Tuesday Tips #33: The Scourge of Porexia

Tuesday Tips #33: The Scourge of Porexia

Ever hear of Porexia? It's the search for impossibly small pores, according to Mary P. Lupo, professor of dermatology at Tulane University School of Medicine in New Orleans, who coined the term.

According to Lupo, patients plead, "Make my pores smaller." She says "Patients are never completely satisfied, because there isn't a permanent solution. Beauty is associated with perfect skin and pores are a huge part of that equation. When pores are tighter, light reflects better. You get an overall appearance of vitality, youthfulness and health."

The bad news is that there's no permanent way to make pores smaller. You're born with what you're born with. But the good news is there are ways to give the appearance of smaller pores. You can try the tips below, or listen to Professor Lupo: "My best advice is to stop looking in the magnifying mirror. Why subject yourself to larger-than-life pores if you're the only one who can see them?"

Aging Backwards Tips for Petite Pores

1) Exfoliate. Dead skin cells can collect in the pores and make them appear bigger. My favorite way to exfoliate is also the most natural way. I scrub my face with a soft washcloth and warm water. It sounds too simple to work, but it does a great job for me.

2) Pore minimizing products. I'm a big fan of Olay products and the Olay Total Effects line is excellent for achieving the appearance of smaller pores.

3) Dry up. Excessive oiliness can fill up pores with a layer of oil that stretches the pores and makes them more visible. I love Mac Blot Film for absorbing the excess oil without adding anything to your skin. Some blotting papers have powder on them, which can accentuate wrinkles and lines on mature skin.

4) Try Per-fekt. Per-fekt Skin Perfection Gel enhances the appearance of the skin rather than covering it up. It glides on light as a feather and gives an airbrushed look to skin that virtually eliminates pores. Available in five sheer shades.

5) Consult a pro. Getting regular facials can help to keep the pores clean. Blackheads and whiteheads can clog pores. A professional aesthetician can get the problem under control and keep your pores clear and clean.

6) Cool it. According to some experts, pores shrink when exposed to cool temperatures. After cleansing with warm water and a gentle cleanser, rinse with cold water to close the pores, keep the dirt out and make them appear smaller.

7) Try Isolaz. A new device for treating acne uses two technologies, the power of light to kill bacteria and pneumatic energy to suction debris from the pores. It only takes about 10 minutes in your doctor's office with no downtime, no needles, no redness, no peeling and no sun sensitivity, according to the manufacturer.

So, put your best face forward with the smallest pores possible!