When viewed up close, your skin is covered by tiny pores, but the size of these pores depends on your skin type, or in Ayurvedic terms ‘Dosha’. While Vata (Dry to Normal) and Pitta (Sensitive) generally have tiny, nearly invisible pores, those with Kapha (Oily skin type) usually have larfer, more visible pores.
While pore size is mostly genetically determined, the general perception is that smaller pores are more attractive, and indicative of a clearer complexion. Enlarged pores can also be the result of oilier skin with blockages and bacterial build-up.
So are there actually natural ways to reduce pore size? Read on to find out what causes pores to deepen/enlarge, and some natural methods for reducing pore size in Kapha skin.
What Is The Function of Pores?
Simply put, pores are ‘openings of hair follicles on the skin’. Pores are critically important to overall body healthy as they allow sweat and oil to escape/ drain from the skin (the largest body organ) allowing the body to cool and not overheat. They also allow the skin to breathe, and absorb nutrients.
The Problem With Enlargement of Pores
Pores extend through several layers of the skin and depending on the skin type, each human pore can have a size of 250-500 micrometers. Due to wider pore openings in Kapha skin types, along with hormonal tendencies, this type skin releases more oil. This in trun can cause comedones, a/k/a ‘blackheads, which consist of impacted oil build-up, combined with dirt, and dead skin debris, all of which can further widen pores.
The Best Natural Treatment for Pore Size Reduction
Clay
The Kaolin Clay and Bentonite Clay we use in our On-The-Spot blemish treatments not only exfoliate and absorb oil from the skin but are also incredibly helpful in reducing pore size.
Clay-based masks are very beneficial at treating blackheads and removing bacteria, dirt, and debris. For sudden blemishes, our PVO On The Spot Blemish Treatment applied directly on the blemish, provides visible reduction in redness and swelling in just a few hours.
Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid (SA) has a low molecular weight, enabling it to penetrate into the pores. Naturally obtained Salicylic Acid from White Willow Bark tightens enlarged pores, removes blackheads, and keeps your skin clear.
Apply Water or Gel-based Products
For treating pore size and controlling oily skin, the American Academy of Dermatology recommends using water or water based gel products. You should never use petroleum or alcohol-based products as they can further occlude or block pores, or in the case of alcohol cause damage to the skin, especially in those individuals that already have large pores. Our Kapha regimen (containing Pore Perfect Cleanser and Pore Perfect Hydrator/Toner) is water-based and contains lightweight natural oils/botanical extracts that are readily absorbed, and replenish your skin with proven skin actives to promote clear and healthy looking skin.
As always, make sure that the product you are using is non-toxic or free of harmful synthetic chemicals that may harm it.
Use Non-comedogenic Products
Those with oily skin and enlarged pores are more prone to blocked pores that can lead to blemishes and acne, making it important to use non-comedogenic products formulated with ingredients that can prevent blackheads from forming. This type of product also allow the skin to breathe, remain hydrated, and acne free. Labels should contain terms like ‘oil-free’ or ‘non-comedogenic’.
Some of the best ingredients for the Kapha skin type are: Hempseed Oil, Salicylic acid, Neem, and Grapeseed Oil.
Use our enzyme-based exfoliators (Papaya & Honey Exfoliator Mask & Scrub) 2-3X times a week to eliminate deep-seated debris, while providing deep cleansing, and detoxification of pores.
Never Forget the Moisturizer!
It is a myth that people with Kapha complexions / enlarged pores should not use moisturizers. Quite the contrary, Kapha dosha-based serums contain toning ingredients like Rose, Jasmine, Salicylic Acid, and many others that restore pH balance and optimize moisture levels of the skin. The lightweight oil from these serums penetrates more deeply into the pores and prevents blockages. These serums have low-molecular-weight, preventing blackheads.
