What are facial pores?
Facial pores are the natural outlets for hair follicles, sebaceous glands, and sweat glands. Each of us has a vast number of them, and their diameter and visibility depend on genetics , skin type , sebum production , and skin density and elasticity . Pores are essential – they enable proper skin function, thermoregulation, and lipid hydration of the surface.
Several myths have arisen around pores. The most popular one states that pores "open" and "close" with water temperature. This is false: pores do not have smooth muscles that could contract like a pupil. Cold water temporarily tightens the skin (vasoconstriction), but does not change the actual diameter of the pores . However, we can influence their visual appearance by regulating sebum production, exfoliating dead skin cells, and strengthening the skin matrix.
Why do pores become more visible?
Genetics and skin type
People with oily and combination skin tend to have larger, more active sebaceous glands. The T-zone (forehead, nose, chin) is the area with the highest sebum production, which is why pores on the nose and cheeks near the nose are usually larger.
Overproduction of sebum + hyperkeratinization
Excess sebum and accelerated keratinization (dead cell accumulation) lead to clogged pores and the formation of microcomedones. This causes enlargement of the pore opening and visible shadowing/texture.
Loss of collagen and elastin (age, UV)
Over time, the collagen/elastin content in the skin decreases. Furthermore, UV radiation accelerates the degradation of supporting fibers. Skin loses elasticity, so the pore "edges" are no longer held in check—and pores appear larger .
Skincare and makeup mistakes
Aggressive degreasing paradoxically increases sebum production (a compensatory mechanism). Overly heavy, occlusive formulas and incomplete makeup removal can increase comedogenicity. A lack of SPF accelerates photoaging and loss of skin elasticity, thus visually "enlarging" pores.
How to Reduce the Visibility of Pores – A Step-by-Step Routine
In the morning
Gentle cleansing – delicate gel, lukewarm water, no aggressive rubbing.
Toning/micro-exfoliation – a good ingredient is PHA (gluconolactone) 2–3 times a week instead of a classic tonic.
Antioxidant Serum – Niacinamide 2–5%
Serum for skin with enlarged pores - HydroTRemella
Moisturizing – light, non-comedogenic cream (humectants + light emollients).
SPF 50 protection - (sun = faster loss of skin elasticity).
In the evening
Makeup removal + cleansing – thorough but gentle (e.g. oil + foam).
Facial wash gel - gentle gel, lukewarm water, no aggressive rubbing.
Retinol Repair Serum - Retinol H10 version for daily use
Moisturizing and pore-reducing – cream-mask with humectants and light emollients; avoid heavy occlusion.
Ingredients that really work on pores
Niacinamide (vit. B3)
- What it does: Regulates sebum production, strengthens the epidermal barrier, improves skin tone uniformity.
- Concentration: 2–5% is most often the optimal range of effectiveness/tolerance.
- For whom: All skin types; especially combination/oily and sensitive skin (good tolerance).
- How to use: 1–2 times a day after cleansing; can be used under SPF and night cream.
Salicylic acid (BHA)
- What it does: Lipophilic, penetrates sebum in pores, dissolves keratin-sebaceous plugs, has anti-inflammatory properties.
- For whom: Oily/combination skin, prone to blackheads.
- How to use: 2–3 times a week, preferably in the evening; apply to areas (nose, chin, cheeks near the nose).
- Note: Do not combine with strong retinoids in the same application; remember about SPF.
PHA (e.g. gluconolactone)
- What it does: Gentle exfoliation, strong humectant properties (attracts water), barrier support.
- For whom: Sensitive, vascular skin, in the process of adapting to retinoids.
- How to use: 3–5 times a week, may be in the morning (if well tolerated) or in the evening.
Retinoids (retinal/retinol)
- What it does: Normalizes keratinization, supports skin reconstruction (collagen), thereby optically narrowing pores .
- For whom: Skin with visible pores, signs of photoaging, discoloration.
- How to use: Start 2–3 times a week, eventually 4–5 times a week; always use SPF during the day .
- Tip: Retinal works faster than retinol and is better tolerated.
Azelaic acid / azeloglycine
- What it does: Has anti-inflammatory properties, regulates keratinization, brightens post-inflammatory discolorations, improves texture .
- For whom: Combination/oily skin, acne, with redness.
- How to use: 1–2 times a day; combines well with niacinamide and PHA.
Zinc PCA
- What it does: Reduces oiliness, has a soothing effect, and has antibacterial properties.
- For whom: T-zone, skin with excess sebum.
- How to use: In serum or toner; day or evening.
Clays (kaolin, bentonite) – temporarily
- What they do: Adsorb excess sebum; provide an immediate mattifying effect.
- How to use: 1× a week; do not overdo it to avoid drying out the skin.
Antioxidants and skin matrix support factors
- Vitamins C, E, peptides: reduce oxidative stress, indirectly support skin firmness, which visually reduces the appearance of pores.
- How to use: In the morning (antioxidants) and/or in the evening (peptides).
Office Treatments: When They Make Sense
- Chemical peels (BHA, AHA, PHA) – regulate keratinization and brighten microcomedones. Best used in series, every 2–4 weeks.
- Micro-needling (micro-needle mesotherapy) – stimulates skin remodeling; improved firmness = less visible pores.
- Fractional laser / RF microneedling – collagen and elastin remodeling; option for visible pores + acne scars.
- Microdermabrasion / oxydermabrasion – superficial resurfacing, smoothes texture.
For whom?
People with persistent, visible texture and blackheads who, despite proper care, do not achieve satisfactory results.
Contraindications
Active inflammation, pregnancy (for some procedures), photosensitizing drugs, healing disorders.
Expectations vs. reality
Treatments are supportive and do not replace a daily routine and SPF. They produce the best results when used in a series and with proper home care.
7-day treatment for enlarged and visible pores
Day 1 – Reset
Gentle washing in the morning and evening with a gel with PHA acid (gluconolactone), after 2 minutes a light sebum-regulating cream HydroTremella.
Day 2 – Adjustment
After washing - Serum-ampoule with 5% niacinamide in the morning; in the evening after cleansing - Serum ampoule Moisturizing + HydroTremella sebum-regulating cream.
Day 3 – Care:
In the evening, apply HydroTremella cream mask to the T-zone (nose/chin) or the entire face - without washing it off, and in the morning, HydroTremella sebum-regulating cream.
Day 4 – Barrier:
morning and evening: HydroTremella Serum + HydroTremella sebum regulating cream.
Day 5 – Texture:
in the morning Serum-ampoule with 5% niacinamide ; in the evening Serum with retinol (Reishi Retinol), HydroTremella sebum regulating cream.
Day 6 – Smoothing:
in the morning HydroTremella Serum ; in the evening Retinol Serum (Reishi Retinol), HydroTremella sebum regulating cream.
Day 7 – Consolidation:
In the morning Serum-ampoule with 5% niacinamide ; in the evening HydroTremella cream mask. Assess tolerance and effect – repeat the cycle 2-3 times.
Frequently asked questions
Is it possible to “close” pores on your face?
No. Pores don't have muscles, so they don't close. Their appearance can only be reduced with exfoliation, niacinamide, and SPF.
Why are pores largest on the nose and T-zone?
The sebaceous glands in these areas are most active – they produce more sebum.
Does cold water close pores?
No. It provides a temporary skin tightening effect but does not change pore diameter.
Which works faster: BHA or PHA?
BHA (salicylic acid) works faster on blackheads, PHA (gluconolactone) is gentler and strengthens the barrier.
Niacinamide for pores – what % should I choose?
Most often, 2–5% provides a good compromise between effectiveness and tolerability.
Do retinoids shrink pores?
Indirectly, yes – they normalize keratinization and support skin remodeling.
Do clays “pull out” impurities from pores?
They temporarily adsorb sebum and smooth texture. Use once a week to avoid drying out your skin.
When to go to a dermatologist?
When the visibility of pores is accompanied by inflammation, acne, scars, or when, despite proper care, there is no improvement.
Does diet affect pores?
Indirectly, a high-glycemic diet may exacerbate seborrhea in some people. Focus on a balanced diet, hydration, and sleep.
Is mineral makeup better for pores?
Often yes – it provides lighter coverage and is less likely to be comedogenic, as long as it is washed off thoroughly.