How to get rid of pores, according to the experts

The word “pores” has over three billion hits on Google – and the number one, most asked question? “How to get rid of pores”. Tbf, it’s an affliction that affects most of us, Regina George included. And, alongside ingrown hairs, rogue spider veins and wonky eyebrows, open pores speckled across our nose and cheeks are one of beauty’s most persistent grievances. They’re also one of the hardest problems to shift.

Truth of the matter is, you cannot simply get rid of pores. Pores play an important function in helping our skin to release sebum – our body’s natural oil – to leave it naturally supple and moisturised. However, we understand the desire to want the type of radiant, smooth-looking canvas that would make a dolphin envious. So wanting to reduce the appearance of pores is valid.

Of course, we’re beautiful just the way we are – pores and all – but if they’re bugging you, we’ve got some expert advice lined up that should help.

There’s been much debate over the years about how exactly pores work. But contrary to popular belief pores can’t be opened and closed like doors (they don’t have muscles). However, there is some merit to applying hot and cold water to make them appear more or less pronounced (more on that later).

So what can be done about our God-given orifices? We asked Dr Nina Bal, facial aesthetics doctor and founder of FacialSculpting to run us through everything we need to know.

What are visible pores?

They may appear to be tiny dots on the surface of our skin, but pores are actually the small openings to our hair follicles. “There are two different types of pore,” says Nina. “One releases sebum (the body’s natural oil) and the other releases sweat.” Though tiny, “pores enable the oil, sweat and sebum to go from our glands to the surface of our skin, which is essential for healthy skin.” So think of them like your skin’s window.

How many pores is normal?

The average adult will have around five million pores on their body and 20,000 on their face. But, “generally we can’t see pores in the skin,” says Nina. It’s only when enlarged that they become visible.

What causes large visible pores?

Usually, pores are genetically determined, but there are other factors which can affect the visibility of our pores. For instance, an overproduction of sebum can make pores appear larger. “If oil, toxins, dirt, and makeup collect in the pore, this can weigh it down and stretch it, making our pores appear much bigger than they are on the surface of the skin,” explains Nina.