Do Pores Really Open and Close? Let’s Set the Record Straight

You’ve probably heard it before. 

Steam opens your pores, cold water closes them. But is it actually true?

Well, one of the most common skincare myths out there is the idea that you can “open” or “close” your pores.

As a beauty student or someone passionate about skincare understanding how pores really work is key to providing better advice and better results. 

Let’s bust this myth and see if we can get the facts straight!

The Truth About Pores

Pores are tiny openings in the skin that release sweat and sebum (natural oils). 

They’re essential for keeping your skin healthy. but no, they don’t have muscles, so they can’t physically open or close.

What actually happens is that certain things can make pores appear larger or smaller, depending on how clean, hydrated, and healthy your skin is.

What Causes Pores to Look Bigger?

There’s a few things that can change the way your pores look:

• Excess oil or buildup of dead skin cells
• Blackheads or clogged pores
• Loss of skin elasticity due to aging or sun damage
• Genetics as some people naturally have more visible pores

When your pores are clogged or your skin is stretched out, they become more noticeable. That’s why people often think they’ve “opened.”

So, What Does Steaming Actually Do?

Steaming doesn’t “open” pores, but it does soften the oil and debris inside them, making it easier to cleanse or extract buildup. 

It can also temporarily increase circulation, giving your skin a healthy glow.

In professional facials, steaming is used to prepare the skin for deep cleansing. It’s helpful, but also not magic.

Can Cold Water “Close” Pores?

Nope. 

Cold water might temporarily reduce redness or puffiness, but it doesn’t close your pores. It may tighten the skin a little, making pores appear smaller, but that’s purely visual.

How to Care for Your Pores the Right Way

Now that we’ve gone over the common myths, you can do things to keep your pores looking smooth and refined. For instance, focus on:

• 1. Cleanse Daily: Remove oil, dirt, and makeup to prevent buildup.
• 2. Exfoliate (But Gently): Use a chemical exfoliant like salicylic acid once or twice a week to unclog pores and keep skin fresh.
• 3. Hydrate Properly: Dehydrated skin can exaggerate pore size. Use a lightweight moisturizer suited to your skin type.
• 4. Use Sunscreen: Sun damage breaks down collagen and causes skin to sag—making pores look bigger.
• 5. Incorporate Clay Masks: These draw out impurities and can help refine the look of pores over time.

Esthetician Tip: Pores Need Maintenance, Not Miracles

As a future skincare professional, it’s important to help clients understand realistic goals. 

You can’t erase pores, but you can improve their appearance by keeping skin balanced and healthy.

Want to learn more techniques like these? At Modern College, our Esthetics program teaches real-world skincare strategies, hands-on facial treatments, and product knowledge that help you become a trusted beauty expert.