Large pores on the nose can be genetic or the result of excess oil accumulation in the pores. The pores are actually passageways through which the body’s oil (sebaceous) glands normally secrete oil. If oil secretion is excessive or if the pores are clogged at the surface, the accumulation of oil can darken and become what are known as open comedones (blackheads). Large pores on the nose can also be seen with a condition known as rosacea, which is treated similarly but more aggressively.

It is helpful to avoid moisturizing the nose as this only adds more oil to the area. Drying and peeling agents are very effective to reduce the size of the pores. Our oily skin cleanser, when applied to a gauze pad or washcloth and gently rubbed on the open pores twice a day is very effective in minimizing the oil content of the pores. Additionally, facial acid treatments/chemical peels are very effective for minimizing this condition. Our Sal-Hydro™ helps dissolve, as well as lighten, the material within the pores. In our office, we do mild chemical peeling with trichloroacetic acid, which is also highly effective in reducing the pore size. Occasionally instrument extractions are used, however this must be minimally done and only under specific circumstances and only in a dermatologist’s office under sterile conditions.

I highly recommend that instrument extractions or manual extractions of any kind not be done at home or in any other facility besides a dermatologist’s office. This is not only because of problems with sterility outside the dermatologist’s office but also because improper squeezing of the nose can lead to irreparable scarring and permanently enlarged pores. The use of non-sterile instruments, fingers, tissues, or cotton swabs, which is frequently done outside of a dermatologist’s office can result in infection and more scarring.

The secretion of oil by the sebaceous glands on the nose is a normal biological process. Consequently, the production of oil will continue and treatment is ongoing. In particular circumstances, we use Botox or Dysport injections to decrease oil production. I cannot stress enough how important the treatment of this condition should be confined to a dermatologist’s office as I have seen numerous problems with infections and permanent scarring when this situation is approached by well-meaning others.

– Dr. Bussell

Beverly Hills Dermatology Consultants

433 N. Camden Drive, Suite 805   Beverly Hills, CA 90210 | 310-550-7661