Why Are My Pores Getting Bigger — and What Can I Do About It?
A client of mine replied to my Instagram story and asked me this question “Why do my pores look bigger as I get older?”
If you’ve started to notice your pores becoming more visible with age, you’re not imagining it — and you’re definitely not alone.
As we get older, changes in our skin’s structure can make pores look larger than they once did. It’s all connected to natural processes like collagen loss, reduced elasticity, and slower skin cell turnover. But while we can’t stop time, we can take steps to improve the appearance of pores and keep skin looking smooth, radiant, and healthy.
Why Pores Appear Larger With Age
Pores are tiny openings in the skin that release oil and sweat. When we’re young, skin is firm and bouncy, which keeps pores tight and less noticeable. Over time, collagen and elastin (the proteins that give skin structure and firmness) begin to break down. As a result, the skin around pores loses support, causing them to look stretched or enlarged.
Other contributing factors include:
Sun exposure – UV rays speed up collagen breakdown.
Build-up – Dead skin and oil can clog and stretch pores.
Dehydration – Dry skin often exaggerates pore texture.
Hormonal changes – Oil production patterns can shift with age.
What Can You Do to Help?
While you can’t make pores disappear (that’s just unrealistic), you can absolutely minimize their appearance with the right skincare and treatments. Here are some of the most effective ways I recommend:
1. Gentle, Consistent Exfoliation
Using chemical exfoliants like salicylic acid or glycolic acid helps dissolve dead skin cells and clear out pores. Salicylic acid is especially helpful for oily or congested skin, as it works inside the pores.
Tip: Start with exfoliating 2–3 times per week to avoid irritation or over-drying.
2. Use a Retinoid
Retinol and prescription retinoids are some of the most powerful ingredients for refining skin texture. They boost cell turnover and collagen production, which can significantly reduce the look of pores over time.
Note: Introduce slowly (1–2x per week at first) and always use SPF during the day.
3. Daily Sun Protection
UV exposure is one of the biggest factors in pore enlargement due to its effect on collagen. Wearing a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily is non-negotiable—even on cloudy days.
4. Weekly Clay Masks
Clay masks absorb oil, detox the skin, and tighten pores—temporarily improving their appearance. Look for ingredients like kaolin or bentonite clay.
5. Hydrate, Inside and Out
Dehydrated skin = dull skin with more visible texture. Drink plenty of water and use a hydrating, non-comedogenic moisturizer to keep skin plump and supported.
6. Consider Professional Treatments
Advanced options like microneedling, chemical peels, or laser resurfacing can stimulate new collagen and really improve pore appearance and overall texture.
Here are some product recommendation to get you started. Remember, check the ingredients to make sure nothing is in them that you’re sensitive to, and stop using if you experience any discomfort and irritation.
It's All About Consistency
There’s no one-and-done solution—but a targeted skincare routine, paired with occasional professional treatments, can absolutely make a visible difference. Remember: your skin evolves with time, and your routine should evolve too.
At Toni Searle Beauty, I offer personalised skincare consultations to get to know your skin and current routine before I can recommend the best products for you.
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