Can You Really Shrink Your Pores?
- Misia
- Aug 29
- 3 min read
We’ve all seen skincare products that promise to make pores “disappear” — but let’s get one thing straight: Pores are pores. They don’t open and close like little doors, and you can’t erase them. Your pore size is largely genetic. Some people are born with smaller, less visible pores, and others naturally have larger ones depending on your skin type (dry, normal, sensitive, combination, oily).
But there are factors that can influence how visible they look.
What influences pore size and visibility
Genetics – your natural skin type (oily, dry, combination) is the main determinant. Oily skin tends to have larger, more noticeable pores, while dry skin tends to have tiny pores.
Sebum production – excess oil can stretch pores, especially when it mixes with dead skin cells. Oilier skins produce more oil so its only natural that the pores are more noticeable, while dry skin produces far less oil and that's why its dry. Make sense?
Clogging – blackheads, congestion and debris can make pores look bigger.
Ageing – as collagen and elastin weaken with age, pores lose support and look more pronounced.
Sun damage – UV exposure breaks down collagen, contributing to enlarged pores.
Hormones – fluctuations can increase oiliness and make pores appear more noticeable.
Can pores be “refined”?
You can’t shrink pores permanently, but you can minimise their appearance and keep them in better condition. The goal is management, not eradication.
Ways to refine their appearance:
Exfoliation – gentle acids (AHA, BHA, PHA) keep pores clear and prevent stretching.
Retinoids – help regulate oil and stimulate collagen, making pores look tighter over time.
Professional treatments – microneedling, chemical peels, radiofrequency, or laser can rebuild collagen and refine texture.
Oil regulation – using skincare without pore clogging ingredients like paraffin, mineral oil and silicones etc. and balancing hydration prevents pores from filling and stretching (that means avoiding harsh, drying chemicals as this just exacerbates oil production because your skin is trying to over compensate for the stripping away of its natural oil function)
Sun protection – SPF prevents collagen breakdown, which keeps pores supported.
👉 In short: you can’t change the number or true size of pores, but you can make them look smoother, cleaner, and less noticeable.
Here’s how:
At Home
Exfoliation – regular use of gentle acids (AHA, BHA, PHA) helps to keep pores clear. Try Estime & Sens Exfoliating Nectar with papaya (enzyme exfoliant) and salicylic (BHA).
Retinol or Vitamin A – boosts cell turnover and supports collagen for a smoother texture. Try a drop of Sublime Youth Elixir underneath your moisturiser at night, or The Beauty of Caring's super-serum for daytime care.
Balanced hydration – lightweight moisturisers keep oil in check without clogging. Our Hydra Radiance Sorbet Gel is a favourite with oilier skins.
SPF every day – protects collagen and prevents sun-induced pore enlargement. Midi12 is 100% safe and ocean friendly. No toxins here!
In the Spa
Professional treatments can make a real difference if you’re looking for smoother, refined skin:
Deep cleansing facials – to clear congestion and freshen skin.
Radiofrequency – rebuilds collagen so pores look tighter and more supported.
Microneedling – gently remodels and smooths the skin’s texture.
The Bottom Line
You can’t erase pores (and nor should you — they’re essential for skin health), but you can refine them so they’re less visible. With the right home care and professional treatments, your skin can look smoother, clearer and more radiant.
✨ At Soothe Luxury Skincare & Spa, we offer tailored facials and advanced treatments designed to refine pores and rebalance your skin. If enlarged pores or uneven texture are bothering you, book a consultation and let us create the perfect plan for your skin.
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