Huge Pores - Advice needed
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Fri Jan 16, 2009 6:42 pm

Hey everyone, I would appreciate any much-needed advice!

I'm 20 years old and the pores next to my nose (its a big area) and on my nose are HUGE, I mean if you imagine the skin on an orange - that is what they're like. They're really depressing me because I have tried numerous 'pore fillers' e.g clinique, cle de peau etc and none work. I've also tried TCA/Glycolic peels to freshen up and when I wear any foundation, it makes it look worse..
I won't even let people get close to me when I'm talking because I don't want them seeing them out of embarrasment.

I'd appreciate any recommendations of treatments/products/dermal fillers etc as I am willing to try anything at this point.. Sad

Thanks for your help!

May x

Smile

p.s I apologise if this question has already been posted but I had a good search and didn't find what I was looking for!

free skin care · Fri Jan 16, 2009 8:04 pm

Hi Miss May! I feel your pain! That dang "orange peel" texture is literally the pits! I have the same skin texture and have also tried just about everything out there with little results. I will pass on some things I have learned and hope that they help you too.

You will never be able to completely change the size of your pores, sucks but it's the truth. You can thank genetics for that. (Look at this as good news, think of all the money you will save on products that claim to shrink them permanently.) There are however things that you can do to minimize their appearance.

Keep them pristine! I personally think that this is the best advice I ever received on my war against pores. I invested in a Clarisonic for this reason and haven't ever looked back. Think of it this way, anything that is stuck inside a pore will stretch it out making it look even bigger, this is exactly what we want to avoid, so I look at my Clarisonic as an insurance policy for my pores.

If you do facials at home do them the correct way (after a shower or steaming) so you are not squeezing too hard. Over time they will lose their elasticity and become even bigger.

Get your self a good clay mask. Granted this will only shrink them temporary but hey, its better than nothing, right?

Avoid applying any glittery or shimmery MU in that area, this will magnify them x 1000.

If you are oily get yourself some oil blotting papers and use them through out the day. Any shine in that area will magnify the size (if you are oily you may want to check out the thread floating around here discussing acne/oil and dairy products, since cutting dairy out of my diet I have noticed a significant decrease in facial oil thus resulting in smaller looking pores).

Invest in a good mattifying powder, I really like Jane Iredale Amazing Matte™ Loose Finish Powder. I apply it with a flocked sponge in that area, then MMU, finished with another layer of powder. They are dang near invisible with this combo. This powder also works well on its own for those "no MU days".

Wear sunscreen everyday! Not only is this a good general rule in any skincare routine but over time unchecked sun exposure will cause skin to lose elasticity, resulting in enlarged pores.

Don't smoke! Again with losing elasticity.

You may want to ask your derm about starting Retin-A. This is the only thing I know of that will help shrink the appearance on a more permanent level.

I recently discovered a gem of a product that has really helped give me a smooth appearance under MU. I use it as a primer, it seems to create a cellophane like layer that tightens everything up. Keep in mind though that I use all powder MU and have not tested it with liquid MU. You can find it here. http://www.vitacost.com/Jason-New-Cell-Therapy-12-1-2-Plus

Lastly, please don't be embarrassed! I know that its hard when you feel like your skin looks bad but trust me most people don't even notice all the things we do about ourselves. Try putting it into perspective the next time you feel that way, if someone is going to judge you or not want to be your friend because your pores are bigger than they would like, well, then frankly that person is an idiot with whacked out priorities. Get a game plan but don't fixate on them because the more you do the bigger they will become in your head which I guarantee is a lot bigger than they are IRL.

Hope I helped and Good Luck!

Sat Jan 17, 2009 4:38 am

Hi Vonstella!

Wow thankyou sooo much for all your advice! Smile

You're right about the genetics thing, my dad has similar pores and his mum too so I guess we have to learn to live with them, oh joy! Wink

I actually read somewhere on the internet that botox was being used to help with acne as it restricted the oil flow and thus decreased the pore size - it was interesting!

Ohhh I've heard amazing reviews about the clarisonic brush so I will have to invest in one. Could you please tell me, what MMU do you use (aside from the Jane Iredale powder)?

Thanks again,
May x Smile

free skin care · Sat Jan 17, 2009 5:49 am

Hi, May.
I think vonstella gave you some great advice! The genetics play a great part, but Retin-A might definitely be helpful because of its pore-cleansing and collagen-stimulating properties.

If you don't get a prescription from a dermatologist, you can order Retin-A without a prescription from an online pharmacy. Many people on here order from the India-based alldaychemist.com. They sell Retin-A for a couple of $ per tube.

I would also like to mention that I have been using SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF for the last few weeks, and I have noticed a significant improvement in skin texture. I did not have big pores to begin with, but now I really cannot see my pores at all.

I don't know to which extent this serum is helpful for someone with a "pore problem", but it might be worth a try. I am impressed by it.

Good luck! Smile

free skin care · Sat Jan 17, 2009 10:24 am

You are welcome Miss May!

I have not heard that about Botox. Will have to do some reading up on it. Something to keep in mind though, you don't necessarily want to decrease oil production completely. Although for someone who is oily it sounds great in theory, all that oil helps keep your skin young and line free. I think it is more important to find a balance between being an oil slick and a desert!

Anyway, I use Alima mineral MU. I find it to be the best out there for me, the range of colors is outstanding, texture is so silky its almost creamy and no glitter! Plus the customer service and shipping time is excellent. I started using it about 3 years ago based on the rec from my dear friend Manslayerliz (gotta give a shout out! lol!).

free skin care · Sat Jan 17, 2009 3:13 pm

Hi Septembergirl Smile

would you tell me more about Skinceuticals Phloretin CF? how does it compare to C&E Ferulic and Skinmedica vit.C complex for you?

free skin care · Sun Jan 18, 2009 6:54 am

Aiva wrote:

Hi Septembergirl Smile

would you tell me more about Skinceuticals Phloretin CF? how does it compare to C&E Ferulic and Skinmedica vit.C complex for you?

Guten Tag, Aiva!!
I had not really planned to try SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF, but I got tempted when reading the reviews on MUA. Quite a few people told that it made their skin look so good, and that they would switch from SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic.

That said, SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic has also got great reviews on MUA.

Anyway, I found that the phloretin serum improved my skin texture and appearance of my pores after a short time of use, and it also gave this "healthy glow" and dewy look that I am crazy about. I have found that some vitamin C serums cause blackheads, but not this one.

I bought six sample vials of SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF. The ones I have been using have stayed clear as water with no signs of oxidation, whereas SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic has a slight champagne colour to it even when it's newly opened.

SkinMedica C Complex is still a good serum, but I am really impressed by the phloretin and want to repurchase.

free skin care · Sun Jan 18, 2009 7:35 am

Septembergirl wrote:

Aiva wrote:

Hi Septembergirl Smile

would you tell me more about Skinceuticals Phloretin CF? how does it compare to C&E Ferulic and Skinmedica vit.C complex for you?

Guten Tag, Aiva!!
I had not really planned to try SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF, but I got tempted when reading the reviews on MUA. Quite a few people told that it made their skin look so good, and that they would switch from SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic.

That said, SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic has also got great reviews on MUA.

Anyway, I found that the phloretin serum improved my skin texture and appearance of my pores after a short time of use, and it also gave this "healthy glow" and dewy look that I am crazy about. I have found that some vitamin C serums cause blackheads, but not this one.

I bought six sample vials of SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF. The ones I have been using have stayed clear as water with no signs of oxidation, whereas SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic has a slight champagne colour to it even when it's newly opened.

SkinMedica C Complex is still a good serum, but I am really impressed by the phloretin and want to repurchase.

oh, it sounds soo tempting! Rolling Eyes

you are my source of good advice!
I`ve bought Skinmedica C on your recommendation and am still almost happy with it, almost - just because it has creamy texture and I apply very much of it, so the product flies away with my use making it quite expensive. I do prefer watery C serums.
I was very disappointed by CE Ferulic, but I think it was the presence of vit.E in it what made me oily and unhealthy looking. Since there is no vit.E in Phloretin and it`s made specifically for oily skins, I should give a try.
thank you very much! Mange takk! Very Happy

free skin care · Sun Jan 18, 2009 9:17 am

p.s. Septembergirl, when I was using CE Ferulic, I bought 6 sample size vials and were using them more than 3 months. The serum was absolutely clear all this time. I think you might have received not very fresh serum.

free skin care · Sun Jan 18, 2009 12:41 pm

Aiva wrote:

oh, it sounds soo tempting! Rolling Eyes

you are my source of good advice!
I`ve bought Skinmedica C on your recommendation and am still almost happy with it, almost - just because it has creamy texture and I apply very much of it, so the product flies away with my use making it quite expensive. I do prefer watery C serums.
I was very disappointed by CE Ferulic, but I think it was the presence of vit.E in it what made me oily and unhealthy looking. Since there is no vit.E in Phloretin and it`s made specifically for oily skins, I should give a try.
thank you very much! Mange takk! Very Happy

I am flattered by being called a source of good advice Very Happy

, but I hope that you will check out the reviews on MUA as well before you decide where to spend your Deutsche Mark next.

But in theory, SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF should be great if your skin tends to be oily!

Smile

free skin care · Sun Jan 18, 2009 12:44 pm

I was thinking of getting that serum online, in the sample vials. Can I ask what site you used? I'm a bit worried since I hear that the sample viles are not sealed.

free skin care · Sun Jan 18, 2009 12:57 pm

amonavis, I bought SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF sample vials fromwww.skinmedix.com. You are right, they are not sealed, but I don't know if they are supposed to? The serum was perfectly clear and worked like a charm. I have also purchased SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic sample vials from the same site twice, and the serum in all the bottles have been very slightly champagne coloured.

free skin care · Sun Jan 18, 2009 2:14 pm

Vonstella, do you apply your Jane Iredale amazing matte loose finish powder, do you apply it wet? You said you apply it with a flocked sponge - so do you wet it?

free skin care · Sun Jan 18, 2009 3:44 pm

Hi charis, No I do not use it wet. I just like the control of product that the sponge allows me to have. I can pick up more powder with it and "press" it into the spots that I need more coverage or oil control. I find that using a brush wastes too much.

free skin care · Sun Jan 18, 2009 8:48 pm

septembergirl, do you use retin A? I ask because I am wondering if my retin A treated skin can handle the alcohol content of the SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF. But other than that, it seems really exciting and I think I will try it. I have pore issues.

free skin care · Mon Jan 19, 2009 4:26 am

amonavis wrote:

septembergirl, do you use retin A? I ask because I am wondering if my retin A treated skin can handle the alcohol content of the SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF. But other than that, it seems really exciting and I think I will try it. I have pore issues.

Hi, amonavis. I don't use Retin-A. I am using Remergent DNA Repair in the evening. Smile

Mon Jan 19, 2009 5:25 am

Septembergirl - Thanks for the great info! Smile

I tried a product by skinceuticals called AOX 20 w/ ferulic and it was amazing - aside from the hotdog smell and the orange blackheads (thanks to vitC). My skin was really bright and glowy - highly recommend it! I'll give the phloretin a go anyway Wink

Vonstella - Oooh I'll give Alima a go Smile

- I remember trying ID bareminerals way back and the glitter made my pores look like craters bleh . Coverage was fantastic though! Do you use any moisturisers/primers etc under?

Thanks!
May x Smile

free skin care · Mon Jan 19, 2009 9:26 am

IMO ID bareminerals is the WORST for oily skin with large pores, that brand was the first MMU I tried. I shudder just thinking about it! Here is the link to Alima. http://www.alimapure.com/roi/772/Mineral-Cosmetics-Face/Satin-Matte-Foundation/

For moisturizers I use a tiny bit of organic virgin Coconut Oil strait out of the shower but I would use what ever suites your skin. For a primer I use Jason New Cell Therapy 12 1/2 Plus. I mentioned it and provided a link in my first post (near the bottom).

free skin care · Tue Jan 27, 2009 9:36 pm

I find exfoliation works followed by a clay mask every two days until the pores get smaller. Follow cleanser every day with an astringent that will close pores.

free skin care · Tue Jan 27, 2009 9:48 pm

I use Mama Lotion on the problem area(s) at night and Clinique pore minimizer "instant perfector" under my make-up during the day. Honestly, I've tried Retin-A, clay masks and just about everything else ever suggested, but Mama Lotion is the only thing that's ever made a difference in how large my pores appear. It does sting a tad, though, especially if you have sensitive skin.

free skin care · Wed Jan 28, 2009 9:55 am

AHA products help minimize pores.

free skin care · Wed Jan 28, 2009 2:16 pm

Septembergirl wrote:

Hi, May.
I think vonstella gave you some great advice! The genetics play a great part, but Retin-A might definitely be helpful because of its pore-cleansing and collagen-stimulating properties.

If you don't get a prescription from a dermatologist, you can order Retin-A without a prescription from an online pharmacy. Many people on here order from the India-based alldaychemist.com. They sell Retin-A for a couple of $ per tube.

I would also like to mention that I have been using SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF for the last few weeks, and I have noticed a significant improvement in skin texture. I did not have big pores to begin with, but now I really cannot see my pores at all.

I don't know to which extent this serum is helpful for someone with a "pore problem", but it might be worth a try. I am impressed by it.

Good luck! Smile

Hi Septembergirl!

You mentioned in your post above about being able to get Retin-A without a prescription from an India pharmacy? Is it genuine Retin-A? I thought you always needed a prescription? I am using Retinalhyde (Retrinal 0.1), but am interested in the Retin-A. Smile

free skin care · Tue Feb 03, 2009 7:42 pm

indeed pore sizes are genetic, be sure to keep your face clean, to keep those dirt at bay and also use tonner to close up the pores after washing. a little small action will really help in the long run.

Sat Feb 07, 2009 12:06 pm

Septembergirl wrote:

Aiva wrote:

Hi Septembergirl Smile

would you tell me more about Skinceuticals Phloretin CF? how does it compare to C&E Ferulic and Skinmedica vit.C complex for you?

Guten Tag, Aiva!!
I had not really planned to try SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF, but I got tempted when reading the reviews on MUA. Quite a few people told that it made their skin look so good, and that they would switch from SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic.

That said, SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic has also got great reviews on MUA.

Anyway, I found that the phloretin serum improved my skin texture and appearance of my pores after a short time of use, and it also gave this "healthy glow" and dewy look that I am crazy about. I have found that some vitamin C serums cause blackheads, but not this one.

I bought six sample vials of SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF. The ones I have been using have stayed clear as water with no signs of oxidation, whereas SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic has a slight champagne colour to it even when it's newly opened.

SkinMedica C Complex is still a good serum, but I am really impressed by the phloretin and want to repurchase.

SG, I keep meaning to ask you... have you found the Phloretin at all drying as mentioned by some?

free skin care · Sat Feb 07, 2009 2:47 pm

MystyPines wrote:

Septembergirl wrote:

Hi, May.
I think vonstella gave you some great advice! The genetics play a great part, but Retin-A might definitely be helpful because of its pore-cleansing and collagen-stimulating properties.

If you don't get a prescription from a dermatologist, you can order Retin-A without a prescription from an online pharmacy. Many people on here order from the India-based alldaychemist.com. They sell Retin-A for a couple of $ per tube.

I would also like to mention that I have been using SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF for the last few weeks, and I have noticed a significant improvement in skin texture. I did not have big pores to begin with, but now I really cannot see my pores at all.

I don't know to which extent this serum is helpful for someone with a "pore problem", but it might be worth a try. I am impressed by it.

Good luck! Smile

Hi Septembergirl!

You mentioned in your post above about being able to get Retin-A without a prescription from an India pharmacy? Is it genuine Retin-A? I thought you always needed a prescription? I am using Retinalhyde (Retrinal 0.1), but am interested in the Retin-A. Smile

Hi, mystypines!
Sorry for the late reply.
Yes, you can get Retin-A without a prescription from several online pharmacies. All you need to do, is to fill in a form with some very basic questions about your health.

I think most people on here have been ordering fromwww.alldaychemist.com andwww.inhousepharmacy.com . If you do a search on the forum, you will find quite a few posts about these pharmacies. HTH. Smile

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