Hello, I am Lee Sang-ju, a dermatologist. Last time, we looked at the causes and treatment methods for pores. Thanks to the great interest in pores after the broadcast, today we will take a more focused look at pore care methods.
Various Causes of Enlarged Pores
The causes of enlarged pores are very diverse.
- Excessive Sebum Secretion: Oily skin with high sebum secretion is more likely to have enlarged pores.
- Reduced Skin Elasticity: Pores can also enlarge as skin elasticity decreases with age.
- Fine Vellus Hair: Sometimes, small vellus hairs on the face can appear like pores.
Since pores can be caused by various factors, choosing a treatment method that matches the cause is important for achieving good results.
Why You Shouldn't Forcefully Squeeze Sebum and Blackheads
When sebum or blackheads accumulate and enlarge within pores, they can overflow to the skin's surface. However, if we forcefully squeeze them out, it can damage the pore walls, which may promote further pore enlargement.
Therefore, if you have a lot of sebum, it is advisable to pay more attention to cleansing or use light cosmetics that help control sebum. Forceful squeezing is not recommended.
When Can Pore Treatments Be Done After Nose Surgery?
Immediately after nose surgery, it is best to avoid irritating the nose. However, after about 3 to 6 months post-procedure, dermatological treatments can be safely received. Dermatological procedures primarily act on the skin's surface, while nose surgery acts on the deeper subcutaneous layer, so there is generally no significant interaction between the two procedures.
What About the Effectiveness of Commercial Pore Minimizing Masks?
Commercial pore minimizing masks generally work on two principles:
- Masks that remove sebum from inside the pores
- Masks that temporarily stimulate the pore walls to swell, making pores less noticeable
Both can provide temporary effects, but the effects do not last long, and they are not considered fundamental treatments.
Is Cold Water Cleansing Effective for Pore Minimization?
Sebum tends to soften when skin temperature rises and contract when temperature drops. Therefore, some people with enlarged pores use cold water for cleansing to temporarily induce sebum contraction. However, this effect does not last long. Furthermore, applying too large a temperature difference can irritate the skin or make it dry, so excessive use is not advisable.
Finding the Right Pore Treatment for You
As mentioned earlier, pores require appropriate treatment tailored to their cause.
- If vellus hair is the cause: You may consider fundamentally removing the hair.
- If excessive sebum secretion is the cause: It is recommended to receive medication or procedures that reduce sebum.
- For enlarged pores themselves: Laser treatments can be expected to promote new skin growth and reduce pore size.
Therefore, it is advisable to first get an accurate diagnosis to understand the exact cause of enlarged pores.
How Much Can Pore Treatment Improve?
The effectiveness of pore treatment can vary from person to person. However, it is known that with consistent and diligent treatment, improvements of 50% or more can be achieved. For those concerned about pores, consulting a specialist to create an appropriate treatment plan can be a good option.
Today, we've addressed common questions about pores. If you have any further questions, please feel free to ask in the comments or via KakaoTalk. This was dermatologist Lee Sang-ju. Thank you.