Best Skincare Routine to Reduce Pore Size, According to Experts

Let’s face it: front-facing cameras can be a wake-up call to just how noticeable our pores can be. If you've ever wondered, "Why are my pores so prominent?" you're not alone. But don’t fret; smoother skin is within reach.

Pore size is influenced by genetics and lifestyle choices, so there’s potential for improvement. Depending on your skin type and age, along with how large your pores are, a tailored skincare routine coupled with professional treatments can truly help. However, there are myths to navigate.

Featured image from our interview with Iskra Lawrence by Michelle Nash.

I consulted with specialists for insights. Dr. Jennifer D. Holman, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist from East Texas, and Mona Seresht, MSPAS, PA-C, a physician assistant at Facile, shared their expertise on pore myths and effective skincare routines for achieving smoother skin.

Understanding Large Pores

As we navigate skincare, we often have to accept our pores as a natural aspect of our skin. Seresht emphasizes that understanding and working with our pores is vital for managing skin conditions and crafting effective skincare routines that support healthy skin.

“Pores are essential for regulating body temperature through sweat and for releasing sebum, which moisturizes and protects the skin,” she adds.

Identifying your skin type can reveal how much of your pore size stems from genetics versus external factors. Dr. Holman explains, “Just like skin color, pore size is largely genetic. Typically, individuals with oilier skin tend to have larger pores. Hormonal fluctuations can increase sebum production, causing pores to enlarge, especially for those with acne.”

Age also plays a role. Dr. Holman states, “As we age, we lose collagen and elastin, making pores more noticeable.”

Factors Leading to Large Pores

Your lifestyle choices can affect your pore size. Some factors are adjustable, like your skincare routine, while others—like sun exposure—are unavoidable, yet manageable.

Common causes of enlarged pores include sun damage and excess sebum. “Congested pores from dirt, oils, and dead skin can stretch them, making them appear larger,” Seresht notes. “Controlling sebum production is crucial for minimizing their appearance.”

Sun damage, as Dr. Holman notes, can also break down collagen and elastin, leading to larger pores. Investing in a quality sunscreen is essential.

Top Sunscreens for Minimizing Pores

EltaMD UV Clear Tinted Face Sunscreen, SPF 46 Oil-Free with Zinc Oxide

$24 at Amazon

Supergoop! Mineral Mattescreen SPF 40

$40 at Supergoop!

Essential Mineral SPF 50+

$42 at Skin Clique

Why Large Pores are Noticeable on the Nose

Many people notice larger pores on their noses due to larger sebaceous glands in that area. Often, we may pick at blackheads, which can exacerbate the issue.

A popular solution for clogged pores is La Roche Posay Cicaplast Baume B5, or any hydrating moisturizer. This product helps prevent excess sebum production and keeps skin hydrated, which can reduce the look of pores.

La Roche Posay Cicaplast Baume B5

$18.99 at Ulta

Four Common Myths About Large Pores

Myth #1: Pores Can Open and Close

A widespread misconception is that pores can open and close. “They lack any muscles for movement,” Seresht clarifies.

Dr. Holman adds, “Steaming or certain masks may temporarily enlarge pores, enhancing product absorption but do not actually cause them to open.”

Myth #2: Pores Are Full of Dirt

“Some believe that pores are filled with dirt,” Dr. Holman explains. “What’s seen as blackheads is often oxidized skin proteins, not dirt.”

Myth #3: Sunshine Shrinks Pores

“Many think sunlight improves pore appearance,” Dr. Holman says. “In reality, sun damage breaks down collagen and elastin, making pores appear larger.”

Myth #4: You Can Permanently Change Pore Size

While some products claim to permanently change pore size, Seresht stresses that this is a marketing myth. Understanding pore function and following effective skincare routines is key.

Effective In-Office Treatments for Large Pores

While you can't permanently change pore size, professional treatments can yield impressive results. Seresht advises consulting a dermatologist or esthetician to identify treatments suited to your goals.

To find a suitable provider, look for before-and-after photos and ask about their experience with pore treatments. Avoid cheap alternatives that don’t deliver results; investing in effective treatments is worthwhile.

This complements a proper at-home skincare regimen. Your provider can give personalized maintenance advice.

Laser and Light Treatments

Lasers and pulsed-light technologies are among the most advanced non-invasive options. They are often effective and gentle, requiring minimal recovery time.

Dr. Holman recommends the BBL HEROic and HALO lasers for enlarged pores. “BBL enhances overall skin appearance while HALO specifically targets pores,” she explains. “It combines both fractionated ablative and non-ablative wavelengths for optimal results.”

Seresht advocates for the CoolPeel CO2 laser for refining skin texture and minimizing pore size. These treatments are tailored to your skin type.

Microneedling and Chemical Peels

Microneedling provides an immediate boost to your skin and enhances serum absorption, stimulating collagen production to improve texture.

Post-treatment redness may occur, but the result is smoother skin and smaller-looking pores. Chemical peels can further improve results, helping to clear pores and enhance clarity.

Skincare Routine for Minimizing Pores

Change begins with your skincare habits. An effective routine is your best weapon against visible pores. Dr. Holman suggests a straightforward approach: “A morning antioxidant and sunscreen paired with an evening retinoid.”

Seresht emphasizes consistency. “To reduce pore visibility, follow a routine that includes regular cleansing, weekly exfoliation, and retinoids.”

Balancing hydration and exfoliation is crucial, along with protective measures to maintain collagen. “Routine skincare, hydration, and sun protection help preserve skin elasticity and minimize pores,” she advises. “Avoid smoking, manage stress, and choose products appropriate for your skin type.”

Products to Help Minimize Pores

Experts suggest the following ingredients to incorporate into your routine for smoother skin.

Topical exosomes: Support skin healing and boost collagen and elasticity.
Retinol: Helps unclog pores and reduce their size.
Hyaluronic acid: Prevents excess sebum from clogging pores.
Salicylic acid: A BHA that clears debris from pores.
Glycolic acid: An AHA that exfoliates dead skin, improving texture and reducing pore appearance.
Mandelic acid: An antibacterial agent effective for acne-prone skin.
Citric acid: Evens skin tone by exfoliating dead skin cells.
Niacinamide: Enhances skin elasticity and reduces pore size.
SPF 30 or higher: Remember to reapply!