The Pore Problem: What Actually Works?

If you’ve ever looked closely in the mirror and thought, “Why are my pores suddenly so huge?” you’re not imagining it. Pores can become more noticeable over time, especially after a summer of sun exposure, sweat, sunscreen and increased oil production.

But can you actually shrink them? Not exactly. And that’s actually good news.

Your Pores Aren’t Opening and Closing

Despite what you may have heard, pores don’t have little muscles that open and close them. Their size is largely determined by genetics, but several factors can make them appear larger.

Excess oil and congestion can stretch the appearance of a pore. Sun damage can break down collagen around the pore, making it look less supported. As we age, natural collagen and elasticity decline, which can also make pores appear more prominent.

So while you can’t permanently change your genetically determined pore size, you absolutely can improve how noticeable they are.

Why Your Pores May Look Worse After Summer

Summer can be particularly unkind to skin texture. Heat, sweat, oil, sunscreen and increased outdoor exposure can all contribute to congestion. And while a tan might temporarily make skin look more even, UV exposure ultimately damages collagen and can make texture and pores more apparent.

That’s one reason fall is such a good time to reassess your skin and address some of the changes you noticed over the summer.

What Actually Helps?

A consistent skincare routine can make a meaningful difference. Ingredients such as salicylic acid can help keep pores clear, while retinoids encourage healthy skin turnover and support collagen production. And, of course, daily sunscreen is essential for preventing the collagen damage that can make pores look more noticeable over time.

Professional treatments can also help improve the overall quality and texture of your skin.

Microneedling with SkinPen, for example, stimulates collagen production and can improve uneven texture and the appearance of enlarged pores. The goal isn’t to literally “close” your pores. Instead, we’re improving the surrounding skin so pores look smoother and less noticeable.

At The Artistry NP, under the leadership of nurse practitioner Tierney Newman, the focus is on choosing treatments based on what your skin actually needs rather than chasing unrealistic perfection. That may mean a professional treatment, a thoughtful skincare routine, or simply knowing when you don’t need to do more.

You Don’t Need Poreless Skin

There is a lot of pressure to have perfectly smooth, poreless skin, but pores are normal. Healthy skin has texture.

The goal isn’t to erase every pore or make your skin look filtered. It’s to improve skin quality, texture and collagen so your pores are less noticeable and your skin looks healthier overall.

And honestly, that’s a much more realistic goal than trying to achieve the poreless skin promised by every “pore-minimizing” product on the internet.

To learn more about microneedling, please call (503) 347-1982 or send us an email and we will get you set up with an appointment with Tierney.