Here are the 5 best active ingredients for fighting enlarged pores

Dilated pores affect all skin types, particularly combination to oily skin, and are the result of various factors such as excess sebum. This can lead to clogged pores and the appearance of skin problems. Adjusting your skincare routine can dramatically improve skin texture and diminish the appearance of pores, leading to a more even, refined complexion. So I'm going to tell you about 5 active ingredients that will help you reduce the appearance of enlarged pores.

1 Niacinamide

Niacinamide, also known as vitamin B3, is an important component in the management of sebum, the greasy layer on the skin's surface which, although essential for protecting the epidermis, can sometimes impart a shiny, undesirable appearance. Applied topically, niacinamide has been shown to effectively reduce sebum production by the sebaceous glands, and with regular application, pores are tightened and reduced in size. The result is smoother, more even skin.
For example, you can incorporate a product containing niacinamide into your beauty routine morning and/or evening, by applying it before your face cream. This ingredient is gentle and usually well accepted by all skin types.

2 Green tea

1. Antioxidant properties Green tea is rich in antioxidants, including polyphenols such as catechins. These antioxidants help protect the skin against free radical damage, which can improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of enlarged pores.
2. Anti-inflammatory effect Green tea has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce the inflammation and redness associated with acne and other skin conditions, helping to minimize the appearance of pores.
3. Controlling sebum production Green tea can help regulate sebum production thanks to its anti-androgenic compounds. Excessive sebum production can clog pores and make them appear larger.

3 Azelaic acid

1. Combating hyperkeratinization Azelaic acid helps remove dead skin cells and promote cell renewal. This can help unclog pores, reducing their dilated appearance.
2. Antibacterial properties Azelaic acid is effective against the bacteria that can cause acne. By reducing bacteria and inflammation, azelaic acid can help prevent clogged pores and reduce their size.
3. Reduced sebum production Azelaic acid: Like green tea, azelaic acid can also help regulate sebum production, preventing enlarged pores caused by excess sebum.
4. Improved skin texture Azelaic acid: By promoting cell renewal and reducing inflammation, azelaic acid can improve overall skin texture, making pores less visible.

4 Salicylic acid

Salicylic acida fat-soluble BHA, is particularly effective for oily and acne-prone skin, as it penetrates the hydrolipidic film to act deep within the pores. Salicylic acid acts on several levels to combat acne, blackheads, pimples, skin imperfections and dilated pores. It has a keratolytic effect, eliminating dead cells and promoting cell renewal for smoother, blemish-free skin. Its seboregulating action controls excess sebum and purifies the skin. By unclogging pores, it prevents the appearance of new imperfections, making it an essential ally. What's more, its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties effectively combat bacterial proliferation, offering a complete solution for clear skin. For optimum action, we recommend using products containing between 0.5 % and 2 % of salicylic acid, with lower concentrations used mainly as a preservative.

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5 Retinol

Visit retinolThanks to its beneficial effects on cell renewal, retinol has exfoliating properties that help regulate sebum production and clear pores. In this way, it effectively contributes to improving skin quality and texture, minimizing the appearance of pores and reducing imperfections and residual marques. The skin's adaptation to retinol requires the development of "retinoid receptors", natural proteins that promote its efficacy. To this end, a gradual introduction of retinol, starting with low concentrations and gradually increasing, is often recommended.
Use retinol mainly in the evening, and pay attention to its concentration: starting with 0.1% is ideal, while 1% represents a high concentration. Start slowly, applying the product once every three evenings, then switch to every other evening if no irritation appears, and eventually to every evening if your skin accepts it. Avoid mixing retinol with exfoliants or other active ingredients such as AHA/BHA, niacinamide or vitamin C.