Makeup alone doesn’t cause open pores, but not removing it properly can clog pores and worsen their visibility.

Niacinamide, salicylic acid, retinol, AHAs, and peptides are proven to improve pore appearance.

Usually, 2–4 sessions spaced a few weeks apart show significant improvement in skin texture and pore size.

Yes, when customized by a dermatologist, these treatments are safe for all skin types with minimal downtime.

Pore size is genetically determined and can't be permanently altered at the cellular level — but pore appearance can be reduced significantly. Congestion stretches pores beyond their natural size, and collagen loss makes them sag open further. Professional treatments clear that congestion, rebuild collagen support around pore walls, and regulate the oil production that keeps them dilated.

Pore strips provide superficial removal of surface-level debris but don't address deeper congestion. Extraction tools carry risks when used without proper technique — broken capillaries, scarring, infection, and pushing debris deeper into pores. At Claire Derma, professional extractions are performed under magnification with sterile instruments after the skin has been properly prepared with steam or enzyme treatment.

Pore visibility is dramatically affected by lighting angle. Overhead and side lighting creates shadows within each pore opening, making them appear larger than they are. Camera flashes and ring lights can also exaggerate pore texture. This doesn't mean your pores are worse than you thought — it means lighting conditions create different visual effects.

Non-comedogenic makeup and sunscreen do not enlarge pores when properly removed at the end of each day. Problems arise from comedogenic formulations — heavy silicone-based primers, thick cream foundations, or occlusive sunscreens — that trap sebum and debris inside pores over time. Incomplete cleansing is an equally common culprit.