Do Pores Open and Close? No — Here's What They Actually Do
Pores don't have muscles. They can't open or close. Here's what actually makes them look bigger or smaller.
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No. Pores don’t have muscles — they can’t open or close. What changes pore appearance: clogs (make them look larger), hydration (plumps surrounding skin), collagen (holds pore walls firm). Hot/cold water doesn’t open/close pores. The “steam opens pores” advice is a myth.
One of the most persistent skincare myths. Here’s what’s actually happening.
Pore anatomy
Pores are openings for hair follicles or sebaceous glands. They have no muscle tissue. Their size is genetic. What makes them appear smaller: clearing trapped sebum/debris, supporting collagen around them, and controlling sebum production.
What pore size depends on:
- Genetics (the main factor — can’t change)
- Sebum production (more oil = appear larger)
- Collagen around pore (less collagen = pore sags)
- Clogs inside pore (sebum + dead cells = visibly larger)
What actually reduces pore appearance
To make pores appear smaller: unclog them (salicylic acid, retinoid), reduce sebum (niacinamide), build collagen (retinoid, red light). You can’t change pore size genetically, but these three levers reduce apparent size 30-50% over 12 weeks.
The three-pronged approach:
Paula's Choice
2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
Unclogs pores from the inside.
Best for: Visible pore reduction
The Ordinary
Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
Reduces sebum production.
Best for: Daily pore control
Differin
Adapalene Gel 0.1%
Builds collagen around pores + prevents clogs.
Best for: Long-term pore improvement
Myths to ignore
- ❌ “Steam opens pores” (heat doesn’t change pore size)
- ❌ “Cold water closes pores” (nope)
- ❌ “Ice before makeup shrinks pores” (temporary constriction of surrounding tissue only)
- ❌ “Egg white masks tighten pores” (temporary surface tightening, not pore size)
Frequently asked
Does toothpaste shrink pores? +
No — and it can cause chemical burns. Skip this TikTok trend.
How long until my pores look smaller? +
8-12 weeks of consistent BHA + niacinamide + retinoid.
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