Enlarged pores

Thorough cleansing is the be-all and end-all

Large pores usually appear in areas where a lot of skin oil is produced, i.e. on the forehead, nose and around the mouth. This is caused by sebum deposits, (environmental) dirt and loose cells that press on the inner walls of the pores and gradually widen them. They also often "wear out" with increasing age as the skin loses its firmness.

Thorough facial cleansing (morning and evening) is essential to prevent pores from becoming clogged. The same applies to exfoliation. Weekly thyme steam baths also help to refine the complexion: they cleanse the skin and tighten the pores.

When it comes to skincare, it is best to use special products known as pore minimizers. These remove flakes of skin lying on the pores, strengthen the pore wall and score points with their soft-focus effect.

Couperose

Rely on soothing ingredients

With couperose, the veins on the face are overstretched so that more blood flows through them. The result? They shimmer red-bluish through the skin. Triggers are: genetic predisposition, stress, extreme climate changes, alcohol.

What reddened skin needs are creams that soothe, cool and strengthen the blood vessels at the same time. Our tip: products with thermal water and horse chestnut extract.

It is also important to avoid anything that stimulates blood circulation in the skin. This means: peelings, thermal masks, too much sun and facial steam baths are absolutely taboo.

Pigment spots

Invest in lightening creams

The annoying brownish spots occur when the pigment cells produce too much melanin (color pigments) and this is distributed unevenly on the surface of the skin.

Special anti-spot creams reduce melanin production and slowly lighten existing spots. The top active ingredients include vitamin C, kojic acid and B-resorcinol. The first results can be seen after ten weeks. Don't forget: apply UV protection (at least SPF 30) even in winter.

If you suffer from stubborn pigment shifts, you can have them lasered away by a dermatologist. An alternative is chemical peels, which remove the superficial layers of the skin.

Blemished skin

Carry out regular peelings

Pimples are always caused by excessive sebum production. This clogs the pores, sebum no longer flows out and bacteria multiply - leading to inflammation.

It is therefore important to cleanse the face properly. Mild cleansing lotions with a skin-neutral pH value (5.5) are ideal for this. To avoid additional irritation, the products should also be fragrance-free.

Light lotions or gels with antibacterial, sebum-regulating and anti-inflammatory active ingredients (e.g. salicylic acid or zinc) are recommended for skin care. Caution: Stay away from oily, greasy creams.

Regular exfoliation (once a week) is also essential as it removes excess sebum and dirt from the skin. In short: they prevent blemishes.