How to Close Large Pores

Co-authored by Margareth Pierre-Louis, MD

Last Updated: November 23, 2024 Approved

Large pores can look unsightly, causing you to feel embarrassed by your skin. Even though pore size is genetic and can't be permanently changed, there are several things you can do to make large pores appear smaller - from practicing good skin care to receiving laser treatment and trying home remedies.

Method 1

Method 1 of 4:

Practicing Good Skin Care

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1
Keep your face clean. When pores become clogged with dirt and oil, they can appear larger and more noticeable. Therefore, it is important to keep your face clean in order to minimize the amount of dirt and oil on the surface of the skin.
- Wash your face once in the morning and once in the evening.^{[1]
  X
  Expert Source
  
  Margareth Pierre-Louis, MD
  Board Certified Dermatologist
  
  Expert Interview. 15 May 2020.} Washing more than this can dry out your skin and cause it to become irritated, making your pores appear larger.
- Wash your face with a gentle cleanser (without sulfates) and use warm, rather than hot water. Gently dab (don't rub) your face dry with a clean, soft towel.
2
Exfoliate. Exfoliating helps to remove dead skin cells, which would otherwise mix with dirt and oil on the surface of your skin, causing blocked pores.^{[2]
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Expert Source

Margareth Pierre-Louis, MD
Board Certified Dermatologist

Expert Interview. 15 May 2020.}
- You should exfoliate a couple of times a week, using a gentle exfoliating scrub with fine particles. Scrubs with larger exfoliating particles can be abrasive, causing micro tears and scratches on the skin.
- Alternatively, you can use a clean washcloth to gently rub your face using small circular motions, or make a natural, homemade facial scrub from ingredients in your pantry.
- If you can afford it, consider splurging on a motorized cleansing brush, such as Clarisonic, which exfoliates the skin as it cleans and is said to be twice as effective as washing your face by hand.^{[3]
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- You can also use a chemical exfoliant like alpha or beta hydroxy acid, which dissolves dead skin cells. Chemical exfoliants are actually more gentle and effective, especially BHAs.^{[4]
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3
Use noncomedogenic moisturizer. Moisturizer is important for healthy skin. It also prevents the skin from drying out, which can make pores appear larger.
- When buying a moisturizer, look for one labelled "noncomedogenic" as this means that it will not clog your pores.
- If you tend to have sensitive skin, you should stay away from moisturizers containing colors or fragrances, as this can be irritating.
- If you have oily skin, you may also want to look for a moisturizer that controls oil production.
4
Use steam treatments. Steam treatments are excellent for minimizing the appearance of pores. This is because the hot steam opens pores and allows any dirt or oil clogging them to drain away.
- To make a steam treatment, boil some water and pour it into a heat-proof bowl. Add a couple of drops of tea tree oil if you have acne-prone skin.
- Lower your face over the bowl and place a towel over your head. Allow the steam towards your face for about ten minutes.
- When you're done, wash you face and then splash with cold water. The steam doesn’t remove oil or dirt, so first wash it away. Then, splash your face with cold water to help close the pores.
5
Apply clay masks. Clay masks can help to minimize the appearance of pores by drawing out any clogged dirt, oil and dead skin cells. Clay also reduces inflammation and can kill bacteria. There are different types of clay masks. People should select one that's appropriate for their skin type.^{[5]
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- Clay masks can be made from Bentonite clay, Fuller’s Earth clay, Kaolin clay, and others. Each has different absorption properties and minerals, though, so pick one that’s right for you. You might talk to a beautician to determine a good fit.
- Buy a clay mask at your local drug or beauty supply store, or make your own by mixing one tablespoon of bentonite clay, one tablespoon of oatmeal and one tablespoon of water.
- Thoroughly cleanse your face, then apply the mask and leave it to sit for about 10 to 15 minutes until the clay becomes tacky. Your face should feel tight beneath the mask.
- Don’t let the clay harden as this can over-dry your skin. Rinse off the clay using warm water, then pat your face dry. Repeat this once a week.
6
Wear sunscreen every day. Many people don't realize this, but UV light from the sun damages the collagen which supports the skin. Without this collagen pores can stretch, making them appear larger.
- You can prevent this from happening by wearing sunscreen every day and reapplying it at least every two hours.^{[6]
  X
  Expert Source
  
  Margareth Pierre-Louis, MD
  Board Certified Dermatologist
  
  Expert Interview. 15 May 2020.} You can buy many daily facial moisturizers that contain SPF, so it shouldn't be difficult.
- When you're spending a lot of time outdoors, you should also wear a hat and sunglasses to provide extra protection from the harmful rays of sunlight. If you have sensitive or acne-prone skin, be sure to pick a non-comedogenic sunscreen – many kinds can clog pores.
7
Don't pick or squeeze blackheads and pimples. Trying to remove blackheads by picking or squeezing is a bad idea.^{[7]
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Expert Source

Margareth Pierre-Louis, MD
Board Certified Dermatologist

Expert Interview. 15 May 2020.} If you do it incorrectly, you can damage the pores and cause them to appear larger.
- Picking at a blackhead can also transfer bacteria from your fingers and nails, causing your blackhead to transform into a nasty pimple.
- If you must remove blackheads, you should do so with a sterilized comedone extractor, which you can buy online or at the drug store.
- Be sure to invest in a quality toner, such as witch hazel. You can find toners at your local drug store. Toners really makes sure your pores are clean before sealing them closed. Daily use of toner, also benefits the size of your pores.
8
Take care of yourself. Pay attention to your health – it plays a huge role in the quality of your skin. Drink plenty of water, eat a balanced diet, and work out regularly to help your body eliminate toxins and keep your skin healthy and clear.
- Some people say that drinking more water gives the skin a glow or reduces acne. Whatever the case, it can’t hurt. Aim for at least 8 glasses per day.^{[8]
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  University of Wisconsin Health
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- Some foods are better for your skin health than others. If you have oily, acne-prone skin, avoid eating junk foods and a diet high in fat. Choose unprocessed foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains whenever possible.^{[9]
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- Keep in mind that skin type is hereditary – passed down from your parents. If you have oily skin with visible pores, you won’t be able to make them completely invisible.

Method 2

Method 2 of 4:

Using Home Remedies

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Rubbing an ice cube over your pores for 10 to 15 seconds can help to tighten the skin and close up the pores, making them appear smaller. You should only do this on clean, freshly-washed skin.
2
Use baking soda. Make a paste from one tablespoon of baking soda and a little water.
- Apply this paste to the problem areas and leave to dry for 5 to 10 minutes before rinsing with warm water.
- This can help to minimize the appearance of pores. Baking soda also dries out the skin, which can help to fight acne. Any method that reduces skin oil will also make pores appear smaller.
3
Make an egg white mask. Egg white masks are believed to tighten pores, making them appear smaller.
- Mix 2 raw eggs whites with 1/4 cup of fresh orange juice. Apply this mask to the face and leave to sit for 15 minutes before rinsing with warm water.
- The orange juice helps to brighten your complexion.^{[10]
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Method 3

Method 3 of 4:

Using Skin Treatments

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1
Use products containing retinoids. Retinoids are derivatives of vitamin A which are used in many anti-aging and acne products.
- Retinoids increase cell turnover, which helps to unclog the pores and may make them less noticeable.^{[11]
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- Retinol, a relatively gentle retinoid, is available in many anti-aging products sold at drug stores and beauty supply stores.^{[12]
  X
  Expert Source
  
  Margareth Pierre-Louis, MD
  Board Certified Dermatologist
  
  Expert Interview. 15 May 2020.} Tretinoin is a stronger retinoid commonly used to treat acne and available only with a prescription; you would need to speak to your doctor or dermatologist before pursuing this treatment.
2
Get laser treatment. Laser treatments provide a more permanent solution to large pores.
- Non-ablative laser treatments like Medlite, Genesis and Fraxel increase collagen production which tightens pores, causing them to look smaller.
- The major drawback to laser treatment is the cost. You will probably require two to three sessions, at $500 a pop.^{[3]
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Accutane is a prescription medication for severe acne. It is also a very strong medication which causes severe skin dryness. This medication can unclog pores and reduce oil production.^{[11]
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Method 4

Method 4 of 4:

Disguising Your Pores

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1
Wear make-up. Instead of trying to shrink your pores, you could just try to cover them up using concealer, foundation and powder. This is an effective temporary solution which can help you to feel more confident about the appearance of your skin.
- Choose a concealer and foundation than perfectly matches your skin tone, as this will help the make-up to appear more natural. Go for mattifying make-up if your skin tends to be oily and moisturizing make-up if your skin tends to be dry.
- Apply the make-up lightly and evenly using a sponge or brush. Don't cake it on, as this will simply draw more attention to the areas you are trying to conceal. Make sure to wash your brush or sponge frequently, to avoid a build-up of bacteria.
- Make sure to thoroughly remove make-up at night. Leaving it on will clog your pores, causing them to look worse.
2
Use a skin primer. Applying a primer under your make-up is a great way to make your skin appear flawless.
- A good primer (preferably a silicone-based one) will temporarily fill in your pores, without clogging them.
- This provides an even surface for your make-up, making your pores almost invisible.^{[13]
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3
Use blotting paper. Blotting you skin with blotting papers or oil absorbing sheets will remove excess oil from the skin throughout the day, reducing the appearance of pores without over-drying your skin.
- You can find blotting papers at your local drug store or pharmacy, or online.

Expert Q&A

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Question

How do I close my pores on my face?

Laura Martin
Licensed Cosmetologist
Laura Martin is a Licensed Cosmetologist based in Milledgeville, Georgia. She has been working as a hair stylist since 2007, and began a career as a cosmetology teacher in 2013. She worked as a teacher at Arrojo Cosmetology School, teaching cosmetology practices, hairstyling, and hair color application. She also brought her cosmetology expertise to her work as a staff writer for fashion blog Style Noted, writing pieces related to hair and fashion. She received an MFA in Creative Writing from Georgia College & State University, where she was also an English Teaching Fellow. Additionally, she received a BA in Creative Writing and Literature from New York University.

Laura Martin

Licensed Cosmetologist

Expert Answer

Cold water or even cold air both contract the pores on your face, making them appear smaller. You can also constrict the pores on your face by using products with a mildly acidic pH (around 5.5).

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Question

What causes enlarged pores on your face?

Laura Martin
Licensed Cosmetologist
Laura Martin is a Licensed Cosmetologist based in Milledgeville, Georgia. She has been working as a hair stylist since 2007, and began a career as a cosmetology teacher in 2013. She worked as a teacher at Arrojo Cosmetology School, teaching cosmetology practices, hairstyling, and hair color application. She also brought her cosmetology expertise to her work as a staff writer for fashion blog Style Noted, writing pieces related to hair and fashion. She received an MFA in Creative Writing from Georgia College & State University, where she was also an English Teaching Fellow. Additionally, she received a BA in Creative Writing and Literature from New York University.

Laura Martin

Licensed Cosmetologist

Expert Answer

Clogging, picking, and irritation can all cause enlarged pores. To avoid them, establish a consistent skin care routine of cleansing, exfoliating, and moisturizing. And try not to pick at blemishes.

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Question

Can baking soda reduce pores?

Laura Martin
Licensed Cosmetologist
Laura Martin is a Licensed Cosmetologist based in Milledgeville, Georgia. She has been working as a hair stylist since 2007, and began a career as a cosmetology teacher in 2013. She worked as a teacher at Arrojo Cosmetology School, teaching cosmetology practices, hairstyling, and hair color application. She also brought her cosmetology expertise to her work as a staff writer for fashion blog Style Noted, writing pieces related to hair and fashion. She received an MFA in Creative Writing from Georgia College & State University, where she was also an English Teaching Fellow. Additionally, she received a BA in Creative Writing and Literature from New York University.

Laura Martin

Licensed Cosmetologist

Expert Answer

Baking soda can reduce the pH of your skin. This will reduce the appearance of pores but won't permanently change their size.

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You can buy special blotting papers which absorb oil and help constrict pores. They are cheap and easily available.

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Do not pick at your face! It creates holes that only become larger and quickly becomes a habit! My face is now covered in huge holes that I feel very self-conscious about. Please do not make the same mistakes as I have!

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Make your own toner using tea tree oil and rosewater. Apply after exfoliating, let it set for 2-3 mins then apply a moisturizer.

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Tips from our Readers

The advice in this section is based on the lived experiences of wikiHow readers like you. If you have a helpful tip you’d like to share on wikiHow, please submit it in the field below.

If you can't afford blotting paper, bathrooms usually have toilet seat covers. Those toilet seat covers are made with the same material as blotting papers. It works and it's free! (Just be sure to grab a fresh and unused paper toilet seat cover).
After steaming, use ice to close your pores. You should also apply a clay mask to draw out impurities from your clogged pores.
Don't use makeup to cover up large pores! Your pores will eventually get full of makeup which can clog them with oil.

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