Oily skin and enlarged pores: causes, mistakes to avoid, and an expert routine to regulate sebum

    Posted on May 05, 2025
    Oily skin and enlarged pores: causes, mistakes to avoid, and an expert routine to regulate sebum

    Shiny skin, visible pores, and frequent breakouts… Oily skin goes beyond a simple cosmetic concern — it often signals a deeper imbalance in the skin’s hydrolipidic barrier. To truly control excess sebum, it’s essential to understand the skin’s underlying mechanisms. 

    Why does skin become oily? 

    Oily skin is characterized by excessive sebum secretion by the sebaceous glands. This phenomenon can be influenced by several factors: 

    • Hormones (androgens, especially during adolescence and periods of stress), 

    • Environmental factors (pollution, hot and humid climate), 

    • Inappropriate skincare routine (cleansers that are too harsh or insufficient hydration), 

    • Genetic predisposition. 

    This excess sebum clogs pores, encourages bacterial proliferation, and leads to the appearance of blemishes. Additionally, dilated pores give the skin an uneven texture and less radiance. 

    Where are enlarged pores most noticeable on the face? 

    Pores tend to be more visible and active in areas with a high concentration of sebaceous glands — which are naturally oil-producing. As a result, enlarged pores commonly appear in the following zones: 

    • The T-zone: including the forehead, nose, and chin — typically the most oil-prone areas of the face, 

    • The cheeks, especially around the nose, where pore density is high, 

    • The chin, which can be particularly affected by hormonal fluctuations. 

    When excess sebum mixes with dead skin cells, it can clog the pores and cause them to stretch, making them appear larger. Over time, skin laxity — the natural loss of firmness — can further exaggerate their appearance, especially in aging or sun-damaged skin. 

    Common skincare mistakes that can worsen clogged pores 

    An effective skincare routine isn't just about using the right products — it’s also about avoiding the habits that can aggravate enlarged pores and trigger excess sebum production. Here are the most common pitfalls: 

    1. Using harsh cleansers 

    Cleansers that are too aggressive can strip the skin of its natural lipids, damaging the protective barrier and triggering a rebound effect — where the skin produces even more sebum to compensate. Instead, opt for gentle yet effective purifying cleansers like Advanced Cleanser or Foamer 5, which remove impurities while respecting skin balance. 

    2. Skipping Hydration 

    A persistent myth claims that oily skin doesn’t need moisture. In reality, lack of hydration often leads to increased sebum production. Lightweight, non-comedogenic formulas such as Hyal Ceutic provide optimal hydration without clogging pores, helping the skin remain supple and balanced. 

    3. Using Comedogenic Products 

    Certain cosmetic ingredients — including silicones and occlusive agents — can block pores and trigger breakouts. At Dermaceutic, all formulas are non-comedogenic, silicone-free, and dermatologically tested to ensure both high performance and optimal skin tolerance. 

    4. Over-Exfoliating 

    While exfoliation is essential to prevent pore blockage, too frequent or abrasive exfoliation can compromise the skin barrier and cause irritation. Instead, choose gentle chemical exfoliants, such as glycolic or salicylic acid, used 1 to 2 times per week, depending on your skin’s sensitivity. 

    5. Neglecting Sun Protection 

    Unprotected sun exposure can thicken the stratum corneum, increasing the risk of clogged pores and imperfections. Even oily skin requires daily protection. Use a broad-spectrum SPF like Sun Ceutic 50+, which offers high protection against UV and blue light, while delivering antioxidant and anti-aging benefits. 

    Dermaceutic expert routine: purify and rebalance 

    Foamer 15: gentle daily exfoliation 

    This foaming cleanser contains glycolic acid (AHA) to stimulate cell renewal and unclog pores, as well as enoxolone with soothing properties. 

    • Apply to clean, dry skin, 

    • Massage for 2 minutes, 

    • Rinse thoroughly. 
       🕐 Use once daily, space out applications if the skin is sensitive. 

    Mask 15: weekly intensive peeling 

    This mask combines salicylic acid, glycolic acid, and bentonite to purify the skin, tighten pores, and regulate sebum production. 

    • Use 1 to 2 times per week, 

    • Apply a thin layer, 

    • Leave on for 30 seconds to 2 minutes, 

    • Rinse thoroughly. 

    ⚠️ Do not use on the same day as Foamer 15. If strong tingling occurs, rinse immediately. 

    Key actives for oily skin and enlarged pores 

    Dermaceutic’s strength lies in its combination of highly concentrated actives, carefully selected and clinically tested for efficacy: 

    • Salicylic Acid: unclogs pores and reduces inflammation, 

    • Glycolic Acid: boosts cell renewal, 

    • Zinc Gluconate: sebum-regulating and antibacterial, 

    • Niacinamide: regulates sebum, soothes, brightens, 

    • Purifying Active: marine biomimetic agent that reduces sebum production while respecting the skin’s microbiota balance. 

    ____

    Oily skin and enlarged pores are not a life sentence. With the right approach, avoiding common mistakes and following an expert routine like Dermaceutic’s, you can effectively regulate sebum production, smooth skin texture, and reveal a clearer, more luminous complexion. 

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