Enlarged Pores

Pores are the openings of hair follicles connected to oil glands, and enlarged pores are openings that have widened enough to stand out on the skin surface. They are closer to a common cosmetic concern than a health problem, but because there are several causes, the cause should be identified first to choose the right care.

The main causes of enlarged facial pores are summarized as three: high oil production, decreased firmness around pores and increased hair follicle volume. Recurrent acne, sex hormones and skin care habits can also affect pore size, and age, sex, genetics and sun exposure are reported as related factors.

Enlarged pores appear as distinct pore openings that make the skin surface look uneven, and what accompanies them differs by cause. Oily skin often shows shine, clogged pores show blackheads and whiteheads, and loss of firmness often shows stretched-looking pores with rough texture.

Enlarged pores are assessed by examining pore size and distribution, oil level, firmness and texture to identify the cause. One review concluded that because the causes vary, the cause should be identified to choose an appropriate treatment.

Enlarged pores are managed by adding treatments matched to the cause on top of basic home care. A review of 19 clinical trials found that multiple sessions and combined methods helped improve pore area and number, and suggested focusing on oil control in younger patients and on skin rejuvenation along with oil control in older patients.

Myongji Best Plastic Surgery Clinic in Myeongji-dong, Gangseo-gu, Busan, checks skin type, oil production, sensitivity, firmness and scarring to identify the main reason pores look enlarged. Treatments are chosen to match the cause, and intervals and number of sessions are adjusted according to how the skin responds.

With age, skin loses firmness and sags, which can make pores look larger, and as sun damage builds up, firmness decreases and pores become more noticeable. The focus of care shifts between periods of heavy oil production and periods of decreasing firmness.

The American Academy of Dermatology advises using non-comedogenic products that do not clog pores, washing gently twice a day with a mild cleanser, and applying SPF 30 or higher sunscreen every day. Retinol products and salicylic acid cleansers may help, but retinol should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

If clogged pores and acne keep returning despite home care, or red, painful inflamed acne appears, see a doctor to check the cause. Medical review is also needed if reactions such as redness, swelling or stinging after a treatment last more than 1 week or get worse.

The published non-covered fee list shows Aqua Peel at KRW 77,000 per session or KRW 350,000 for 5 sessions; skin Botox per session at KRW 110,000 for Hitox, KRW 220,000 for Coretox and KRW 440,000 for Xeomin; Fraxel at KRW 220,000; Juvelook Skin 4cc at KRW 440,000 for 1 session or KRW 1,100,000 for 3 sessions; and MTS baby injection at KRW 88,000 (checked October 20, 2026). Total cost depends on the combination and number of sessions, so it is confirmed at the consultation, and non-covered fees may change.

Pores become less noticeable when care that addresses the cause is continued steadily, rather than ending with a single treatment. Tell us about the products you use, your washing habits and past treatments, and we will plan treatments and care in an order that suits your skin.