Open pores: How to close them

Open pores can be closed. With hygiene and the right products, you can return them to their normal size and even out the skin on your face again. Let’s take a look at how to do it.

Why do pores open up?

Pores are small orifices in our skin that help to release oil to keep our skin soft and hydrated. If they are very dilated or swollen though, other factors such as sweat, dirt, excess oil or the use of makeup affects them by filling and obstructing them, leading to spots and blackheads.

4 steps to close the pores on your face

Wash your face well: we recommend washing your face with warm water twice a day before finally rinsing it with cold water to help close your pores. When you have done this, you can apply your moisturising cream and makeup.
Use suitable products: not any product will do, it is important to use products that are specifically designed to close pores. Remember that activated carbon drags dirt away and absorbs any excess of oil, whereas salicylic acid penetrates deeper, dissolving the oil and reducing inflammation.
Exfoliate your skin: exfoliation helps to eliminate dead skin cells easier, making your skin brighter. You should ideally exfoliate your skin twice a week by applying a specific exfoliation product in small circular movements working outwards from the middle of your face.
Use steam to clean your skin: this is an age-old remedy, but it works! After washing your face and cleaning off any makeup and dirt, boil some water and remove it from the heat. Place your face over it taking care not to burn yourself and cover your head with a towel to make a type of mini-sauna. Stay like that for about 10 minutes and then wash your face with cold water to close your pores before applying your moisturising cream.