Pore Size: Practical Ways to Shrink and Care for Enlarged Pores

Notice your pores looking bigger than you'd like? Pore size is mostly genetic, but oil, dead skin, and sun damage make them stand out more. You can’t erase pores completely, but you can make them look much smaller with a focused routine and the right actives.

Quick daily routine to reduce pore appearance

Start with a gentle cleanser twice a day to remove oil and dirt without stripping skin. Over-washing triggers more oil, which makes pores look worse. After cleansing, use a toner or serum with salicylic acid (a BHA). Salicylic acid penetrates into the pore, clears clogs, and helps the pore wall look tighter over time.

Nighttime is the best time for retinoids. Retinol or prescription retinoids increase cell turnover, prevent buildup inside pores, and improve skin texture. Begin slowly—two to three nights a week—then increase as your skin tolerates it. Pair retinoids with a simple, non-comedogenic moisturizer to avoid dryness and irritation.

During the day, wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen every morning. Sun damage thickens skin and stretches pores, so consistent SPF keeps pores looking smaller long-term. Look for oil-free formulas if you’re acne-prone.

Extra steps that help (and things to avoid)

Weekly exfoliation and clay masks give visible results. Use a chemical exfoliant (AHA or BHA) once or twice a week rather than harsh scrubs. Clay masks draw out excess oil and can temporarily make pores look less noticeable. Don’t overdo masks—1–2 times weekly is enough for most skin types.

Avoid squeezing or aggressive extraction at home. Popping pimples or pulling at blackheads can damage the pore edge and make pores look larger. If extractions are needed, see a trained esthetician or dermatologist.

Look for niacinamide in serums—this ingredient helps balance oil production and improves skin elasticity so pores sit tighter on the skin surface. For oily skin types, light gel moisturizers and water-based products reduce shine and the illusion of large pores.

If you wear makeup, choose non-comedogenic, lightweight formulas. Heavy powders can settle into pores and make them more visible. A primer with a blurring effect works well for special occasions.

Professional options can speed up improvements: chemical peels, micro-needling, fractional lasers, and certain light-based treatments can resurface skin and reduce pore appearance. These work best when done by a licensed provider and often require multiple sessions.

Wondering whether to try a product or pro treatment? Start with consistent home care—cleanse, exfoliate sensibly, use a retinoid, niacinamide, and daily SPF. If pores still bother you after three months of consistent care, schedule a consult with a dermatologist to review stronger options.

Small changes in routine add up fast. Stick to the basics, be patient, and you’ll see pores settle down and skin texture improve without drastic measures.