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When I was 19, I read from some beauty expert's book that pores cannot be "closed" because there is no muscle around the pores to contract them. I am so glad that this piece of information has been stuck in my mind ever since because I wouldn't waste my energy and money to look for products to do what cannot be done. Frankly, this piece of news is not as devastating as it sounds if you understand what causes the appearance of "big pores".

There are mainly three main reasons which give rise to the phenomenon: 1) building up of dead skin cells on the skin surface which cast shadows on skin and make the pores look bigger; 2) lack of hydration in skin and therefore skin cells are not plumped up which make the "gaps" more visible; and 3) aging process.

Indeed, there are methods to make the pores less visible and you don't need to spend extra dollars on specialty products:

1. Exfoliation. There are mainly two types of exfoliating products in the market - physical and chemicals exfoliants. Physical ones are mostly known as scrubs and there are tiny particles in the cream or gel and you could use it to massage on your face and rub away the dead skin cells. They are most common exfoliants suitable for all age groups and skin types (for sensitive skin, you need to opt for a mild one). Chemical ones are mostly known as AHA/ BHA products. They are acids which could clear away the dead skin cells without the need of massage. They are mostly used for anti-aging purposes. If you just start to use AHA products, it's recommended not to use one with a concentration higher than 5%. Otherwise, it would be best for you to go to a dermatologist and seek for advice on the concentration level before trying it out on your own. Exfoliate your skin once a week. Once the dead skin cells are cleared, your pores would appear smaller (as there is no more dead skin cell casting shadow on your skin) and your skin would feel smoother.

2. Deep Cleansing Face Mask. It helps to suck out the dirt clogged in your pores and when the pores are clean, they look smaller. Use it once a week to clear your pores thoroughly.

3. Hydration/ Moisture. Water takes up a major role in our skin formulation. When every skin cells has been hydrated properly, they are "plumped up", therefore the gaps between each skin cell are narrowed and of course it would result in smaller-looking pores. In addition to moisturizing your skin every morning and night, you could also use a moisturizing face pack one or two per week to have the intensively hydrated effect.

4. Avoid Alcohol. Toners or products contain alcohol might give you an instant "tightened-pores" feeling but it does more harm than good to you in the long run as it constantly dries out your skin. Your pores won't be minimized in the long run; instead, it's the contrary due to the lack of hydration.

Pay attention to the above four steps and add them to your beauty routine. Good skin cannot be achieved overnight; you need patience and persistence to achieve fabulous results.

Learn more about this author, Ice Queen.
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