Large pores are one of the most searched-about skin concerns — and one of the most misunderstood. You can't physically shrink pores or close them for good, but the right routine can make them look noticeably smaller by keeping them clear and controlling oil. Here's how to minimize large pores on oily skin, honestly and gently.
Quick Answer
To minimize large pores, keep them clear and control oil: cleanse twice daily, use niacinamide and a BHA like salicylic acid to reduce oil and buildup, moisturise lightly, and wear sunscreen. Pores can't be permanently shrunk, but consistent care makes them far less visible. Harsh scrubbing and over-drying make pores look worse, not better.
Why pores look larger
Pores appear bigger when they're stretched by trapped oil and dead skin, and when the skin around them loses a little firmness over time. Oily skin tends to have more visible pores simply because more oil collects in them. Our heat and humidity ramp up oil production, which is why pores can look more obvious in summer. The goal isn't to erase pores — that's not possible — but to keep them clean and less stretched so they read as smaller.
Ingredients that actually help
- Niacinamide — helps balance oil production and supports firmer-looking skin, which makes pores appear smaller over time.
- Salicylic acid (BHA) — oil-soluble, so it clears inside the pore and reduces the buildup that stretches it.
- A lightweight, sebum-control routine — managing shine keeps pores looking refined through the day.
- Sunscreen — protects the skin firmness that keeps pores from looking larger.
A daily clarifying serum for acne-prone routines helps keep oil and buildup in check, while a sebum-control SPF 50 manages shine and protects skin during the day.
A routine to refine pores
- Cleanse twice a day with a gentle face wash — enough to clear oil, not so harsh it strips.
- Use a clarifying or niacinamide serum to control oil and keep pores clear.
- Exfoliate with a BHA a couple of nights a week to clear buildup inside the pore.
- Moisturise lightly — skipping this pushes skin to produce more oil.
- Finish every morning with a sebum-control SPF 50.
What doesn't work
A few popular ideas actually make pores look worse. Harsh scrubbing irritates and inflames, which makes pores more noticeable. Over-drying triggers more oil. Very hot water and squeezing stretch pores further. And no product can permanently "close" a pore — claims like that aren't realistic. Gentle, consistent care is genuinely what works.
When to see a professional
If enlarged pores come with persistent, painful breakouts or scarring you'd like addressed, a dermatologist can offer in-clinic treatments that go beyond daily skincare. For everyday pore appearance, a gentle routine is usually enough.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you permanently shrink pores?
No. Pores can't be permanently closed or shrunk, but keeping them clear and controlling oil makes them look noticeably smaller.
Does niacinamide help with large pores?
Yes. Niacinamide helps balance oil and supports firmer-looking skin, which can make pores appear smaller with consistent use.
Why do my pores look bigger in summer?
Heat and humidity increase oil production, and more oil collecting in pores makes them look more obvious. A lightweight, sebum-control routine helps.
Is scrubbing good for large pores?
No. Harsh scrubbing irritates skin and can make pores look worse. Gentle cleansing and a BHA are far more effective.
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Products mentioned: Flux Acne Free Clarifying Serum · Solv Care SPF 50. Browse the serums collection for oil-control care.
Related reading: AHA vs BHA: Which Exfoliant Do You Need? · Why Oily Skin Still Needs Hydration
Last updated: July 2026. This article is general skincare education, not medical advice. For persistent or concerning skin conditions, consult a qualified dermatologist.