There are small dots on the nose. Next to her, on her cheeks, the skin structure stands out in the light from the side. Both quickly end up under the keyword “impure skin” – and in the shopping cart there is a peeling, a cleansing brush and a mask.

Before your next purchase, it is worth keeping the points apart. A visible pore is not a blackhead. And the fine sebum threads that are particularly visible on the nose also have a job there. If you know what you actually want to change, you can choose your care much more specifically.

Three things that may look similar

Pores are small openings in the skin. When it comes to noticeable facial pores, we look primarily at the openings of the hair follicles, through which sebum also reaches the surface. Your size has a significant influence; Among other things, sebum production and decreasing skin firmness can affect how noticeable they appear. Care can change their appearance, but cannot permanently eliminate them. This is explained by the Cleveland Clinic in its classification of visible pores .

Sebaceous threads , also called sebaceous filaments, help the skin sebum on its way to the surface. They are part of normal skin and are not acne. They are often visible as small, flat dots in gray, light brown or yellowish. They don’t need to be taken out; after expression, the follicles fill up again. The Cleveland Clinic describes the difference to blackheads in more detail.

Blackheads , on the other hand, are blocked follicle openings. Open blackheads have a visible dark surface; their color is not evidence of dirt. Closed blackheads tend to appear as small skin-colored bumps. The technical terms are open and closed comedones. DermNet explains these forms .

This is an orientation, not a certain determination of each individual point. You also don’t need to do a squeeze test at home to find out what variety it is.

A goal that can be tested in everyday life

“No more pores” is a promise that care can only disappoint you with. A concrete observation is more helpful: Do individual blackheads bother you? Is the nose especially shiny? Or does your whole face appear irritated after washing?

Write down the one point that is currently bothering you. This means that every new product description doesn’t immediately become another task for the bathroom. If you would like to classify your skin type first, you can find our overview What skin type do I have?. Shine and the care involved are discussed in more detail in the article about oily skin .

Clean without scrubbing your nose

A mild cleanser, lukewarm water and your fingertips are sufficient for cleaning. Rubbing vigorously, especially on the nose, seems tempting, as if the points could simply be polished off. However, hot water and scrubbing can irritate the skin, making pores appear more noticeable. Squeezing and scratching also cause additional irritation. The American Academy of Dermatology therefore recommends gentle cleaning .

This means for your next purchase: If your cleanser works pleasantly, there is no reason to replace it with something more “intensive” because of visible pores alone. First, look at what is already in the closet.

When a BHA toner is an option

Salicylic acid is usually referred to as BHA in cosmetic care. It can help unclog pores. However, the active ingredient can also be irritating; its suitability depends on the product and your skin. DermNet describes the effects and application limits of salicylic acid .

A product example is the Anua BHA 2% Gentle Exfoliating Toner . According to the product information, it contains two percent salicylic acid as well as panthenol and ceramides, among other things. Despite the word “toner”, it is one of the peelings. It is not a necessary step for any skin with visible pores.

Anua describes gentle application with the fingertips or a cotton pad. The manufacturer’s instructions also stipulate that the skin reaction should be monitored and the frequency adjusted accordingly. Follow the instructions on your package. Eyes and mucous membranes are left out.

An additional peeling evening with a brush and grains is not a good addition. Skin that is already irritated or injured should not be treated with salicylic acid; If skin irritation occurs, stop using. If you use medicated acne products, clarify any additional acid with your doctor’s office beforehand. These boundaries are also important for a friendly-sounding product name.

You can find cleansing, targeted care and light creams in our selection Refine pores .

The rest of the care can remain familiar

A cream that you are comfortable with does not have to be replaced immediately for new pore care. Sun protection is essential during the day: UV damage can reduce skin firmness and make pores more noticeable. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends broad-spectrum sun protection with at least SPF 30 .

If tightness or burning is the actual issue, read our article on the skin barrier first. In the case of painful, inflamed or stubborn changes, a dermatological classification makes sense. In Acne: What can accompany K-Beauty and where medicine begins we draw this line in more detail.

What we know for sure

• Visible pores are part of the skin. Care can affect their appearance, not permanently remove them.
• Sebaceous threads transport skin sebum and are part of normal skin. They are not blackheads.
• Blackheads are blocked follicle openings. A dark surface does not mean that the face has not been washed properly.
• Salicylic acid can help with clogged pores and cause irritation at the same time. Peeling is not a mandatory step.

Sources

• Cleveland Clinic: 7 Ways To Minimize Pores
• Cleveland Clinic: Sebaceous Filaments
• DermNet: Comedonal acne
• American Academy of Dermatology: What can treat large facial pores?
• DermNet: Salicylic acid
• Anua: BHA 2% Gentle Exfoliating Toner – product information and application

Would you like to simplify your blackhead care? Start by putting together a gentle cleanser and a moisturizing cream from our care for impure skin that you like to use every day. You can add a peeling later as a single step.

Continue with your care

• Discover care Reduce impurities
• Discover care Even out skin tone
• Your selection guide Find your routine