Pores are a completely normal part of healthy skin, but for some people they become more visible over time. While enlarged pores can’t be permanently removed, understanding why they become more noticeable can help you choose the most appropriate skincare and treatment options.
Several factors influence pore size, including genetics, oil production, collagen levels and the natural ageing process. Understanding these changes is the first step towards improving overall skin texture.
Enlarged Pores
Understanding Why Pores Become More Noticeable
-
Pores are tiny openings in the skin that allow hair follicles and sebaceous (oil) glands to reach the skin’s surface.
Every person has thousands of pores across their body, particularly on the face, chest and back. They play an important role in allowing natural oils (sebum) to reach the skin, helping to maintain hydration and support the skin barrier.
Having visible pores is completely normal and does not mean your skin is unhealthy.
-
Several factors can make pores appear larger or more noticeable over time.
Genetics
Your natural pore size is largely determined by genetics. If your parents have visible pores, you’re more likely to have them too.
Increased oil production
People with oilier skin often have more noticeable pores because the oil glands beneath the skin are larger and more active.
Loss of collagen
As collagen levels naturally decline with age, the skin becomes less firm. This reduced support can make pores appear larger than they did in younger skin.
Sun damage
Long-term ultraviolet (UV) exposure breaks down collagen and elastin, contributing to reduced skin firmness and making pores more noticeable.
Congestion
A build-up of oil, dead skin cells and debris can stretch the opening of the pore, making it appear larger.
-
Your natural pore size is largely determined by genetics, so enlarged pores cannot always be prevented.
However, several habits may help reduce their appearance over time.
Protect your skin from UV damage
Daily SPF 50+ helps protect collagen and elastin from premature breakdown.
Maintain healthy collagen
Collagen naturally declines with age, making pores more noticeable. Supporting overall skin health through a balanced diet, adequate protein intake and healthy lifestyle habits contributes to healthy skin ageing.
Manage excess oil
Using skincare appropriate for your skin type may help reduce congestion and minimise the appearance of enlarged pores.
Avoid picking the skin
Picking blackheads or pimples may damage surrounding tissue and increase inflammation.
-
There is currently no treatment that can permanently change the size of your pores.
However, improving collagen production, reducing congestion and supporting overall skin health may make pores appear smaller and improve overall skin texture.
Treatment focuses on improving the appearance of enlarged pores rather than eliminating them completely.
-
Treatment depends on why your pores appear enlarged.
Following a skin assessment, Nurse Elyce will discuss the treatment options that may be appropriate for your skin type and concerns.
Skin Needling
Skin needling may be recommended to stimulate the skin’s natural healing response and support collagen production within areas of scarring.
Chemical Peels
May be recommended to exfoliate the skin, reduce congestion and improve overall skin texture.
Medical Grade Skincare
Using medical grade skincare which is targeted towards your skin can help reduce pigmentation and uneven skin tone. Complete your skin quiz and Nurse Elyce will write a skincare routine specific to your concerns. -
Enlarged pores develop for different reasons, so treatment should be tailored to the underlying cause.
During your consultation, Nurse Elyce will assess your skin, discuss your concerns and explain which treatment options may be appropriate based on your skin type, pore size and overall skin health.
-
Treatment Pages
Frequently Asked Questions
Explore the topics below to learn more about why pores appear enlarged, what influences their size and the treatment options that may be recommended.