How to effectively reduce enlarged pores: a practical guide for smooth skin

Whether you notice large pores on your nose, cheeks, or forehead, this problem quickly affects the appearance of your skin and can give the impression of a dull or uneven complexion. Many people struggle with visible pores, whether their skin is oily, combination, or dry, especially as they age or due to hormonal changes. However, you can take concrete and realistic steps to make pores less noticeable, so that your skin looks smoother and more even.

In this guide you will find clear information and simple steps that will help you understand why enlarged pores appear, what makes them more visible, and what methods you can introduce into your daily routine to improve your skin texture.

What do you need to know about enlarged pores?

Pores are tiny openings in the skin. They allow sebum , a natural oil that protects the skin, to escape. When these pores become enlarged, the skin can take on a bumpy appearance, especially if the skin produces too much sebum or retains impurities.

Many factors can exacerbate this problem:

• genetic tendency towards oily or combination skin;
• decrease in skin elasticity as you age;
• accumulation of dead cells or incorrectly applied makeup;
• pollution or frequent exposure to the sun.

Why do pores dilate and how can you prevent this situation?

Pores usually enlarge for two reasons: either the sebaceous glands produce more sebum than necessary (as happens with oily skin ), which leads to blockages and stretching of the pores, or the skin loses its firmness and pulls them, making them appear larger.

Other factors involved:

• excess sebum;
• natural skin aging;
• pollution, which stains the face and stimulates inflammation;
• incorrectly chosen makeup or lack of makeup removal.

You can prevent their dilation if you follow a correct routine and adapt your care to the season or your skin's needs.

Step-by-step guide: how to reduce enlarged pores?

A consistent and consistent approach will give you the best long-term results. Follow these steps to achieve smoother skin and keep the appearance of enlarged pores under control:

Clean your face thoroughly, twice a day.

Wash your face morning and night with a gentle cleanser that is free of irritating ingredients (e.g., perfume or alcohol). Choose a non-comedogenic gel or foam, formulated specifically for sensitive or acne-prone skin, and keep the following rules in mind:

• avoid hot water, use lukewarm water;
• don't insist too much on the temples or cheeks;
• Do not rub the skin aggressively, pat gently with a clean towel.

Exfoliate properly, 1-2 times a week

Exfoliation removes dead skin cells and prevents clogged pores. You can incorporate a gentle chemical exfoliant based on acids such as AHA or BHA, suitable for combination or oily skin. For more details on the benefits and applications of these acids, see the article on AHA and BHA here .

Errors to avoid:

• excessive exfoliation or combining exfoliating products in one day;
• using scrubs with hard particles (they can cause micro-lesions, increasing sebum secretion).

Moisturizes the skin, regardless of skin type

Oily skin also needs hydration, otherwise it will produce even more sebum to compensate for the lack of water. Choose a light gel or cream, without heavy oils, so that the skin remains smooth and the pores do not look clogged. Opt for products labeled as non-comedogenic and apply moisturizer after cleansing and whenever your skin feels dehydrated.

Protects the skin against the sun

Apply a sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30 daily. The sun damages collagen and elastin, two elements that support the structure of the skin and prevent enlarged pores. Use SPF even on cloudy days. Reapply every two to three hours, especially if you sweat or wipe your face.

Integrates active ingredients recommended by specialists

Salicylic acid, niacinamide, and retinol are known for their effects on reducing sebum, calming inflammation, and increasing skin elasticity. For example, a serum like One Day Exosome Shot Pore Ampoule combines niacinamide, AHAs, BHAs, and ingredients that help skin become more even-toned.

Before introducing new active ingredients, test on a small area and talk to your dermatologist to avoid adverse reactions.

Natural treatments and dermatological options

To blur enlarged pores, you have several options available, namely:

Natural remedies for maintenance

Clay masks and alcohol-free toners gently cleanse the skin and absorb excess sebum. A mask like SKINSEEN's Purifying Face Mask can be part of your weekly routine, especially for oily or combination skin.

Facial steams help temporarily open pores, making it easier to cleanse with a mask. Don't overdo it with steams or natural treatments, as they can cause irritation or dehydration. Also, don't use natural treatments if you have active lesions or skin conditions without medical advice, and avoid irritating ingredients that are not suitable for your skin (lemon, baking soda, alcohol).

Professional dermatological procedures

If your usual routine doesn't produce results, a dermatologist may recommend procedures such as:

• chemical peeling performed in the office, with more concentrated substances than in home products;
• microneedling, which stimulates collagen production and improves skin structure;
• microdermabrasion or laser treatments, to smooth and reduce the appearance of pores.

You should be aware that some procedures require recovery periods and may have side effects. Talk to your specialist before any intervention.

How to support skin health through daily habits?

Adopt some behaviors that help you prevent enlarged pores and maintain more even skin:

• eat fruits, vegetables, seeds and avoid ultra-processed products;
• hydrate yourself adequately, consuming enough fluids daily;
• sleep at least 7-8 hours a night for skin regeneration;
• avoid smoking, which affects the structure of the skin, and try to reduce exposure to pollution;
• adapt your care routine to the season, choosing lighter textures in summer and more protective ones in winter.

Common mistakes and myths about enlarged pores

Myth 1: You can permanently close pores
Reality : You can reduce their appearance, but they won't disappear completely. A careful routine helps keep pores clean and less visible.

Myth 2: Cold water “closes” pores
Explanation : Cold water only produces a temporary constriction sensation. A gentle toner supports toning, but does not physically shrink pores.

Myth 3: Makeup aggravates pores
Clarification : Proper foundation, completely removed at the end of the day, does not affect the appearance of pores. Problems arise when makeup is not completely removed or contains comedogenic ingredients.

Myth 4: Only oily skin has large pores
Note : Even dry skin can have visible pores, especially if it loses firmness or becomes dehydrated.

When should you go to a dermatologist?

Go to the doctor if:

• pores remain prominent despite proper care;
• you have inflammation, repeated pimples, spots or new scars;
• you want to try professional skin smoothing procedures.

A dermatologist will recommend treatments, products, or interventions tailored to your needs. Avoid trying aggressive methods or complex therapies at home without medical advice.

Next steps and helpful tips

• Maintain consistency in your daily routine.
• Test any new product on a small area.
• Adjust your care to skin changes or the season.
• Monitor skin reactions and, at any sign of irritation, talk to a specialist.
• Schedule regular dermatological checkups, especially if you have persistent problems.

This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for a specialized medical consultation. For any treatment with acids, active ingredients or dermatological therapies, talk to your specialist first. Get the right information for a healthy and more harmonious complexion.