Enlarged pores do not come from a single cause. Some are stretched by sebum pushing outward, some sag as elasticity fades with age, and some only look large because acne scars have left a dip. Repeating the same routine without sorting out the cause rarely shrinks them.
Sebum-type pores
These are the round, open pores on oily areas like the nose and inner cheeks. Sebum pushes the pore from inside, stretching the opening. Address them with a sebum-regulating laser or a peel that dissolves the dead skin at the pore opening. At home, simply not skipping your evening cleanse with a mild cleanser is enough.
Elasticity-type pores
These look elongated downward rather than round. Loosened elastic fibers in the dermis have lost the tension that once held the pore in shape. Procedures that stimulate collagen to firm the dermis fit here. Devices that treat overall firmness help, and you can compare them in the lifting device comparison.
Scar-type pores
Here a spot where acne healed has sunk in and looks like a large pore. Strictly speaking it is closer to a scar than a pore, so it calls for scar treatment rather than pore care. For a detailed breakdown, see types of acne scars.
Over-washing enlarges pores
Scrubbing several times a day because the pores bother you backfires. When skin dries out, the body produces more sebum to make up for the lost oil. Sebum rises, and the pores widen further. Harsh scrubs and frequent exfoliation also break down the protective barrier, feeding the same vicious cycle.
- Cleanse twice a day, morning and night, with lukewarm water
- Restore balance with light hydration after oil is removed
- Keep exfoliation to once or twice a week
Pair procedures with home care
Even if a procedure clears the pores, they return quickly without home care following through. Conversely, home care alone struggles to reverse stretched pores. Carry both, but giving skin time to adjust rather than hitting it hard all at once gives steadier results. Costs range from the tens of thousands to the mid hundreds of thousands of won per session depending on the procedure and scope.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can pores be removed completely?
Pores are a normal part of skin structure, so eliminating them is not the goal. Tightening the stretched opening so it stands out less is the realistic aim.
Do pore strips or nose packs help?
They only pull out sebum temporarily without shrinking the pore, and frequent use can widen the opening through irritation. It is better not to rely on them.
Does oily skin need moisturizer too?
Yes. Oil and water are different. When water is lacking, more sebum is produced, so balancing with light hydration actually helps pore care.
This article is for general information only and does not replace medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified medical professional before any procedure; prices, results, and side effects vary by individual skin condition and clinic.