Q&A: Enlarged Pores After 40

Q&A: Enlarged Pores After 40 — Why They Appear and What Can Help

Question

I am in my 40s and have been troubled by deep and enlarged pores on both sides of my face for many years. I usually rely on cosmetics to cover them, but they seem to become more noticeable with age. Are there any treatments that can improve the appearance of enlarged pores at this stage of life?

Answer

Enlarged pores are a common skin concern, particularly from the age of 40 onwards, when natural skin ageing becomes more apparent. While pores are a normal and necessary part of healthy skin, many people notice that pores appear larger, deeper, and harder to conceal as they age.

It is important to understand that enlarged pores cannot be completely eliminated, especially in mature skin. However, their appearance can be significantly improved with appropriate skincare, medical treatments, and lifestyle adjustments tailored to ageing skin.

Why Enlarged Pores Become More Noticeable After 40

As we age, several changes occur in the skin that affect pore appearance:

1. Reduced Skin Elasticity and Collagen Loss

From our 30s onwards, collagen and elastin production gradually declines. By the 40s and 50s, this loss becomes more noticeable. Without adequate structural support, the skin around pores becomes looser, causing pores to appear wider and more elongated rather than tight and round.

Sun exposure over the years accelerates this process, further weakening the skin’s support structure.

2. Ongoing Sebum Production

While oil production tends to decrease with age, some individuals — particularly those with a history of oily or acne-prone skin — continue to produce excess sebum. This stretches the pore opening over time, especially on the nose and cheeks where sebaceous glands are concentrated.

Hormonal changes during perimenopause and menopause can also influence oil production, sometimes unpredictably.

3. Long-Term Effects of Past Acne and Inflammation

Pores that were repeatedly inflamed during earlier years due to acne may lose their ability to retract fully. These changes become more visible with age as skin renewal slows.

It is also common for pitted acne scars to be mistaken for enlarged pores. While they may look similar, they require different treatment approaches.

Do Cosmetics Make Enlarged Pores Worse in Mature Skin?

Heavy or thick makeup can temporarily mask enlarged pores, but on ageing skin, it often settles into uneven surfaces, making pores appear more prominent instead. As skin becomes drier with age, inappropriate products can also accentuate texture.

Choosing lightweight, non-comedogenic, and non-occlusive formulations becomes increasingly important after 40.

Treatment Options for Enlarged Pores in Mature Skin

Treatment for enlarged pores after 40 focuses on improving skin quality, rather than attempting to “shrink” pores completely.

Managing Sebum and Surface Texture

• Topical retinoids (medical-grade vitamin A) remain a cornerstone treatment. They help regulate oil production, improve skin turnover, and support collagen synthesis.

• Chemical peels, such as salicylic acid or gentle alpha-hydroxy acid peels, can refine skin texture and unclog pores.

• Skincare ingredients like niacinamide, L-carnitine, and botanical extracts may help reduce surface oiliness and improve skin appearance.

Daily habits matter:

• Cleanse gently twice daily

• Avoid harsh scrubs that can worsen skin laxity

• Use broad-spectrum sun protection daily to prevent further collagen loss

Improving Skin Firmness and Elasticity

For individuals over 40, treatments that stimulate collagen production are especially beneficial:

• Laser treatments

• Intense pulsed light (IPL)

• Prescription retinoid creams such as tretinoin or tazarotene

These treatments help improve skin firmness around pores, making them appear less noticeable over time.

Addressing Hair Follicle Contribution

In areas where enlarged pores are associated with visible hair follicles, laser hair reduction or IPL may help refine skin texture and reduce pore prominence.

Setting Realistic Expectations After 40

It is important to approach pore treatment with realistic goals. Ageing skin responds best to consistent, long-term care, rather than quick fixes. Improvements are usually gradual and focus on overall skin quality, smoothness, and tone, rather than complete pore disappearance.

A personalised assessment by a qualified doctor helps determine which treatments are appropriate based on skin condition, medical history, and lifestyle.

Final Takeaway

Enlarged pores become more noticeable after 40 due to collagen loss, hormonal changes, and cumulative sun exposure. While they cannot be permanently erased, a combination of targeted skincare, medical treatments, and sun protection can significantly improve their appearance. With the right approach, mature skin can continue to look healthy, refined, and well cared for. PRIME