Best Skincare Tips to Minimise Pores for a Flawless Complexion in 2025
In fact, pores cannot be completely removed, as they play an important role in the natural function of the skin. It is also impossible to permanently change the size of your pores, unless you have a new set of DNA.
If you’re living in Singapore and have oily or combination skin, you’re probably no stranger to the battle against large, clogged pores and acne. The city’s tropical humidity, combined with daily exposure to environmental pollution, only makes matters worse. But let’s bust a common myth right out of the gate: pores don’t “open” or “close.” They only appear to contract or expand. Understanding this is the first step in tackling your skin concerns effectively.
The Purpose of Pores
Pores are the tiny gateways that allow your skin to “breathe,” enabling nutrients from skincare products to penetrate deep into the layers where they can work their magic. If pores were truly “closed,” no product would be able to get past the surface, rendering your skincare routine ineffective. So, while we can’t eliminate pores (they’re a vital part of our skin’s ecosystem), we can take steps to refine their appearance and keep them healthy.
What Causes Large Pores
Pores connect to sebaceous glands and hair follicles, and the average adult has around 20,000 of them on their face alone. Unfortunately, genetics play a significant role in pore size—if your parents have large pores, chances are you’ll inherit them, too. But genetics isn’t the only factor at play.
Pore size isn’t permanent. It’s influenced by aging, sun damage, and acne, all of which can weaken the collagen that supports the skin around the pores, making them appear larger. Dirt, oil, and bacteria—hello, blackheads!—can also clog pores and stretch them out over time. People with oily skin tend to have larger pores because the excess sebum production forces pores to expand to handle the load.
As we age or fall into unhealthy habits, our skin takes a hit. Slower blood circulation and metabolism hinder the skin’s natural exfoliation process, leading to moisture loss in the outer layers. Meanwhile, collagen and elastin—the scaffolding that keeps skin firm—begin to break down. The result? Saggy skin that makes pores look even larger.
Pore-Minimizing Ingredients: Your Skin’s Best Allies
While you can’t permanently change pore size (unless you can rewrite your DNA), you can significantly reduce their appearance with the right ingredients. Here’s what to look for in your skincare products:
- AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid): Ingredients like glycolic and mandelic acid gently exfoliate the surface of the skin, clearing away dead cells and unclogging pores for a smoother, brighter complexion.
- BHA (Beta Hydroxy Acid): Salicylic acid, a standout BHA, dives deep into oily pores, dissolving the gunk inside while reducing excess sebum. Popular products like La Roche-Posay Effaclar SA Acne Treatment and Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant are highly effective for this.
- Retinol: This powerhouse ingredient not only prevents clogged pores but also stimulates collagen production and refines pore structure over time. (Note: Not all skin types tolerate retinol well, so introduce it gradually.)
- Niacinamide: A form of vitamin B3, niacinamide helps regulate sebum production while brightening and strengthening the skin barrier.
- Hyaluronic Acid: The ultimate hydrator, hyaluronic acid keeps skin plump and moisturized, counteracting irritation from exfoliants and maintaining the skin’s balance.
Advanced Pore Treatments
For truly transformative results, professional treatments can help rebuild collagen and refine pores at a structural level. Think of your pores like a basket woven from collagen fibers; as we age, the fibers loosen, making the basket look more open. These treatments work to tighten that weave:
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Virtue RF Microneedling:
This combines microneedling with radio frequency (RF) energy to penetrate deep into the dermis, stimulating collagen and elastin production. This dual action minimizes pores, smooths texture, and even reduces scars. Bonus: You can apply makeup almost immediately after the procedure, and results start to show within three days. -
Skin Booster Juvelook:
A unique blend of PDLL and hyaluronic acid is injected into the skin, boosting elasticity, evening out tone, and refining pores. Recovery takes about 4–5 days, and while it’s not permanent, the skin’s quick and noticeable transformation makes it a standout option. -
Aqua Peel:
Perfect for tackling excess oil, sebum, and clogged pores, this treatment starts by dissolving sebum with chemical exfoliants like AHAs. A vacuum then extracts impurities, and the process finishes with a hydrating infusion of hyaluronic acid. Aqua Peel stabilizes the skin without causing long-term damage, making it a go-to for quick fixes.
Don’t underestimate the power of proper hydration. When skin lacks moisture, it overcompensates by producing more oil, disrupting the oil-water balance and stretching pores even further. A consistent, hydrating routine is essential, regardless of age or skin type. Pores are a permanent part of your skin, and while you can’t make them disappear, you can refine their appearance with a combination of good skincare, advanced treatments, and healthy habits. Instead of aiming for poreless perfection, focus on keeping your skin balanced, hydrated, and healthy—it’ll thank you in the long run!
Photos: Pexels, @evarankiin, @lululindinger, @pdm.clara,
