Open Pores: Treatments, Home Remedies, Tips & Results

What Are Open Pores?

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!

What Causes Open Pores On Face?

Check out the top reasons for the occurrence of open pores:

• Excessive Sebum Production: 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.
• Increased Hair Follicle Volume: 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.
• Heredity Factor: Genetic predisposition and ethnicity are significant internal factors that cause large open pores.
• Ageing And Sun Exposure: 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.
• Chronic Acne: 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 Changes: Hormonal fluctuations stimulate the hyperactivity of sebaceous glands and trigger excessive sebum production, resulting in large open pores.
• Acute Skin Conditions And Nutritional Deficiency: Chronic radiodermatitis and vitamin A deficiency are other uncommon causes of enlarged skin pores.

Informative Resources:

• Top 10 Mistakes To Avoid Wornesing Your Acne Outbreak!
• How To Get Rid Of Acne Fast?

How To Diagnose Open Pores?

A dermatologist will first perform a physical examination of the affected area. He or she will determine the severity of the condition based on the following criteria:

• Size of the pores
• Location of the pores
• Size of the affected area

Post-evaluation, the dermatologist will note your family and medical history, hormonal health and lifestyle habits to identify the underlying cause of the concern. Based on their assessment of your skin type, the severity of the condition and the underlying cause, he will recommend a customised treatment plan for reducing your open pores visibly.

Are You At Risk?

If along with large pores on your face, you experience skin infections or acne, you should consult a dermatologist immediately. Keep in mind that large skin pores are benign, cause no pigmentation, and do not cause other skin concerns. They are not a serious medical condition.

However, seek medical help if you note a significant increase in pore size, distribution or density. Your dermatologist can treat the condition effectively to improve your skin texture.

Home Remedies For Open Pores

Following are the best home remedies for open pores to reduce sebum production, exfoliate dead skin and minimise pore size

• Ice cubes:

The most common and easiest method to temporarily reduce pores is to apply ice cubes directly or wrapped in cloth to the face for a few minutes. The cold causes the fibres to contract. You can follow this daily in the morning or after using other face packs.

• Egg white:

Applying masks of whisked egg whites once or twice a week can help shrink pores by drawing out oil.

• Multani mitti:

Multani mitti is a popular facemask ingredient that can calm irritated skin and also reduce oil secretion and pores.

• Besan:

Gram flour or besan is another common native ingredient that can soothe the skin and absorb excess oils.

• Honey:

Honey, mixed with other ingredients like oats and lemon juice, can also remove oil and dirt from skin due to its hygroscopic nature (pulls water). Apply such masks once or twice a week to refresh the skin.

• Aloe vera:

Aloe vera has soothing properties and can clean out clogged pores. Apply aloe vera gel or masks regularly to reduce pore size.

• Apple cider vinegar:

Apple cider vinegar has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties and can restore the pH of damaged skin. Diluted apple cider vinegar can also reduce the size of open pores.

• Papaya:

Papaya, if included in face packs or masks, can help exfoliate dead skin and clear clogged pores.

• Cucumber:

Cucumber has astringent properties. Applying cucumber directly to the skin or in a mask can soothe the skin and reduce pore size.

• Banana:

Banana masks cannot control acne. Still, the phenolics and vitamin A in bananas can reduce oil secretion and minimise pore size.

• Clay mask:

Clay masks are gentle and customisable to suit anyone’s skin. They tighten the skin, remove dirt and cause gentle exfoliation, reducing pore size and inflammation.

• Yogurt:

Yogurt or curd contains lactic acid, which helps exfoliate, reduce inflammation, and achieve smoother new skin, thus reducing the size of pores.

• Lemon:

Lemon juice has cleansing and anti-bacterial properties, which can kill bacteria clogging the pores. Use lemon juice in face packs or masks to reduce the size of open pores.

• Tea tree oil:

Tea tree oil can reduce oil secretion from the glands and shrink open pores.

Topical & Oral Medications To Treat Open Pores

Many medications, topical and oral, are available, which can help reduce pores. Here is an overview of the popular OTC products for open pores treatment:

1. Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs):

AHAs are a group of very popular skincare ingredients consisting of glycolic acid, lactic acid, and malic acid. They help exfoliate dead skin and remove debris to rejuvenate the skin and clear up clogged pores.

2. Beta hydroxy acids (BHAs):

BHAs include the popular anti-acne agent salicylic acid and are available in different formulations and concentrations. They are oil-soluble and hence can penetrate the sebaceous glands to reduce oil secretion, regulate skin exfoliation (similar to AHAs), and unclog pores to make them appear smaller.

3. Retinoids:

Topical retinoids like retinol and its stronger counterpart, tretinoin, are good for reducing enlarged pores. They regulate cell turnover, unclog pores, and promote collagen fibre synthesis, which can shrink the pores. However, these products are stronger and best used after a dermatologist consultation.

4. Niacinamide:

Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3 that is gentle but multi-functional for the skin. It can reduce oil secretion and inflammation, soothe irritated skin, improve collagen synthesis and regulate cell turnover, thus working in many ways to reduce open pores. However, regular and consistent usage helps maintain results.

5. Hyaluronic acid:

Hyaluronic acid is another non-comedogenic gentle product popular in skincare. It helps hydrate, moisturise and heal the skin, increasing collagen production, which can reduce the size of pores. The combination works great on the skin when used with other ingredients like retinoids or niacinamide.

6. Oral retinoids:

Dermatologists prescribe oral retinoids like isotretinoin for severe acne. These medicines shrink the sebaceous glands from the inside and can also reduce pore size. However, as they are strong medicines, it is advisable to consult a doctor before using them for open pores.

7. Antibiotics:

Doctors may prescribe antibiotics like doxycycline and minocycline as oral medications for acne. They may also add topical antibiotics like clindamycin to anti-acne regimens. However, they do not work directly on open pores. They can reduce inflammation related to sebaceous glands and remove excess bacteria from the lesion. This ultimately minimises the size of oil glands and shrinks pores.

8. Oral anti-androgens:

Oral anti-androgens are best suitable for women with hormonal issues, resulting in excess oil production and acne and are unresponsive to conventional treatments. They include combined oral contraceptives, spironolactone, and flutamide, which can reduce the level of androgenic hormones like testosterone in females. Testosterone can cause excess oil secretion from the glands, leading to enlarged pores. These medications reduce the hormonal imbalance and prevent excess sebum and acne.

Advanced Open Pores Treatment By Dermatologist:

Enlarged open pores are challenging to treat, as they may be a result of various underlying factors. Leading dermatologists at Oliva combine medical treatments for open pores with advanced aesthetic procedures to give you visible results. They focus on treating primary triggers by controlling excessive sebum production and minimising skin damage due to ageing.

Following are the best treatments for open pores:

• Laser Toning:

Top doctors at Oliva specialise in performing advanced laser toning treatment for open pores using USFDA-approved technology. They use the Q-switched Nd:YAG laser to exfoliate the skin, stimulate collagen production, reduce oiliness, and thus minimise the appearance of pores. Dermatologists recommend 6-8 sessions with an interval of 3-4 weeks between sessions for optimal results. Clients may need maintenance sessions to sustain the results for a longer time. This procedure has no downtime.

Watch the video below to know more about the laser toning treatment at Oliva:

• Laser skin resurfacing:

The dermatologists use Fractionated erbium YAG laser to create micro-injuries to the top layer of the skin and induce a healing response by stimulating collagen production and tightening the skin. This further removes lines and pores. This treatment has 5-7 days downtime and requires the application of topical anaesthesia before performing the procedure. It gives long-lasting results.

Watch the video below to learn more about the procedure, benefits, and results of the Laser skin resurfacing treatment at Oliva:

• Micro-Needling Radiofrequency (MNRF):

At Oliva, you can also undergo microneedling radiofrequency treatment for open pores. This involves inserting tiny microneedles into the upper layer of the skin and releasing radiofrequency energy. It triggers the healing response of the skin by stimulating collagen and elastin production, resulting in decreased visibility of enlarged pores. Doctors recommend 6-8 sessions with a few weeks between sessions. The procedure has no downtime, and the results are long-lasting.

Watch the video below to know more about the procedure, benefits and results of the MNRF treatment at Oliva:

• Chemical Peels:

The medical team at Oliva recommends the application of salicylic acid peels and glycolic acid peels for the controlled exfoliation of dead cells. It helps control excess sebum production and aids skin renewal. It further removes pore clogging and controls inflammation. It is an effective treatment for reducing large skin pores. Individuals may require a few sessions at a 2-4 week gap, with regular maintenance for best results.

Check out the video here to know all about the advanced chemical peel treatment at Oliva:

Before And After Results Of Open Pores

Now you know about all the available professional solutions for open pores. Are you aware that a simple skin-care routine can work wonders for decreasing the appearance of open pores? Read right ahead to know more!

What Are The Common Misconceptions About Open Pores?

We all search for products that can shrink pores. These pores are the outlet for sebum produced by the glands in our skin and help clean the skin. No product or treatment can shrink or make them disappear permanently.

Using steam does not open pores, though it can help clean the debris accumulated in them. Pore size depends on your genetics, age, skin type, skincare regimen, underlying health, and other factors.

How To Prevent The Appearance Of Large Open Pores?

While genetics play a significant role in the size of your pores, there are skincare habits you can adopt to address the underlying causes of enlarged pores. It’s essential to note that pores are a natural part of the skin and are impossible to eliminate completely. However, incorporating the following steps into your skincare routine can minimise their appearance and improve overall skin health.

1. Choose non-comedogenic makeup and skin products:

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.

2. Clean your face:

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.

3. Moisturise your 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.

4. Try retinol-based products:

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.

5. Use sunscreen regularly:

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.

6. Exfoliate Gently to remove dead skin:

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.

7. Treat your skin gently:

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.

8. Address your active 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.

9. Use a clay mask:

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.

10. Don’t sleep with makeup:

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.

11. Follow a healthy lifestyle and balanced diet:

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.

12. Hydrate well:

Drink adequate water daily to keep your skin hydrated and flush out toxins. This will also keep your pores healthy.

Informative Resources:

• How To Prevent Pimples On Face?
• What Is The Best Skin Care Routine For Acne Prone Skin?

Prognosis:

Please remember, no treatment can remove pores from your face completely or permanently. However, advanced dermatological procedures can reduce the appearance of enlarged pores and give you a smoother skin texture than before.

If open pores are drawing all your attention of late, consult a dermatologist at Oliva Skin & Hair Clinic today to find a suitable treatment option that can restore your smooth and flawless skin!

Delivering World-class dermatology solutions is our mission! Redefining the quality of care is a passion!

How to get started? Book Appointment or 82978 82978 to enjoy the best results!

FAQs On Open Pores

• What Is The Difference Between Acne Scars And Open Pores?

Open pores occur due to excess sebum production that eventually leads to acne and scars.

• Is It Possible To Close Open Pores Permanently?

No, it is not possible to permanently close open pores as they help us enjoy a healthy skin by releasing natural oils.

• Do Open Pores Cause Acne?

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.

• Are open pores curable?

Open pores are not curable. However, by opting for advanced medico-aesthetic treatment at Oliva, you can minimise them effectively.

• Can You Shrink Your Pores?

Yes, medico-aesthetic treatment performed by experienced dermatologists can visibly reduce the size of your skin pores.

• Is It Bad To Squeeze Nose Pores?

Yes, man-handling large pores on your nose can cause hyperpigmentation and scars.

• Are Open Pores Bad?

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.

• Do Pores Get Bigger As You Age?

Yes, with ageing skin pores may appear enlarged for some people. However, it varies from person to person.

• What deficiency causes open pores?

Pores do not result from nutritional deficiency, though vitamin A deficiency may occasionally cause enlarged pores.

• Can vitamin C reduce open pores?

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.

• Which Food Causes Open Pores?

Processed foods and foods rich in carbohydrates and sugar, and dairy products, can increase hormone levels, and stimulate excess oil production and enlarged pores.

• Do Hot Showers Open Pores?

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.

• Can Cold Water Close Pores?

Cold water can reduce inflammation and sebum secretion and soothe inflamed skin. Ice cubes can also temporarily improve the appearance of pores.