She Strengthens

The Lowdown on Nose Pores: Causes, Cleaning, and Care

Your nose pores are like tiny sponges, soaking up dirt, grime, and bacteria throughout the day. But don’t worry, there’s hope for those who struggle with chronically clogged and enlarged nose pores.

What Are Nose Pores, Anyway?

Nose pores are tiny openings on the skin’s surface that help your skin breathe and act as a pathway between the outside world and the oil and sweat glands beneath. They’re connected to sebaceous glands, which produce a waxy, oily substance that keeps skin soft and moisturized.

Sebaceous Filaments vs. Blackheads: What’s the Difference?

Sebaceous filaments are tiny, whitish-yellow tubes that lurk in your pores. They’re a natural skin feature, and everyone has them. Blackheads, on the other hand, are small, dark-colored bumps that appear when a hair follicle becomes clogged with sebum and dead skin cells. While sebaceous filaments can resemble blackheads, they’re no cause for concern.

Why Do Nose Pores Get So Big?

There are several reasons why your nose pores may be on the larger side. Some you can change, and some you can’t!

• Genetics: Blame your parents for this one. If they had large pores, you probably will too.
• Age: As you get older, your skin loses collagen and elasticity, causing pores to appear larger.
• Sex: Uterus owners tend to have smaller pores than penis owners, thanks to testosterone stimulating the sebaceous glands.
• Chronic Sun Exposure: UV rays can damage skin, causing it to become dry, rough, and wrinkled, making pores appear larger.
• Acne: Nose pores are prone to blackheads, whiteheads, and acne, which can cause skin to inflame and swell, making pores look larger.
• Excess Oil Production: If your sebaceous glands work overtime, they can produce too much sebum, causing pores to become clogged and enlarged.

How to Unclog and Clean Nose Pores

Nose pores looking enlarged and in charge? There are things you can do to clean them and make them look smaller.

• Use Water-Based Products: Opt for oil-free products, especially if you battle enlarged pores. If you have dry skin, consider products with humectants like honey, glycerin, or aloe vera.
• Wash Your Face Twice Daily: Washing your face helps keep your pores free of dirt, oil, and debris. Use lukewarm water and a gentle cleanser, and don’t forget to rinse thoroughly.
• Exfoliate Regularly: Exfoliating once or twice a week can help slough away dirt, oil, and dead skin cells that build up and cause clogs.
• Moisturize Daily: Even oily skin needs moisture! Choose an oil-free moisturizer to help smooth skin and reduce the appearance of enlarged pores.
• Remove Makeup at Night: Sleeping in your makeup is a recipe for disaster — especially for your pores. Cleanse your face thoroughly every night before bed.
• Wear Sunscreen: Sun exposure can dry the skin, cause inflammation, and lead to wrinkles, making pores look super-sized.

When to See a Dermatologist

If you’ve tried at-home remedies for enlarged pores and nothing seems to be working, it may be time to see a dermatologist. A derm can create a customized treatment plan to get your skin looking and feeling its best.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can You Shrink an Enlarged Pore?: No, despite what beauty products claim, you can’t actually shrink your pores. But you can do plenty to minimize their appearance.
• Why Are My Nose Pores So Full?: Your nose is a high-traffic area, so its pores are especially visible. Plus, the nose is often the oiliest part of the face, making pores appear larger.
• Should I Squeeze My Nose Pores?: Nope, don’t do it! Picking and squeezing can cause inflammation, infection, and scarring.
• How Can I Close the Pores on My Nose Naturally?: You can’t close your pores, but you can clean your face regularly with products that unclog and help refine pores’ appearance.