Open pores are one of the common skincare concerns which around 90% of women face in day-to-day life. Not just at a certain age or gender, this concern is irrespective of both. The one thing that differs might be the size of the pores. Few many have small, invisible pores; While others have open, large pores. This is because of various factors like lifestyle, skin type, and even genetics.

Open pores is a tiny opening in the skin especially on cheeks where oil and dead skin cells will be released. When these pores get larger, they make skin uneven, rough, and even patchy leading to acne or blackheads.

Here, in this blog, you will know in detail about the reasons why pores exist, and how to take care of them in your skincare routine to shrink/minimize them.

Reasons for Open Pores

1. Genetics:

This is one of the major reasons, where skin is nothing but a replica of our parents or any of our cousins. When your parents have larger pores, there are higher possibilities that you will have too. Especially people with oily skin deal with open pores, since their sebaceous glands will be more active.

• Why it matters: There are times where we do good and consistent skincare. But a few things are out of control.

• Tip: Try to work on your oil secretion; Keep your skin clean; And there are 50-50changes in minimising the pore size.

2. Excess Oil/Sebum Production

When you are someone with oily or combination skin, there are more chances that the oil secretion is high. In that case, they play a key role in making open pores and increasing their size. Pores generally stretch to accompany the extra oil secretion.

• Why it Happens: When your skin is prone to secrete oil more, they may lead to larger pores.

• Tip: Do consistent skincare by using a product that suits oily skin or combinational skin; Choose non-comedogenic products.

3. Aging

As we grow older, our skin tends to lose the elasticity and even the collagen level. This will cause elasticity to your skin and reduce skin’s fitness. Aged or aging skin might also be the reason for open pores.

• Why it happens: Natural aging process, too much sun damage, and loss of collagen.

• Tip: Using products like Retinol, vitamin C acts as a booster in improving your collagen level in the skin.

4. Sun Damage

There are many of us who skip sunscreen due to white cast, greasiness in the skin, etc. But when our skin is exposed to UV rays, along with aging, they also contribute a major reason for open pores. 

• Why it Happens: Sun damage weakens collagen and elasticity in the skin, causing pores.

• Tip: Use sunscreen based on your skin type; And this is the one and only solution.

5. Improper Skincare Routine

Skincare should be done by all genders once they are above age 12. Using improper skincare products or not using products at all are also the reason for clogged and stretchy pores.

• Why it Happens: The accumulation of oil, dead skin cells, etc might make your pores larger and uneven

• Tip: Follow proper AM and PM routine with products that suit your skin type and skin concern.

6. Blackheads and Acne

When your pores are not cleaned properly through processes like clean-up or exfoliation, then they team up and form blackheads.

• Why it matters: Continuous acne or blackheads worsen pore visibility.
  
  

• Tips: Incorporate exfoliation in your skincare routine once in a week or two.

7. Hormonal Changes

Hormonal changes which happen due to menstrual cycle, pregnancy, or even during menopause might increase the oil secretion.

• Tip: Ensure to have balanced food and follow a proper skincare routine. Since this is just a phase, with proper care you can heal them!

How to Care for Open Pores

Even though genetics is one factor, you can prevent and take a proper step to minimise the pore size:

• Follow a proper skincare in AM - CTMS (Cleanser-Toner-Moisturizer-Sunscree) and PM - CTMS(Cleanser-Toner-Moisturizer-Serum/Spot Treatment)

• Exfoliate once or even twice a week.

• Choose light-weight products that are non-comedogenic.

• Never miss SPF in your AM routine irrespective of climatic conditions.

• Have balanced food focussing on vitamins, protein, fibre, minerals, and even magnesium.

Conclusion

Pores are a mandatory part of skin, since skin wants to breathe. But when the visibility gets ingredients due to external factors, that’s where the problem rises. Make sure why your pores have been enlarged, and make sure to follow the right method to avoid skin damage sooner and faster.

Make sure to be consistent with your skincare and pick right products based on your skin type and concern. To know in specific, use Charcoal Face Wash followed by light moisturizing cream. Never miss SPF30 and above in your morning routine.

FAQ’s

1. Can open pores be closed permanently?

No, open pores cannot be completely closed because they are a natural part of the skin. However, their appearance can be minimized with proper skincare, exfoliation, and treatments like retinoids, chemical peels, or laser therapy.

2. Does drinking water help reduce open pores?

Yes, staying hydrated improves overall skin health and elasticity. While water alone won’t shrink pores, it helps maintain balanced oil production and keeps your skin plump, reducing the appearance of enlarged pores.

3. Which ingredients are best for minimizing pores?

Look for products containing niacinamide, salicylic acid, retinol, clay, or alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs). These ingredients help unclog pores, regulate oil, and improve skin texture over time.

4. Are open pores caused by dirt?

Not directly. Dirt can mix with oil and dead skin cells, making pores appear darker and more visible. Regular cleansing prevents buildup but doesn’t change the actual pore size.

5. Do home remedies help with open pores?

Natural remedies like ice cubes, aloe vera gel, rose water, or green tea can temporarily tighten the skin and soothe inflammation. However, consistent skincare and dermatological treatments provide longer-lasting results.

6. Is it okay to use makeup on open pores?

Yes, but always use non-comedogenic and oil-free products. Applying a pore-blurring primer before foundation can create a smoother finish and prevent product buildup.