Your pores moisturize your skin with oils, keeping the surface hydrated. Dilated pores can create a rough look to your complexion. Some people naturally have larger pores than others. As you age, your skin loses elasticity, which can cause your pores to open up and appear larger. Genetics also play a role in how big your pores are. While there is no way to permanently shrink your pores, you can make them appear smaller and reduce your risk of developing acne in large pores that get clogged with oil, bacteria or dirt.
Step 1
Wash your face with a mild cleanser twice a day. It is especially important to wash off cosmetics and creams before you go to bed, as these products often clog pores and force them larger than they would typically appear. “Fitness” magazine recommends massaging your face with clean fingertips for at least 30 seconds each time you wash your skin.
Step 2
Rub an exfoliating scrub over your skin gently two to three times a week to help prevent blackheads that can appear in oversized pores. Choose an exfoliator that is cream- or chemical-based. Rough particles found in some scrubs can irritate your skin and make the problem worse.
Step 3
Purchase cosmetics that are labeled noncomedogenic, meaning that they won’t clog your pores and contribute to whiteheads and blackheads. Water-based cosmetics are best if you have large pores, as oil-based products can create a film that can seep into your pores and make them appear larger.
Step 4
Apply a thin layer of retinoid cream or gel over your face daily if you want your large pores to appear smaller, suggests Richard Glogau, M.D., a professor of dermatology at the University of California San Francisco. These products encourage new collagen growth, which helps plump the skin and creates a smoother appearance.
Tips and Warnings
- Talk to your doctor or dermatologist about skin concerns that don’t improve with self-care. Large pores generally aren’t a problem, though your dermatologist can help if your pores clog easily and lead to acne that does not respond to over-the-counter treatment methods.
- Topical retinoids can cause birth defects, so do not use them if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
Things You'll Need
- Gentle cleanser
- Exfoliating scrub
- Noncomedogenic cosmetics (optional)
- Retinoid cream or gel (optional)
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