If you’ve ever stared in the mirror and wondered why your pores look larger than usual, you’re not alone. The truth is, pores aren’t the enemy. They’re small openings that let oil—or sebum, if you prefer the technical term—reach the surface of your skin to keep it from drying out. They also house hair follicles, which means they’re almost everywhere on your body except your palms, soles, and eyelids.
You can’t actually change the size of your pores since that’s determined by your genetics, but you can make them look smaller. Here are five ways to do that without completely reworking your skincare routine.
Keep Them Clean
When oil, dead skin, and dirt build up, pores stretch to make room, which makes them look bigger. A cleanser with salicylic acid can help prevent that buildup. It gives your face a deep clean and keeps your skin looking smoother.
Exfoliate Gently but Regularly
Exfoliating helps remove dead skin and unclog pores, leaving your face looking fresh and well-rested. Use a warm washcloth or a mild scrub daily if your skin can handle it. Just be gentle—overdoing it can trigger more oil production. Always finish with a moisturizer to keep your skin calm and hydrated.
Try Pore Strips
They’ve been around for years, and yes, they still work. Pore strips lift dirt and dead skin right out of your pores. Most people use them on the nose, but they can go anywhere. If you’re feeling creative, you can even make a DIY version at home.
Deal With Blackheads Early
Blackheads and whiteheads are close relatives. Both form from trapped oil and dead skin, but blackheads are exposed to air, which makes them darken. They’re early signs of acne, so the sooner you clear them out, the better your skin will look. Regular cleansing helps, but stubborn ones might need a blackhead extractor or a professional facial.
Steam Your Face
It’s an old trick, but it still works. Boil some water, lean over the pot, and let the steam open your pores for about fifteen minutes. Then rinse with clean water and pat dry. It’s simple, relaxing, and makes your skin more receptive to treatments like exfoliating or masking.
In the end, pores aren’t flaws—they’re just part of how your skin functions. You can’t get rid of them, but with the right habits, you can keep them clean, refined, and barely noticeable.