Can You Really Shrink Your Pores? We Ask the Experts

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Main Image – Angelina/adobe

If you experience large pores on your face, you’ll probably want to know exactly how to reduce them in size, stat.

But can pores actually be shrunk? Or is this just a misleading myth we’ve heard online and on skincare bottles? I asked Jessica Kerr, founder of Skin Botanist and dermatologist Hannah Kopelman to clear up the rumours, once and for all. And, if they can be reduced, how we can get on it as soon as possible.

What are pores?

“While everyone has pores, their size and visibility can vary greatly depending on genetics, skin type, and other factors,” explains Kopelman. “Understanding what pores are is the first step in learning how to manage them effectively.”

“Pores are tiny openings on the surface of our skin that allow it to breathe, release oils, and eliminate toxins,” explains Kerr. “They contain hair follicles and sebaceous glands, which produce sebum, the natural oil that keeps our skin moisturised.”

What causes large pores?

“The size of your pores is largely determined by genetics, but factors like oil production, age, and sun exposure can make them appear larger,” Kerr says.

Image – Susana Ramirez/Stocksy

Why would someone want to shrink their pores?

Kopelman says they can cause a few skin-related issues. “Many of my patients express a desire to shrink their pores because larger pores can be more noticeable, especially on the face, and often contribute to a rougher skin texture,” she explains.

“Enlarged pores are frequently associated with oily skin, blackheads, and acne, all of which can make them stand out even more. In our culture, smaller pores are often equated with a smoother, more refined complexion, so it’s understandable that people want to minimize their appearance.

“For many, achieving smaller-looking pores is a way to enhance their overall skin appearance and boost their confidence.”

So, is it a myth to say you can ‘shrink pores’?

Kerr says you can’t permanently reduce them, but you can minimise their appearance. “Pores may appear larger when they are clogged with excess oil, dead skin cells, or dirt,” she explains.

“Pore size is largely determined by genetics, but you can make them appear smaller by keeping them clean and unclogged and by tightening the skin around them,” says Kopelman.

“When we talk about “shrinking” pores, we’re really referring to minimizing their visibility. So, while it’s not a myth, it’s crucial to understand that the goal is to make pores less noticeable rather than to change their actual size.”

Image – Angelina/adobe

How to make pores less noticeable at home

Exfoliation is a good start. “Regular exfoliation helps to remove these impurities, reducing the appearance of pores,” says Kerr.

Kopelman adds, “Products containing salicylic acid or glycolic acid are particularly effective because they help clear out pores and remove dead skin cells, making the pores appear smaller.”

Consider retinoids too. “Incorporating retinoids into your routine can further help by increasing cell turnover and reducing the size of the oil glands,” she says.

Kerr explains that hydration is key too. “Keeping your skin hydrated prevents the overproduction of oil, which can further stretch the pores,” she says.

Kopelman says to use a gentle cleanser, twice a day “to remove excess oil and impurities that can clog pores.” Additionally, “using clay masks periodically can absorb excess oil and tighten the skin, giving the illusion of smaller pores.”

As for ingredients to look out for when shopping for your skincare, Kerr suggests mainstream options like salicylic acid and niacinamide. “Salicylic acid helps clear out oil and debris, while niacinamide reduces oil production and inflammation,” she explains.

“For those who prefer natural options, tea tree oil and apple cider vinegar are great alternatives. Tea tree oil is antibacterial, helping to keep pores clean, and apple cider vinegar gently exfoliates the skin. Additionally, witch hazel, a natural astringent, can help tighten the skin and minimise pores.”

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How to make pores less noticeable, in-salon

If you’re struggling to keep large pores at bay at home, there are salon-based options available. “Chemical peels use stronger acids to deeply exfoliate the skin, improving its texture and reducing the visibility of pores,” explains Kopelman. Kerr adds, “enzyme peels using fruit extracts offer a natural, gentler alternative.”

Microneedling is another route you could go down. “It involves using tiny needles to create micro-injuries in the skin, which promotes collagen production and skin tightening, thereby reducing the appearance of pores,” she says. “Laser resurfacing is also an excellent option for promoting collagen production and smoothing out the skin’s surface.”

Image – Viacheslav Yakobchuk/adobe

The takeaway

So can you really shrink the size of pores? Not permanently but you can reduce the appearance of them temporarily.

There are methods for minimising how they look that you can do at home – exfoliation, hydration, clay masks and salicylic acid to name a few. Or you can spend a little more money and take it in-salon to try things like a chemical peel, laser resurfacing or microneedling.

Either way, it’s best to stay realistic and stick to a consistent routine to keep oil build-up and clogged pores at bay.