Large Pores and Oily Skin: Causes and Effective Aesthetic Remedies

Large pores and oily skin are common concerns that affect both men and women of all ages, giving the face a heavy appearance and an uneven texture. While proper daily skincare is essential, it is often not enough to resolve the issue at its root.
At Istituto Image, we address these conditions through an integrated medical-scientific approach. Among the most effective solutions we use is the HydraFacial, an advanced facial treatment that deeply cleanses, removes impurities, and promotes cellular renewal, visibly improving skin texture.
Our goal is to go beyond superficial treatment by offering personalized solutions that act on the underlying causes of the issue, restoring healthy, smooth, and naturally matte skin.

Main Causes of Large Pores and Oily Skin

Understanding the underlying causes of large pores and oily skin is the first step toward identifying the most effective treatment path. These imperfections are often the result of a complex interaction between genetic factors and personal habits.
The primary cause is almost always excess sebum production, the oily substance that protects our skin. When sebaceous glands are overactive, the excess sebum accumulates inside the pores, mixing with dead cells and impurities. This blockage causes physical dilation of the pore, making it more visible. The skin then appears shiny, especially in the “T-zone” (forehead, nose, and chin), where the glands are most concentrated.

Several factors can contribute to this condition:

• Genetic predisposition: The size of the pores and the activity of the sebaceous glands are largely determined by our DNA.
• Hormonal imbalances: Hormonal fluctuations, common during adolescence but also in adulthood, can trigger overproduction of sebum.
• Skin aging: Over time, the skin loses elasticity and collagen. This structural loss causes the pore walls to “collapse,” making them appear larger.
• Unprotected sun exposure: UV rays damage collagen and thicken the skin’s surface layer, contributing to clogging and pore dilation.
• Inadequate skincare: Using products that are too harsh or, conversely, too occlusive can disrupt the skin’s delicate balance, worsening the issue.

Skin Diagnosis and Evaluation at Istituto Image

Every treatment journey at Istituto Image begins with attentive listening and in-depth analysis. Our personalized regenerative skin analysis is a comprehensive diagnostic process conducted by an aesthetic doctor that goes beyond a simple visual examination.
We use advanced diagnostic technologies to create a true “skin ID,” analyzing its health at the cellular level.
During the consultation, we precisely assess parameters such as skin texture, elasticity, hydration and sebum levels, and pore structure. This detailed mapping allows us to understand not only the visible concern but also its biological and functional causes.
Only through such accurate diagnosis can we design a truly tailored therapeutic program, integrating the most suitable technologies to stimulate the skin’s natural self-repair processes and achieve lasting, visible results.

Innovative Regenerative Remedies for Enlarged Pores on Face and Nose

To effectively improve the appearance of large pores, especially in critical areas such as the face and nose, regenerative medicine offers cutting-edge technological solutions. Our focus is on deep dermal stimulation to promote new collagen production, improve elasticity, and visibly “tighten” pore size.

Laser therapy is one of the most effective and versatile options. Depending on individual needs, we develop customized protocols that may include:

• Fractional Laser (e.g., Fraxel): This technology creates micro-columns of heat in the dermis, leaving the surrounding tissue intact. The resulting natural healing process stimulates strong collagen production, improving skin texture and reducing pore size with minimal downtime.
• Fractional CO₂ Laser: Considered the gold standard for skin resurfacing, ideal for very large pores and thickened skin. It acts more intensively by removing damaged superficial layers and stimulating deep regeneration for a long-lasting smoothing and tightening effect.
• Laser Toning (e.g., Q-Switched): An innovative and gentle technique that uses very low-energy pulses to stimulate dermal collagen without downtime, gradually improving texture and uniformity.

Alongside laser therapy, other regenerative treatments deliver excellent results. Microneedle radiofrequency (e.g., Vivace) combines the mechanical stimulation of microneedling with the heat of radiofrequency, triggering powerful collagen regeneration at multiple depths for firmer skin and less visible pores.

Personalized Aesthetic Solutions for Less Shiny Skin

Controlling excess sebum and shine, especially on the nose and forehead, is essential for achieving an even complexion. At Istituto Image, we integrate treatments that purify and rebalance the skin without being aggressive.

Our signature treatment is the Pure Facial, an advanced three-phase protocol that targets excess sebum, impurities, and uneven texture. It combines regenerative thermoionization for antibacterial action, oxygen therapy for soothing and purifying effects, and a white clay mask for deep sebum regulation.

Another cornerstone treatment is HydraFacial, the evolution of facial cleansing. Through gentle hydradermabrasion, it extracts impurities and excess sebum from the pores while simultaneously infusing customized serums that hydrate and rebalance oily skin.

For a targeted reduction in sebaceous activity, Gold Microinfusion is an extraordinary solution. Using fine gold micro-needles, it delivers a personalized cocktail of actives that can include microdoses of botulinum toxin, helping reduce gland activity and minimize shine.

The Importance of Daily Skincare to Maintain Results

To consolidate and extend the benefits achieved through professional treatments, it’s essential to adopt a proper, personalized daily skincare routine.
Home maintenance is a cornerstone of our approach, as well-cared-for skin responds better to therapies and maintains results longer.

Our specialists provide precise guidelines, including:

• Proper Cleansing: Use a gentle cleanser morning and evening, formulated for oily skin but non-aggressive. Ingredients like salicylic acid help keep pores clear without over-drying, which could trigger reactive sebum production.
• Light Hydration: Even oily skin needs hydration. Choose “oil-free” and non-comedogenic creams or serums to nourish without clogging pores.
• Controlled Exfoliation: Regular use (once or twice a week) of chemical exfoliants with AHA or BHA acids promotes cellular renewal and prevents impurity buildup.
• Daily Sun Protection: Applying SPF 50+ daily is non-negotiable. It protects against UV damage, prevents skin thickening, and helps maintain the results of laser and brightening treatments.

Testimonials and Success Stories at Istituto Image

The transformation of our patients’ skin is the greatest testament to the effectiveness of our approach. Many turn to us after years of trying cosmetic solutions that promised miracles but never truly solved the problem.

One emblematic case is that of a 40-year-old professional with combination skin characterized by large pores in the T-zone and persistent shine that made her uncomfortable during meetings and professional events.
After a thorough Regenerative Analysis, we designed a combined program: an initial cycle of fractional laser treatments to target texture and pore size, followed by HydraFacial sessions to keep the skin purified and hydrated.
Already after the first treatment cycle, the patient noticed visibly smoother skin, less noticeable pores, and a matte complexion lasting all day.
Today, with periodic maintenance and targeted skincare, she manages her skin with confidence and ease. These success stories confirm that a personalized medical approach is the real key to tangible and lasting results.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the best treatment for large pores?

There isn’t one single “best” treatment, as the most effective solution depends on the cause, skin type, and severity of the condition.
Treatments such as fractional lasers (e.g., Fraxel, CO₂), microneedle radiofrequency, and chemical peels are highly effective because they stimulate collagen production, improving skin texture and firmness.
A specialist consultation is essential to determine the most appropriate path.

Can large pores be permanently eliminated?

It’s important to clarify that pores are an anatomical structure of the skin and cannot be “eliminated” permanently. However, their appearance and size can be visibly reduced.
Regenerative medical and laser treatments can provide stable, long-lasting results, but they must be supported by consistent daily skincare and sun protection to maintain firm, refined skin.

Which acid helps minimize pores?

The most effective acids for improving the appearance of large pores are chemical exfoliants.
Salicylic acid (a BHA) is oil-soluble, so it penetrates pores and removes excess sebum and impurities.
Glycolic acid (an AHA) works on the surface, promoting cellular renewal and making the skin smoother and more even. Both contribute to refining the skin’s texture.

How can I shrink facial pores?

A combined approach is necessary to visibly tighten pores.
First, keep the skin clean using specific cleansers and exfoliants to prevent sebum buildup.
Second, undergo professional treatments such as laser therapy, peels, or microneedle radiofrequency to stimulate collagen and elastin, which “support” the pore walls, making them less visible.
Finally, use daily sun protection to prevent loss of skin elasticity.