THE SCIENCE BEHIND LARGE PORE FORMATION:
In the past, enlarged facial pores were regarded as an irreversible aging process rather than a correctable cosmetic problem. However, with significant advances in dermatologic devices, we are now able to treat them. But, how are these nuisances formed in the first place? Read to find out:
1. HIGH OIL PRODUCTION
Both facial pore size and sebum production are linked to the genetics we inherited from our parents. Variation in pore size is also correlated with ethnicity. Asian women have smaller pore sizes when compared with other racial groups. African Americans demonstrate substantially larger facial pores than any other racial group.
2. GENETICS
If your main goal of the treatment is to improve superficial concerns like fine lines, hyperpigmentation, and wrinkles then the microneedling pen may be the best course of treatment. Vivace is an excellent option for desired goals of skin tightening, lifting, contouring, and severe acne scarring and wrinkles. The right procedure should be chosen based on treatment goals.
SLK Clinic offers both the microneedling pen and RF microneedling. Need help deciding? Book a complimentary consult to help you learn more:
3. GENDER
Females are predisposed to larger pore size than males are. Why? This is believed to be a result of the monthly menstrual cycle when hormones influence sebum production. Sebum output level becomes elevated during a woman’s period and thus the pore size becomes larger in the ovulation phase.
4. SUN DAMAGE
Repeated exposure to ultraviolet rays from the sun will damage the collagen and elastin fibers in the skin, which will decrease collagen density, damage the elastin structure, and increase the size of pores.
NOW, HOW TO SHRINK PORES:
No pore strip, face mask, or facial will ever minimize pore size; these modalities simply disguise the appearance of pores. To truly shrink pores, follow these steps:
1. USE A RETINOL
Use a retinol or retinoid such as tretinoin every day or every-other-day. This will increase collagen synthesis to minimize pore size. At SLK we recommend the Neocutis Nouvelle retinol to our patients because the slow time-release microsphere formulation is the most gentle form of medical-grade retinol and won’t result in redness or skin flaking.
2. RADIOFREQUENCY MICRONEEDLING
Pores before and after 3 Vivace RF Microneedling treatments
Undergo periodic radiofrequency microneedling to shrink pores rapidly. The energy waves will stun the sebaceous glands into producing much less sebum, resulting in smaller pore openings. Treatments every 8-12 weeks (4-6 times per year) will keep the sebum at bay all year long. Our favorite RF microneedling device is Vivace because it has the least amount of pain and downtime.
3. MICRONEEDLING PEN WITH PRP TREATMENTS
Microneedling will rebuild collagen, plus the channels can be used as an entryway for PRP which will rebuild elastin fibers which are essential for elasticity and to keep pore openings tight.
4. SUNSCREEN
Use SPF 50 (Better yet PA+++) or higher every morning to block UV radiation from further widening of pores due to collagen degradation. We recommend keeping a Colorescience sunscreen brush or two at your desk or in your car to re-apply throughout the day.
To purchase the Neocutis Nouvelle retinol or Colorescience brush, or to speak with a SLK expert about microneedling, PRP, or Vivace, contact us for a complimentary consultation now!
