Skin pores are the openings of hair follicles, oil glands, and sweat glands. Because they are inherited, you cannot change their size, no matter what the cosmetic firms tell you.

It is true that certain conditions may make pores “appear” larger or smaller. Oily skin and severe acne, for example, may widen the oil ducts to create the “large pore” appearance. Pores are likely to appear on the nose, cheeks, and chin. Squeezing of blackheads and pimples may also lead to permanently widened pores, some of which may actually be tiny, pitted scars.

Other conditions can make your pores look smaller temporarily. For instance, note what happens to your pores when you acquire a sunburn. They become considerably smaller due to the inflammation and swelling around the pores. Once the inflammation has subsided, the pores will return to their original appearance. Pinching or gently slapping the skin of the cheeks to make them pink has a similar, temporary pore-shrinking effect.

There is no scientific evidence to support the fact that pores can be made to open and close. Certain  facial masks, however, can produce a temporary “shrinking” effect. These products help remove excess oil from the skin surface that makes the skin feel cool and tight.

For those of you who think your facial pores are the largest, the ugliest, and the most noticeable, do the following:

 

• Wash your face thoroughly with soap and water three times a day to prevent oils from accumulating, clogging up, and distending the pores.

   

• Use a good, commercial astringent or face mask that makes you and your skin feel good.

   

• Use only oil-free and water-based cosmetics and moisturizers.

   

• And throw away your magnifying mirrors .