Mistakes to Avoid When You Have Enlarged Pores

Enlarged pores are a common aesthetic concern, especially for those with combination or oily skin. They give the skin an uneven, sometimes grainy appearance, and can lead to blackheads or blemishes. Many people try to reduce them but, due to a lack of information, make certain mistakes that worsen the problem. To avoid making your enlarged pores more noticeable, let's explore the mistakes to avoid and the right practices to adopt.

Understanding Enlarged Pores

Pores are tiny openings on the skin's surface that allow sebum and sweat to escape. When they become enlarged, they become more visible, making the complexion appear less smooth. The main causes include:

  • An overproduction of sebum.

  • A lack of skin elasticity due to aging.

  • The accumulation of impurities and dead skin cells.

  • Sun exposure, which damages collagen.

Contrary to popular belief, it's impossible to completely "close" a pore. However, it is entirely possible to reduce their appearance and prevent them from becoming more enlarged.

Mistake #1: Using Overly Harsh Products

Many believe that by stripping the skin with abrasive cleansers, they will reduce their enlarged pores. In reality, the opposite is true.

  • Overly alkaline soaps or harsh cleansing gels destroy the hydrolipidic film.

  • Aggressed skin produces even more sebum to defend itself.

  • Result: clogged and enlarged pores.

✅ Do: Use a gentle, sulfate-free cleanser suited to your skin type.

Mistake #2: Neglecting Hydration

A common misconception is that hydrating oily skin would make enlarged pores more prominent. This is incorrect.

  • Dehydrated skin produces more sebum, which clogs pores.

  • Without hydration, skin loses its elasticity and pores become more visible.

✅ Do: Use a light, non-comedogenic moisturizer, preferably one containing hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, or niacinamide.

Mistake #3: Overusing Mechanical Exfoliants

Using a grainy scrub too often or too aggressively irritates the skin and weakens its protective barrier. This makes enlarged pores even more noticeable.

✅ What to do:

  • Limit mechanical scrubs to once a week.

  • Opt for chemical exfoliants (AHA, BHA, salicylic acid) which gently remove dead skin cells and unclog pores.

Mistake #4: Forgetting sun protection

The sun is a formidable enemy for enlarged pores:

  • UV rays destroy collagen and elastin, which causes the skin to lose firmness.

  • This makes pores appear larger and more visible.

✅ What to do: Apply SPF 30 or 50 sunscreen every day, even on cloudy days.

Mistake #5: Squeezing blackheads yourself

Many try to tighten their pores by squeezing blackheads. This is a big mistake:

  • This causes inflammation and scarring.

  • Bacteria spread, leading to even more blemishes.

✅ What to do: Use specific anti-blackhead products or consult a dermatologist for professional extraction.

Mistake #6: Applying makeup without caution

Poorly chosen makeup can make enlarged pores look more prominent:

  • Foundations that are too thick can settle into pores, making them even more visible.

  • Heavy powders can highlight texture and make your complexion look dull.

✅ What to do:

  • Choose fluid and non-comedogenic foundations.

  • Use a smoothing primer before applying makeup.

  • Thoroughly remove your makeup every evening.

Mistake #7: Believing in miracle solutions

Some products promise to 'instantly close' enlarged pores. This is an illusion.

  • Pores don't have muscles, so they cannot close.

  • So-called 'pore-tightening' products only work by temporarily reducing their appearance.

✅ Do: Be patient and consistent with your skincare routine.

Mistake No. 8: Neglecting your lifestyle

The appearance of enlarged pores isn't solely dependent on cosmetics. Your lifestyle plays a key role.

  • Smoking and alcohol reduce tissue oxygenation.

  • Chronic stress increases sebum production.

  • A diet too high in fat or sugar can lead to clogged pores.

✅ What to do:

  • Opt for a balanced diet rich in antioxidants (fruits, vegetables, fatty fish).

  • Drink enough water.

  • Get 7 to 8 hours of sleep per night.

Mistake No. 9: Forgetting professional treatments

Some believe a home routine is enough. However, in certain cases, enlarged pores require more advanced treatments:

  • Chemical peels to stimulate cell renewal.

  • Microdermabrasion to smooth the skin's surface.

  • LED light therapy to improve skin texture.

These professional treatments can significantly improve the appearance of enlarged pores.

Good habits to adopt

To avoid mistakes and improve the appearance of your enlarged pores, here's a simple and effective routine:

  1. Gentle cleansing morning and night.

  2. Chemical exfoliation 1 to 2 times per week.

  3. Niacinamide serum or salicylic acid to regulate sebum.

  4. Daily hydration with a light cream.

  5. Sun protection is essential.


Enlarged pores are a natural part of skin, but certain habits can make them more noticeable. By avoiding common mistakes – such as overly aggressive products, forgetting to moisturize, excessive exfoliation, sun exposure without protection, or picking blackheads – you can significantly improve your skin's appearance. The key is to focus on consistency, gentleness, and prevention. With an adapted routine and targeted treatments, your enlarged pores will appear less visible, and your complexion will regain its radiance and evenness.

Back to blog