The grass is always greener. Those with dry skin dream of a naturally dewy complexion while those with oily skin go to great lengths to control the slick. If you are the latter, while ageing and wrinkles are less of a concern, you’re more likely to deal with large, clogged pores and blackheads.
For starters, men tend to have larger pores than women due to testosterone, which grow with age. If you have oily skin, they will be larger still to accommodate revved-up sebum production, which can lead to breakouts. The role of pores is to eliminate sebum (which moisturises skin and prevents dryness, dullness and discolouration) and well as sweat, which flushes out toxins and regulates body temperature.
Pore size is mostly genetic but can also be affected by hormones, hygiene and external factors such as temperature, humidity and UV exposure. They tend to be more pronounced around the nose, cheeks and forehead. Men’s skin is thicker and oiler than women’s, and also ages differently. While you can’t technically reduce pore size, you can control sebum build-up which sometimes causes them to enlarge.
When clogged with excess oil, dirt or dead skin (which blocks hair follicles), pores not only become larger, but the combination can lead to blackheads and whiteheads. The most effective way to reduce the look of pores is to keep skin clean and exfoliated. Look for a skincare collection designed specifically for men, such as Gentlemen’s Tonic’s Advanced Derma range, which contains natural, active ingredients combining peptides and amino acids.
Washing your face twice a day prevents enlarged pores by minimising the build-up of grime within them. Use a facial cleanser, as opposed to bar soap, for the best results. The Gentlemen’s Tonic Hydro Fresh Cream Cleanser is non-foaming and rich in amino acids and essential oil extracts which removes impurities and maintain moisture as well as the skin’s elasticity.
A firming serum can also help to avoid premature ageing as decreased elasticity around the pores can also cause them to appear larger. Hero Peptide Serum from Gentlemen’s Tonic contains Raffermine 2, a natural skin-firming agent which provides an immediate and lasting tightening effect by strengthening the molecular structure of the dermis.
Men who are prone to breakouts can consider using an acne cream containing salicylic acid, which can reduce both blemishes and the look of pore size. Equally important is staying away from products which lead to the look of enlarged pores such as heavy moisturisers and sunscreens, particularly those that are not designed to be used on the face. A better alternative would be Gentlemen’s Tonic’s Time Control Solution, packed with antioxidants, and containing Alistin, an anti-ageing peptide that protects the complexion from environmental stressors.
You can purchase Gentlemen's Tonic Advanced, Derma Range, at our shop
Exclusively for THIA Wellness By @Stephanie Shiu.
