Microneedling enlarged pores can be very beneficial for many patients.
WHAT ARE ENLARGED PORES?
Pores are tiny openings at the skin’s surface where the hair follicle meets the skin. There is a tiny tube that goes through the layers of skin where the hair follicle exists. On either side of the follicle there are sebaceous glands that produce sebum, a waxy substance meant to naturally hydrate and protect the skin. Pores produce sebum or release sweat. These openings can become clogged causing the appearance of large pores. The accumulation of makeup, dirt, debris, bacteria or dead skin cells can cause clogged pores and inflammation of the surrounding skin. Enlarged pores can create an uneven skin texture.
WHO DEVELOPS ENLARGED PORES?
Genetics often play a role in the development of enlarged pores. Oily or combination skin is prone to larger pores and more active oil glands. These types of skin produce excess sebum causing the oil to collect in the pore. When the pores become clogged they stretch and appear larger in size. Enlarged pores are more noticeable on the nose, cheeks and chin. These areas tend to become more clogged in those who have oily skin. Environmental factors, sun exposure and age can also be a factor. Over time the skin produces less collagen and loses elasticity in the skin surrounding the pores. Prolonged sun exposure can sap the skin of moisture, collagen and elastin causing the skin tissue to sag.
ARE ENLARGED PORES HARMFUL?
Enlarged pores are not harmful, but can be unsightly. Clogged pores can lead to pimples or acne. Acne can cause scarring. The skin’s appearance can be noticeably altered by enlarged pores causing the skin to seem dull and uneven. Enlarged pores are often caused by loss of collagen and elastin the building blocks of the skin. Healthy skin boosts confidence in one’s appearance.
HOW ARE ENLARGED PORES TREATED?
Keeping the pores clean and unclogged is a step toward skin health. Daily cleansing and at home remedies such as exfoliants and masks can help unclog pores. Chemical peels and Microdermabrasion remove debris from the skin refining texture. Laser skin resurfacing or Fraxel can treat enlarged pores, but may cause hyperpigmentation. Botox inserted superficially into the skin (not the muscle) can create tighter skin and reduce appearance of large pores. Photodynamic therapy, a light activated solution, improves the size of the oil glands. Microneedling seems to be one of the most successful and longest lasting treatments for enlarged pores.
WHY IS MICRONEEDLING ENLARGED PORES A GREAT TREATMENT?
Microneedling is a safe and effective method for reducing the appearance of enlarged pores. The micro injuries to the skin caused by microneedling trigger skin’s own wound healing response. The skin naturally produces new collagen and elastin. Collagen creates the appearance of smaller pores and tighter skin. Collagen builds healthy supple skin. Microneedling has virtually no side effects unlike many other treatments. Microneedling for enlarged pores is one of the most common uses of the treatment.