Enlarged Pores: Medical & At-Home Treatment Options

By Dr Alice Rudd, Dermatologist | Skindepth Dermatology, Melbourne

If you've ever stood in front of the mirror scrutinising the pores on your face, you're not alone. Enlarged pores are one of the most common cosmetic concerns I see in clinic — and also one of the most misunderstood. Let me clear up a few things and walk you through what actually works.

Why Do Pores Become Enlarged?

Pores aren't holes you can open and close like a window. They're the openings of hair follicles and sebaceous (oil) glands, and their size is largely determined by genetics. That said, several factors make them appear larger over time: excess sebum production, loss of skin elasticity with age, sun damage, and — most commonly — clogged pores.

When dead skin cells, oil, and debris accumulate, pores stretch and become more visible. A classic example is the dilated pore of Winer — a single, noticeably enlarged pore caused by a compacted keratin plug.

At-Home Options: What Actually Helps

You won't shrink pores permanently with skincare, but you can minimise their appearance with the right routine.

Retinoids are my first recommendation. Topical retinol or prescription tretinoin increases cell turnover, prevents clogged pores, and — over time — stimulates collagen to improve skin texture. Consistent use genuinely reduces the appearance of large pores.

Chemical exfoliants — particularly salicylic acid (BHA) — are excellent for unclogging pores because they're oil-soluble and penetrate the follicle. Niacinamide is another evidence-backed ingredient that helps regulate sebum and tighten the look of pores with regular use.

Sun protection is non-negotiable. UV damage breaks down collagen and elastin, causing pores to dilate over time. A broad-spectrum SPF 50+ daily is one of the most effective long-term strategies for how to minimize pores.

Avoid over-washing or using harsh, stripping cleansers — these trigger rebound oil production and worsen congestion.

Medical Treatments for Enlarged Pores

When at-home options plateau, in-clinic treatments offer more significant and lasting improvement.

Chemical peels — particularly glycolic acid or salicylic acid peels — exfoliate deeper layers of skin, reduce congestion, and improve overall texture. A series of peels can make a visible difference in pore size and clarity.

Laser treatment for enlarged pores is where we see the most impressive results. At Skindepth, we use fractional ablative laser and fractional non ablative laser to stimulate collagen remodelling deep within the dermis. This tightens the surrounding skin structure, which physically reduces how visible pores appear. Results improve progressively over several months.

Microneedling with radiofrequency is another excellent option — it combines mechanical collagen stimulation with heat energy, effectively tightening pore walls from the inside out.

For a dilated pore of Winer specifically, extraction or minor surgical removal in-clinic is often the most practical solution.

The Bottom Line

The best treatment for enlarged pores depends on their underlying cause. Most people benefit from a combination of a consistent retinoid-based skincare routine and targeted in-clinic treatments. There's no overnight fix, but with the right approach, significant improvement is absolutely achievable.

If you're unsure where to start, a consultation at Skindepth will help us tailor a plan to your skin specifically.

Dr Alice Rudd is a specialist dermatologist and founder of Skindepth Dermatology, Melbourne and Skindepth Perth, Western Australia. Appointments available via skindepthdermatology.com.au and skindepthperth.com.au