Today’s topic focuses on knowledge and care regarding pores. During consultations, many friends inquire about enlarged pores, and we will delve into the causes, functions, and effective methods for improvement.
The basic concept of pores is quite simple; they are the exit points for hair, forming a three-dimensional structure. We can visualize hair follicles as the fretboard of a guitar, with hair growing out from these openings. There are abundant sebaceous glands surrounding the follicles, so hair follicles and sebaceous glands are often collectively referred to as hair follicle-sebaceous gland units. In the scalp and facial areas, hair follicles and sebaceous glands are particularly dense, making pores more noticeable in these regions.
The function of pores extends beyond aesthetics; they play an important role in the skin’s repair process. When the skin is injured, the stem cells in the follicles are activated to produce growth factors that aid healing. Another significant function of pores is the secretion of sebum, which helps moisturize the skin and maintain hydration. Additionally, the arrector pili muscles surrounding the pores contract in cold conditions, causing hair to stand up, which helps regulate our body temperature.
A healthy pore is unobstructed, with surrounding collagen and elastic fibers in good condition. However, when pores become clogged, keratin or sebum can block them, making them appear larger.
So, what causes enlarged pores? Firstly, excessive secretion from sebaceous glands is a primary factor. During puberty, sebaceous glands develop gradually, particularly noticeable in individuals with oily skin. Secondly, skin inflammation is another important factor; persistent acne issues can cause pores to become blocked, and ongoing inflammation can lead to fibrosis, further enlarging the pores. As we age, the skin naturally ages as well, with a reduction in elastic tissue, leading to gradually enlarged pores. Lastly, the condition of hair can also influence pore size; individuals with thicker hair roots may have more prominent pores.
To address these causes, we can adopt various methods to improve the issue of enlarged pores. First, for excessive sebaceous gland secretion, topical skincare products such as retinoids and retinol can effectively reduce pore blockage. In addition, salicylic acid, glycolic acid, and mandelic acid can help cleanse the pores and maintain a healthy state. Oral retinoids and certain contraceptive pills can also significantly reduce sebaceous gland secretion.
Laser treatments and microneedling can significantly improve issues related to sebum secretion. For acne caused by oiliness, pulsed dye laser treatments can effectively alleviate the condition. For skin inflammation, a comprehensive approach that incorporates dietary and lifestyle adjustments, along with topical medications and acid treatments, can be effective.
For aging skin, sun protection is the most critical step. Reducing UV damage to collagen can effectively slow the aging process. If pore issues have already appeared, consider using photoelectric stimulation technology to promote collagen production.
Lastly, for individuals with thicker hair roots, moderate use of photoelectric laser hair removal can not only improve pore condition but also achieve a more aesthetically pleasing effect.