How to Reduce Pores on Face: Expert Tips & Skincare Solutions

Enlarged pores are one of the most common skincare concerns, often making skin appear uneven and textured. While pores are a natural part of skin health — allowing sweat and oil to reach the surface — they can sometimes look larger than we’d like. Enlarged pores don’t just affect appearance; they can also impact confidence.

The truth is, pores can’t be permanently closed, but with the right skincare routine, lifestyle habits, and professional treatments, you can shrink pores in appearance and enjoy smoother, healthier-looking skin.

What Causes Enlarged Pores?

Pores are tiny openings on the skin’s surface that allow sweat and oil (sebum) to pass through. They play an important role in maintaining skin health by keeping it hydrated and protecting it from environmental damage. While pores are completely natural, certain factors can make them appear larger and more noticeable.

Here are the most common causes of enlarged pores:

Genetics & Skin Type – If your parents had larger pores, you may naturally inherit them. People with oily or combination skin often have more visible pores.

Excess Sebum Production – When your skin produces too much oil, pores can stretch and become clogged with sebum, dirt, and dead skin cells.

Sun Damage – UV exposure weakens collagen and elastin, which support skin structure. Over time, this breakdown makes pores look wider.

Aging – As we age, the skin loses firmness and elasticity, which causes pores to dilate and appear larger.

Poor Skincare Habits – Using harsh cleansers, over-exfoliating, or skipping sunscreen can irritate the skin, leading to enlarged and more noticeable pores.

Daily Skincare Routine to Minimize Pores

Keeping pores refined starts with a consistent skincare routine. The right daily habits can prevent buildup, balance oil production, and improve skin texture. Here’s a step-by-step routine to help minimize pores effectively.

Gentle Cleansing

• Use a mild gel or foam cleanser that is non-comedogenic.

• Avoid scrubbing or washing more than twice a day, as this can irritate and dry out skin.

Exfoliation

• Incorporate AHAs (like glycolic or lactic acid) or BHAs (like salicylic acid).

• Exfoliate 2–3 times per week to unclog pores and improve skin texture.

• Avoid over-exfoliating, which can inflame skin and worsen pores.

Topical Ingredients That Work

• Retinoids (retinol, adapalene) encourage cell turnover and smooth skin.

• Niacinamide helps regulate oil and strengthen the skin barrier.

• Clay or Charcoal Masks can absorb excess oil and temporarily tighten pores.

Moisturization

• Keep skin hydrated with lightweight, water-based moisturizers.

• Avoid heavy creams that clog pores.

Sun Protection

• Daily use of SPF 30+ is non-negotiable. Sun damage worsens pore visibility.

Avoid Pore-Worsening Habits

• Skip hot water, abrasive scrubs, and alcohol-heavy toners.

• Be gentle — irritation makes pores more noticeable.

  
  

Professional & Advanced Treatments

For those who want faster or more dramatic results, dermatologists and clinics offer effective treatments for enlarged pores:

• Microneedling / RF Microneedling – Boosts collagen, tightening skin and minimizing pores.

• Chemical Peels – Removes dead skin and improves texture.

• Laser Resurfacing –Targets collagen production for long-term pore refinement.

• Radiofrequency Tightening – Firms lose skin, reducing pore visibility.

• IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) Therapy – Uses light energy to target sun damage and stimulate collagen, which can help refine pores and improve overall skin tone. It’s most effective for lighter skin types and may deliver subtle improvements in pore size.

  
  

Note: These treatments can deliver impressive results, but they come with costs, potential side effects, and downtime. Always consult a qualified dermatologist.

Lifestyle & Home Care Tips

Healthy habits support your skincare routine:

Balanced Diet & Hydration – Eat antioxidant-rich foods (berries, leafy greens, nuts) and drink plenty of water.

Sleep & Stress Management – Stress and lack of rest can worsen oil production.

Hygiene Habits – Wash pillowcases regularly and avoid touching your face.

Consistency – Stick to your skincare routine daily for best results.

What Results to Expect

Pore size reduction doesn’t happen overnight. With consistent care:

• Expect gradual improvements over weeks to months.

• Pores may look larger again if routine lapses.

• Remember: the goal is to reduce visibility, not erase pores.

Conclusion

Enlarged pores can be a persistent concern, but with the right approach, you can shrink pores in appearance and achieve smoother, healthier-looking skin. A consistent daily skincare routine, healthy lifestyle habits, and professional treatments all contribute to visible improvement.

At RMT Movement in Brampton, we provide expert guidance and a range of professional treatments, including microneedling, chemical peels, laser resurfacing, and IPL therapy, tailored to help reduce the appearance of pores and improve overall skin texture. Our team works with you to find the safest and most effective solutions for your skin type and concerns.

Ready to take the next step? Book a consultation with RMT Movement today and explore safe, effective treatments, including IPL, to minimize pores on your face.

FAQs

Can pores actually shrink or close permanently?

No, pores can’t permanently close. However, skincare ingredients like retinoids and niacinamide, along with treatments such as microneedling or lasers, can minimize their appearance effectively.

Do home remedies work for minimizing pores?

Home remedies like clay masks, green tea, or ice can help temporarily tighten skin. While useful for short-term results, dermatologist treatments usually provide more lasting improvements.

How can diet and hydration affect pore size?

A healthy diet rich in antioxidants and proper hydration supports collagen and reduces oiliness, making pores appear smaller. Processed foods and dehydration can worsen pore visibility.

Does oily skin make pores appear larger?

Yes, excess oil stretches pores, making them more visible. Managing sebum with niacinamide, salicylic acid, and lightweight moisturizers helps control oiliness and reduces pore prominence.

How often should I exfoliate to minimize pores?

Exfoliate 2–3 times weekly with AHAs or BHAs. Over-exfoliating can cause irritation and enlarged pores, so balance frequency according to your skin’s tolerance.

Is laser treatment safe for reducing pores on the face?

Yes, dermatologist-performed laser treatments are safe and stimulate collagen to reduce pore size. They’re effective but may involve downtime, higher costs, and multiple sessions for best results.