you can’t physically open or close pores—that’s a common skincare myth.

 

No, you can’t physically open or close pores—that’s a common skincare myth. Pores don’t have muscles, so they can’t open or shut like doors.

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🔍 What’s Actually Happening:

1. Heat “softens” the skin, making pores appear more open

   • Example: Steam or a warm towel can loosen sebum and debris inside pores, making extractions easier.

2. Cold makes skin constrict, making pores look smaller

   • But it’s only temporary—it doesn’t “close” the pores.

3. Pore size is mostly genetic, but it can be affected by:

   • Excess oil production

   • Clogged pores (blackheads, buildup)

   • Sun damage (breaks down collagen, stretching pores)

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✅ What You Can Do:

• Cleanse regularly to prevent buildup

• Use chemical exfoliants (like salicylic acid) to clear clogged pores

• Apply niacinamide to refine pore appearance over time

• Use SPF daily to prevent collagen loss and pore stretching

• Retinoids can also help shrink the appearance of large pores long-term