Open pores are a common skin concern, characterised by enlarged skin pores that can make the skin appear rough and uneven. They often occur on the face, particularly around the nose, cheeks, and forehead, and can be associated with oily or combination skin types.
The term ‘open pores’ refers to enlarged skin pores that become more noticeable over time. The pores on the skin allow it to ‘breathe’ by releasing the sebum or natural oil onto the surface. However, large skin pores often appear in areas that have a higher density of sebaceous glands, specifically in the ‘t-zone’ of the face. They adversely affect the skin texture and become an aesthetic concern for both men and women with oily or combination skin types.
The skin concern affects teenagers undergoing hormonal changes and adults with ageing skin or hormonal issues, too! After knowing the meaning of open pores, it’s time to find out its causes. Also, explore effective treatments and preventive tips for minimising them, right here!
Dark circles most commonly appear due to blood vessels becoming visible due to thinning skin under the eyes because of ageing or other lifestyle factors. It can also occur due to melanin deposits, changes in skin texture, or volume loss, leading to tear trough formation.
Excessive sebum secretion, especially in those with oily or combination skin, leads to the enlargement of hair follicle openings and the appearance of large open pores.
Hair follicles are tubular in structure. Thicker hair follicles have a bigger follicular opening that forms skin pores. These dilate further to allow the flow of natural oil and appear enlarged.
Ageing and sun damage may adversely affect the collagen and elastin fibres in the skin. Diminished strength and elasticity of the skin may make the pores appear crater-like in older adults.
Genetic predisposition and ethnicity are significant internal factors that cause large open pores.
Hormonal changes during puberty or pregnancy also result in developing moles. Moles tend to become darker or bigger due to hormonal fluctuations in the body.
Pores in acne-prone skin clog and cause blackheads and whiteheads. Moreover, inflammatory acne weakens sebum glands and follicular openings and enlarges the pores.
Hormonal fluctuations stimulate the hyperactivity of sebaceous glands and trigger excessive sebum production, resulting in large open pores.
Chronic radiodermatitis and vitamin A deficiency are other uncommon causes of enlarged skin pores.
Risk of skin irritation from treatments.
Potential for temporary redness or swelling post-treatment.
Recurrence if underlying causes are not addressed.
Possible emotional distress due to cosmetic concerns.
Look for products labelled oil-free, non-comedogenic, or “won’t clog your pores”. Heavy makeup or products can get into your pores, make them more visible, and even cause breakouts.
Use a mild cleanser twice daily to wash your face and remove makeup,dirt, and oil. This will prevent your pores from clogging and appearing bigger. You can occasionally use facewashes with salicylic acid if you have oily or acne-prone skin.
Even if you have oily skin, you must use a moisturiser. Otherwise, it will dehydrate your skin, making the pores appear larger. Choose water-based, lightweight products if you have oily skin. Apply moisturiser after cleaning your face and wiping it gently with a towel.
Retinol is a product with many benefits.If you have oily, acne-prone or ageing skin with fine lines, you can use a retinol-based product to reduce oiliness and acne and improve your skin firmness, tone and texture. Use retinol carefully and only with a proper skincare regimen to prevent skin irritation. If your skin is very sensitive, use 2-3 times a week, or consult a dermatologist for a suitable formulation.
UV rays in the sun can cause our skin to tan and age,decreasing collagen. This can lead to increased visibility of pores over time. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 30 daily over your face and exposed body parts, whether you are indoors or outdoors.
Exfoliating once or twice a week with chemical exfoliators like salicylic acid may help remove dead skin cells, sebum and debris from your skin and unclog your pores. Avoid exfoliating too frequently or scrubbing too hard, as it can irritate your skin.
Avoid poking at, picking or scratching pores or acne lesions. Do not scrub or rub your face too hard. This can cause irritation, inflammation and breakouts on your skin, leading to enlarged pores or acne.
Acne is very commonly associated with open pores because both have excessive sebum production. To reduce your acne, you can use products like salicylic acid or take antibiotics or retinoids prescribed by your dermatologist. These will clear and shrink your pores.
Clay absorbs sebum and soothes irritated skin. Using a clay mask 1-2 times a week can help keep excess oiliness at bay and reduce pore size.
Sleeping with makeup on the face is a very common cause of clogged pores and acne breakouts, hindering the skin’s natural rejuvenation process. Prioritise a thorough double cleansing routine before bedtime to remove makeup residue and impurities followed applying a night cream.
Unhealthy foods like processed and fatty foods and a sedentary lifestyle can alter hormonal balances and cause metabolic disturbances in the body. This may result in excess oil secretion and rapid skin ageing, leading to enlarged pores.
Drink adequate water daily to keep your skin hydrated and flush out toxins. This will also keep your pores healthy.
Please remember, no treatment can remove pores from your face completely or permanently.
A1. Open pores occur due to excess sebum production that eventually leads to acne and scars.
A2. No, it is not possible to permanently close open pores as they help us enjoy a healthy skin by releasing natural oils.
A3. Open pores do not directly cause acne. They are a sign of excess sebum production, which may lead to clogging of pores and acne if left untreated.
A4. Open pores are not curable. However, by opting for advanced medico-aesthetic treatment at Oliva, you can minimise them effectively.
A5. Yes, medico-aesthetic treatment performed by experienced dermatologists can visibly reduce the size of your skin pores.
A6. Yes, man-handling large pores on your nose can cause hyperpigmentation and scars.
A7. Large open pores adversely affect the texture and appearance of your skin and maybe a visible sign of premature ageing. However, there are many effective treatments available to decrease their appearance.
A8. Yes, with ageing skin pores may appear enlarged for some people. However, it varies from person to person.
A9. Pores do not result from nutritional deficiency, though vitamin A deficiency may occasionally cause enlarged pores.
A10. Vitamin C acts as an antioxidant and protects the skin from the harmful effects of UV rays. It can also reduce skin inflammation and shrink open pores.
A11. Processed foods and foods rich in carbohydrates and sugar, and dairy products, can increase hormone levels, and stimulate excess oil production and enlarged pores.
A12. Hot showers have no direct effect on the size of pores, but they can loosen dirt and debris from the pores and help unclog them. However, very frequent hot showers are not advisable.
A13. Cold water can reduce inflammation and sebum secretion and soothe inflamed skin. Ice cubes can also temporarily improve the appearance of pores.
