8 Home Remedies For Enlarged Pores

Enlarged pores have become one of the biggest concerns for men and women. While they are benign, they are often considered unsightly. However, contrary to what many think, there is no treatment that can close them.

In fact, as dermatologist Valentín De Benito Rica points out on his blog, pores cannot be opened or closed, although there are some ways to improve their appearance. Thus, when we talk about “sealing the pores”, we are only referring to a way to clean them so that they are not so noticeable.

What to do to reduce the appearance of large pores?

According to a publication in the journal Dermatologic Surgery , the treatment of enlarged pores depends, to a great extent, on the factors associated with their development. Thus, the dermatologist might suggest one treatment or another based on possible underlying causes, which include:

• Excessive sebum.
• Decreased elasticity around the pores.

• Increase in the volume of the hair follicle.

Currently, topical retinoids, chemical peels, oral antiandrogens, lasers, and other devices are available that could be helpful against this cosmetic problem. However, each case must first be evaluated by a dermatologist.

Natural recipes for large pores

However, there are some preparations of natural origin that can also contribute to the cleaning of enlarged pores to give a fresher and smoother appearance to the skin. They are solutions that lack scientific evidence, but have been used since ancient times as allies of skin health.

Therefore, there are anecdotal data suggesting that they leave the skin free of impurities and dead cells. Do you dare to try them? Include them in your regular beauty routine and see for yourself if they benefit against enlarged pores.

1. Egg and oatmeal mask

A combination of egg white with oatmeal is ideal for exfoliating the skin and reducing the accumulation of dead cells on its surface. Oatmeal, as detailed in a review published in the Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology & Leprology , has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help with skin care. 

Ingredients

• 1 egg white.
• 2 tablespoons of rolled oats (20 g).

Preparation

• Beat the egg white and add the tablespoons of oatmeal.
• When you get a homogeneous paste, apply to the previously washed face.
• Use circular motions to exfoliate.
• Remove with lukewarm water.
• Repeat its use 2 times a week.

2. Cucumber mask

In popular culture, cucumber is one of the most used natural ingredients for skin beautification. And while many of its applications are not supported by evidence, it is a nutritious ingredient that can be applied without any risk.

According to a publication in the journal Phytotherapy , cucumber contains antioxidants and is used to soothe skin irritations. It is also useful for cleaning pores and reducing their dilated appearance.

Ingredients

• 1 cucumber
• 2 tablespoons of cornmeal (20 g).

Preparation

• Peel the cucumber and blend it into a juice. You can also grate it very fine.
• In a bowl, add the cucumber and add the cornmeal.
• Mix well to form a thick paste.
• Apply to the face, previously washed, with circular movements.
• Leave on for 15 minutes and remove with warm water.
• Use a moisturizer when finished.

3. Almond mask

Nuts contain vitamin E, a nutrient with an antioxidant effect that helps skin care. According to a publication in the Indian Dermatology Online Journal , vitamin E helps to protect the skin against the negative effects of the sun and free radicals.

As we discussed, the decrease in elasticity is one of the causes of enlarged pores. Therefore, these types of treatments are beneficial. In addition, since it is used as an exfoliant, it also helps to remove impurities that accumulate in the pores.

Ingredients

• ½ cup of almonds (70 g).
• 3 tablespoons of water (30 ml).

Preparation

• Grate or chop the almonds in the food processor , until they are powdered.
• Mix with the water to form a gritty paste.
• Apply the paste in circular motions, starting at the nose and continuing down the cheeks. It also passes through the forehead and chin.
• Leave on for 20 minutes and wash with warm water.
• Repeat twice a week.

4. Tomato lotion

Recent research, published in Skin Pharmacology and Physiology , suggests that tomato phytonutrients help protect the skin against UV damage. In addition, due to its water content, it is ideal for hydrating, softening and cleaning pores. 

• You simply have to apply homemade tomato juice to your face, with a cotton ball, after bathing.

• Repeat every night.

5. Whey

Anecdotal data suggests that topical application of buttermilk may help reduce the appearance of large pores. It is even believed that it facilitates cleaning and prevents the formation of blackheads. 

• Once you’ve washed your face before bed, apply some buttermilk with a cotton ball.
• Leave on for 20 minutes and rinse with warm water.
• If you do not have whey you can do the same but with natural drinkable yogurt and without sugar.

6. Banana mask

In cosmetics, the ripe banana has been used as an ally to hydrate and beautify the skin. Its regular application helps to cleanse the skin, reducing the oily appearance that suffers due to the enlarged pores.

Ingredients

• 1 ripe banana.
• 2 tablespoons of warm water (20 ml).

Preparation

• Add the ingredients to the blender.
• Mix to form a smooth paste.
• Apply to face in circular motions to exfoliate well.
• Leave on for 20 minutes and remove with cold water.

7. Papaya mask

In a West Indian Medical Journal publication it was found that papaya can help promote the healing of skin lesions. Although there is not enough evidence about its effects on the skin, some anecdotal data recommend it to soften and cleanse the skin.

• Rub the inside of the papaya skin over your face.
• Leave on for 15 minutes and wash with lukewarm water.

8. Honey bee mask

Honey is an ingredient described in many dermatology studies. An investigation published in the Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine comments that, thanks to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, it helps skin care.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon of rolled oats (5 g).
• 2 tablespoons of honey (50 g).

Preparation

• In a container, place the oats and add the honey little by little.
• Mix until you get a homogeneous paste (somewhat gritty).
• Apply to a clean and dry face, starting with the nose and forehead.
• Continue down the cheeks and don’t forget the chin.
• Leave on for 15 minutes and remove with warm water.

The key is cleaning large pores

There is no magic formula for sealing large pores; in fact, it is not possible to close them. What you can do is keep your skin clean to minimize its appearance. Choose the mask that you like the most and give your skin a better appearance.