Enlarged Pores
While you cannot change the size of your pores, you can minimise the appearance of enlarged pores. Understanding the causes of enlarged pores and seeking appropriate medical treatment is crucial, as early management can reduce possible complications.
What Are Enlarged Pores and how are they Diagnosed?
Pores are small openings at the top of the skin’s hair follicles that release sebum (oil) to moisturise our skin. Enlarged pores are pores that are bigger than usual and cause depressions in the facial skin surface that contain the sebaceous glands, which release sebum.
Enlarged pores can typically be diagnosed during a physical examination of your face. Your doctor may also review your family and medical history, as well as lifestyle habits, to determine the cause of your enlarged pores.
Common symptoms of enlarged pores include:
Wider appearance of the nose
Blackheads
Visible dirt and oil on the face
Common causes of enlarged pores include:
Sun damage
Ageing
Clogged pores from increased sebum (oil) production
How Are Enlarged Pores Treated?
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The following medications may be recommended to manage enlarged pores:
• Topical treatment products containing vitamin C, retinoids, and nicotinamide
• Oral treatment such as birth control pills, oral antibiotics and isotretinoin
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Chemical peels are used to exfoliate and rejuvenate the skin by applying chemical acids such as salicylic acid, glycolic acid, or lactic acid to your face. This helps to remove dirt, oil and dead skin, effectively cleansing and unclogging your skin’s pores.
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This type of treatment helps form new collagen fibres to treat loss of skin elasticity and enlarged pores. Laser treatment typically requires a few sessions to effectively shrink enlarged pores.
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Microneedling is performed by puncturing the skin with microneedles to stimulate collagen and elastin production, tightening the skin and reducing pores. Additionally, microneedling also allows the skin to absorb topical creams and serums more effectively, increasing the effects of these products.
Frequently Asked Questions
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While enlarged pores are rarely a medical concern, you should consult a doctor if you are concerned about their appearance. Alternatively, you should seek immediate medical attention if your enlarged pores are accompanied by a skin infection or if there is an abnormal increase in your pore size or density.
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• Family history and genetics
• Prolonged exposure to the sun
• Thick hair follicles
• Reduced skin elasticity around pores
• Use of comedogenic products
• Poor facial hygiene
• An unhealthy diet consisting of fried or oily foods
• Smoking
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• Use non-comedogenic skin care products and makeup
• Cleanse your face twice a day
• Treat acne promptly
• Protect your face with sunscreen
• Avoid picking at, squeezing, or digging into your pores
• Exfoliate your skin
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