Can I Make My Pores Look Smaller?

I find it so interesting that something as small as a pore can be such a huge beauty concern. Not a day goes by without a patient asking me what they can do about their large pores, and fortunately I have a few solutions up my sleeve. 

But first, a little anatomy lesson about pores. These little holes are where hairs and oil (sebum) come out of the skin. Genetics dictate the actual size of your pores, but oiliness, sun damage and other skin conditions that thicken the skin can make them appear larger, and when pores are clogged with oil, dirt and debris they can actually expand. The pores are not connected to muscle, so there’s not much you can do to actually make them physically smaller for the long run, but there are many ways to make them appear smaller.

Clean pores are harder to see than dirt-filled pores. Blackheads make the pores appear larger since they are filled with oil and debris that darkens when exposed to the air. For a deep-down clean that removes this build-up, exfoliation is key. You can try a scrub, a chemical-based peel, or even use a skincare brush (like the Clarisonic or Olay Professional Pro-X Advanced Cleansing System). But it’s important to keep in mind that the best exfoliation method depends on your skin type, so take our questionnaire to find out your correct skin type.

Using antioxidants can also minimize the appearance of pores. When the debris filling the pores is exposed to pollution and other sources of free radicals, it darkens and becomes more visible. Antioxidants prevent this darkening—and also helps shield the skin from free radicals caused by sun exposure, so this one extra step each morning goes a long way.

Many dermatologists have started using Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) to improve the appearance of pores. This light treatment is traditionally used to improve the tone and texture of the skin, but we’ve found that the very mild swelling produced by this treatment makes pores appear smaller.

Of course there are also skincare products that claim to minimize pores, but keep in mind that their results are temporary. Most of these products contain salicylic acid, and its main effect is exfoliation. By cleaning out the pores, these products make them appear instantly smaller. But if you’ve tried this route and you still need help, consider a makeup primer. Foundation has a way of settling into pores, making them more noticeable, but primer helps prevent this from happening by creating a smooth surface. As an added plus, primer helps makeup stay put, so you won’t have to touch-up as much through the day—and it can help control oiliness as well.

These above tips should certainly help minimize the appearance of pores, but if you’re still unhappy with the appearance of your skin, consult your dermatologist. He or she can recommend a regimen of products and treatments to get your skin looking its best, and identify any underlying issues that may be contributing to the visibility of your pores.

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Dr. Baumann is the author of the New York Times best-selling book, "The Skin Type Solution." Look for the new edition in bookstores now. 

To discover your Baumann Skin Type®, visit her Web Site, SkinTypeSolutions.com.

Once you know your Baumann Skin Type®, you can shop by your skin type and choose from hundreds of brands at SkinTypeSolutionsStore.com.