Pore Size and Skincare: Choosing the Right Oils for Your Skin

Pore size plays a major role in how your skin behaves—and how it responds to the products you apply. Whether your pores are barely visible or more prominent, understanding what suits your skin can help prevent congestion, irritation, or excess shine.

Smaller pores are typically found in drier skin types and are often associated with less sebum production. These skin types benefit from richer oils that can deeply nourish without being too heavy. Because small pores are less prone to visible clogging, oils with larger molecular sizes such as avocado oil or shea butter can be well tolerated. These oils are rich in oleic acid, which helps to replenish dry skin and support barrier function. However, applying them too thickly or layering with occlusive products (a substance that forms a barrier on the skin to prevent moisture loss) may still cause surface congestion, so moderation is key.

Larger pores, commonly seen in combination to oily skin types, often appear in the T-zone (the central part of your face—forehead, nose, and chin—shaped like the letter "T") and are more prone to blockages and blackheads. This is where the molecular size of oils becomes especially important. Lightweight oils with smaller molecules—such as squalane, jojoba, and hemp seed oil—are better suited to these skin types. They absorb more readily and are less likely to cause pore blockages. These oils also tend to be higher in linoleic acid, which is naturally lower in oily or acne-prone skin, making them ideal for supporting a healthier skin barrier and reducing inflammation.

The molecular size of oils doesn’t always align perfectly with how they feel on the skin. For example, coconut oil has a relatively small molecular structure but is highly comedogenic (tendency of a substance—typically an oil or skincare ingredient—to clog pores) due to its saturated fat content. Meanwhile, rosehip seed oil, which has a light texture and smaller molecules, is well-tolerated by many skin types and is particularly useful for scar-prone or ageing skin with enlarged pores.

It’s also important to note that pore size is largely genetic, though it can be influenced by age, sun exposure, and hormonal fluctuations. While you can’t shrink pores permanently, you can keep them clear and improve their appearance with consistent, supportive skincare. Gentle exfoliation (such as Glacial Clay), hydrosol-based toning e.g. Rose & Lavender hydrosols, and balancing oil serums can all help regulate oil flow and maintain a refined surface texture.

At Zurma, our collection of facial oils is designed to suit a range of skin types. For those with larger pores or congestion-prone skin, our lighter blends containing hemp seed, jojoba, or squalane may be ideal. For dry, delicate skin with small pores, richer formulations with avocado or camellia can offer comfort and elasticity. Check out our skincare range here.