The Pore Myth
Do Pores Really Open and Close?
Spoiler: Your pores do not have little doors. Here is what is actually happening when you steam or cool your face.
We have all heard the advice to steam your face to open your pores and splash cold water to close them. It sounds logical, but the truth is your pores are not muscles. They do not have the ability to open or close on command.
The Reality
Pores are simply the openings of your hair follicles. Their size is largely determined by genetics and your skin's oil production. When pores look large, it is usually because they are filled with sebum and dead skin cells that have oxidized and darkened.
What Actually Happens
- Steaming: Does not open the pore, but it can soften the hardened oil inside, making it easier to wash away.
- Cold water: Does not close the pore; it just causes the skin surface to tighten slightly due to temperature, which can make pores appear temporarily smaller.
Focus on keeping your pores clear with consistent cleansing and light exfoliation rather than trying to change their physical size. You cannot shrink them, but you can definitely make them look less noticeable.
Pores are not doors; keep them clean to keep them looking their best.
