How to Minimize Pores: Proven Skincare Strategies That Actually Work

We all want pore less smooth skin, and enlarged pores are one of the most common skincare concerns and they can make skin look uneven, textured, and aged. While it’s impossible to permanently shrink pores, you can minimize their appearance with consistent skincare and the right ingredients. From niacinamide to gentle exfoliation, here’s an expert-backed guide to reducing visible pores and refining skin texture.

What Causes Large Pores?

Your pores are tiny openings in the skin that allow oil and sweat to escape. Everyone has them, but for some people, they appear larger due to:

Excess oil production
Loss of skin elasticity due to aging
Build-up of dead skin cells and sebum
Sun damage
Genetics
Not cleansing properly

While you can't change your pore size genetically, you can refine their appearance with consistent care¹².

Step 1: Cleanse Your Skin Daily

A clean canvas is crucial. Oil, dirt, and debris can clog pores and stretch them out over time. Use a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser morning and night to keep your skin clear and reduce the risk of congestion³. Double cleansing will also help clean and refine the pores.

Pro Tip: Avoid harsh cleansers that strip your skin, as this can trigger even more oil production by disrupting the skin’s moisture barrier⁴.

Step 2: Exfoliate Consistently

Dead skin cells are one of the biggest culprits behind enlarged pores. Regular exfoliation helps clear out buildup and prevent clogged pores.

Chemical exfoliants like glycolic acid, salicylic acid, or lactic acid work below the surface to dissolve debris⁵.
Physical exfoliants can be effective, but choose fine, gentle options to avoid micro-tears in the skin⁶.

Aim to exfoliate Daily with a gentle exfoliator or 2–4 times per week depending on your skin type. Over-exfoliating with a harsh exfoliator can backfire, so consistency and moderation are key⁷.

Step 3: Apply Niacinamide Daily

Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) is one of the best ingredients for visibly minimizing pores. It regulates oil production, strengthens the skin barrier, and improves elasticity—all of which contribute to a smoother texture and tighter-looking pores⁸.

Studies have shown that using a serum with at least 5% niacinamide can significantly reduce pore size over time⁹.

Try: Glisn Niacinamide Milk Serum for daily use AM and PM. It’s lightweight, non-comedogenic, and designed to refine skin texture without irritation.

Step 4: Use Non-Comedogenic Moisturizers

Even oily or acne-prone skin needs hydration. Skipping moisturizer can lead to dehydration, which prompts the skin to produce even more oil—exacerbating the pore issue¹⁰.

Look for non-comedogenic formulas with ingredients like:

Ceramides: Restore the skin barrier
Hyaluronic acid: Attract moisture to the skin
Antioxidants: Help defend against environmental stress

Step 5: Protect with SPF Daily

Sun damage breaks down collagen and elastin—key components that keep pores tight and skin firm. Over time, UV exposure can stretch pores and make them more visible¹¹.

Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher every day, rain or shine.
Consider mineral-based sunscreens like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide if you have sensitive or acne-prone skin¹².

Step 6: Consider Retinoids or Retinol

Retinoids boost cell turnover and collagen production, tightening skin and reducing the appearance of pores. They also help regulate oil production and prevent pore blockages¹³.

If you're new to retinoids:

Start with an over-the-counter retinol serum daily or 2-3 times a week
Gradually increase frequency as your skin builds tolerance

Glisn TimeLock Elixer Serum includes retinol and ceramides to support youthful, pore-refining results while you sleep.

Lifestyle Tips That Support Pore Health

Stay hydrated to keep your skin plump and elastic¹⁴.
Eat a balanced diet rich in omega-3s, zinc, and antioxidants¹⁵.
Avoid sleeping with makeup to prevent pore blockage¹⁶.
Clean your phone and pillowcases regularly to reduce bacterial transfer¹⁷.

Final Thoughts

Minimizing pores is all about consistency and using ingredients that support healthy skin function. A well-balanced routine that includes niacinamide, regular exfoliation, hydration, and sun protection can dramatically refine the look of enlarged pores.

At Glisn , our formulas are designed with these core principles in mind. Whether you’re just starting your skincare journey or fine-tuning an existing routine, our super vitamin, clinical beauty approach helps you achieve smoother, more radiant skin—naturally.

Explore Glisn’s pore-refining skincare and experience results that go beyond surface level.

Citations/References

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American Academy of Dermatology. (2022). How to properly wash your face. www.aad.org ↩
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Bissett, D.L., et al. (2005). Topical niacinamide reduces yellowing, wrinkling, red blotchiness, and hyperpigmented spots in aging facial skin. International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 27(3), 155–160. ↩
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