But contrary to what many cosmetic products may claim, it is not possible to eliminate pore visibility or shrink one’s pore size. Natural pore size is largely determined by genetics, although skin ageing might also affect the appearance of pores over time. Visible or ‘enlarged’ pores are usually the result of clogged pores, where dirt and sebum make the pores more noticeable.
Those looking for solutions to minimise the appearance of their pores should seek out a skincare routine that helps with cleansing the pores and controlling sebum production. Aesthetic treatments may also help tighten the skin and improve skin texture to make pores less prominent.
Here are some suggestions on what you can do if you want to reduce the appearance of facial pores:
Apart from regular cleansing, exfoliating up to two times a week is recommended. This step helps with deep cleansing the skin, removing dirt, dead skin cells, and excess oil from pores. You may look for products containing salicylic acid, lactobionic acid, gluconolactone, or mandelic acid. However, take note not to over-exfoliate, as that could dry out the skin and lead to skin irritation.
Oils can get trapped in pores and make them more visible. Hence, those with an oily skin type should avoid oil-based makeup products and moisturisers1. Instead, opt for water-based makeup and moisturisers with humectants rather than oil.
Similar to exfoliating, applying a clay mask can help with unclogging pores. As a sebum-absorbing ingredient2, clay can remove excess oil and reduce the visibility of pores. To use a clay mask, apply it evenly over the face after cleansing, and leave it on for about ten minutes until almost dry. Then, rinse it off and moisturise the skin.
You can find various laser treatments that are effective for improving skin texture and smoothening out pores and acne scars, like the CO2 laser, picoway laser, and picosure laser. These lasers typically work by targeting precise wavelengths into a specific layer of the skin, which damages skin cells without breaking the surface layer. This step promotes skin healing and the production of collagen, which helps to smoothen and tighten the skin.
Chemical peels are like the upgraded version of exfoliating at home. As the chemical peel is removed, it takes away dead skin cells and impurities from the skin. This act also stimulates skin regeneration and recovery, which produces new skin that is more toned and even.
In essence, the two main approaches for reducing pore visibility are regularly cleansing out the dirt and oil from the pores (using products like exfoliators, clay masks, and water-based cleansers) and resurfacing the skin through aesthetic treatments. Choosing the right treatments depends on factors like your skin type and comfort level, which is why it is always ideal to speak with your dermatologist to understand the full impact of any treatment plan before starting.
Skin care basics. American Academy of Dermatology. (n.d.). Retrieved April 27, 2023, from https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-basics/dry/oily-skin
Topical treatment for acne. DermNet. (n.d.). Retrieved April 27, 2023, from https://dermnetnz.org/topics/topical-treatment-for-acne-p
