Vettigheid en vergrote poriën

Oiliness (Sebum Overproduction)

Your skin naturally produces oil (sebum) to keep it moisturized and protected. But in oily skin types, the sebaceous glands go into overdrive, producing more oil than necessary. This is often due to:

  • Genetics (some people just naturally have oilier skin).
  • Hormonal fluctuations (testosterone plays a big role).
  • Over-cleansing or skipping moisturizer (tricks your skin into thinking it’s dry, so it compensates with more oil).
  • Humid or hot climates.

Enlarged Pores

Pores are the tiny openings around hair follicles that release sebum. They can appear larger due to:

  • Excess oil and dead skin buildup stretching them.
  • Loss of elasticity with age (skin around the pores sags slightly, making them look bigger).
  • Sun damage weakening collagen.
  • Improper product use (pore-clogging ingredients or not cleansing well).

 

How to manage oiliness and enlarged pores?

Gentle, Effective Cleansing: Use a gel or foaming cleanser with salicylic acid (BHA) to cut through oil and keep pores clean. Avoid harsh cleansers or bar soaps because they strip too much oil, which triggers more production.

Exfoliate but not to much: Use chemical exfoliants like salicylic acid (BHA) that deep cleans inside pores and glycolic or lactic acid (AHAs) that helps with texture and cell turnover. Avoid scrubs because they can make pores worse.

Moisturize: Go for oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturizers and look for ingredienst like niacinamide (balances oil and tightens pores), hyaluronic acid (hydrates without greasiness), and squalane (lightweight hydration).

Retinoids at Night: Over time, retinoids shrink the appearance of pores and reduce oil production. Start with a low concentration.

Sun Protection: UV damage breaks down collagen which leads to pores stretch so sunscreen is a must. Use a lightweight, matte-finish with atleast SPF 30+ daily and look for oil-free, mattifying, and non-comedogenic.

Weekly Clay Masks or Charcoal Masks: Draws out oil and debris from pores. Use 1–2x/week for a deep clean.