Can You Really Shrink Your Pores?

Genetics determine pore size, as do skin type and age. It can be tempting to look carefully at your skin in a magnifying mirror, but realistically no one else will ever critique your skin as carefully as you will. So if you want to have great looking skin, what should you do? There are some simple steps to keep your skin clean, clear, smooth, and hydrated- all of which helps pores look smaller and stay healthy.

1. Use a cleanser with AHAs or BHAs to keep skin clean and fresh. Ingredients like salicylic acid, glycolic acid, and lactic acid help speed up your cell turnover rate and assist in exfoliation for clear pores and a smoother more even complexion.
2. Use oil free or non-comedogenic skin care products - especially for your daily moisturizer and SPF. Heavy products can clog pores and when a pore gets congested it will react with oxygen to make it look darker AND bigger.
3. Stimulate collagen and elastin production. If your skin looks smooth and plump, small imperfections will be much less noticeable.
4. Consider an oil absorbing mask once or twice a week. This will keep pores clear and help reduce congestion in the skin before it becomes a problem.
5. For fast pore-clearing, and tightening and toning results, try a salicylic acid peel or microdermabrasion from a licensed esthetician. The results can be seen quickly with almost no down time.

To get your pores in shape at home and prevent future problems from arising, add these options to your daily routine:

1. Dr Dennis Gross Skincare Extra Strength Alpha Beta Peel is one of the strongest products available over the counter. 6 AHAs and BHAs, Retinol and more than 35 additional active ingredients visibly improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and pore size while increasing hydration. WOW!!!
2. Murad T-Zone Pore Refining Gel will help even out both dry and oily regions on your complexion. It includes Alpha and Beta Hydroxy Acids to dissolve skin dulling impurities AND reduces fine lines and wrinkles! Apply it right before your lotion and SPF.
3. Eminence Raspberry Pore Refining Masque tightens and tones pores for a smooth and refined complexion.
4. Yonka Triple Clay Tightening Mask uses specially milled clay and essential oils to firm and tone the pores and it is available in two formulas: Masque 105 for Dry/Sensitive Skin and Masque 103 for Oily Skin
5. TRUE's Essential Pore and Complexion Refiner Serum can be used with or without an additional moisturizer. This multipurpose product is an excellent exfoliant and assists with anti-aging. Who could ask for more!