If pore-refining creams and serums aren't cutting it, there may be a better answer.

Large pores are one of those common skin concerns with abundant "solutions" and elusive results. If you've tried countless pore-refining creams and serums but have struggled to see a visible difference in the size of your pores, you may want to consider Botox.

Botox, an injectable skin treatment most commonly used to prevent and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, is gaining popularity as a pore-shrinking solution -- and the experts say it actually works.

"Using Botox to shrink the appearance of pores has been used by professionals for around a decade," said Dr. Corey L. Hartman, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Skin Wellness Dermatology in Birmingham, Alabama. "The apparent 'pore-shrinking' benefit was seen in numerous patients who sought out Botox to treat other concerns like fine lines and wrinkles. Many noticed that their pores appeared smaller, and research was done further on that benefit."

In recent years, the procedure has become more popular than ever. "I've noticed an uptick in patients asking about pore refinement with Botox, particularly in the last few years as the demand for smooth, photo-ready skin has grown. Social media and the 'glass skin' trend have driven interest in treatments that can enhance skin texture and reduce pore visibility," said Dr. Akshay Sanan, a double board-certified cosmetic and reconstructive facial plastic surgeon at Dr. Sanan Facial Plastic Surgery & Boston Center for Plastic Surgery.

If you're interested in trying this doctor-approved method of minimizing pores, here's what to know.

How It Works

You may know that Botox can smooth out lines on your face by temporarily paralyzing the muscles that cause wrinkles to form, and it works similarly when used to shrink pores. "We have a little muscle that is attached to all our pores called the arrector pili muscle," explained Dr. Michelle Henry, a clinical instructor of dermatology at Weill Cornell Medical College and the founder of Skin & Aesthetic Surgery of Manhattan. "Botox inhibits the activity of that muscle."

"As the muscle tightening sets in ... Botox can have a shrinking effect on the pores," added Michelle Paty, a nurse practitioner and founder of Preva Aesthetics in Encinitas, California, and Denver, Colorado. The result is "a more even, smooth appearance to the skin."

In addition, Botox inhibits the sebum-secreting sebaceous glands found in hair follicles. "When we don't have as much oil extruding from those glands, [pores] tend to look smaller," Henry explained.

People who struggle with acne or clogged pores can see additional benefits. "This procedure can also help reduce oil production on the face in the areas treated," Hartman said. "A reduction in sebum can lead to clear skin."

In fact, the most sebaceous areas of the face are the ones that take this pore-reducing treatment best. "It does a beautiful job on the forehead, cheeks [and] nose," Henry noted.

Still, it's important to note that even though the appearance of pores can be reduced, the actual size of the pores will remain unchanged.

What To Expect From The Results

You won't see the effects right away. "Patients will start to see the results within 48 hours," Hartman said. The full extent of the effects "take about two weeks to set in," Paty noted.

Like with most beauty treatments, regular maintenance is involved. "There is no permanent solution to shrinking pores, but maintaining a combination of treatments -- such as medical-grade skin care, laser therapies and Botox -- can lead to long-term improvement in skin texture," Sanan said. "The effects of Botox for pore refinement typically last 3-4 months, similar to its duration when used for wrinkle reduction."

If you prefer less upkeep, "microneedling with radiofrequency (ProfoundRF) and fractional laser resurfacing (Fraxel or Halo) provide longer-lasting results by stimulating collagen production and tightening the skin," Sanan added. (While results can last anywhere from three to five years, these treatments tend to be more painful.)

Botox, on the other hand, isn't typically very painful, depending on the treatment area and your tolerance to small needle pricks. "Patients need to know that they will feel multiple little pinches of the needle and that they may have some bruising afterwards," said Henry, who noted the procedure requires "very little downtime."

Consider The Risks

Though side effects are rare, they shouldn't be overlooked. "Patients should discuss possible risks with their provider during the informed consent process," Paty advised.

"The biggest risk about using Botox to shrink pores is choosing the right provider," Hartman said. "I recommend seeing a board-certified dermatologist who can take assessment of your skin's needs and recommend the appropriate amount to deliver the desired effect. It's a fine balance between reducing sebum production and causing dry skin. Botox itself has rare risks like swelling and bruising at the injection site. If that happens, it usually goes away within a day or so."

"Pregnant or breastfeeding women should also avoid Botox treatments due to a lack of safety data in these populations," added Sanan. And, of course, "people who have an allergy to anything in Botox" should steer clear, said Paty.

Keep Up Your Regular Skin Care Routine

Don't expect pore-reducing Botox to replace your regular skin care routine. "Anyone who is concerned with pore size should start with a regular skin care routine," said Hartman, who recommends "a daily cleanser, a moisturizer, a retinol and a sunscreen."

To determine the best products, check the ingredient list. "Skin care with ingredients like retinol, niacinamide and salicylic acid can also help reduce pore visibility over time and are cost-effective for daily use," Sanan said. If a robust skin care routine doesn't do the trick, Botox can be an effective supplemental aid.

Looking For Skin Care With Retinol? Look No Further Than This List.

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