If you often struggle with pimples and blackheads, you probably know that to be able to clean pores deeply you must first get them "open". Experts remind us that in fact the size of the pores cannot change, but there are several methods to carry out a thorough cleansing of the skin. After these treatments, the enlarged pores will be less visible, even if the actual size has not changed. A healthy lifestyle, which includes a healthy diet and regular physical activity program, can help you have blemish-free skin.
Steps
Method 1 of 7: Deep cleanse the skin with a clay mask
Step 1. Wash your face
To prepare the face skin to receive the clay mask, wash it with warm water and then pat it dry with a clean towel.
The water must not be too hot
Step 2. Apply the mask
You can spread it on your face with your fingers or with a large makeup brush. Apply a thin and even layer, avoiding the area around the eyes and mouth where the skin is more delicate. The clay will extract the sebum and impurities that have accumulated inside the pores over time.
This type of mask is suitable for people who have oily and not particularly sensitive skin. It may be too aggressive for delicate skin
Step 3. Let the mask dry
It doesn't have to dry out completely, just start to change color (becoming lighter) while remaining sticky to the touch. Do not wait any longer before removing it from your face, otherwise it will also extract its natural moisture from the skin and not just the impurities.
If when you touch the mask you notice that it comes off, it means that it is still too wet and you have to let it act again
Step 4. Rinse your face
Moisten the clay with water to soften it. Clean your skin with a soft wet cloth to make sure no residue from the mask remains on your face.
Step 5. Moisturize your skin after making the mask
Use an oil-free cream on a clean, dry face.
You can redo the mask 2-3 times a week, depending on your skin's needs
Method 2 of 7: Steam cleanse pores
Step 1. Wet a soft cloth with very hot water
Open the hot water tap and let it run for about ten seconds before wetting a cloth suitable for cleaning your face.
Step 2. Wring the cloth to remove excess water
It must be wet, but it doesn't need to be soaked.
Step 3. Keep it flat on your face
The heat will slightly dilate the pores and the steam will dissolve the sebum, impurities and makeup residues inside.
Step 4. Repeat the process
When the cloth has cooled, wet it again with very hot water and then hold it against your face. Repeat the same steps 3-4 times in total.
Step 5. Wash your face
Gently massage a foam cleanser onto the skin to remove impurities and sebum that the steam has attracted to the surface.
After applying the warm washcloth it is essential to wash your face. The steam will have dissolved the impurities and sebum that have accumulated in the pores and it is essential to remove them with a cleanser, otherwise they will remain on the skin and the treatment will be useless
Method 3 of 7: Make an Astringent Tonic with Parsley
Step 1. Wash a handful of parsley leaves
You can also keep the stems, what matters is that they are perfectly clean.
Parsley boasts astringent properties, so it is useful for purifying pores
Step 2. Pour boiling water over the parsley
Let it cool while keeping the leaves (and possibly the stems) to infuse.
Step 3. Wet a cloth with the infusion
Saturate the fibers and then gently squeeze it.
Step 4. Wash your face
Use a foam cleanser to gently cleanse the skin and prepare it for the parsley treatment. Do not apply any type of cream on a clean face.
Step 5. Keep the washcloth flat on your face
Lie down and let the parsley infusion sit for 10-15 minutes while you relax.
You can repeat the treatment daily to take advantage of the astringent properties of parsley
Method 4 of 7: Prepare a Bicarbonate Scrub
Step 1. Combine one part of water with two parts of baking soda
The goal is to obtain a thick and pasty mixture.
Step 2. Massage the mixture on your face to gently exfoliate the skin
Make circular movements, avoiding the delicate area around the eyes.
Step 3. Let the scrub work
Keep it on the skin for about 5 minutes to give the baking soda time to act.
Step 4. Rinse your face
Wash off the scrub with plenty of water.
Repeat the exfoliating treatment once a week to remove dead skin cells that might otherwise clog pores
Method 5 of 7: Ask the Dermatologist for Help
Step 1. Go to your dermatologist
Ask him to show you what the best treatments are available.
Step 2. Evaluate the options available
Choose the treatment you prefer.
- You can get advice on an exfoliating drug. The purpose of these products is to remove dead cells from the surface of the skin to prevent them from clogging the pores. If you have a dull complexion, it may be caused by a buildup of dry skin and this may be the best solution.
- Alternatively, you can take advantage of the peeling effect of glycolic or salicylic acid. Talk to your dermatologist or doctor to find out more. The treatment must be repeated several times to obtain visible results. These chemical exfoliants are also indicated in case of an accumulation of dry skin that makes the complexion dull.
- Another possibility is to use the pulsed or LED light technique. These treatments aim to increase the amount of collagen and can make enlarged pores less visible. You can use them in combination with peeling.
Step 3. Choose the best option according to your budget
Keep in mind that these treatments can be expensive. The price range goes from 100 to 500 euros.
Method 6 of 7: Create a Daily Skin Care Regimen
Step 1. Never go to bed wearing makeup
When you get home at the end of the day, take the time to remove the make-up from your skin to let it breathe freely for at least a few hours. Otherwise the makeup could clog the pores.
For convenience you can use make-up remover wipes
Step 2. Wash your face at least once a day
Over the course of the day, smog and sebum tend to accumulate on the skin, gradually blocking the pores.
Wash your face twice, one after the other. The second time, massage the cleanser into the skin for a long time to be able to clean it deeply
Step 3. Do the scrub 2-3 times a week
It is very important to exfoliate the skin regularly to remove dead skin cells and clear clogged pores. You can use homemade baking soda scrub.
- If you have dry skin, it's best to use a mild chemical exfoliant or scrub formulated for your specific needs. Immediately after exfoliating, apply a moisturizer; without the dead cells that act as a barrier it will penetrate deeper.
- If you have oily or acne-prone skin, avoid harsh scrubs. It is best to use a chemical exfoliant that contains hydroxy acids, glycolic acid, or salicylic acid.
- If you have sensitive skin, use a cleanser or toner rich in plant enzymes twice a week. Avoid scrubs with very large granules.
Step 4. Make a mask 1-2 times a week
Add the treatment to your weekly routine for a glowing complexion and clean pores.
If you have dry or sensitive skin, use a moisturizing mask. Those that contain clay or charcoal are great for acne or for regulating sebum production
Step 5. Purchase a facial cleansing brush
Thanks to the rotating heads these devices are able to clean the skin in depth. By using the brush regularly, blackheads will diminish and pores will appear less dilated.
Step 6. Avoid creams that contain oils
It is better not to use oily products and avoid waterproof cosmetics because they have a similar consistency to the first ones. Both can clog pores.
Method 7 of 7: Healthy Diet and Exercise
Step 1. Eat healthily
What you eat greatly affects your outward appearance and your skin is no exception. To eliminate blackheads and prevent them from recurring, eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, you should eat at least 5 servings a day. Your skin will thank you for the antioxidant supply. Avoid simple sugars, such as white pasta, bread, and rice, which can cause inflammation in the body. Go for whole grains.
- Healthy fats, such as those in avocado, nuts, fish, and seeds, are also great for the skin.
- To have more beautiful and radiant skin, try to base your daily diet on fresh and wholesome foods, such as fruit, vegetables, eggs, yogurt and wholemeal and multigrain bread. Reduce or completely avoid industrially processed foods.
Step 2. Drink lots of water
It will keep the skin healthy, soft and supple. You should drink 6 to 8 glasses a day, so always try to have a bottle of water on hand.
- Limit your consumption of alcoholic beverages and caffeine.
- To entice you to drink more water, flavor it with herbs, fruit pieces, and tea bags.
Step 3. Exercise regularly
While it may sound strange, sweating improves skin health. Physical activity improves blood flow so cells receive more nutrients and oxygen and waste is removed more effectively.
- Always use sunscreen when exercising outdoors to protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays.
- Remove make-up before exercising to prevent cosmetic products from clogging skin pores. Wash your face before you start and shower right after.
