Pore-ology 101: The Real Deal on Shrinking Pores

by LaSonya Lopez, MD

November 1, 2024

Hey skincare enthusiasts! Today, we’re diving into one of the biggest skincare mysteries out there: pores. We’ve all stared at the mirror a little too close, feeling like those tiny dots are way more visible than we’d like. If you’re wondering if there’s any magical way to shrink those pesky pores, you’re not alone. But let’s get one thing straight: pores are here to stay, and there’s no real way to make them disappear. Gasp! So, what can we do? Let’s talk about pore care, myths, and the surprising role that oils can play in keeping your pores looking fresh and clean.

First Off, Why Do We Have Pores?

Our pores actually serve a pretty important purpose—they’re the openings through which our skin releases sweat and sebum (natural oils). Sebum might sound like a fancy skincare term, but it’s just our body’s natural moisturizer, keeping our skin healthy and protected. Pores are a necessity, not a nuisance, but they can become a little more noticeable due to factors like genetics, aging, sun exposure, and the buildup of oil or dead skin.

Myth Busting: Can You “Close” or “Shrink” Pores?

Here’s the honest truth: your pores don’t actually open and close like windows. They don’t have muscles to make that happen. However, they can look larger when they’re clogged with oil, dirt, or makeup residue. You know how a piece of dark cloth looks bigger than a similar piece in a lighter shade? When your pores are clogged, they catch light differently, and that shadow effect makes them look larger.

So, no, you can’t technically shrink them, but you can minimize their appearance by keeping them clean and clear. And the good news? You don’t need any intense scrubbing or harsh products to do it!

The Role of Oils in Pore Care (Yes, Really!)

If you’re thinking, “Wait, using oil to help with pores?” — bear with me! The right oils, when used correctly, can actually be a game changer for clear, balanced skin. Here’s how:

Cleansing Oils: Oils like jojoba, argan, and sunflower oil are actually fantastic for gently removing makeup, dirt, and yes, even other oils! Why? Because oil dissolves oil, and cleansing oils are able to lift impurities from your pores without stripping your skin’s natural moisture barrier. When used as a cleanser, oil gently dislodges dirt and grime from pores without that tight, squeaky feeling that soaps often leave behind.
Non-Comedogenic Oils: This is a fancy way of saying oils that won’t clog pores. Non-comedogenic oils like grapeseed, hemp seed, and rosehip are great because they’re lightweight and packed with fatty acids that can help regulate your skin’s own oil production. When skin is balanced and hydrated, it’s less likely to overproduce oil — one of the culprits behind pore-clogging.
Moisturizing with Oils: Once your skin is cleansed, a light layer of an oil-based moisturizer can help create a natural barrier that keeps moisture in and dirt out. Applying oils can actually signal to your skin that it doesn’t need to pump out more oil, which keeps things balanced and reduces the chance of buildup that makes pores look larger.

Tips for a Pore-Cleansing Routine

Here’s a simple, oil-friendly routine to keep those pores happy:

Start with a Gentle Oil Cleanser: Massage a small amount of cleansing oil onto dry skin, then add a splash of water to emulsify (it’ll turn milky). Rinse off gently.
Exfoliate (But Don’t Overdo It): 2-3 times a week, use a gentle exfoliant to sweep away dead skin cells. This keeps your pores free from blockages without irritating the skin.
Follow with a Hydrating Mist or Serum: Something light that sinks into the skin and adds an extra layer of hydration.
Seal with a Non-Comedogenic Oil or Oil-Based Moisturizer: Just a few drops of oil, especially ones with linoleic acid (like hemp seed oil), can keep your skin balanced and protected.

Final Thoughts: Love Your Skin, Pores and All

Our pores are a natural part of our skin’s structure and serve an essential role. The more we care for them with nourishing, gentle products (like oils), the better they’ll look and feel. So let’s stop waging war on our pores and start showing them some love! With the right products and a simple, consistent routine, you’ll find your skin looking healthier, balanced, and radiant — no filter needed.

Pores are natural, just like the ingredients we use. Here’s to skincare that’s simple, nourishing, and built to help you love the skin you’re in!