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Enlarged Pores

Enlarged Pores

The appearance of enlarged pores is a skincare concern that many do not realise can be improved but can be.

Pores can give the skin an uneven, irregular appearance and you may try to ‘fill’ the pores with cosmetic products and makeup primers to try to make them less noticeable; these cosmetics can be very effective; however, these options are masking the problem rather than improving it.

A common misunderstanding is that splashing the skin with cold water will close the pores, however, this does not work as pores are not controlled by muscles. 

Genetics, age, oil production and skin type are all contributors to enlarged pores. Whilst there is no way of totally removing pores from the skin, nor would you want to as they perform vital functions, there are effective ways to greatly reduce the appearance of enlarged pores.

Treatment can leave you with a more even, smoother complexion. 

At our skin clinic, we have options to minimise pores. You will start your journey with a consultation with our medical team who will assess your concern and discuss treatment options with you. Treatment options include Isolaz as well as Clear and Brilliant.

Recommended Treatments to Minimise Pores:

Isolaz   Clear and brilliant

If you would like to discuss treatment for enlarged pores, please do not hesitate to contact our friendly team who will happily arrange a consultation for you.

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“I love visiting the Clinic and am very impressed by the changes I have seen in my skin since I started regular treatments a year ago. My pores have dramatically reduced” Cheryl

“I made an appointment hoping to improve my oiliness and enlarged pores; I have been very pleased with Jane’s help and advice and even after a week I could see improvement.” Mary

“Opened my eyes to a whole new level of understanding my skin and how to take care of it. I particularly liked the detail she went into in explaining the reasons why my skin is the way it is, and steps I can take to improve it. It was also wonderful how the focus of the consultation was NOT to seek products, but to truly educate me on skin.  Would absolutely recommend the consultation to anyone. I already feel significantly better about my skin through what I learnt.” Rosie

“I love coming to the skin to love clinic and I look forward to all my treatments as I always see amazing results at each visit.” Farrah

“Excellent” Louise

Do pores actually get bigger?

They do. Large pores can get stretched out when they’re clogged with dirt, oil, dead skin cells, or other debris, or when your skin health declines when it loses some of its structural support (a.k.a. collagen and elastin) because of sun damage or even just because of normal ageing, especially after menopause.

If you have an oily skin type, your enlarged pores might bother you when you’re younger, but oily skin generally ages a bit more slowly because of the protective agents in your body’s natural oil barrier, so your pores might bother you less when you’re older, (even if they are large pores).

Why do pores enlarge?

I think of facial pores like a column exiting at your skin’s surface. It can look bigger if there’s something within the column enlarging it, like a dead skin cell, stray hair follicles, oil, or even acne, and it can also look bigger because of the skin surrounding it—because of a weakening of the surrounding collagen.

Maintain your skin health

Healthy collagen sort of cinches your facial skin pores tight. Therefore, maintaining your skin health and taking care of your sebaceous glands helps avoid enlarged facial pores and an uneven skin tone.

Are clogged large pores acne?

Large facial pores are where the hair follicle and or oil gland exits the skin releasing our skin’s protective barrier. When dead skin cells get clogged deep inside a pore, it creates a dark shadow, and that’s why a blackhead looks black—it’s actually the shadow of the sides of the enlarged pores.

Damning dead skin cells

If the clog is more toward the surface, that’s a whitehead. As inflamed enlarged pores become acne, the oil gland swelling around the clogged enlarged pores leads to a cyst, which gives it the appearance of having a ‘white head’. Larger pores are more likely to become clogged, so pore size does play a role in contributing to acne.

However, your pore size is not the sole contributing factor. Maintaining healthy skin by removing excess sebum and avoiding sun exposure can do more to help prevent clogged pores than popping all those pesky pimples.

What is Acne?

Acne is common in both adolescents and adults, no matter your skin type. The influences behind the development of the disease are:

  • Increased size of the sebaceous gland and increased oil production within your skin cells.
  • Increased production of skin cells; the body can’t shed these ‘extra’ cells fast enough and as a result, the sebaceous gland follicles become blocked.
  • The blocked follicles become the perfect breeding ground for bacteria and swiftly become highly populated by “P.acnes bacteria”.
  • As an immune response to the bacteria, the follicles become inflamed. This same response can also be stimulated by hormones, for example, at puberty.

Which skin treatments are there for enlarged pores?

To keep the column clear for patients with really enlarged pores or even breakouts, it’s great to combine mild chemical peels with Isolaz, an intense pulsed light laser that’s mixed with suction action and known as photo pneumatic therapy.

The laser treatments help kill the bacteria that drive acne and help normalize the skin tone, getting rid of some of the discolourations from acne; the suction helps clear enlarged pores; and then doing a gentle chemical peel over it really improves pores and the deeper layers of problematic skin cells.

People used to do deeper-depth peels until the 2000s, but since then, lasers have surpassed peels in terms of safety. I definitely don’t recommend anything deeper than a superficial chemical peel.

To help build the collagen back up and reduce enlarged pores, most dermatologists use laser resurfacing therapies. It’s a broad category with many brands, all aimed at stimulating collagen, from very noninvasive technologies, Clear + Brilliant, to more-intense treatments, like Fraxel, that can help remodel the collagen and cause salicylic acid and collagen production, reducing the likelihood of getting large pores.

How often you do laser resurfacing is individual—there’s a tug of war between the treatments and the effects of natural ageing of your skin cells and sun exposure, and you just have to find the right balance. Skincare products can help in this regard, we suggest you browse our wide range of available skincare products when you come for an in-house consultation, and we can help you find the perfect fit for your skin type.

Can you have oily skin and enlarged pores at the same time?

Yes. If you’ve lost collagen in your skin, large pores are more common, it doesn’t matter whether your skin is dry or oily—the pores will be less tight, and therefore more prone to becoming enlarged pores. Improving your overall skin health will help with making large pores less prevalent as your skin loses elasticity and your skin cells age.

Some of the ingredients used in these treatments include but are not limited to salicylic acid, alpha hydroxy acids and beta hydroxy acids. These treatments will help you manage and maintain occurrences of large pores. Large pores tend to lead to an uneven skin tone if left unchecked.

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If you're not sure what treatment you need or you just need more information, we're here to help. Send us an email or call us on 01727 837429.

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Emma was lovely and totally put me at ease. The procedure was painless and quick. Would recommend
The care that Jane and her team show is exemplary, especially their follow up care for every treatment.
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Nikki’s amazing. The cost of the treatment is reasonable. I’ve gone from looking like a hairy silverback gorilla to a silverback gorilla with a hairless back.
Very professional, knowledgeable, friendly.Explained in details all my queries.Felt very relaxed.Definitely I'll go again.Simonetta 👍
What was I ever worried about! From start to finish (reception to nurse) everyone was helpful, patient and happily answered all of my questions. The clinic is lovely with a welcoming and relaxing feel to it. I travelled from Essex and have no regrets. The procedure was done with great care and lots of advice. I can’t fault Nurse Jane and will not hesitate to return or recommend this clinic.
Emma is amazing amazing amazing !! She removed my huge ear keyloid with minimal scarring. She makes you feel so comfortable and supported. Very Grateful would recommend her and the clinic to anyone 🥰
Lovely setting, friendly welcoming vibe and Nikki was great at removing milia! Would 100% recommend!
The service is so personal and they have always given excellent advice and help. The staff are so professional and friendly and Nicky has been so kind and helpful with my daughter. I would 100% recommend them 😊
Thank you so much to Jane at The Skin To Love clinic for your care and great treatment provided this morning - very professional and made me feel relaxed during the treatment too. Look forward to seeing you again in a month. Col
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Highly recommend the Skin to Love clinic , such a lovely relaxing atmosphere and so professional. I am very pleased with my treatment with Stuart and Jane both of whom took plenty of time to discuss my requirements, desired outcomes and exactly what to expect, including step by step explanation during treatment. Can’t wait to see the results emerging and beyond
Response from the owner: What a lovely review! Thank you for giving us feedback on your treatment results and the care you received from Jane. We’re really pleased you’re so happy with your results-enjoy!
Such a great appointment. So informative and compassionate and thorough. Lisa was patient and kind
The staff are friendly and professional. The service was excellent, with prompt after-care check-ins
Jane was my consultant. She has a wealth of knowledge, gave a thorough explanation of my skin condition. I am overjoyed with their service.
Fantastic service from Jane and her team.They are very professional, knowledgeable and skilled.I cannot recommend them enough.
Amazing service. The nurse, Emma, was professional and had a very warm and engaging manner. I was having a skin tag removed, every step was clearly explained and I felt comfortable throughout, I was called the next day, Sunday, to check everything was OK - it was. I would not hesitate to recommend.
Emma is a dermatologist at the top of her field. She performed the treatment and expertly removed the lesion from my leg. The histology report came in 10 days and Emma fully explained the results and outcomes in a calm and reassuring manner. Her expertise and knowledge is second to none and I would highly recommend her. It was such a relief to be able to see a dermatology specialist and to receive treatment straight away.
Had moles removed with Emma-Highly recommendFantastic at her jobCouldn’t be happier- she has changed my lifeThe clinic is beautiful and so professional
It's always a pleasure coming back for another Hydrafacial with Nikky. I appreciate the extra touch of being greeted by name even before checking in—it makes me feel very special as a customer. The Hydrafacials have truly improved my skin, making it smoother and healthier. The real results started to show after 3-4 sessions. I'll be back, as always, for more sessions. Thank you!
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Natalia was amazing as always. I trust her with absolutely everything! She’s the best and all the staff at the Skin to Love are so lovely and friendly x
5* HydraFacial with Nikki at this clinic would recommend to everyone and 100% recommend going to Nikki!Thanks again for making my skin glow :)
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Natalia is super friendly and so knowledgeable. I follow her advice all the time and feel stronger and more beautiful. From HRT to facial aesthetics Natalia has guided me and it’s been a joy.
Response from the owner: Hello Tamsin,Thank you very much for your 5 star rating!We are really glad that you’re pleased with the service and treatment Nikki gave you.Really pleased to hear that you noticed some improvements immediately after your Regenlite and that you have a future plan!Thanks for taking the time to leave us a review, we’re very grateful.
Excellent care and I wouldn’t go anywhere else!
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Really great place with lovely staff
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Jane is amazing. She listens and provides the best treatment in maintaing a natural fresher youthful appearance. Her skills are 2nd to none. Highly recommend. I travel all the way from North London as she really is the very best :)
Response from the owner: Thank you SO much for your kind words Wendy. We are so grateful that you’ve chosen our Clinic and your practitioner, Jane. It’s wonderful to hear that she’s made you feel heard and came up with a treatment plan that suits you, leaving you refreshed and natural looking. Thank you for your especially kind comments about her clinical skills. Thank you for travelling to see us, it’s truly appreciated and we’re honoured to look after you.
What a beautiful clinic! Skin to Love offers such a variety of treatments all carried out by extremely knowledgeable and experienced staff. The clinic environment is just gorgeous and carefully thought out to make you feel comfortable. The whole experience from walking into reception, to meeting the clinicians, to my ongoing plan fills me with confidence that I am in the best hands.
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Jane was really friendly and made me feel at ease. She explained what treatment I needed and how this would be done and how long it would take. She took time to chat and find out a bit about me as a person which I appreciated.
Response from the owner: Thank you so very much for feeding back to us Diana. We are absolutely delighted that you had such a positive experience with us. Thank you for choosing us to help and advise.
I met Emma who did my treatment. She provided great customer service in explaining the process which has gone so well. All staff are warm and welcoming, making me feel comfortable throughout the process. I highly recommend anyone. Thank you Emma
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The consultant skilfully diagnosed my skin condition within seconds of the appointment starting. She was confident, professional and knowledgeable which instantly put my mind at rest. She explained what she was looking at throughout so I was fully informed and at ease. I would highly recommend her and will happily return myself for an annual check up
Response from the owner: Thank you for feeding back to us Gemma. We’re so glad that you have had such a positive experience with us; that you found your consultant skilful, confident, professional, and knowledgeable. It’s also wonderful that you felt comfortable and fully informed throughout your time with us. Thank you also for recommending us. We look forward to seeing you again.
Yesterday, I underwent a Hydrafacial treatment with Nikki at The Skin To Love Clinic, and it was truly a remarkable experience.Nikki's expertise in tailoring the treatment to my skin's needs was evident from the start. The Hydrafacial process left my skin feeling deeply cleansed, hydrated, and rejuvenated.The addition of the J Lo booster serum took the experience to another level. Its application left my skin feeling incredibly smooth and plump, with a noticeable glow that was noticed by my husband,too!Overall, my Hydrafacial experience with Nikki exceeded my expectations. It's clear that her skill and attention to detail make her an exceptional aesthetician at The Skin To Love Clinic.I will definitely be back for more!
Response from the owner: Thank you so much for your kind words and sharing your experience of the clinic, Nikki, and your Hydrafacial treatment. We’re delighted that your skin looked and felt great after the treatment… and that your husband thought so too! It’s wonderful to hear that your experience exceeded your expectations. Can’t wait to see you again soon!
Nikki was incredible. My milia extraction went smoothly and I felt at ease. Would thoroughly recommend
Response from the owner: Thank you so much for sharing your experience with us Jordan. We’re so pleased that you’re happy with the service and treatment provided by Nikki. Thank you SO much for recommending us, it’s wonderful to hear.
Excellent, friendly and felt at ease with treatment to remove mole from face. Highly recommend if looking for similar service.
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Thanks Nikki for the hydrafacial!
Response from the owner: Thank you for your review Elliot! We’re so pleased that you had a 5 star Hydrafacial experience with our wonderful Nikki.
Friendly & very professional service. Clear explanation given before my treatment & for the after care.
Response from the owner: Thank you for taking the time to share your experience with us Margaret. We’re delighted that you found our service friendly and professional and that you felt informed throughout your treatment.
Emma was fantastic.. really thorough and explained everything. I got a full body check of all my moles/skin tags/marks and left reassured. Highly recommend, quick, easy and extremely professional..five stars!
Response from the owner: Thank you so much for your lovely review Sasha, we’re really happy that you found our service to be worthy of 5 stars!We’re really pleased that you left reassured following your full body check. We’re equally thrilled that you found the service to be extremely professional, quick, and easy.
Stuart's caring and informative nature has made my journey to younger looking skin an exciting and pleasant experience. And my skin - just WOW!
Response from the owner: Wow! Thank you for your glowing review Claire. We are beyond grateful that you took the time to share your experience with us. It’s really lovely to hear how happy you are with the service and treatment Stuart has provided. Enjoy your beautiful skin!
My skin is glowing following a Hydrafacial Treatment with Nikki. My skin feels so clean and hydrated, I'm thrilled with the results. Highly recommend!
I had an excellent Hydrafacial which was recommended to me by Jane. I had my treatment with Nikki, who was so friendly and made me feel comfortable from start to finish. She was so professional and gave me all the information about each step of the facial. She struck the perfect balance between getting to know me/building a rapport, and also giving me the chance to switch off and relax. It was a lovely treatment and I’m so grateful to Nikki for all her knowledge and skill. My skin felt amazing afterwards and I received so many compliments about my “glowing skin”! Thank you for making it such a personable experience. We also added on the Slimyonik treatment which was so lovely and relaxing. I was able to add this on last minute after being recommended by Kerri. Again, tailoring the treatment to me personally added so much to my overall experience. I’m so glad I added this to the treatment and would recommend the skin to love clinic to anyone. Thank you Nikki, Jane & Kerri.
Smooth and very well explained procedure. I recommend the clinic.
Response from the owner: Thank you for leaving us a five star review Rocío. Much appreciated.
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