Surgeon-Led Specialist Clinic

Led by plastic surgeon Dr. Ayad Harb, we pride ourselves on the standard of care, quality and safety of our treatments.

Central Clinic Locations

SRGN has three state of the art clinic locations in Central London, Bicester & Ascot.

Care Quality Commission

We're regulated by the independent regulator of health and social care in England.

GMC Registered Surgeons

All of our surgeons are registered with the General Medical Council.

Concerns

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Pores

Medically Reviewed April 2023, by Dr. Ayad Harb, one of the world's leading plastic surgeons

About Pores:

Pores are a fundamental and often misunderstood component of our skin. These minuscule openings cover our entire body, providing a crucial channel through which our skin breathes, secretes sweat, and releases sebum, the skin's natural oil. This sebum not only keeps our skin moisturised but also ensures that our hair remains lubricated. As such, the health of our pores can have a significant impact on our skin's overall health and appearance.

While everyone has pores, their size and prominence vary among individuals. These variations can be influenced by genetics, age, and various environmental factors. And even though pores play such a vital role in our skin's function, their appearance—particularly when enlarged or clogged—can be a source of aesthetic concern for many. Enlarged pores can create a rough and uneven texture on the skin, leading to a less smooth and refined complexion. This uneven texture, for some, can contribute to a diminished sense of confidence, pushing many to seek solutions to minimise their appearance.

The skin's natural ageing process can also influence pore size. As the years pass, the skin's elasticity starts to decrease, a phenomenon which can cause the pores to appear larger than they once did. This natural ageing is exacerbated by prolonged exposure to the sun, which can further degrade the collagen in the skin. Collagen acts as a support structure for the skin, and as its levels decrease, the skin can become lax, causing pores to seem more prominent.

Skin type plays a further pivotal role in determining pore visibility. Those with an oily skin type might often find that their pores appear larger. This is due to the excessive oil production which can cause the skin to swell slightly, making the surface of the pores more prominent. Conversely, individuals with dry skin might not face this issue as often, but they have their own set of skin concerns to address.

Maintaining skin hygiene is another critical aspect of managing pore appearance. Regular accumulation of dirt, pollutants from the environment, makeup residue, and dead skin cells can block pores, leading them to appear larger. This accumulation not only makes the pores more visible but can also lead to other skin issues like acne and blackheads. Hence, keeping the skin clean is a dual-benefit action—it ensures the health of the skin while also tackling the aesthetic concern of enlarged pores.

A misconception that many have is the desire for completely "poreless" skin. This, however, is not only unattainable but is also not ideal from a physiological perspective. Pores serve essential functions, and without them, our skin would not be able to breathe, release sweat, or secrete the protective sebum. The key is not to erase pores but to understand and manage their health and appearance.

Addressing pore size and understanding their function requires more than just topical treatments. It demands a holistic understanding of the skin, the factors influencing it, and tailored interventions that not only target the aesthetic concerns but also promote overall skin health. By adopting a comprehensive skincare routine, staying informed about the causes behind enlarged pores, and seeking professional advice when needed, individuals can effectively manage their concerns related to pores and achieve a smoother and more refined complexion.

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Types of Pores

Oil Pores

Oil pores are intimately connected to the sebaceous glands that lie just beneath the skin’s surface. These glands are responsible for producing sebum, the skin's natural oil that keeps both the skin and hair moisturised. When these glands are in overdrive, which might be influenced by factors such as hormonal changes, diet, or even genetics, they produce an excess amount of sebum. This overproduction can make the associated oil pores appear enlarged and more noticeable.

Commonly, oil pores are more prominent in certain regions of the face, particularly the T-zone, which comprises the forehead, nose, and chin. These areas tend to be oilier than the rest of the face, making the pores in these regions more visible. The challenge with managing oil pores is that they can easily become clogged with a mixture of sebum, dead skin cells, and other debris. This accumulation can lead to various skin concerns, including blackheads, acne, and an uneven skin texture.

Managing the appearance and health of oil pores requires a strategic approach. Regular cleansing to remove excess oil, exfoliating to clear out the debris, and using non-comedogenic products can prevent blockages. Additionally, understanding the balance between removing excess oil and not stripping the skin of its essential natural oils is crucial. Over-cleansing or using products that are too harsh can cause the skin to produce even more oil as a compensatory mechanism, further exacerbating the issue.

Sweat Pores

Distinctly different from oil pores, sweat pores serve a primary function of facilitating the release of sweat from the sweat glands. These are tiny openings scattered all over our body, allowing the body to cool itself down through the process of perspiration. As sweat is primarily composed of water, minerals, and other trace elements, sweat pores are typically smaller than their oily counterparts and, as a result, less visible.

However, the invisibility of sweat pores doesn't mean they're free from challenges. Sweat pores can become blocked, leading to conditions like heat rash or miliaria. This happens when sweat is trapped under the skin due to a blockage, causing inflammation, itching, and the appearance of tiny blisters or bumps.

Moreover, while sweat itself is odourless, the presence of bacteria on the skin can break down the sweat, leading to body odour. This is why maintaining hygiene, especially in areas prone to excessive sweating like the armpits, is essential.

Caring for sweat pores involves regular cleansing, especially after activities that cause heavy perspiration. Wearing breathable fabrics and ensuring the skin is dry can prevent complications related to blocked sweat pores. Furthermore, while antiperspirants can be helpful in managing excessive sweating, it's essential to choose products that are gentle on the skin to prevent irritation or adverse reactions.

Pores Treatments

ZO Advanced Facial

The aesthetic world continually evolves with innovative treatments and techniques designed to address skin concerns holistically. Among the myriad of treatments available today, two have stood out for their efficacy in refining skin texture and minimising the visibility of pores: the ZO Advanced Facial and the Hydrafacial.

The ZO Advanced Facial is a testament to the pioneering work of Dr. Zein Obagi, a dermatologist whose name is synonymous with groundbreaking skincare. This facial goes beyond the traditional understanding of skincare treatments. It's not just about addressing immediate surface concerns but delving deeper into the skin's health and overall functionality. The philosophy behind the ZO Advanced Facial is rooted in a comprehensive approach. It believes in starting the skin's rejuvenation process from within. This means initiating cellular turnover, extracting deeply embedded impurities, and delivering potent nutrients and antioxidants that the skin needs to function optimally.

What sets the ZO Advanced Facial apart is its ability to tailor treatments to individual needs. Every person's skin is unique, with its own set of challenges and requirements. Recognizing this, the ZO Advanced Facial incorporates a range of techniques and specialised products that can be adjusted to meet each individual's specific needs. For those grappling with the appearance of enlarged pores, this facial offers a solution. It works by promoting the healthy turnover of skin cells, ensuring thorough cleansing, and infusing the skin with essential nutrients. Over time and with regular treatments, many individuals notice a significant reduction in pore visibility and an overall improvement in skin texture and tone.

On the other hand, the Hydrafacial offers a unique approach to skin rejuvenation. It harnesses the power of hydration, a fundamental aspect of skin health, to cleanse, exfoliate, and nourish the skin. This procedure is non-invasive and utilises a specialised device that vacuums out impurities while simultaneously drenching the skin in moisture-packed serums. The results are often immediate, with skin appearing more hydrated, plump, and radiant after just one session. The strength of Hydrafacial lies in its dual-action approach. It doesn't just clear blockages that might be making pores appear larger but also hydrates the skin to smoothen its texture.

The synergy between cleansing and hydration is what makes Hydrafacial a favourite among many. For individuals with visible pores, this treatment provides both immediate and long-term benefits. Regular sessions can keep the skin free from impurities that enlarge pores and ensure it remains hydrated, thereby reducing the prominence of pores over time.

In the realm of aesthetic treatments, both the ZO Advanced Facial and Hydrafacial represent a fusion of science, innovation, and understanding of skin health. When considering any treatment, it's always paramount to consult with a licensed aesthetician or dermatologist. They can provide insights into which treatment is best suited for individual skin concerns, ensuring not only aesthetic improvements but also promoting long-term skin health.

About Our Clinic

Located in the heart of Ascot, Bicester, and London, the SRGN Clinic exemplifies afusion of cutting-edge science, unparalleled skill, and an unwavering commitment to patient care. The clinic stands as a beacon of excellence in thefield of aesthetic and plastic surgery.

Leading the team at SRGN is Dr. Ayad Harb, a renowned plastic surgeon and aesthetic trainer. His expertise, honed by years of experience and a genuine passion for improving lives, defines the very core of the clinic's ethos. Dr. Harb's innovative techniques, combined with an artistic eye for detail, enable him to deliver consistently exceptional results that are tailored to each patient's individual needs and desires.

At SRGN, we believe in the transformative power of aesthetic and plastic surgery. Our treatments, ranging from non-invasive procedures to complex surgical interventions, are designed to enhance and accentuate your natural beauty. We strive to provide a safe, comfortable, and confidential environment where you can discuss your aesthetic goals openly, and together we create a treatment plan that brings these goals to life.

Every member of the SRGN team shares a deep commitment to patient care. We prioritise your comfort, safety, and satisfaction from the moment you step into our clinic. Each of our facilities mirrors the luxury and tranquility of their surroundings, offering a serene space where you can embark on your journey to self-improvement.

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