If you’ve started to notice your pores looking a little more visible—especially around your cheeks, nose, or forehead—know that it’s completely normal. Enlarged pores with age are simply a part of how our skin Do Pores Get Bigger as We Age?
One of the most common questions clients ask is why their pores appear larger over time, whether ageing plays a role, and if it can be improved. The short answer is yes — ageing can make pores look more visible, but it happens for several reasons. As we get older, multiple structural changes occur in the skin, and together they affect how pores appear on the surface.
With the right home-care routine and regular professional treatments, you can significantly improve overall skin texture and reduce the appearance of enlarged pores, leaving your skin smoother, firmer, and more refined over time.
Why Ageing Makes Pores Look Larger
- Collagen Loss and Reduced Skin Support: As we age, the skin produces less collagen and elastin, the proteins that keep the skin firm and support pore walls. When collagen declines, the skin loses its ability to snap back, causing pores to stretch and appear larger. Research shows that reduced dermal support is one of the main contributors to enlarged pores with age.
- Changes in Oil Production and Slower Cell Turnover: Sebum production also changes over time. While overall oil levels may decrease, the pore lining can thicken, and slower cell turnover can cause oil and dead skin cells to build up inside pores. This buildup stretches the pore opening, making it more noticeable.
- Sun Damage and Its Impact on Pore Size: Sun exposure accelerates collagen breakdown and weakens the skin structure around pores, making them appear larger over time. Studies consistently link chronic UV exposure with more visible, enlarged pores.
Can You Reduce the Appearance of Ageing Pores?
You can’t permanently change pore size, but you can significantly improve its appearance. Treatments that stimulate collagen, improve cell turnover, and refine skin texture help pores look tighter and smoother. Combining professional treatments with targeted home care delivers the best long-term results.
How Professional Treatments Improve the Appearance of Ageing Pores
Targeted professional treatments can transform the look of enlarged pores by strengthening skin structure and supporting healthy cell turnover. Choosing the right treatment based on your skin’s needs is key.
- RF microneedling delivers controlled energy to the deeper layers of the skin, stimulating collagen and elastin production. Clinical studies show it improves skin firmness and pore appearance by strengthening the surrounding skin.
- Laser skin rejuvenation resurfaces the skin and promotes collagen renewal. By improving texture and tone, laser treatments make pores look smaller, especially when ageing and sun damage are contributing factors.
- Skin needling triggers the skin’s natural healing response, boosting collagen production and improving overall skin quality. As the skin becomes firmer and smoother, pores appear less stretched.
- Chemical peels increase cell turnover and clear debris from pores. Peels also refine skin texture and prevent buildup that can make pores look larger.
A professional assessment allows us to combine these treatments strategically, ensuring the most effective and long-lasting improvement for your skin.
Expert Tips to Keep Your Pores Looking Smaller
Proper at-home care plays a key role in maintaining smooth, refined skin and minimising the appearance of pores. Follow these professional tips:
- Cleanse deeply every evening to remove makeup, dirt, and oil. Avoid sleeping with makeup on, as it can clog pores and worsen their appearance.
- Incorporate retinol into your night routine to accelerate cell turnover and keep pores clear and smooth.
- Protect your skin from the sun by seeking shade and applying a broad-spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreen daily, all year round.
- Invest in professional treatments such as RF microneedling, laser, and chemical peels. These stimulate collagen and elastin production, helping skin stay firm and pores appear smaller.
- Support your skin with a healthy lifestyle: reduce alcohol, quit smoking, and maintain hydration to protect skin health and minimise ageing effects.
Takeaway
Ageing naturally changes the skin’s structure, which can make pores appear larger over time. Collagen loss, sun damage, and slower skin renewal all contribute to this visible change. The good news is that with the right home care, professional treatments, and personalised approach, you can refine pore appearance and support healthier, stronger, and smoother skin.
Caring for your skin at home and investing in professional treatments delivers the best results. Follow a consistent routine — cleanse thoroughly, use retinol, protect your skin from the sun, and make healthy lifestyle choices — to keep your skin smooth and refined. Pairing this with targeted treatments like RF microneedling, laser, chemical peels, or skin needling visibly reduces the appearance of pores and improves overall skin texture.
Book a consultation at Medix Skincare & Laser Clinic today and let us create a personalised plan to help your skin look its best — healthy, smooth, and confident.
Contact Medix Skincare Laser Clinic
📞 Phone: 03 9686 0003
📍Address: 1/367A Centre Road, Bentleigh, Victoria 3204
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Frequently Asked Questions about Why Your Pores Look Bigger With Age
As we age, our skin gradually loses collagen and elasticity.
This means pores don’t stay as tight as they once were, and they may start to appear larger.
Also, years of sun exposure and buildup of dead skin can make them look even more visible over time
Technically, you can’t change their actual size — but you can make them look smaller.
Regular cleansing, gentle exfoliation, and protecting your skin from the sun help refine its appearance.
Over time, consistency makes a visible difference, even if results aren’t immediate.
Yes. Excess oil can clog pores and, combined with ageing-related changes like slower cell turnover and collagen loss, make pores appear larger over time. Consistent homecare and professional treatments can help keep pores clear and skin smoother.
Enlarged pores aren’t caused by ageing alone. Genetics, skin type, oil production, sun exposure, and hormonal changes all play a role. Understanding these factors helps you target them with the right homecare and professional treatments to keep your skin smooth and refined.
You may see subtle improvements within a few weeks of consistent homecare. Professional treatments like RF microneedling or laser can deliver more noticeable results over a few sessions, with continued improvement over time.
Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Results from treatments may vary depending on individual skin type, condition, and adherence to homecare. Always consult with a qualified dermal clinician or medical professional before starting any new skincare treatment or procedure.
