From the Guidelines
Retinoids are beneficial for improving skin appearance, including reducing the appearance of pores, as they promote cell turnover and collagen production, with topical retinoids such as adapalene 0.3% and tretinoin 0.01% and 0.05% being effective options 1. When considering retinoids for pore reduction, it's essential to note that their use is usually sustained rather than based on a limited course of treatment. The British Association of Dermatologists' guidelines suggest that topical retinoids may lend some additional benefit with respect to improvement in lentigines and reduced wrinkles, in addition to their modest benefit in actinic keratosis treatment 1. Key points to consider when using retinoids for pore reduction include:
- Starting with a lower concentration and gradually increasing as tolerance builds
- Applying a pea-sized amount to clean, dry skin 2-3 times weekly, increasing to nightly use
- Using sunscreen during the day as retinoids increase sun sensitivity
- Expecting initial dryness, redness, or peeling during the first 4-6 weeks
- Consistent use for at least 12 weeks to see significant improvement in pore appearance
- Potential combination with salicylic acid products and niacinamide serums for enhanced results.
From the FDA Drug Label
CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY Isotretinoin is a retinoid, which when administered in pharmacologic dosages of 0. 5 to 1 mg/kg/day (see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION), inhibits sebaceous gland function and keratinization. The exact mechanism of action of isotretinoin is unknown. Nodular Acne Clinical improvement in nodular acne patients occurs in association with a reduction in sebum secretion The decrease in sebum secretion is temporary and is related to the dose and duration of treatment with isotretinoin, and reflects a reduction in sebaceous gland size and an inhibition of sebaceous gland differentiation.
Retinoids and Pores: The FDA drug label does not directly answer the question about retinoids and pores. The label discusses the effect of isotretinoin on sebaceous gland function and keratinization, but does not provide information on its effect on pores. 2
From the Research
Retinoids and Pores
- Retinoids, such as adapalene, have been shown to be effective in treating acne by reducing inflammatory and non-inflammatory lesions, and preventing lesion and microcomedone formation 3.
- Adapalene is anticomedogenic, reduces comedones, and has anti-inflammatory properties, making it a useful treatment for acne 3.
- Topical retinoids, including adapalene, have a favorable safety profile and are suitable for long-term use, with no risk of inducing bacterial resistance 4.
- Retinoids can help to improve the appearance of pores by reducing comedones and preventing microcomedone formation 3, 4.
- Maintenance therapy with topical retinoids, such as adapalene, can help to prevent recurrences of acne after discontinuing a successful treatment 5.
- The combination of a topical retinoid and an antimicrobial agent, such as benzoyl peroxide, can provide synergistic effects in treating acne and reducing the appearance of pores 3, 5.