juice
Lemon juice is a well-known skin toner and exfoliator. It’s all because of the rich citric acid content, which can close the enlarged pores and exfoliate your skin. Squeeze a lemon in a bowl and mix it with a teaspoon of raw honey, then massage your face with it before leaving it to work for 15 minutes. Use lukewarm water to remove the mixture and repeat the process 3-4 times per week for best results.
6. Cucumber
You know how women put cucumber slices on their undereye bags and face? Well, it’s because cucumber can do wonders for your skin. Apart from reducing the appearance of your enlarged pores, it will improve its texture and make your skin glow.
The best way to use cucumber against enlarged pores is to extract the veggie’s juice. Simple grate a cucumber and squeeze out the juice, then apply it on your face with a cotton ball. Let the juice work for 20 minutes before washing off with cool water.
7. Sugar Scrub
Make a sugar scrub out of sugar and olive oil and a bit of lemon juice. Rub your skin with it, and rinse with cold water after around 30 seconds. Repeat this method a few times per week to reduce your pores and exfoliate your skin, giving it a nice and fresh glow.
8. Oatmeal
Just like the sugar scrub, oatmeal has a rough enough texture to exfoliate your skin and reduce your open pores. Mix 2 tablespoons of oats with some honey and almond milk (regular milk if you can’t find it), then scrub your face with the mix gently. Rinse with cold water after 15 minutes and repeat the process 1-2 times per week.
9. Fuller’s Earth
Mix a few tablespoons of Fuller’s Earth (available in your local pharmacy) with only a few drops of rose oil. Rub the paste on your skin and allow it to dry off. Once dry, wash your face with cold water and pat it dry gently. Regular use of this remedy (1-2 times per week) should reduce the appearance of your enlarged pores.
10. Yogurt
Thanks to the presence of lactic acid, yogurt is one of the best natural remedies for enlarged pores. Just apply a bit of yogurt on your face and leave it to dry, then rinse with clean cold water. A few times per week should be enough for the mask to reduce the appearance of your enlarged pores.
As you can see, there are many natural remedies that can deal with those gross enlarged pores. Home remedies are always a better solution than commercial products, not to mention low-cost and effective. So, try them out before visiting a specialist – chances are the problem will be gone soon.
