Does Pore Size Really Matter For Healthy Skin and Can You Shrink Them? Expert Shares

When it comes to skincare, a few things bother people a little too much, and one of these is large, visible pores. While they are a natural part of skin anatomy, some of us try to make them disappear through continuous skincare trends and products. But how much do pores really matter when it comes to skin health? And, can they actually be shrunk, or is that just a myth?

To have our questions answered, we spoke to Dr Sudheendra Udbalker, Senior Consultant, Dermatology, Fortis Hospital, Bannerghatta Road, Bengaluru, and here is everything he shared with us.

What Are Skin Pores?

Pores are small openings in the skin through which oil, also known as sebum, reaches the skin's surface, along with sweat. In each pore, there is a hair follicle and one sebaceous gland that produces sebum to keep the skin hydrated and protected. According to Dr Udbalker, "Pores are essential for maintaining healthy skin, as they help regulate oil levels and remove waste through sweat. When they get clogged or enlarged, cosmetic concerns arise.”

Also Read: Worrying Why You Acne Wont Go Away? Expert Shares 6 Reasons

Do Pores Affect Skin Health?

Pore size itself doesn't determine the health of the skin. Large pores, however, often reflect other problems such as excess sebum production, neglect of skin cleansing, and loss of skin elasticity due to ageing. "Healthy pores are those that are clear, free of debris, and not inflamed. So when pores become clogged with dead cells, sebum, or pollution, that can lead to acne, blackheads, or a rough texture,” Dr Udbalker explained.

Causes of Large Pores?

Pore size is determined largely by genetics. This means that if your parents tend to have oily skin or large pores, chances are you will too. However, other factors also play a role. These include:

• Overproduction of oil: This can widen the pores due to the overactive sebaceous glands.
• Sun damage: UV exposure degrades collagen to make pores seem larger.
• Ageing: When skin loses elasticity, the pores can appear larger.
• Poor cleansing: Built-up makeup and grime will block and distend the pores over time.

Can You Actually Shrink Pores?

Pores can't actually physically shrink, since their actual size is predetermined by your genes. But what one can do is minimise the appearance and prevent them from getting bigger. According to Dr Udbalker, "It's all about keeping the skin clean and healthy, and also strengthening collagen to keep the tissue tight around the pore."

Also Read: The Secret to Plump, Healthy Skin: Understanding Skin Hydration from the Inside Out

Dermatologist-Approved Ways to Minimise Pore Appearance

If you are struggling with large pores, here are some dermat-approved ways to minimise pore appearance:

• Use gentle exfoliants: As they contain alpha or beta hydroxy acids, such as glycolic acid or salicylic acid, which help remove dead cells and prevent buildup.
• Incorporate retinoids: These increase cell turnover and boost collagen production, ultimately improving overall skin texture.
• Wear sunscreen all the time: UV damage can dissolve the pore structure. Daily use of SPF protects skin and keeps it firm.
• Try niacinamide: Niacinamide is a vitamin B3 derivative that controls sebum and improves barrier function.
• Professional treatments: These include chemical peels, microneedling, and laser resurfacing to temporarily improve the smoothness of the skin and reduce pore size.

Common Myths About Skin Pores

While there is too little information one can do to understand pores, there are more misconceptions. Here are a few busted ones:

Myth 1: Steam opens pores. Actually, pores don't open or close; steam simply softens the detritus, making cleansing easier.

Myth 2: You can permanently shrink pores. Treatments may refine skin texture, but cannot change pore size permanently.

Myth 3: Pores are only visible on oily skin. Large pores can occur in dry or normal skin due to either ageing or exposure to the sun.

Bottomline

Pores are normal and an important part of healthy skin. While you cannot get rid of them, following a regular skincare routine, protecting the skin from sun damage, and using dermatologist-recommended products will keep them clean and less noticeable. The goal is healthy, balanced skin-not poreless perfection.