Enlarged pores are a classic "obsession," especially for those with oily and acne-prone skin in Vietnam. On beauty forums, the phrase "pore tightening" is always a hot topic. So, are we overestimating the effectiveness of advertised products? Let oh!oh! demystify the truth in this article.

1. What are pores? Their function for the skin.

Pores are tiny openings on the skin's surface, acting as an important bridge between the body and the environment. Each pore connects an oil gland to the skin's surface. When the oil gland secretes an oily substance (often called sebum), it helps moisturize and prevent dry and chapped skin. Additionally, pores are home to hair follicles that help regulate temperature. When the body needs to cool down, sweat is released through the pores, helping to cool the body and eliminate toxins.

Pore size depends on factors such as genetics, age, skin condition, and skincare routine. If pores become clogged due to overactive oil glands, dirt, makeup residue, or dead skin cells that are not removed for a long time, it can lead to the formation of acne.

2. Why do pores get larger over time?

The causes of enlarged pores often stem from many factors, but the most common reasons are prolonged exposure to hot and humid climates, frequent sun exposure, and improper skincare.

• Genetics: Pore size can be hereditary. If your parents have oily skin and enlarged pores, you are likely to inherit this. Therefore, this factor is very difficult to improve, so you need to take good care of your skin to limit pore dilation.

• Increased oil secretion on the skin: When oil glands are overactive, pores are forced to dilate. At the same time, if excess oil and dead skin cells accumulated daily are not properly cleaned, they will cause blockages, creating ideal conditions for bacteria to grow and form acne.

• External factors: UV radiation depletes collagen, elastin, and moisture in the skin. Therefore, when the epidermis beneath the skin shrinks, the facial skin becomes thicker, and pores tend to dilate.

• Unhealthy lifestyle: Habits such as staying up late, lack of sleep, or consuming spicy, oily foods affect the body's internal hormones, leading to dull skin, increased oil secretion, and premature aging.

3. So, can pores really shrink?

There are some beliefs that pores can completely shrink thanks to products or invasive procedures. But the truth is that they depend on genetics and skin structure, so these methods can only help improve pores and slow down their dilation over time.

4. Tips to improve enlarged pores

4.1. Cleanse skin daily

Every day, we are exposed to many impurities harmful to the skin, so you need to cleanse daily to remove oil and sunscreen residue. Prioritize using gentle makeup removers and cleansers to avoid dry, rough skin and stimulating overactive sebaceous glands.

4.2. Exfoliate regularly

Exfoliating helps you remove old keratinocytes, dirt, and bacteria from the surface. This clears pores, reduces oil secretion, and allows nutrients to penetrate deeper.

Note: Do not overuse exfoliation as it can make the skin easily irritated and sensitive.

4.3. Use a clay mask

In addition to using exfoliating active ingredients, you can incorporate a clay mask twice a week to optimize skin cleansing. At the same time, they can absorb excess oil from the skin, prevent blackheads, and unclog pores.

5. Some pore-improving product suggestions from oh!oh!

5.1. oh!oh! BHA 2% toner : b

BHA is an oil-soluble acid that works by penetrating deep into pores to remove sebum, dead skin cells, and dirt. oh!oh!'s 2% BHA toner features a specialized BHA formula including 1.5% Salicylic Acid and 0.5% Betaine Salicylate - a new generation BHA that minimizes the risks of irritation and flaking.

5.2. oh!oh! Skin Health Serum

Niacinamide, a derivative of vitamin B3, belongs to the vitamin B group. Niacinamide is considered a rare ingredient that offers many skin care benefits without causing irritation. With a concentration of 20% Niacinamide, it acts as an oil-regulating mechanism, preventing blockages and improving pores.

Contact oh!oh! Vietnam today for in-depth consultation and to regain smooth skin as soon as possible!