What do Enlarged Pores refer to?

Small openings called pores are present on the skin’s surface, and they excrete oil and sweat. We use the term “enlarged pores” to describe the expansion or increase in size above normal. Enlarged pores primarily occur because of an excess production of oil, skin congestions or blackhead activity, which causes the skin’s collagen to over stretch to accommodate. This results in the pores becoming stretched and enlarged. Enlarged pores are most commonly seen on the nose, forehead and chin areas, also known as the “T-zone”. They are also more common with patients who present with oily skin types. Enlarged pores can also occur when you pick or squeeze your skin. Skin Cosmeceuticals have the power to transform your skin in a positive way that is visible. Different brands of cosmeceutical products have varying philosophies and formulations. At Shellharbour Skin, we have handpicked brands that are safe, ethical, and elegant.

Who gets enlarged pores?

People of all ages and ethnic groups can see enlarged pores. Certain ethnic groups may have larger pores, particularly those of African and Indian ancestry. Pores often appear larger with age. The question of whether men or women are more prone to large pores is surrounded by conflicting data. The size of pores in women can vary throughout the menstrual cycle, with the largest pores typically seen during ovulation.

What is the treatment for enlarged pores?

Treatments that focus on preventing and shrinking large pores are not very effective. They include: Avoidance of skin creams that induce blackheads and whiteheads Weight loss (which is reported to reduce sebum production) Chemical peels Topical nicotinamide Plant-derived copper chlorophyllin complexes L-carnitine Topical retinoids. Oral treatments that are used for acne may also help. These include: Combined oral contraceptives Spironolactone Isotretinoin. Physical treatments targeting the sebaceous glands may help enlarged pores. These include: Laser treatment Radiofrequency micro-needling (skin needling).

When used correctly, the right product or team of products will create a biological and visible change in the skin. Using Skin Cosmeceuticals will yield the best results when used with consistency in mind. Depending on the type of product/s you are using, you may notice improvements in skin brightness, texture, vibrancy, or hydration. Your clinician can describe your particular product outcome with you to assist in a comprehensive understanding of expectations. Active ingredients that are new to the skin may produce a ‘purge’; skin purging is a temporary skin reaction during which the skin becomes dry, red, and irritated and experiences minor breakouts in response to a new product a person has introduced into their skin care regime. Skin purging will resolve and is usually a sign that the product works as intended. Discussing this with your clinician is an important part of the consultation process.

Large Pores – Shellharbour Skin

Q: What causes enlarged pores?

Factors that may lead to enlarged pores include: Increased sebum production Hair follicle size Use of comedogenic products Loss of skin elasticity with age Sun damage. Acne is linked to enlarged pores, occasionally revealing open comedones. The weakening of sebaceous gland and hair follicle openings because of inflammatory acne can lead to enlarged pores, making them more susceptible to blockage.

What Are Enlarged Pores?

Pores are tiny openings on the skin’s surface that allow oil and sweat to reach the surface. The term “enlarged pores” refers to when these openings appear more visible due to various skin characteristics.

The visibility of pores can be influenced by factors such as excess oil production, congestion, or blackheads, which can affect the surrounding skin structure. They are often more noticeable in the T-zone (nose, forehead, and chin) and are a common feature of oily or combination skin types. Repeatedly squeezing or manipulating the skin can also influence how pores appear.

A professional consultation can help you understand the factors affecting your skin and how professionally recommended skincare may support its health. At Shellharbour Skin, we have selected a range of evidence-based products and can discuss their appropriate use and suitability during your consultation

Who Is Affected By Enlarged Pores?

People of all ages and skin types may notice visible pores. Their appearance can vary from person to person and may be influenced by genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors, as well as the skin’s natural oil activity.

Research suggests that pore size can differ across skin types and ethnic backgrounds. In some individuals, visibility may increase with age, sun exposure, or changes in skin elasticity.

Both men and women can experience visible pores. In men, this is often related to naturally higher oil (sebum) production, while in women, pores may appear more noticeable during certain phases of the menstrual cycle due to hormonal fluctuations.

What causes Enlarged Pores?

Several factors can influence pore visibility, including:

Increased sebum (oil) production
The size and activity of the hair follicle
Use of comedogenic (pore-blocking) products
Changes to skin elasticity over time
Sun exposure and cumulative UV damage

Acne and enlarged pores can often occur together. Inflammatory processes associated with acne may influence the openings of sebaceous glands and hair follicles, making them more prone to blockage or congestion. This can contribute to the appearance of more visible pores in certain areas of the face.

The Goal of a Professional Skincare Consultation

A professional skincare consultation is designed to help you understand your skin and the factors that influence its health and appearance.
Our approach focuses on education, transparency, and collaboration, ensuring you receive balanced information before making any decisions about in-clinic or at-home care.

The Key Objectives Are To:

Assess your individual skin type, history, and key concerns.
Explain how particular ingredients, formulations, or technologies work.
Develop a tailored plan aligned with your lifestyle, goals, and budget.
Educate you on how to use products correctly and safely for long-term support.
Provide a professional environment to ask questions and make informed decisions

Skincare Consultation at Shellharbour Skin

To help you select which cosmeceutical products are right for you, you can book an initial consultation with our qualified clinical team at our Shellharbour clinic. During your appointment, we will discuss your lifestyle and health, including your medical history, allergies, and any medications or supplements you may be taking. It is important to mention any past reactions to skincare products and any recent aesthetic procedures you’ve had. These factors can affect how your skin responds to a new routine.

We can then develop a skincare plan for you that is based on your individual needs and our assessment.

What To Expect?

When embarking on a new skincare routine, consistency is key. Your clinician will describe the intended function of each product so you have a comprehensive understanding of what to expect from the experience.

It’s important to know that active ingredients that are new to the skin may produce a ‘purge’. Skin purging is a temporary reaction where the skin may become dry, red, or experience minor breakouts as it adjusts. This reaction typically resolves and is often a sign that the product is interacting with your skin as intended. Discussing this possibility with your clinician is an important part of the consultation process.

Cost of a Skincare Plan in the Illawarra

The cost of a cosmeceutical skincare plan varies from patient to patient and depends on the number and type of products recommended to address your aesthetic goals. We always recommend an initial consultation in our clinic to allow our clinician to assess your areas of concern and develop a customised product plan based on your goals, budget, and priorities.

How Cosmeceutical Products Work

Cosmeceutical products are formulated with specific intentions. Some are designed to nourish and moisturise, while others focus on assisting the skin’s natural cell turnover and exfoliation processes. There are no general rules for how an individual’s skin will respond, as this can be influenced by factors like sun exposure, lifestyle, and diet.

Below is an overview of the intended functions of common skincare staples:

Cleansers
The intended purpose of these products is:

To cleanse the skin of impurities, makeup, and excess oil.
To support the skin’s natural moisture barrier and maintain balance.

Exfoliants
The intended purpose of these products is:

To assist the skin’s natural process of shedding surface skin cells.
To help manage surface texture and build-up.

Vitamins
These ingredients are selected for a variety of intended functions, such as:

To support the natural cycle of skin cell renewal.
To assist in soothing the skin and managing the appearance of redness.
To support the skin’s underlying structures, such as collagen and elastin.
To help balance the skin’s natural sebum (oil) production.
To assist in managing the appearance of uneven skin tone.

Sun Protection
The intended purpose of these products is:

To provide broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection.
To help reduce the risk of sunburn when used as directed and in conjunction with other sun-safe practices.

Risks & Complications

Regardless of the type of cosmeceutical you are using, you should be aware of the associated risks and complications before deciding. Using active skincare may carry the following potential risks and complications:

Allergic reaction
Itching
Redness

What Options Can Be Discussed for Enlarged Pores

A consultation is an opportunity to explore the many factors that can influence the appearance and function of the skin, including visible pores.

Discussions focus on education, evidence-based information, and informed decision-making. Your clinician may explore topics relating to skincare, lifestyle, and professionally supervised procedures.

Lifestyle and Topical Skincare

During your consultation, your clinician may discuss:

The importance of non-comedogenic skincare and avoiding products that may contribute to congestion.
Lifestyle considerations, including nutrition and weight management, which have been associated with variations in oil (sebum) activity.
The possible role of professionally administered chemical peels as part of a structured skincare plan.
The inclusion of topical ingredients such as niacinamide, copper-based compounds, or L-carnitine, which support the skin’s natural balance.
The application and suitability of topical retinoids, reviewed in the context of your individual skin history and tolerance.

Medical Discussion Topics

For some individuals, certain prescription-only medicines may be discussed as part of a broader care plan.

These can only be prescribed following assessment by a registered medical practitioner to determine safety and suitability.
Options that may be discussed include:

Combined oral contraceptives
Spironolactone
Isotretinoin

These medicines are not suitable for everyone and will only be prescribed following a thorough medical review, risk discussion, and informed consent.

In-Clinic Procedures That May Be Discussed

In-clinic procedures can be considered as part of a comprehensive skincare plan.
Each option will be discussed in terms of its intended mechanism, suitability, expected experience, and recovery considerations.

Hydrafacial
A multi-step, device-assisted procedure that gently cleanses and exfoliates while infusing hydrating serums. This may help manage surface build-up and support balanced skin function.

Chemical Peels
Controlled use of exfoliating solutions to assist natural cell turnover and manage surface irregularities associated with congestion.

Alma Hybrid CO₂ / 1570 nm Laser
A fractional laser system combining ablative (CO₂) and non-ablative (1570 nm) wavelengths to create controlled micro-thermal zones in the skin under medical supervision. This supports collagen formation and structural integrity.

Microneedling (Dermapen 4)
A mechanical device that forms precise micro-channels in the skin to stimulate the body’s natural repair processes and support healthy skin architecture.

Laser Genesis
A gentle, non-ablative laser using micro-pulses of energy to warm the dermis and promote uniform skin function and tone over time.

LED Therapy
A non-invasive light-based procedure that uses specific wavelengths to support post-treatment comfort and recovery.

The Goal of a Professional Skincare Consultation

A professional skincare consultation is designed to provide you with a clear understanding of your skin and its needs.

The Key Objectives Are To:

Assess your individual skin type and key concerns.
Discuss how particular ingredients, formulations, or technologies work.
Develop a personalised plan aligned with your lifestyle and goals.
Educate you on correct product use for safe and consistent care.
Provide a supportive environment to ask questions and make informed decisions.

Skincare Consultations at Shellharbour Skin

During your appointment, our qualified clinical team will review your lifestyle, medical history, allergies, and current skincare or aesthetic treatments.

This information helps determine how your skin may respond to new ingredients or modalities.

Following assessment, your clinician will develop a tailored skincare plan that reflects your priorities and needs.

What to Expect

Consistency is essential when beginning a new skincare routine or treatment plan.

Your clinician will explain the intended function of each product or procedure and what you may experience as your skin adjusts.

Active ingredients or procedures may occasionally cause temporary responses, such as mild dryness, redness, or flaking.

Your clinician will discuss these possibilities and provide aftercare advice to support a comfortable experience.

Cost of a Skincare Plan

The cost of modality options, cosmeceutical or professional skincare plan varies depending on the products and procedures included.

Your clinician will ensure your plan aligns with your skin priorities, lifestyle, and budget before proceeding.

How Cosmeceutical Products Work

Cosmeceutical formulations complement professional treatments by supporting the skin’s natural processes such as hydration, protection, and renewal.

Responses vary according to factors like age, environment, and overall health.

Cleansers – Remove surface impurities and support the skin’s moisture barrier.
Exfoliants – Assist the natural shedding of surface cells and help manage build-up.
Vitamins and Serums – Support natural renewal, assist in calming the skin, and help maintain balance.
Sun Protection – Provide UVA / UVB defence when used correctly and combined with sun-safe practices.

Risks and Considerations

All skincare products and in-clinic procedures carry potential risks.

Temporary redness, dryness, or irritation may occur as the skin adjusts.

In rare cases, allergic or sensitivity reactions can develop.

For device-based or energy-based procedures, temporary swelling, pigment changes, or minor discomfort may also occur.

All treatments at Shellharbour Skin are performed or supervised by registered health practitioners or qualified dermal clinicians working within their professional scope of practice.

Your clinician will review these considerations with you during your consultation, provide detailed aftercare instructions, and ensure your plan is implemented safely and appropriately.

Have a Question?

If you have a question, get in touch and one of our staff will be in touch shortly.