Large Pores

About Pores

Pores are tiny holes in the epidermis, the outermost layer of the skin. They serve several functions:  

• Allowing for the passage of liquids and gases to exit our body
• Regulating body temperature
• Giving skin a natural barrier to protect itself from bacteria

There are two types of pores: oil pores and sweat pores.

• Oil pores are connected to sebaceous (oil) glands. These release the body’s natural oil, called sebum. Sebum acts as a natural emollient, enabling a waterproof layer to form over the skin, which keeps bacteria and other foreign particles out of your pores and locks moisture in. Healthy, balanced sebum production can ensure that your skin maintains optimal softness and flexibility. Oil-releasing pores may sometimes appear enlarged.
• Sweat pores are connected to sudoriferous (sweat) glands. There are many of these all over your outer layer of skin.

While many people perceive their pores as blemishes, mainly when they’re enlarged (as can be the case with oil pores), it is important to remember that they serve a critical role in keeping the skin hydrated and healthy. The key to an even complexion is to minimize their visibility.

Causes of Large Pores

Several factors can influence pore size. Genetics play a central role—just as you inherit your eye colour or height from your parents, pore size can also be passed down through families. Lifestyle choices and environmental factors can also contribute to enlarged pores.

As we age, our skin loses elasticity, which can make pores appear larger. An excess of sebum, the oil produced to protect and hydrate the skin, can also cause pores to expand. Additionally, a buildup of dead skin cells, cosmetics, or the skin’s pigment can make pores more prominent. Understanding these factors is the first step toward addressing the appearance of enlarged pores.

At-Home Care for Reducing Pore Size

Good skincare practices are key to refining your pores. Start with these fundamental steps to keep your pores clear and less noticeable.

Cleanse Daily

Over time, clogged pores or an oily complexion can give the appearance of enlarged pores. However, twice-daily cleansing may help reduce oiliness and unclog and prevent clogged pores.

Exfoliate as Recommended

To minimize the appearance of pores, exfoliate your skin regularly with a product designed for that purpose. Improper exfoliation can cause damage to your skin; therefore, it’s essential to speak with a skincare expert to ensure you select the right product and use it correctly.

Use Non-Comedogenic Products

The term “non-comedogenic” means a product will not clog your pores. Clogged pores expand, making them appear larger and contributing to inflammation and acne breakouts.

Apply Sunscreen Daily

Protect your skin daily by applying sunscreen with SPF30 or higher. Sun exposure can lead to more visible pores and decreased skin firmness over time. Even on cloudy days or during winter months, diligent sunscreen application can prevent cumulative sun damage.

Heights Laser Centre Treatment Options for Large Pores

At Heights Laser Centre, we offer BOTOX® Cosmetic, intense pulsed light (IPL), and sublative treatments—each effective in its own way for skin rejuvenation. The right treatment for you will depend on your aesthetic goals and skin quality.

• BOTOX COSMETIC® is an injectable treatment used to relax muscles in the face. When specific muscles of the face are relaxed, the skin looks smoother and tighter, making pores less noticeable. BOTOX also blocks nerve signals to the sweat glands to reduce excess perspiration.
• IPL photofacial harnesses the power of light to refresh the skin from within. It delivers multiple wavelengths of pulsed light deep into the skin layers, which can reduce the appearance of age spots, sun damage, and redness. As the skin absorbs the light energy, it kickstarts a healing response that leads to new collagen formation and a smoother skin texture.
• Sublative skin rejuvenation treatment is an advanced treatment using eMatrix. Effective for all skin types, this therapy uses bipolar radiofrequency waves to penetrate the skin, triggering a rejuvenating healing effect that tightens and lifts the skin.
• Dermapen® 4 microneedling supports healthy, resilient skin by creating micro-channels that trigger the body’s healing response. With the production of collagen and elastin, the skin becomes tighter and pores appear smaller.
• Skincare products containing retinol or retinyl palmitate may help reduce pore size. To get the most benefit from these products, apply them at night before bed. However, you should not use products with these ingredients if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.