A: Try using fruits with vitamin C to kill bacteria and keep skin cells healthy, advises Suzan Obagi, M.D., director of the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Cosmetic Surgery and Skin Health Center. To clear up blackheads, put an orange slice on your face. Wait until the juice has dried, and then follow with a cloth and warm water.

A: Yes, if they contain pore-clogging ingredients or are oil-based. Your best bet? Pick makeup products labeled “oil-free” and “noncomedogenic.” These products are less likely to make your skin greasy or clog your pores.

A: Sadly, no. Once a pore is stretched, it’ll never shrink back to its original size. However, keeping the pore clean will make it less noticeable and appear smaller. Plus, using exfoliants prevents dead cells from clogging pores and causing blackheads.

A: Yes. Essential oils can be used for all kinds of skin problems from wrinkles to stretch marks, as well as hair care and even to treat some common infections. But before you try essential oils, remember to consult a doctor.