Similar to small dots on the face, enlarged pores are a very common skin condition that can affect all skin types. Hormonal changes, excess sebum, or even skin aging can cause clogged pores . Fortunately, there are natural and dermatological solutions to reduce their appearance. Discover the visible results on enlarged pores before and after and refine your skin texture with the right skincare routine.
What causes enlarged pores?
Often located on the T-zone (nose, forehead, chin), but also the cheeks, dilated pores are caused by several factors:
- Genetics : Some skin types naturally have larger pores. This is the case with oily skin. However, it is entirely possible to have dry skin with enlarged pores.
- Excess sebum : called hyperseborrhea, the accumulation of sebum enlarges the pores and gives this shiny appearance with an uneven skin texture.
- Skin aging : With age, skin loses its elasticity and cell renewal slows. Overexposure to UV rays throughout life also exacerbates this phenomenon because the sun's rays damage elastin and collagen fibers, which accentuates the dilation of pores.
- Hormonal imbalance : during puberty, pregnancy or menopause.
- Unsuitable facial care : a cream that is too oily (comedogenic product) or poor makeup removal.
While it can cause aesthetic discomfort (shiny areas, dull complexion, and the appearance of spots), the overproduction of sebum by the sebaceous glands can also lead to the formation of blackheads and skin inflammation. It is therefore essential to find a solution to reduce pore size and smooth skin texture.
How long does it take to reduce pore size?
There's no magic bullet for enlarged pores, but several treatments can help limit sebum secretion and the appearance of pimples. Before/after results for enlarged pores vary depending on the type of treatment and the severity of the inflammation. Generally speaking:
- So-called natural remedies give visible results in a few months on enlarged pores without blackheads, severe acne or skin inflammation.
- Regular use of targeted cosmetic treatments gives results in 4 to 6 weeks.
- Treatments like chemical peels and lasers can reduce the appearance of enlarged pores by 30 to 50 percent after several sessions.
Before/After: A Look at the Best Treatments for Shrinking Enlarged Pores
Here are the existing solutions for unclogging pores naturally or with dermatological treatment.
The best beauty routine to reduce pore size
Here are some practical tips for less visible pores and beautiful skin:
- Cleanse your face daily with a gentle cleanser to remove impurities and dead skin cells.
- Hydrate your skin with a light moisturizer with hyaluronic acid or aloe vera gel.
- Apply sunscreen daily
- Use clean, cleansed makeup products regularly.
Find all the best beauty tips for clear skin and tightened pores .
The most effective cosmetic active ingredients for dilated pores
In case of dilated pores, it is best to choose formulas based on sebum-regulating active ingredients:
- Salicylic acid and glycolic acid are particularly effective at clogging pores. They remove excess sebum and smooth skin texture.
- Fruit acids (AHA and BHA) have a gentle exfoliating action that helps reduce the appearance of pores.
- Retinoids improve skin texture: opt for retinol treatments to stimulate cell renewal and reduce sebaceous gland secretion, to be combined with hydrating active ingredients such as hyaluronic acid.
- Niacinamide , or vitamin B3, regulates sebum and tightens pores.
The Anti-Aging Night Cream contains 0.6% retinol and 5% vitamin B3, combined with anti-aging peptides and vitamin C, for a complete action on pore size. It corrects the signs of aging (wrinkles and fine lines, dark spots) while evening out skin tone.
Dermatological treatments for visibly tightened pores
In addition to a good daily routine, pore treatment in a dermatologist's office is an effective solution for achieving soft, healthy skin.
Chemical peeling
A chemical peel deeply exfoliates the skin using an exfoliating product (salicylic acid, glycolic acid, etc.) and helps smooth out skin irregularities. In a few sessions spaced several weeks apart, the results are visible: reduction of existing pores, the appearance of enlarged pores, scars, and a more radiant complexion.
Microneedling
Microneedling stimulates collagen production and tightens pores through the action of microneedles that create small openings under the skin. Microneedling has excellent results on healing and also on the appearance of pores, by lastingly improving skin texture.
The laser
The laser (fractional CO2 laser) targets the deeper layers of the skin to stimulate collagen and smooth the surface. Pores are visibly tightened and the skin regains a rejuvenated appearance.
The LED mask
The LED facial mask is an innovative beauty device used in dermatologists' offices, but is now available for home use. The Nooance-Paris anti-aging LED facial mask uses red and infrared light to improve skin quality and radiance. Results on pores are visible after just a few sessions: the LED mask regulates sebum, tightens pores, and smooths skin.
Enlarged pores before/after: what results can you expect?
Testimonials and before/after photos often show marked improvement after several weeks of regular treatment tailored to your pore type. Visible results include:
- Less shine
- Softer, smoother skin
- A refined skin texture
- Tightened pores
- Fewer imperfections
A targeted skincare routine, combined with a healthy lifestyle, is essential to seeing real before/after results on enlarged pores. Cleansing your skin morning and night, gently exfoliating, moisturizing well, and using the right active ingredients (niacinamide, acids, retinol, etc.) are key steps to lastingly tightening pores.
