The Truth About Pore Size: Can You Actually Shrink Them?
If you’ve ever stared into a magnifying mirror and wondered, “How do I shrink my pores?”—you’re not alone. Pores are one of the most misunderstood topics in skincare, and as an esthetician, I hear questions about them all the time.
So let’s set the record straight. Can you actually shrink your pores? And what’s the best way to make them looksmaller?
Let’s break it all down.
🕳️ What Are Pores, Anyway?
Pores are small openings in your skin that release sweat and sebum (oil). Everyone has them, and their size is largely determined by genetics. Some people naturally have larger pores, especially in oilier areas like the T-zone.
That said, pores can appear larger due to buildup, skin damage, or loss of elasticity.
🚫 Can You Really Shrink Pores?
Short answer: No, you can’t permanently change the actual size of your pores.
But here’s the good news: You can minimize their appearance with the right skincare routine and habits. Think of it like minimizing the look of pores, not physically shrinking them.
✅ How to Make Pores Look Smaller
Here are tried-and-true ways to reduce the appearance of pores:
1. Keep Them Clean
When pores are clogged with oil, dead skin, and debris, they stretch and appear larger.
→ Use a gentle exfoliant (chemical over physical), like salicylic acid or lactic acid, 1–3 times per week.
2. Use Retinoids or Retinol
These increase cell turnover and help regulate oil production, keeping pores clearer and more refined over time.
3. Protect Your Collagen
Loss of firmness makes pores sag and stretch. Use vitamin C serums and SPF daily to protect collagen and maintain tight, youthful skin.
4. Hydrate Properly
Dehydrated skin can make pores look more pronounced. Use a hydrating serum followed by a non-comedogenic moisturizer.
5. Consider Professional Treatments
Facials with extractions, chemical peels, microneedling, and laser treatments can help improve skin texture and reduce visible pore size over time.
🔍 Pore Myths You Should Ignore
❌ “Steaming opens your pores.”
Pores don’t open or close. Steam softens oil and debris, making it easier to clean them—but it doesn’t change their structure.
❌ “You can close your pores with cold water.”
Cold may temporarily reduce inflammation and puffiness, but it won’t seal your pores shut.
❌ “Only oily skin has large pores.”
While oil production can make them more visible, even normal or dry skin can have prominent pores.
🧴 Pore-Refining Skincare Staples
Cleanser: Gel or foaming cleanser with salicylic acid
Exfoliant: BHA or AHA 1–2x/week
Treatment: Retinol or niacinamide serum
Moisturizer: Lightweight, non-comedogenic
SPF: Always, every day, rain or shine
💡 Final Thoughts from Your Esthetician
While you can’t erase your pores, you can treat them with care, keep them clean, and improve the way they look and feel. Consistency is key—and your skin will reward you for it.
Still struggling with pores that seem enlarged or congested? Book a facial or consult and let’s create a custom plan to smooth and support your skin.