Pores. Everyone has them, but not everyone loves them. You’ve probably seen products that claim to "shrink" or "erase" pores — but is that really possible?
Let’s get into the facts.
What Are Pores, Really?
Pores are tiny openings on the surface of the skin that allow the release of sebum (natural oil) and sweat. They’re essential for maintaining skin health by regulating hydration and temperature.
There are two types of pores:
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Sebaceous pores: Connected to oil glands; responsible for releasing sebum.
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Sweat pores: Linked to sweat glands; responsible for perspiration.
Sebaceous pores are typically the ones we see most clearly — especially across the nose, forehead, and chin, where oil activity is naturally higher.
Science Insight: Pores aren’t flaws. They’re functional structures that allow your skin to breathe, protect, and self-regulate
What Influences Pore Size?
Several intrinsic and extrinsic factors affect how large and noticeable pores appear:
Genetics Genetic predisposition determines baseline pore size. If large pores run in your family, you're more likely to have them too.
Age With age, collagen and elastin — the structural proteins that keep skin firm — degrade. Reduced skin elasticity can make pores look larger.
Sebum Production Excess oil can expand the walls of the pore, making it appear wider. Hormonal changes can also ramp up sebum production.
Sun Exposure Chronic UV exposure breaks down collagen and elastin, weakening the skin's support structure and stretching pores.
Poor Skincare Habits Neglecting sunscreen or using pore-clogging (comedogenic) products can lead to congestion and enlarged pores.
Can You Actually Shrink Pores?
Short answer: No — pore size is anatomically fixed.
You can’t physically make them smaller, but you can absolutely make them look smaller by keeping them clear, supported, and healthy.
The goal is not elimination — it’s refinement.
How to Minimise the Appearance of Pores
Cleanse Consistently
Use a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser to remove buildup without stripping. Over-cleansing can increase oil production and worsen pore dilation.
Exfoliate with BHAs (Salicylic Acid)
Salicylic acid is oil-soluble, meaning it can travel into pores to dissolve excess sebum and dead cells. Regular use helps reduce congestion and refine texture.
Incorporate Retinoids
Retinoids promote cell turnover and stimulate collagen, tightening the skin around pores and improving their overall appearance.
Always Use SPF
UV protection is crucial for preserving collagen and preventing pore wall breakdown. Look for non-comedogenic, broad-spectrum formulas.
Hydrate Wisely
Hydration plumps the skin and helps maintain elasticity. Use lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturisers and humectants like hyaluronic acid.
Common Myths About Pores
Myth: Hot water "opens" pores and cold water "closes" them. Truth: Pores lack muscles and cannot open or close. Temperature changes may temporarily affect the skin’s surface but not pore size.
Myth: You can "erase" pores. Truth: Pores are a natural and necessary part of skin anatomy. No topical product can eliminate them.
Myth: Oily skin is dirty skin. Truth: Sebum production is vital for skin health. Over-washing can actually stimulate more oil production as the skin tries to compensate.
Fact Check Summary
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Pore size is anatomically fixed but can appear smaller with proper skincare.
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UV exposure and collagen loss increase pore visibility.
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Salicylic acid and retinoids improve texture and reduce congestion.
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“Open” and “close” pore claims are myths — pores don’t have musculature.
The Takeaway
You can’t shrink pores, but you can support your skin to make them less visible.
Focus on a routine that includes consistent cleansing, gentle exfoliation, retinoids, hydration, and daily sun protection.
Healthy skin isn’t about erasing what’s natural — it’s about maintaining balance, strength, and respect for your skin’s own structure.
Pro Tip: Celebrate your pores. They’re proof your skin is alive, functional, and beautifully human. Focus on care, not correction.