Does oily skin make pores look more noticeable?

Why does oil affect how pores look?

Sebum is the natural oil your skin produces and releases through pores. Too much sebum can combine with dead skin cells to form plugs. Blackheads are plugged follicles with widened openings; their exposed contents turn dark on contact with air. Whiteheads are plugs covered by skin.3

Pore appearance can also change over a short period. In 40 Korean adults, measured cheek pore area increased after four hours of sleep in both oily and nonoily skin, with a greater increase in the oily group. Oil measurements also increased more in the oily group.1

Oil is not the only factor: pore size also depends on genetics and the size of your oil glands, and previous breakouts can stretch pores. Pore care can improve their appearance, but it cannot permanently shrink pores, however ambitious the bottle's name.2

How should you care for oily skin?

1. 1Cleanse gently in the morning and evening, and after sweating. Use a mild, foaming cleanser rather than scrubbing or trying to dry your skin out. Harsh cleansers can irritate skin and trigger more oil production.
2. 2Apply moisturizer after cleansing. Oily skin still needs hydration. Choose products labeled oil free and noncomedogenic, meaning formulated not to clog pores, rather than assuming you can skip moisturizer.
3. 3Use broad spectrum SPF 30 or higher sunscreen outdoors. A moisturizer containing sunscreen can combine these steps. For oily skin, look for sunscreen without fragrance or oils.
4. 4Remove makeup before bed. Choose oil free, water based makeup; matte formulas can help reduce shine.

Between washes, gently press blotting paper against oily areas for a few seconds, rather than rubbing it across your face. Blotting papers absorb surface oil, which is a smaller job than the phrase "pore minimizer" tends to suggest.4

Can ingredients make pores less noticeable?

Niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3, may help regulate oil production and reduce the appearance of pores. Most products contain 5% or less. If your skin is sensitive, start slowly with a low concentration. Niacinamide can generally be used once or twice daily after cleansing; you can also choose a moisturizer containing it rather than adding a separate serum.5

Salicylic acid, glycolic acid and lactic acid can help reduce oiliness, while salicylic acid is also used to treat clogged pores. Stop an irritating product or use it less often. If you are pregnant, ask your healthcare provider which acne treatments are suitable before starting one.46

If tiny bumps cluster along your hairline or forehead, check your hair products too. Oils from shampoos, conditioners and styling products can reach skin and clog pores. When a product is responsible, stopping it and washing residue from pillowcases, hats and headbands can help; clearing can take four to six weeks.7

What should you expect, and when should you get help?

Blotting tackles oil already on the surface; routine changes take longer. If you are treating blackheads or whiteheads, improvement can begin in eight to twelve weeks, with clearing taking several months. Do not squeeze plugs: doing so can damage follicles, cause scars or infection, and create more noticeable blemishes.3

Oily skin alone is not a health problem. See a dermatologist if oiliness remains bothersome after a month or two of routine changes, or if acne persists or worsens. If prescribed treatment causes side effects, tell your provider.236