Face condition

Open pores

Dr Sarwar, a renowned cosmetic doctor, has extensive knowledge and experience in understanding the skin’s complexities. According to him, open pores are small openings on the skin’s surface that allow sweat and sebum (natural oils) to reach the skin’s surface. These pores can become enlarged due to various factors such as genetics, age, hormonal changes, and excessive sun exposure. It is important to understand there is no such thing as an “open” pore; instead, pores may be enlarged.

Written and clinically reviewed by Dr Adil Sarwar MBBS, BSc, MRCGPGMC Registered Doctor — GMC No. 7085079

At a glance

Common signs

Visibly enlarged pores
Most obvious on nose, forehead and chin
Rough or uneven texture

Common causes

High sebum production
Genetics
Sun damage and ageing
Loss of skin elasticity

Treated with

What You Need to Know

They are commonly found on the face, particularly in areas with high oil production, such as the nose, forehead, and chin.

Clinic Treatment Options

The best treatment options for open pores at Skin Science Clinic include the Moxi laser and Co2 resurfacing laser.

These are both non-invasive procedures that use advanced technology to target enlarged pores, promoting skin rejuvenation and reducing their appearance.

Skin Science Clinic Entrance And Reception Desk

BBL HERO handpiece generating pulses of light

Moxi Laser for Open Pores

Moxi is a non-ablative 1927nm wavelength that delivers gentle heat into the deeper layers of the skin, stimulating collagen production and shrinking the pore size. Click here to read more.

Co2 Laser

Co2 laser uses fractional technology to create microscopic channels in the skin, triggering a healing response and improving overall skin texture.

The clinic has seen excellent results when combining Co2 laser treatment with radiofrequency microneedling. Click here to read more.

Dr Adil Sarwar delivering RF microneedling treatment in London

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of open pores at Skin Science Clinic involves thoroughly examining the patient’s skin, considering their medical history and any predisposing factors.

The clinic occasionally uses tools such as a magnifying glass or a special light to assess the size and severity of the pores.

Reasons for Open Pores

There are several reasons why individuals develop open/enlarged pores, some of which are beyond our control. Here are the top three reasons for open pores:Genetics: Like many skin concerns, open pores can be inherited genetically. This means that if one or both of your parents have enlarged pores, there’s a higher chance you will also develop them.Sun Exposure: Excessive sun exposure can damage the skin’s elasticity and cause it to produce more oil, leading to enlarged pores. UV rays can also weaken collagen and elastin fibres in the skin, making pores appear larger.Age: Our skin naturally loses collagen and elastin as we age, resulting in decreased skin elasticity and enlarged pores. Hormonal changes during menopause can also contribute to the appearance of open pores.

Skincare options:

In addition to our professional treatments, various skincare options are available to help minimise the appearance of open pores. These include:Cleansing twice daily with a mild cleanser removes excess oil and dirt from the skin. The ZO hydrating cleanser is the clinic’s favourite.Exfoliating regularly removes dead skin cells and prevents them from clogging pores.Using products containing retinol or alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) to promote skin cell turnover and reduce pore size.Apply a non-comedogenic moisturiser to keep the skin hydrated without clogging pores.Wearing sunscreen daily protects the skin from further sun damage and prevents enlarged pores.

Prognosis

It is important to note that open pores cannot be permanently removed or reduced in size. However, their appearance can be minimised with proper skincare and laser treatments.

Common questions

No, it is not recommended to squeeze your pores as this can cause damage to the skin and make them appear larger or scar the skin.

Open pores have no permanent cure, but they can be managed through proper skincare and laser treatments.

While genetics play a significant role in the size of your pores, there are certain steps you can take to prevent them from becoming enlarged. These include wearing sunscreen daily, exfoliating regularly, and avoiding excessive sun exposure.

No, open pores do not necessarily indicate unhealthy skin. They are a normal part of our skin’s structure, and their appearance can be minimised through proper skincare and lifestyle habits.

The frequency of laser treatments may vary depending on the individual’s skin and their response to the treatment. It is best to consult with a professional at Skin Science Clinic for personalised recommendations, but on average, the clinic recommends three laser treatments per year.