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How to Manage Pores: Causes and Expert Tips That Actually Work
SKIN WIKI
SKIN WIKI
Can You Actually Shrink Pores? The Truth Explained
In summer, the first skin problem you see in the mirror is "pores".
In this post, I will show you how to manage pores in summer from A to Z how to care for your pores in summer!
We've summarized the characteristics of each pore type, home care methods for each skin type, and recommended treatments!
Why do pores get bigger?
Enlarged pores are caused by a combination of factors.
It’s important to know what causes your pores and what type of pores you have, because you usually can't fix just one thing.
Top Causes
Hypersecretion — Excessive Sebum Production
Caused by overactive or overdeveloped sebaceous glands.
Research:
Unsaturated fatty acids in sebum alter the dermis structure, reducing elasticity and causing inflammation and accelerated aging, all of which contribute to enlarged pores.
Source: Potential role of inflammation mediated by the complement system in enlarged facial pores
In other words: more sebum = more inflammation + faster elasticity loss → pores become more visible over time.
Increased Age
Decreased collagen and reduced skin elasticity make pores appear larger.
UV Rays
Photoaging damages dermal tissue, weakening pore structure and causing enlargement.
Acne Scars
When skin tissue is damaged by acne, pores can stretch and remain enlarged.
Characteristics of each pore type
Type | Causes | Characteristics | Mostly Occurring Areas | Skin Type | Treatment Directions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Horizontal pores | Sebum-waste buildup | Horizontal widening | T-zone | Oily | Sebum control + exfoliation |
Vertical pores | Decreased skin elasticity, dermis structure breakdown | Longitudinal stretch marks | Cheeks - cheekbones - under eye bags | Dry - aging | Collagen regeneration + elasticity restoration |
Left (horizontal pores)
Widened by accumulation of sebum and wastes, it is mainly distributed in the T-zone area.
Many people have oily skin.
Right (vertical pores)
These pores are located on the cheeks, cheekbones, and under-eye area as the skin loses elasticity and the dermal layer structure breaks down.
They are most common in dry, aging skin.
Home care routine by skin type
Oily skin
Goal | Control sebum + exfoliate dead skin cells |
|---|---|
After cleansing | Morning wash - mildly acidic cleanser Evening wash - mildly alkaline cleanser |
Moisturizer | Oil-free moisturizer |
Sunscreen | Non-comedogenic sunscreen that doesn't clog pores |
[Routine]
Morning: Mildly acidic cleanser → moisturizing cream
Evening: Mildly alkaline cleanser → Toner pad (AHA/BHA) → Moisturizing cream
2-3 times per week: Exfoliate with an exfoliant, then remove dead skin and oil with a cotton ball
Dry skin
Goals | Moisturize + Exfoliate |
|---|---|
Cleansing | Use a milk-based, hypoallergenic cleanser |
Moisturizer | Moisturizer with hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and panthenol |
Sunscreen | Use a sunscreen that moisturizes and protects at the same time |
[Routine]
Cleanse: Hypoallergenic cleanser
Moisturize: Niacinamide (pore + whitening) ampoule → moisturizing cream with strong moisturizing power
Once a week: Exfoliate with a toner pad
Sensitive skin
Face wash | Use fragrance-free, alcohol-free, hypoallergenic cleanser |
|---|---|
Moisturizer | Protect skin with moisturizer containing ceramides and niacinamide |
Sunscreen | Use a physical barrier (non-greasy) for sensitive skin |
[Routine]
Cleansing: Hypoallergenic cleanser without harmful ingredients
Moisturize: moisturizer with ceramides and niacinamide
Once a week: use a gentle chemical exfoliator (low concentration of AHAs),
Avoid physical scrubs🚫.
⚠️ Keep this in mind! ⚠️
Avoid squeezing the sebum in your nose
Avoid isopropyl, silicone (dimethicone), and shea butter
Isopropyl: Highly oily and can clog pores
Silicone: Coats the surface of the skin, which can feel tight and cause breakouts
Shea butter: moisturizing but oily, clogging pores and potentially causing acne
Don't wash your face with hot water! 🚫 (Lukewarm water wash OK)
Pore Products - Pharmacy Recommendations
Sevita B Gel
Nicotinamide
Originally an acne treatment, it has anti-inflammatory, homeostatic, and sebum-regulating effects.
Claritin
Salicylic acid
Helps exfoliate dead skin cells, improve blackheads, and reduce sebum production.
AKLIEF Cream *Needs prescription
Retinoids
Boosts collagen production and speeds up turnover (shedding of dead skin cells).
Helps shrink pores as the dermis layer is strengthened.
Recommended Pore Treatment
Aqua Peel
It is important to remove dead skin cells and wastes accumulated in the pores to prevent them from widening.
Aqua Peel utilizes vacuum suction using a solution to gently remove blackheads, sebum, and dead skin cells from pores, leaving your skin with a smoother texture.
Potenza
Needle RF is a way to shrink pores by stimulating collagen synthesis around them.
Needle RF (Potenza, Silfirmx) is a device that delivers radiofrequency energy with a very fine needle to precisely target the dermis layer by reducing epidermal damage.
Various treatments are possible depending on the type of tip and mode, including pores, acne, and scars, as well as skin tightening.
When JUVELOOK is added to Potenza (pumping tip), high frequency and PDLLA work synergistically on collagen and elastin formation to improve elasticity and pores.
The image shows the progress of a 31-year-old Japanese woman up to 6 months after the microneedling RF treatment. The red area is where the tightening effect is greater. After one month, the red area is the largest. You can see that it gradually decreases as you approach 6 months. In other words, we can predict that the effect will be maintained up to 6 months.
Skin Botox
Skin Botox is a procedure that involves injecting lightly concentrated Botox into the shallow layers of the skin.
In addition to shrinking pores, it can be seen to reduce sebum / improve skin texture and elasticity / lift redness and wrinkles.
Summer Pore Care Doesn’t Have to Be Complicated!
Pores don’t shrink overnight, but with the right understanding of the causes and consistent care, noticeable improvement is absolutely possible.
Start a skincare routine that truly fits your skin, starting today.
FAQ: Enlarged Pores and Pore Care
What causes enlarged pores on the skin?
Several factors can contribute to enlarged pores, including: Excess sebum production from overactive sebaceous glands Loss of skin elasticity due to aging and reduced collagen Sun exposure and UV damage that weaken dermal structures Acne or inflammation, which can stretch pore walls Often, enlarged pores are caused by a combination of these factors rather than a single cause.
Can pores actually shrink?
Pores cannot permanently “shrink” because their size is largely determined by genetics and skin structure. However, they can appear smaller when excess oil, debris, and dead skin cells are removed and when the skin’s collagen and elasticity are improved. Consistent skincare and appropriate treatments can significantly reduce the visible appearance of enlarged pores.
How can oily skin manage enlarged pores at home?
For oily skin, the main goals are sebum control and regular exfoliation. Helpful habits may include: Using a mild cleanser twice daily Applying oil-free moisturizers Using products with ingredients like salicylic acid (BHA) or AHA exfoliants Choosing non-comedogenic sunscreen Regular exfoliation can help prevent oil and debris from accumulating inside pores.
How does proper cleansing help manage large pores?
Cleansing removes oil, dirt, and makeup that can clog pores. Keeping your pores clean helps prevent breakouts and keeps your skin looking fresh and smooth.
What treatments are effective for improving pore appearance?
Treatments like chemical peels, microneedling, and laser or RF facials can tighten skin and improve texture. When combined with good at-home care, these can really help pores look smaller and healthier.
Not sure how to improve your pores?
Book a consultation at Repic Clinic now!
Tags:
Pores
Share this blog
Related Posts.
Looking for more expert insights? Explore these articles from our team of skincare specialists.
Skincare Recommendations
Back to Menu
Rewrite Your Beauty Story with REPIC Clinic
The more you understand your skin, the better decisions you can make about your daily habits and long-term skincare plan. Knowledge is the first step toward healthy, confident skin.
Ready to discover what your skin truly needs?
Back to Menu
How to Manage Pores: Causes and Expert Tips That Actually Work
SKIN WIKI
SKIN WIKI
Can You Actually Shrink Pores? The Truth Explained
In summer, the first skin problem you see in the mirror is "pores".
In this post, I will show you how to manage pores in summer from A to Z how to care for your pores in summer!
We've summarized the characteristics of each pore type, home care methods for each skin type, and recommended treatments!
Why do pores get bigger?
Enlarged pores are caused by a combination of factors.
It’s important to know what causes your pores and what type of pores you have, because you usually can't fix just one thing.
Top Causes
Hypersecretion — Excessive Sebum Production
Caused by overactive or overdeveloped sebaceous glands.
Research:
Unsaturated fatty acids in sebum alter the dermis structure, reducing elasticity and causing inflammation and accelerated aging, all of which contribute to enlarged pores.
Source: Potential role of inflammation mediated by the complement system in enlarged facial pores
In other words: more sebum = more inflammation + faster elasticity loss → pores become more visible over time.
Increased Age
Decreased collagen and reduced skin elasticity make pores appear larger.
UV Rays
Photoaging damages dermal tissue, weakening pore structure and causing enlargement.
Acne Scars
When skin tissue is damaged by acne, pores can stretch and remain enlarged.
Characteristics of each pore type
Type | Causes | Characteristics | Mostly Occurring Areas | Skin Type | Treatment Directions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Horizontal pores | Sebum-waste buildup | Horizontal widening | T-zone | Oily | Sebum control + exfoliation |
Vertical pores | Decreased skin elasticity, dermis structure breakdown | Longitudinal stretch marks | Cheeks - cheekbones - under eye bags | Dry - aging | Collagen regeneration + elasticity restoration |
Left (horizontal pores)
Widened by accumulation of sebum and wastes, it is mainly distributed in the T-zone area.
Many people have oily skin.
Right (vertical pores)
These pores are located on the cheeks, cheekbones, and under-eye area as the skin loses elasticity and the dermal layer structure breaks down.
They are most common in dry, aging skin.
Home care routine by skin type
Oily skin
Goal | Control sebum + exfoliate dead skin cells |
|---|---|
After cleansing | Morning wash - mildly acidic cleanser Evening wash - mildly alkaline cleanser |
Moisturizer | Oil-free moisturizer |
Sunscreen | Non-comedogenic sunscreen that doesn't clog pores |
[Routine]
Morning: Mildly acidic cleanser → moisturizing cream
Evening: Mildly alkaline cleanser → Toner pad (AHA/BHA) → Moisturizing cream
2-3 times per week: Exfoliate with an exfoliant, then remove dead skin and oil with a cotton ball
Dry skin
Goals | Moisturize + Exfoliate |
|---|---|
Cleansing | Use a milk-based, hypoallergenic cleanser |
Moisturizer | Moisturizer with hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and panthenol |
Sunscreen | Use a sunscreen that moisturizes and protects at the same time |
[Routine]
Cleanse: Hypoallergenic cleanser
Moisturize: Niacinamide (pore + whitening) ampoule → moisturizing cream with strong moisturizing power
Once a week: Exfoliate with a toner pad
Sensitive skin
Face wash | Use fragrance-free, alcohol-free, hypoallergenic cleanser |
|---|---|
Moisturizer | Protect skin with moisturizer containing ceramides and niacinamide |
Sunscreen | Use a physical barrier (non-greasy) for sensitive skin |
[Routine]
Cleansing: Hypoallergenic cleanser without harmful ingredients
Moisturize: moisturizer with ceramides and niacinamide
Once a week: use a gentle chemical exfoliator (low concentration of AHAs),
Avoid physical scrubs🚫.
⚠️ Keep this in mind! ⚠️
Avoid squeezing the sebum in your nose
Avoid isopropyl, silicone (dimethicone), and shea butter
Isopropyl: Highly oily and can clog pores
Silicone: Coats the surface of the skin, which can feel tight and cause breakouts
Shea butter: moisturizing but oily, clogging pores and potentially causing acne
Don't wash your face with hot water! 🚫 (Lukewarm water wash OK)
Pore Products - Pharmacy Recommendations
Sevita B Gel
Nicotinamide
Originally an acne treatment, it has anti-inflammatory, homeostatic, and sebum-regulating effects.
Claritin
Salicylic acid
Helps exfoliate dead skin cells, improve blackheads, and reduce sebum production.
AKLIEF Cream *Needs prescription
Retinoids
Boosts collagen production and speeds up turnover (shedding of dead skin cells).
Helps shrink pores as the dermis layer is strengthened.
Recommended Pore Treatment
Aqua Peel
It is important to remove dead skin cells and wastes accumulated in the pores to prevent them from widening.
Aqua Peel utilizes vacuum suction using a solution to gently remove blackheads, sebum, and dead skin cells from pores, leaving your skin with a smoother texture.
Potenza
Needle RF is a way to shrink pores by stimulating collagen synthesis around them.
Needle RF (Potenza, Silfirmx) is a device that delivers radiofrequency energy with a very fine needle to precisely target the dermis layer by reducing epidermal damage.
Various treatments are possible depending on the type of tip and mode, including pores, acne, and scars, as well as skin tightening.
When JUVELOOK is added to Potenza (pumping tip), high frequency and PDLLA work synergistically on collagen and elastin formation to improve elasticity and pores.
The image shows the progress of a 31-year-old Japanese woman up to 6 months after the microneedling RF treatment. The red area is where the tightening effect is greater. After one month, the red area is the largest. You can see that it gradually decreases as you approach 6 months. In other words, we can predict that the effect will be maintained up to 6 months.
Skin Botox
Skin Botox is a procedure that involves injecting lightly concentrated Botox into the shallow layers of the skin.
In addition to shrinking pores, it can be seen to reduce sebum / improve skin texture and elasticity / lift redness and wrinkles.
Summer Pore Care Doesn’t Have to Be Complicated!
Pores don’t shrink overnight, but with the right understanding of the causes and consistent care, noticeable improvement is absolutely possible.
Start a skincare routine that truly fits your skin, starting today.
FAQ: Enlarged Pores and Pore Care
What causes enlarged pores on the skin?
Several factors can contribute to enlarged pores, including: Excess sebum production from overactive sebaceous glands Loss of skin elasticity due to aging and reduced collagen Sun exposure and UV damage that weaken dermal structures Acne or inflammation, which can stretch pore walls Often, enlarged pores are caused by a combination of these factors rather than a single cause.
Can pores actually shrink?
Pores cannot permanently “shrink” because their size is largely determined by genetics and skin structure. However, they can appear smaller when excess oil, debris, and dead skin cells are removed and when the skin’s collagen and elasticity are improved. Consistent skincare and appropriate treatments can significantly reduce the visible appearance of enlarged pores.
How can oily skin manage enlarged pores at home?
For oily skin, the main goals are sebum control and regular exfoliation. Helpful habits may include: Using a mild cleanser twice daily Applying oil-free moisturizers Using products with ingredients like salicylic acid (BHA) or AHA exfoliants Choosing non-comedogenic sunscreen Regular exfoliation can help prevent oil and debris from accumulating inside pores.
How does proper cleansing help manage large pores?
Cleansing removes oil, dirt, and makeup that can clog pores. Keeping your pores clean helps prevent breakouts and keeps your skin looking fresh and smooth.
What treatments are effective for improving pore appearance?
Treatments like chemical peels, microneedling, and laser or RF facials can tighten skin and improve texture. When combined with good at-home care, these can really help pores look smaller and healthier.
Not sure how to improve your pores?
Book a consultation at Repic Clinic now!
Tags:
Pores
Share this blog
Related Posts.
Looking for more expert insights? Explore these articles from our team of skincare specialists.
Skincare Recommendations
Back to Menu
Rewrite Your Beauty Story with REPIC Clinic
The more you understand your skin, the better decisions you can make about your daily habits and long-term skincare plan. Knowledge is the first step toward healthy, confident skin.
Ready to discover what your skin truly needs?
Back to Menu
How to Manage Pores: Causes and Expert Tips That Actually Work
SKIN WIKI
SKIN WIKI
Can You Actually Shrink Pores? The Truth Explained
In summer, the first skin problem you see in the mirror is "pores".
In this post, I will show you how to manage pores in summer from A to Z how to care for your pores in summer!
We've summarized the characteristics of each pore type, home care methods for each skin type, and recommended treatments!
Why do pores get bigger?
Enlarged pores are caused by a combination of factors.
It’s important to know what causes your pores and what type of pores you have, because you usually can't fix just one thing.
Top Causes
Hypersecretion — Excessive Sebum Production
Caused by overactive or overdeveloped sebaceous glands.
Research:
Unsaturated fatty acids in sebum alter the dermis structure, reducing elasticity and causing inflammation and accelerated aging, all of which contribute to enlarged pores.
Source: Potential role of inflammation mediated by the complement system in enlarged facial pores
In other words: more sebum = more inflammation + faster elasticity loss → pores become more visible over time.
Increased Age
Decreased collagen and reduced skin elasticity make pores appear larger.
UV Rays
Photoaging damages dermal tissue, weakening pore structure and causing enlargement.
Acne Scars
When skin tissue is damaged by acne, pores can stretch and remain enlarged.
Characteristics of each pore type
Type | Causes | Characteristics | Mostly Occurring Areas | Skin Type | Treatment Directions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Horizontal pores | Sebum-waste buildup | Horizontal widening | T-zone | Oily | Sebum control + exfoliation |
Vertical pores | Decreased skin elasticity, dermis structure breakdown | Longitudinal stretch marks | Cheeks - cheekbones - under eye bags | Dry - aging | Collagen regeneration + elasticity restoration |
Left (horizontal pores)
Widened by accumulation of sebum and wastes, it is mainly distributed in the T-zone area.
Many people have oily skin.
Right (vertical pores)
These pores are located on the cheeks, cheekbones, and under-eye area as the skin loses elasticity and the dermal layer structure breaks down.
They are most common in dry, aging skin.
Home care routine by skin type
Oily skin
Goal | Control sebum + exfoliate dead skin cells |
|---|---|
After cleansing | Morning wash - mildly acidic cleanser Evening wash - mildly alkaline cleanser |
Moisturizer | Oil-free moisturizer |
Sunscreen | Non-comedogenic sunscreen that doesn't clog pores |
[Routine]
Morning: Mildly acidic cleanser → moisturizing cream
Evening: Mildly alkaline cleanser → Toner pad (AHA/BHA) → Moisturizing cream
2-3 times per week: Exfoliate with an exfoliant, then remove dead skin and oil with a cotton ball
Dry skin
Goals | Moisturize + Exfoliate |
|---|---|
Cleansing | Use a milk-based, hypoallergenic cleanser |
Moisturizer | Moisturizer with hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and panthenol |
Sunscreen | Use a sunscreen that moisturizes and protects at the same time |
[Routine]
Cleanse: Hypoallergenic cleanser
Moisturize: Niacinamide (pore + whitening) ampoule → moisturizing cream with strong moisturizing power
Once a week: Exfoliate with a toner pad
Sensitive skin
Face wash | Use fragrance-free, alcohol-free, hypoallergenic cleanser |
|---|---|
Moisturizer | Protect skin with moisturizer containing ceramides and niacinamide |
Sunscreen | Use a physical barrier (non-greasy) for sensitive skin |
[Routine]
Cleansing: Hypoallergenic cleanser without harmful ingredients
Moisturize: moisturizer with ceramides and niacinamide
Once a week: use a gentle chemical exfoliator (low concentration of AHAs),
Avoid physical scrubs🚫.
⚠️ Keep this in mind! ⚠️
Avoid squeezing the sebum in your nose
Avoid isopropyl, silicone (dimethicone), and shea butter
Isopropyl: Highly oily and can clog pores
Silicone: Coats the surface of the skin, which can feel tight and cause breakouts
Shea butter: moisturizing but oily, clogging pores and potentially causing acne
Don't wash your face with hot water! 🚫 (Lukewarm water wash OK)
Pore Products - Pharmacy Recommendations
Sevita B Gel
Nicotinamide
Originally an acne treatment, it has anti-inflammatory, homeostatic, and sebum-regulating effects.
Claritin
Salicylic acid
Helps exfoliate dead skin cells, improve blackheads, and reduce sebum production.
AKLIEF Cream *Needs prescription
Retinoids
Boosts collagen production and speeds up turnover (shedding of dead skin cells).
Helps shrink pores as the dermis layer is strengthened.
Recommended Pore Treatment
Aqua Peel
It is important to remove dead skin cells and wastes accumulated in the pores to prevent them from widening.
Aqua Peel utilizes vacuum suction using a solution to gently remove blackheads, sebum, and dead skin cells from pores, leaving your skin with a smoother texture.
Potenza
Needle RF is a way to shrink pores by stimulating collagen synthesis around them.
Needle RF (Potenza, Silfirmx) is a device that delivers radiofrequency energy with a very fine needle to precisely target the dermis layer by reducing epidermal damage.
Various treatments are possible depending on the type of tip and mode, including pores, acne, and scars, as well as skin tightening.
When JUVELOOK is added to Potenza (pumping tip), high frequency and PDLLA work synergistically on collagen and elastin formation to improve elasticity and pores.
The image shows the progress of a 31-year-old Japanese woman up to 6 months after the microneedling RF treatment. The red area is where the tightening effect is greater. After one month, the red area is the largest. You can see that it gradually decreases as you approach 6 months. In other words, we can predict that the effect will be maintained up to 6 months.
Skin Botox
Skin Botox is a procedure that involves injecting lightly concentrated Botox into the shallow layers of the skin.
In addition to shrinking pores, it can be seen to reduce sebum / improve skin texture and elasticity / lift redness and wrinkles.
Summer Pore Care Doesn’t Have to Be Complicated!
Pores don’t shrink overnight, but with the right understanding of the causes and consistent care, noticeable improvement is absolutely possible.
Start a skincare routine that truly fits your skin, starting today.
FAQ: Enlarged Pores and Pore Care
What causes enlarged pores on the skin?
Several factors can contribute to enlarged pores, including: Excess sebum production from overactive sebaceous glands Loss of skin elasticity due to aging and reduced collagen Sun exposure and UV damage that weaken dermal structures Acne or inflammation, which can stretch pore walls Often, enlarged pores are caused by a combination of these factors rather than a single cause.
Can pores actually shrink?
Pores cannot permanently “shrink” because their size is largely determined by genetics and skin structure. However, they can appear smaller when excess oil, debris, and dead skin cells are removed and when the skin’s collagen and elasticity are improved. Consistent skincare and appropriate treatments can significantly reduce the visible appearance of enlarged pores.
How can oily skin manage enlarged pores at home?
For oily skin, the main goals are sebum control and regular exfoliation. Helpful habits may include: Using a mild cleanser twice daily Applying oil-free moisturizers Using products with ingredients like salicylic acid (BHA) or AHA exfoliants Choosing non-comedogenic sunscreen Regular exfoliation can help prevent oil and debris from accumulating inside pores.
How does proper cleansing help manage large pores?
Cleansing removes oil, dirt, and makeup that can clog pores. Keeping your pores clean helps prevent breakouts and keeps your skin looking fresh and smooth.
What treatments are effective for improving pore appearance?
Treatments like chemical peels, microneedling, and laser or RF facials can tighten skin and improve texture. When combined with good at-home care, these can really help pores look smaller and healthier.
Not sure how to improve your pores?
Book a consultation at Repic Clinic now!
Tags:
Pores
Share this blog
Related Posts.
Looking for more expert insights? Explore these articles from our team of skincare specialists.
Skincare Recommendations
Back to Menu
Rewrite Your Beauty Story with
REPIC Clinic
The more you understand your skin, the better decisions you can make about your daily habits and long-term skincare plan. Knowledge is the first step toward healthy, confident skin.
Ready to discover what your skin truly needs?