Unevenness and large pores can give an aged and unhealthy skin appearance. Acids and retinol-based products are the first ingredients when it comes to treatment!
Most people suffer from some level of unevenness which can be present in the form of discolouration - typically post inflammatory hyperpigmention, aka brown spots after an inflamed spot; scaring and enlarged pores. These skin concerns can also be associated with the aging process and environmental stressors, especially UV radiation. UV radiation causes uneven skintone by irregular melanin (skin pigment) production. In addition, it destroys the precious collagen in the skin that would otherwise keep pores tight, leading to enlarged pores.
Although environmental factors are clearly leading to unevenness and large pores, internal factors such as hormonal changes cannot be underestimated either. Testosterone in men are significantly contributing to the presence of large pores, whilst women typically suffer from unevenness more during or after their pregnancy.
When it comes to internal reasons of unevenness and large pores, it is usually an indicator of the lack of antioxidants in the diet. Antioxidants are found in variable quantities in all plant-based foods, but leafy green vegetables e.g.: kale and spinach and berry fruits are particularly rich in these compounds. Antioxidants can counteract some of the damage associated with internal ageing whilst also providing some level of protection against UV radiation that would otherwise lead to uneven skin tone and large pores. The ‘5-a-day’ is great public health recommendation to follow to ensure that you have an adequate amount of daily antioxidant intake!
Antioxidants in skincare are equally important as their dietary intake when it comes to unevenness and large pores. For instance, Vitamin C is a great choice since it can not only function as an antioxidant but it can also inhibit melanin (pigment) production and accelerate the exfoliation of dead skin cells resulting in a more even skintone. Regular exfoliation cannot be underestimated either. Typically, products that involve both physical and chemical exfoliation is the best, used two to three times a week. All of these beneficial effects are increased when retinol based serums and creams are used, as retinol is able to provide the above advantages all in one, however, layering active ingredients is still necessary for the best possible results. Lasty, but most importantly, daily application of a broad-spectrum sunscreen (UVA, UVB, Infrared, HEV) is crucial to prevent collagen loss and the discolouration of the skin.
When you visit any website, it may store or retrieve information on your browser, mostly in the form of cookies. This information might be about you, your preferences or your device and is mostly used to make the site work as you expect it to. The information does not usually directly identify you, but it can give you a more personalized web experience. Because we respect your right to privacy, you can choose not to allow some types of cookies. Click on the different category headings to find out more and change our default settings. However, blocking some types of cookies may impact your experience of the site and the services we are able to offer.
