Open pores are skin openings that release oil and sweat. They appear larger due to excess oil, genetics, aging, clogged pores, and sun damage. Pores don’t actually open or close, but their appearance can be minimized with good skincare like cleansing, exfoliation, and using products like niacinamide. Pores can’t be permanently closed, but their size can be reduced with proper care.

Minimize Open Pore By Home Remedies

Ice Cubes for Smaller Pores
Rubbing ice cubes on the face can temporarily tighten skin and reduce the appearance of pores by constricting blood vessels. It also helps reduce oiliness, puffiness, and inflammation. While it doesn’t permanently shrink pores, it gives the skin a smoother, refreshed look. For added benefits, try using ice cubes made from green tea, cucumber juice, or rose water.

Apple Cider Vinegar as a Toner
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is often used as a natural toner due to its antibacterial and pH-balancing properties. When diluted with water, it can help remove excess oil, tighten pores, fight acne-causing bacteria, and restore the skin’s natural acidity. To use, mix one part ACV with two parts water (more for sensitive skin), apply with a cotton pad, and follow with a moisturizer. While it can improve skin clarity, it may cause irritation or dryness, especially on sensitive skin, so a patch test is recommended before regular use.

Egg White Mask to Tighten Skin
An egg white mask is a popular natural remedy believed to help tighten the skin and reduce the appearance of pores. Egg whites are rich in proteins that can temporarily firm the skin and absorb excess oil, giving a smoother, more lifted look. To use, simply whisk one egg white until frothy, apply a thin layer to clean skin, and let it dry for 10–15 minutes before rinsing with lukewarm water. While the tightening effect is temporary, regular use may help improve skin texture. However, it may not be suitable for sensitive or allergy-prone skin, so a patch test is advised.

Honey and Lemon for Exfoliation and Moisture
Honey and lemon are often used together as a natural way to exfoliate and moisturize the skin. Lemon has natural acids that help remove dead skin cells, making your skin look brighter. Honey is a natural moisturizer that keeps the skin soft and smooth. To use, mix one teaspoon of honey with a few drops of lemon juice, apply it to your face, leave it on for 10–15 minutes, then rinse with warm water. Use this 1–2 times a week. Be careful if you have sensitive skin, as lemon can sometimes cause irritation. Always do a patch test first.

Baking Soda Scrub to Remove Dead Skin
Baking soda can be used as a gentle scrub to help remove dead skin cells and make your skin feel smoother. To use it, mix 1 teaspoon of baking soda with a little water to make a paste. Gently rub it on your face in small circles for about 30 seconds, then rinse with warm water and apply a moisturizer. Use this scrub only once or twice a week, as using it too often can dry out or irritate your skin. Also, do a patch test first, especially if you have sensitive skin.

Fresh Tomato Pulp for Brightening and Tightening
Fresh tomato pulp is great for brightening and tightening the skin naturally. Tomatoes have vitamins and natural acids that help remove dead skin, reduce oil, and make your skin look fresh and glowing. To use, mash a fresh tomato to get the pulp, apply it to your face, leave it on for 10–15 minutes, then wash it off with cool water. This can help tighten pores and brighten your skin, but if you have sensitive skin, do a patch test first to avoid irritation.

Fuller’s Earth Mask for Oily Skin
Fuller’s Earth, also called Multani Mitti, is a natural clay that’s great for oily skin. It helps absorb excess oil, removes dirt and impurities, and can reduce shine, leaving your skin feeling clean and fresh. To make a simple mask, mix Fuller’s Earth powder with water or rose water to form a smooth paste. Apply it evenly on your face, let it dry for about 15–20 minutes, then rinse off with cool water. Use this mask once or twice a week for best results. It helps control oil and can also improve skin texture. If your skin feels too dry after, follow up with a light moisturizer.

Extra Tips to Keep Pores Small

To maintain healthy skin, it’s important to clean your face twice a day to remove dirt and oil that can clog pores. Try to avoid heavy makeup since it can block pores and cause breakouts. Using a light moisturizer suited to your skin type helps keep your skin hydrated without making it greasy. Additionally, exfoliate 1–2 times a week to remove dead skin cells and prevent buildup, which keeps your skin smooth and clear. Lastly, always apply sunscreen daily to protect your skin from harmful sun damage and premature aging. Following these simple steps can help you achieve a fresh, glowing complexion.

Best Skincare Products for Large Pores

Product Name	Key Ingredient(s)	Benefits for Large Pores
The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%	Niacinamide, Zinc	Regulates oil, reduces pore size, brightens, and soothes skin
Paula’s Choice BHA Liquid Exfoliant	Salicylic Acid (BHA)	Deeply exfoliates, clears clogged pores, minimizes pore appearance
Innisfree Super Volcanic Pore Clay Mask	Volcanic Ash, Clay	Absorbs excess oil, cleanses impurities, tightens and refines pores
COSRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid	Beta Hydroxy Acid (Salicylic Acid)	Dissolves blackheads, unclogs pores, improves skin texture
Minimalist Salicylic Acid Serum	Salicylic Acid 2%	Controls oil, unclogs pores, reduces pore size and acne

How to Use These Remedies and Products Together

Cleanse: Start with a gentle cleanser to remove overnight oils and dirt.

Toner (Apple Cider Vinegar): If you want to use ACV toner, dilute it well and apply with a cotton pad to balance skin pH and tighten pores. Skip if your skin is sensitive.

Serum (Niacinamide or Salicylic Acid): Apply The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% or Minimalist Salicylic Acid Serum to regulate oil and reduce pore size.

Moisturizer: Use a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer suited to your skin type.

Sunscreen: Always apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30.

Evening Routine

1. Cleanse: Remove makeup and impurities with a gentle cleanser.
2. Exfoliate (1–2 times a week): Use a chemical exfoliant like Paula’s Choice BHA Liquid Exfoliant or COSRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid to deeply clear clogged pores. Avoid using physical scrubs like baking soda on the same day.
3. Mask (1–2 times a week):
   • Use Fuller’s Earth Mask on oily days for oil control.
   • Use natural masks like Egg White Mask or Fresh Tomato Pulp on alternate days for tightening and brightening.
4. Moisturizer: Follow with a suitable moisturizer.
5. Optional Ice Cube Massage: You can rub ice cubes (or green tea ice cubes) on your face briefly to tighten pores and reduce puffiness.

Weekly Add-Ons

• Honey & Lemon Mask: Use 1–2 times a week as a gentle exfoliant and moisturizer combo, preferably in the evening.
• Baking Soda Scrub: Use sparingly (once a week) if your skin tolerates it well, and avoid on days you exfoliate chemically.

Important Tips

Hydration & Protection: Never skip moisturizing and sunscreen to keep your skin balanced and protected.

Patch Test: Always patch test new remedies/products to avoid irritation.

Don’t Overdo It: Combining strong acids or multiple exfoliants daily can damage your skin barrier.

Listen to Your Skin: If irritation occurs, reduce frequency or stop the irritating product/remedy.

Tips to Prevent Open Pores from Worsening

1. Cleanse twice a day with a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser to remove oil, dirt, and makeup without stripping your skin.
2. Exfoliate 2–3 times a week using chemical exfoliants like salicylic acid or glycolic acid. Avoid harsh scrubs that can irritate skin.
3. Wear sunscreen daily (SPF 30 or higher) to protect your skin from UV damage, which can make pores appear larger.
4. Use retinoids (like retinol or tretinoin) to improve skin texture, reduce oil, and promote cell turnover.
5. Apply a clay mask once or twice a week to absorb excess oil and draw out impurities from the pores.
6. Eat a balanced diet with less sugar and processed foods. Antioxidant-rich foods like fruits and vegetables support healthy skin.
7. Avoid touching or picking your face, which can stretch pores and cause breakouts.
8. Always remove makeup before sleeping to prevent clogged pores and irritation.
9. Consider professional treatments like chemical peels, microneedling, or laser therapy for long-term results.

FAQ to Minimize Open Pores Naturally