Open Pores: Treatment, Procedure, Cost And Side Effects

Our skin has tiny openings called open pores all over it that allow our skin to breathe and retain moisture. They also aid in our bodies ability to get rid of pollutants. But occasionally, blockage and dilatation may cause these pores to enlarge. That is when they start to cause issues. They are more likely to develop in those who have oily skin.

Even while these open pores are typically painless and safe, they can be extremely unpleasant to the eye, especially if they are on the face. Blackheads, poor-quality cosmetics, excessive sweating, ageing, genetics, and unsanitary behaviours can all contribute to open pores. There are several natural solutions you can try to reduce your open pores. Your dermatologist might advise using retinoids and salicylic acid to treat your open pores. AFT technology, Pixel Perfect technology, TCA Cross, Derma Rollers, and Lasers are your other options if they don't work.

Summary: Open pores are small holes or openings on the skin that can cause various skin problems such as: acne, blackheads, pimples and whiteheads.

• Y-Shaped Pores: Your skin's collagen production declines with age. Your pores may then take on the appearance of a water drop, sometimes referred to as Y-shaped pores. They frequently show up on the cheeks.
• O-Shaped Pores: Your T-zone is most prone to experience them. They have a spherical form. If you have oily skin or are prone to acne, these kinds of huge pores are likely to appear.
• U-Shaped Pores : These pores are a result of dry skin.

Summary- There are three major types of open pores, these are: Y- shaped, O- shaped and U- shaped pores.

Our skin has thousands of pores that can’t be even visible through naked eyes. All the pores are naturally open and have hair follicles present in them. These pores allow the skin to breathe properly. Every pore has an oil gland (Sebaceous gland) that produces oil from the skin commonly called sebum.

Hormones play a pivotal role in stimulating sebaceous glands to produce an abundant quantity of sebum from the skin. This is the reason why our pores, especially of the forehead, nose, and cheeks appear to be larger than the others. There are many causes behind Open Pores on the face, some are listed below:

• Extra sebum (oil) production.
• Thick hair follicles.
• Overexposure to sun.
• Reduction of collagen production.
• Genetically.
• Reduced elasticity around pores.

Summary- Causes of open pores are: exposure to the sun, dry skin, excessive oil and hair follicles.

Open pores can be prevented in the following ways:

• Keep yourself hydrated: Enlarged pores are a sign of dehydrated skin. You need to stay hydrated to prevent your skin from drying out.
• Put on sunscreen: By using broad-spectrum sunscreen, you can stop your skin from drying out. Keeping your skin moist also stops the creation of excess sebum. The result will be smaller pores.
• Remove your makeup before sleeping: One of the biggest reasons for clogged pores is leaving your makeup on for an extended period of time. Make it a point to take off your makeup every night before sleeping.

Summary- Open pores can be prevented by following some simple steps like taking enough fluid, applying sunscreen and removing makeup before sleeping.

• Applying various topical retinoids such as Vitamin C, niacinamide and AHAs.
• You can use chemical peels at the suggestion of your skin specialist.
• Several medications like oral retinoids and antibiotics can be used to treat open pores.
• You must exfoliate your skin on a daily basis.
• Applying a clay mask.

Summary- Open pores can be treated by: using retinoids, clay masks, essential oils, medications and exfoliation.

You can reduce open pores at home by following the given instructions:

• Clean your face properly
• Apply sunscreen to prevent UV damage
• Prefer oil-free products
• Keep yourself hydrated
• Apply aloe vera on the face to remove dirt and unclog the pores
• Exfoliate your skin on a daily basis
• Apply retinoids
• Keep your skin moisturized
• Use facial masks to remove excess oil and dirt

Summary- Various home remedies to reduce open are: cleansing, exfoliating, moisturizing, hydrating, and applying retinoids and sunscreen on the skin.

Try salicylic acid-containing face cleansers and toners for open pores if your skin is exceptionally greasy. Open pores can be reduced as a result of this acid penetrating the sebaceous ducts and removing the keratin plugs. Retinoids should be used at the dermatologist's advice.

Retinoids can be used topically and orally to minimize oil production and pores. Larger pits and craters left by acne scars can be effectively reduced by laser treatment. To reduce the open pores, they can help in collagen remodelling.

TCA Cross entails using a toothpick to apply tri-chloro-acetic acid to the surfaces of open pores. On each pore, a black scab will develop and detach within the following 7 to 10 days. In order to minimize the open pores, Derma Rollers also use collagen remodelling. Since they are less effective than lasers, they can be used in mild situations.

Open pores can also be treated with AFT technology, a light-based device that instantly gives the skin a brighter, more youthful appearance. Natural light is designed to penetrate the skin deeply to stimulate the growth of new skin and produce collagen. Your skin will be forced to self-exfoliate by Pixel Perfect technology so that new skin can form.

Summary- Treatment of open pores can be done with the help of retinoids, cleansers, TCA cross and AFT technology.

Consult a dermatologist before using salicylic acid if you have dry or sensitive skin. It may cause some serious damage. AFT technology for open pores is not known to have any side effects. Other treatments for open pores may result in temporary redness, irritation or mild itchiness in your skin for some time.

Summary- Yes, open pore treatment can cause some temporary side effects.

One session of consultation with your dermatologist may cost between ₹1000 - ₹2000. The cost of treatment for open pores may vary according to the one you choose to go for, the severity of your condition, and the area of skin covered.

Summary- The price of open pores treatment in India may range from Rs 1000- Rs 2000.

By following some natural approaches, you can reduce the size of your Open Pores.

• Start with eating Vitamin C-rich foods like Kiwi, oranges, and lemon.
• Sunflower seeds are another best source to reduce the pores on the face. They are rich in Vitamin E that prevents sebum oxidation and keep your skin healthy forever.
• Coconut oil is wonderful not only for hair but also takes care of your skin in a better way. It is a good source of Vitamin E. Thus, it keeps your skin pores unclogged, making your skin look smoother and brighter.
• Sweet Potato also helps in making your skin look cleaner. It is enriched with Vitamin A that supports skin texture and prevents blockage.

Summary- Foods that help to reduce open pores are: sunflower seeds, coconut oil, sweet potato and foods rich in vitamin C.

You can try homemade face packs comprising of almonds, apple cider vinegar, honey, egg whites or sandalwood for open pores. Applying ice a few times a day is also known to minimise enlarged pores.

Summary- Various alternatives to open pore treatment include home remedies like applying face packs and ice on the pores.