The bad news is that pore size is genetically determined, so you can't actually shrink pores. However, some products and treatments can minimize the appearance of pores, but none of them are permanent solutions. Pore-minimizing products work by stimulating and plumping the collagen that surrounds pores.
Not just for healing acne or blasting scars, laser treatment can also help shrink the appearance of pores, as each light pulse works to smooth and refine while encouraging collagen, which plumps up the skin for a more flawless look.
Salicylic acid penetrates deep to the sebaceous gland (oil gland) to reduce pore size and oil production. It's safe to use as a daily cleanser or with salicylic acid peels.
Usually, genetics determine larger pores. But, oily skin, sun damage and aging can be other factors that make your pores look bigger. While you can't change the size of your pores, you can minimize the appearance of enlarged pores.
Exfoliate twice a week. This will remove the dead cells of the skin as well as any dirt or dust that can close the pores, causing acne and black spots. ...
Pores on the nose are a permanent and important part of the face. There is no way to shrink the pores or make them disappear completely. That said, regular hygiene and other skin care practices may help ensure that the pores stay clear and unclogged and reduce bacteria and dead skin cells.
"Retinoids clear clogged oil and dead skin cells to make pores appear smaller," Dr. Feely says. That explains why women noted improvements in their pore size when they applied a retinol every night for three months, according to a 2015 study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology.
Due to the slowing of that natural shedding process as we age, the excess skin, oils and debris remain trapped in the pores and continue to build up, causing the pores to expand and making them appear much larger than they actually are.
Glycolic acid peels, with or without vitamin C, have been shown to decrease pore size appearance. Salicylic acid peels are also helpful for acne patients because this type acid penetrates plugged pores.
Clogged pores can be the result of your glands producing too much oil. More oil on your skin increases the risk of clogged pores. But lots of other things can lead to enlarged pores, including age, skin products, hair follicles and sun damage.
Exfoliating acids are going to be your best friend when it comes to actively minimizing the appearance of pores. "AHA and BHA exfoliating toners both work well," says Butler. She likes to look for products with a high concentration of salicylic acid or glycolic acid.
Laser skin resurfacing is a nonsurgical treatment designed to reduce the appearance of skin imperfections, such as large pores, pigmentation, facial lines, wrinkles, and more.
Since oil-based products have petrolatum, coconut oil, and other kinds of oil in them, they may clog your pores. The excess oil also can collect on the skin and make pores look larger. HIDE Premium Foundation is water-based and won't emphasize your pores.
Celebrity esthetician Cynthia Franco (who has worked with Salma Hayek, Lucy Boynton, Lena Headey, and more) points out pores can become packed and dilated with sebum, makeup, dirt, and other debris, which can ultimately cause them to stretch, making them appear larger than their natural size.
