Pores: Myth vs Fact
September 8, 2026
Pores are one of the biggest skincare concerns we hear about, yet they’re also one of the most misunderstood. Let’s separate fact from fiction.
MYTH:
Pores don’t age you.
FACT:
As we age, collagen and elastin naturally decline, causing the skin to lose firmness and support. This allows pores to appear larger and more visible, contributing to an uneven texture and making fine lines appear more noticeable.
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MYTH:
Pores open and close.
FACT:
Pores aren’t muscles, so they can’t physically open or close. They are simply the opening of a hair follicle and sebaceous (oil) gland. While heat, steam or cold water may temporarily affect the surrounding skin, they don’t change the size of your pores.
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MYTH:
Blackheads are caused by dirty skin.
FACT:
Blackheads aren’t dirt. They are a combination of excess sebum and dead skin cells that oxidise when exposed to air, causing their dark appearance. Gentle cleansing and the right active ingredients are far more effective than over-cleansing.
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MYTH:
Only oily skin has large pores
FACT:
While oily skin is often associated with enlarged pores, dehydrated and ageing skin can make pores appear just as noticeable. As the skin loses hydration and structural support, pores become more defined.
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MYTH:
The sun helps clear pores.
FACT:
Sun exposure may temporarily dry the skin, making pores appear less obvious. However, UV damage breaks down collagen and elastin, weakening the skin’s structure and leading to larger, more noticeable pores over time.
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MYTH:
You can permanently shrink your pores.
FACT:
Pore size is largely determined by genetics, so they can’t be permanently reduced. However, the right skincare, professional treatments and collagen-stimulating technologies can significantly minimise their appearance, leaving skin looking smoother, firmer and more refined.
So, what really helps?
The key to improving the appearance of pores is supporting the skin, not stripping it.
- Daily SPF to protect collagen
- Vitamin C to defend and brighten
- Retinols to encourage healthy cell turnover
- Professional treatments that stimulate collagen and improve skin texture
- Consistent hydration to keep skin healthy and balanced
Remember, pores are a normal part of healthy skin—you don’t want to get rid of them. The goal is healthy, refined skin where pores are far less noticeable.
Ready to refine your skin?
If enlarged pores, uneven texture or early signs of ageing are your concern, we’d love to help.
Book a personalised skin consultation with one of our expert therapists and we’ll create a bespoke treatment plan tailored to your skin goals. Whether it’s advanced skincare, collagen-stimulating treatments or a results-driven facial, we’ll help you achieve smoother, healthier, more radiant skin.
Beautiful skin starts with understanding it.
Want to learn more about how to improve your skin’s texture? Book a consultation with us today!
