Skin pores usually stay happily in the background as they go about their job of keeping the skin healthy and lubricated. However, those little pores become larger and more noticeable when they clog and stretch with oil, dead skin cells and bacteria. If the pores aren't cleaned and the clogs continue to grow, pimples, blackheads and whiteheads often develop. Before you spend your hard-earned money on expensive products or spa treatments to deep clean your pores, give some simple home remedies a try.
Oatmeal and Onion Mask
Place approximately three spoonfuls of uncooked oatmeal in a cup or bowl, then add just enough boiling water to cover the oatmeal. Let the mixture steep for about five minutes.
Peel a small onion, then cut the onion into chunks. Put the chunks in a blender or food processor and blend to a smooth puree.
Stir the onion puree into the warm oatmeal. If the mixture is runny, add a small amount of warm honey to create a spreadable consistency.
Wash your face with a mild liquid cleanser. Rinse the cleanser with lukewarm water and pat your skin dry with a soft towel.
Smooth the mixture over your skin, then leave it on your face until it dries. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water and apply moisturizing cream or lotion. Be careful to keep the mixture out of your eyes.
Store the oatmeal and onion mask in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Green Tea and Vinegar Toner
Brew a cup of green tea, using a tea bag or about a teaspoon of loose tea. Allow the tea to steep for two to three minutes.
Allow the tea to cool until it is comfortably warm but not hot.
Stir in approximately 2 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar.
Wash your face, then smooth the toner over affected areas, using a cotton ball or cosmetic pad. Be careful to keep the toner away from your eyes.
Allow your face to air-dry, then apply moisturizer.
Steam Cleaning
Place a sturdy, heatproof bowl on a stable surface, then fill the bowl with boiling water.
Add apple cider vinegar to the water. As a general rule, use about 3 tablespoons of vinegar for every 1 quart of water.
Lean your face over the bowl, positioning yourself about 10 inches from the bowl. Drape a bath towel over your head to trap the steam. Steam your face for five to eight minutes. If your skin is sensitive, limit the treatment to three to five minutes.
Wash your face with lukewarm water and a mild cleanser, then use a soft washcloth to wipe away loosened clogs.
Rinse your face with cool water to close your pores.
References
Writer Bio
M.H. Dyer began her writing career as a staff writer at a community newspaper and is now a full-time commercial writer. She writes about a variety of topics, with a focus on sustainable, pesticide- and herbicide-free gardening. She is an Oregon State University Master Gardener and Master Naturalist and holds a Master of Fine Arts in creative nonfiction writing.