The pores on our skin have an essential function in the body, though they can also cause frustration when enlarged. The leading causes of enlarged pores are excessive oil production. When oil collects in the pore, the pore can become blocked when combined with dirt or makeup; it stretches the pore, making it look bigger than it is. If the pore stays clogged, a pimple may develop. While many things can cause overactive oil glands, it is most likely a genetic problem.
Other causes for enlarged pores include:
- Aging: as we age, our skin loses its elasticity, making our pores look more prominent; the skin also thickens as we age, which causes minuscule skin cells to gather around your pores, also making pores look more prominent.
- Gender: men tend to have noticeably larger pores than women, but hormonal changes, like pregnancy, menstruation, and puberty, women’s pores can increase their appearance over time.
- Sun damage: excessive sun exposure can thicken your skin, making it seem like pores are bigger; sun exposure can also reduce collagen, dry out skin, and shrink the tissue beneath the skin, which stretches along the edges of the pores.