Open pores generally have a tendency to make the skin look dull and rough. Large open pores also lead to acne problems simply because dirt, oil and shed skin tend to get clogged in them. Pores are the millions of tiny holes on our body through which sebum secreted by the sebaceous glands is let out on the skin and also through which the hair follicles grow out.


When the oil producing glands secrete an excess amount of sebum, they expand; this in turn causes the pores to dilate, in-order to let out the excess oil, which leads to the appearance of open pores. Bacteria and dirt and oil then get clogged in these pores, giving rise to pimples, whiteheads and blackheads. Thus the most important point to bear in mind when faced with this particular problem is to keep the pores clean and oil free.


The size of our pores is generally hereditary, hence there is little that one can do to reduce their size in totality, but their appearance can be minimized by following a few simple home remedies. 
   
Tomato juice is considered to be an excellent remedy for this particular problem, as being acidic in nature it prevents the accumulation on sebum in the pores. Mash a tomato and apply the thick red pulp all over your face. Leave the application on for about 15 minutes, after which rinse it off with cold water. This remedy should be performed three times a week on a regular basis, for desired results. Lemon juice similarly, being acidic in nature, is also great for treating open pores. Mix together two tablespoons of lemon juice and a glass of lukewarm water. This mixture should be used to wash the face once a day, preferably at bedtime. Rub an ice cube on your face everyday, till it the cube melts. This will also help in closing the pores.

Papaya is another fruit that serves as an excellent home remedy for this particular problem. Mash one ripe papaya and apply a generous layer of the pulp on your face. Rinse the application off with cold water, after 15-20 minutes. Make a thick paste by mixing together 2 tablespoons of gram flour and some water. Apply this paste on your face and let it dry naturally. Once dry, rinse it off with some cold water. This remedy will not only help in cleaning the pores but it will also tone your skin while doing so.