How to Address Dry Skin and Large Pores

Enlarged pores are often associated with oily skin, but dry skin types can experience them, too. Because it can be tricky to treat this combination of skin concerns, we consulted with plastic surgeon and SkinCeuticals ambassador Dr. Peter Schmid to find out the best ways to minimize the look of pores without dehydrating skin. 

What Causes Enlarged Pores?

“Large pores are primarily caused by genetics, but they may also be the result of inflammatory skin conditions, excessive oil build-up, thickening skin, severe acne, sun damage and the loss of skin elasticity, which progressively occurs with the aging process,” Dr. Schmid explains. 

How to Minimize Pores on Dry Skin

Exfoliate 

Exfoliating regularly is a must for all skin types, especially if you are experiencing noticeably congested or enlarged pores. “I highly recommend using a vitamin C serum such as SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic or C + AHA,” Dr. Schmid says. He also recommends combining a vitamin C serum with a chemical exfoliator, such as SkinCeuticals Retexturing Activator to help improve skin texture. 

Moisturize

Keeping your skin hydrated is the best way to guard against flakes that can clog pores. We like the CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion because it’s non-comedogenic and provides long-lasting hydration without feeling heavy.

Apply Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen

If you’re wondering why we always preach about the importance of using sunscreen, even on cloudy days, this is why: “Sunscreens are paramount to reducing the risk for premature skin aging and expansion of pores,” Dr. Schmid says. The SkinCeuticals Light Moisture UV Defense contains a broad-spectrum SPF 50 and is oil-free for a clean skin finish.

Apply a Face Mask

Incorporating a clay mask into your skin-care routine is a simple way to detox your pores and draw out dirt, oil and debris that may be on the surface of your complexion. Because clay masks can sometimes be drying, choose carefully.

One clay mask that can be used on all skin types is the SkinCeuticals Clarifying Clay Masque. This clay mask is formulated to be non-drying and has a deep pore-cleansing formula that combines high-quality earth clays, botanicals and minerals. It also contains a hydroxy-acid blend to gently exfoliate and aloe and chamomile to soothe.

Photo: Chaunte Vaughn

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