Which serum should you choose to tighten pores?

A pore is a small opening on the skin’s surface. Visible pores are primarily linked to the pilosebaceous follicles—that is, the structures associated with the sebaceous glands. They allow sebum to rise to the skin’s surface, where it helps protect the skin and maintain its comfort.

Found on almost all of the skin, pores are generally more visible on the face, upper back, or décolleté, where sebum production is highest. Their apparent size can vary depending on several factors, such as skin type, age, genetic predisposition, or repeated sun exposure.

When pores become more visible, the skin may appear less smooth and the skin texture less even. This phenomenon is often observed in combination to oily skin, but also when the skin loses firmness or has imperfections.

A serum is a skincare product concentrated in active ingredients, distinguished by its ability to target specific skin needs, particularly for mature skin. It has a lightweight texture, often liquid or gel-based, which allows for rapid absorption into the skin. Serum helps intensely hydrate the skin, combat visible signs of ageing, and restore radiance to the complexion. In a skincare routine, serum is applied immediately after cleansing and before moisturiser. It thus prepares the skin to receive other treatments and optimises their effects.

Certain serums, formulated with targeted active ingredients, can help tighten pores and refine skin texture:

2% Salicylic Acid & Zinc Concentrated Serum

The secret to flawless skin, this multi-action serum reduces pore size and appearance while fighting blemishes. Purifying and keratolytic, this complex of plant-based salicylic acid, mushroom extract, and zinc regulates excess sebum, unclogs pores, and prevents the appearance of blackheads. This serum leaves the skin purified and the skin texture refined, without drying it out.

Discover the 2% Salicylic Acid & Zinc Concentrated Serum

10% Niacinamide, Copper & Zinc Concentrated Serum

Highly concentrated in niacinamide (vitamin B3), zinc, and copper, this clinically proven serum tightens pores, regulates sebum production, and helps prevent breakouts. Enriched with hydrating hyaluronic acid, it also helps fade dark spots, even out skin tone, and refine skin texture. Its gentle, non-greasy gel texture absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy film.

Discover the 10% Niacinamide, Copper & Zinc Concentrated Serum

10% Azelaic Acid Concentrated Serum

This serum, concentrated with 10% 100% naturally derived azelaic acid, is designed for combination, oily, and acne-prone skin. It unclogs pores, regulates sebum, reduces blackheads and redness, and mattifies the complexion without drying it out. Enriched with hyaluronic acid and silica, it hydrates while absorbing excess sebum. Highly concentrated; introduce gradually (2 to 3 times a week at first).

Discover the 10% Azelaic Acid Concentrated Serum

While it’s not possible to eliminate pores, you can still minimise their appearance and refine skin texture. The goal: to regulate excess sebum and limit the buildup of dead skin cells to maintain a clear complexion without weakening the skin.

• Opt for clay masks: Green clay or Rhassoul are often used when the skin appears shiny and has visible pores. By absorbing excess sebum and helping to purify the skin, they can help visibly refine the skin’s texture. A single application is sufficient; do not leave it on for too long to avoid drying out the skin

• Gently exfoliate the skin: Regular exfoliation removes dead skin cells that clog pores and dull the complexion. It’s best to opt for enzymatic or gentle chemical exfoliants (AHAs, BHAs), which are less harsh than grainy scrubs that can irritate the skin

• Moisturise with lightweight formulas: well-hydrated skin naturally appears smoother. Even oily skin needs moisture to maintain its balance. The trick is to choose fluid, non-greasy, and non-comedogenic formulas that quench the skin’s thirst without weighing it down

• Pay attention to your lifestyle: A balanced diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, and good sources of fatty acids, can help preserve skin quality. Smoking, stress, or lack of sleep, on the other hand, can dull the complexion and exacerbate certain skin imbalances

• Avoid overly harsh treatments: harsh cleansers, repeated manipulation, or overly abrasive skincare products can irritate the skin and stimulate sebum production. Conversely, a gentler, regular routine often helps gradually improve the appearance of pores.

Before using a new skincare product on your entire face, it’s recommended to test it on a small area to ensure good tolerance and minimize the risk of irritation.

Enlarged pores are not a flaw in themselves, but a reflection of a skin imbalance, often linked to excess sebum. To make them less visible, it’s best to avoid stripping the skin and instead opt for a gentle, consistent, and well-targeted routine. Above all, it’s the right steps, repeated regularly, that visibly improve skin texture.

Charlie holds a Master’s degree in cosmetic formulation. Passionate about cosmetology but also a great lover of words, she decided in 2020 to become a web editor specialising in cosmetics and beauty. It was her desire for a career change that gave her the idea of going freelance, as she wanted to be able to work from all corners of the world.