Large, visible pores can make the skin appear uneven, rough, and dull. Additionally, open pores can be more prone to collecting dirt, oil, and bacteria, which can lead to acne and other skin problems.

While having open pores does not necessarily indicate an underlying health problem, certain factors like genetics, age, and sun damage can contribute to the appearance of large pores. It’s important to take care of your skin by keeping it clean, using non-comedogenic products, and protecting it from sun damage to help minimize the appearance of pores and maintain healthy skin. If you are concerned about the appearance of your pores or experiencing any skin problems, there are several things you can do to shrink them. Here are 7 ways you can reduce the appearance of large open pores:

Keep your skin clean

Dirt, oil, and dead skin cells can accumulate in pores and make them appear larger. Be sure to wash your face twice a day with a gentle cleanser to keep your pores clean. Avoid using harsh cleansers or scrubs, which can irritate your skin and make your pores more susceptible to getting clogged.

Exfoliate regularly

Exfoliating can help remove dead skin cells that can clog pores and make them appear larger. Use a chemical exfoliant like alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) once or twice a week. If you have larger pores in certain areas of your face, such as your nose or forehead, focus on those areas when exfoliating.

It’s important to note that you shouldn’t exfoliate your face too often, as this can strip your skin of its natural oils and cause irritation. Depending on your skin type, you may only need to exfoliate once or twice a week. Be sure to follow the instructions on the product you’re using and listen to your skin to determine how often you should exfoliate.

Use a pore-minimizing toner

Toners containing salicylic acid or glycolic acid can help to tighten and minimize the appearance of pores. Pore minimizing toners typically work by using astringent ingredients to help tighten and refine the skin, making pores less visible. These toners often contain ingredients such as salicylic acid, witch hazel, tea tree oil, and alpha-hydroxy acids, which are known for their ability to reduce the appearance of pores and improve skin texture.

Apply a pore-minimizing serum

Pore-shrinking serums are skincare products that are designed to help reduce the appearance of large pores by tightening and refining the skin. These serums typically contain ingredients that can help to constrict the pores and make them less visible. Serums containing ingredients like niacinamide, retinoids, AHA, or salicylic acid work by using a combination of ingredients that can help to constrict the pores and improve the texture of the skin, making pores less visible.

It’s also important to use sunscreen when using these products, as some of them can increase sun sensitivity. As with any skincare product, it’s a good idea to test a small area of skin first to make sure you don’t have an allergic reaction.

Use a clay mask

Clay masks can help to absorb excess oil and tighten pores. Look for masks containing kaolin clay or bentonite clay. Clay is a natural ingredient that has been used for centuries for its cleansing and purifying properties. When applied as a mask, it can help to draw out impurities and excess oil from the pores, which can make them less visible.

The type of clay used in a mask can also affect its pore-minimizing properties. For example, bentonite clay is a popular choice for pore-minimizing masks, as it has strong absorption properties and can help to remove impurities from the skin. Kaolin clay, on the other hand, is a gentler option that can help to soothe and soften the skin while also absorbing excess oil.

Protect your skin from the sun

Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can damage the skin’s collagen and elastin fibers, leading to a loss of elasticity and firmness in the skin. This can make the pores appear larger and more visible. Sun damage can make pores appear larger over time. Use broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher daily, even on cloudy days.

Consider professional treatments

If you have particularly large or stubborn pores, you may want to consider professional treatments like microdermabrasion, chemical peels, or laser resurfacing. These treatments can help to improve the texture and appearance of your skin.