The surface of the skin naturally has pores that help the sebaceous glands under the skin release the oily substance skin, which gives the skin its natural texture. However, sometimes due to lack of proper personal hygiene, or due to heightened hormonal activity during adolescence or pregnancy, the sebaceous glands start producing excessive sebum, which rises to the epidermis and often enlarges and clogs the pores. Frequently, dirt and dead skin cells also get accumulated in these pores, making them look larger and more prominent. This gives the skin an oily, uneven texture.
Home Remedies for Enlarged Pores
There are a few simple home remedies that can easily and effectively treat this condition. One of the most popular ways of clearing away skin pores is to boil some water in a small tub till the point it starts boiling. Now bend your face over it, covering your head and the tub with a soft towel, so that the steam is not able to escape. The heat induces sweating, which then flushes away the dirt and oil accumulated in the pores. Thee steam also unclogs the pores when it turns into water again on coming into contact with the skin. After about 15 minutes wipe the sweat and the water from your face with the towel and apply the fresh juice of lemons on your face. The acidic juices of lemon have natural bleaching and tightening properties that give the skin a firmer, smoother look. Follow this procedure daily for two weeks to find a marked improvement in the texture of your skin.
Another popular remedy is to massage your face with ice cubes for 5-10 minutes every day. This helps shrink large prominent pores naturally. You could also apply the juice or the pulp of a cucumber on your face and leave it on for at least 15 minutes. Wash your face with cold water after the juice dries up. Alternatively, you could also mash a raw potato or slice it into thin pieces and apply this as a poultice on your face. Both cucumber and potato are natural bleaching agents that give the skin an even tone and shrink surface pores by cleansing them naturally. You could also use the pulp or the juice of a pineapple, papaya or peaches for similar results. A mixture of equal portions of limejuice and tomato juice also serves as a natural skin-tightening remedy. For another remedy, mix a little salt into some buttermilk and massage your face with this solution. Rinse your face with warm water after some time.