You can’t make pores disappear. But you can make them look much smaller.
Just cleansing is only half the battle. Enlarged pores need both — clean pores and a firm collagen structure to support them.
Free AURA 3D skin analysis →CHF 0 · 60 mins · no sales pressure
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Perhaps you've been there:
You’ll notice your pores in photos or when looking in a magnifying mirror, especially on your nose and cheeks.
Make-up settles into the pores and highlights them rather than concealing them.
You cleanse thoroughly, yet over time your pores seem to get bigger rather than smaller.
My skin used to be smoother — over the years, my pores have become more visible.
„You’ve tried all sorts of "pore-minimising’ products — the results never lasted.
In side lighting, the skin looks uneven, almost as if it were grained.
What a pore is — and why it looks bigger
A pore is the tiny opening of a hair follicle on the skin’s surface. It is through this opening that the sebum produced by the sebaceous gland is released onto the skin’s surface — everyone has pores, and they serve a purpose. They do not become visibly „large" due to a defect, but because of three factors that research clearly describes: too much sebum, a loss of elasticity around the pore, and the volume of the follicle itself.
Important to know: A pore has no muscle. It cannot contract and cannot „close" — cold water, toner or „pore-minimising" creams will not make the opening disappear. You can influence how large the pore is has the effect of: whether it is filled with sebum and cellular debris and stretched, and how much support the surrounding connective tissue provides.
What makes pores appear larger
- sebum — The more sebum the gland produces, the larger the pore appears. Studies show that sebum production is most strongly correlated with pore size.
- Declining elasticity — Over the years, the collagen and elastin structure in the dermis breaks down, causing the skin to become thinner and lose its firmness. As elasticity decreases, the pores become noticeably larger.
- Sun (UV) — UV light accelerates the breakdown of collagen and elastin; photo-aged skin has noticeably larger pores.
- Genetics & Follicles — The number and size of your follicles are largely determined by your genetic makeup.
- Hormones & the menstrual cycle — Androgens regulate sebum production; in women, pore size changes throughout the menstrual cycle.
Imagine your skin as a fine fabric: as long as the threads are taut, the gaps between them are small. If the tension eases and the fabric becomes thinner, those same gaps stretch apart — they become larger, even though their number hasn’t changed. This is exactly what happens when collagen levels decline around the pores. That is why a visibly large pore is rarely a problem caused by dirt. More often than not, it is a structural issue.
Two levers — and why one is not enough
The first step is to keep your pores clear. A pore filled with sebum and dead skin cells becomes stretched and casts a shadow — making it appear larger than it actually is. Thorough but gentle cleansing and a deep cleanse that really removes the sebum from the pore make it appear finer immediately. Important: thorough does not mean harsh. Anyone who over-cleanses with harsh cleansers and daily acids weakens the skin’s barrier — the skin reacts by producing more sebum, and the effect backfires.
The second factor is key to achieving lasting results: building up collagen. Cleansing unclogs the pores, but does not support the underlying structure. Only when the connective tissue around the pore becomes firmer again does the opening gain support and appear permanently smaller. This is precisely what microneedling and radiofrequency treatments, as well as stimulating exfoliants, are designed to do — they provide the stimulus that encourages collagen production.
This includes protection: UV rays break down the very collagen you’re trying to build up. Consistent sun protection is therefore not an optional extra, but part of the treatment. And because the skin’s structure deteriorates over the years, it’s worth starting early — before pores become prominent. That’s the idea behind pre-ageing.
Let’s be honest: you can’t magically make your genetically determined pore size disappear. But you can significantly improve the skin’s plumpness and texture — and this makes the complexion look visibly smoother.
How to minimise large pores
Large pores require a two-pronged approach: clearing the pores from the inside and building up the surrounding collagen structure. Listed by their role:
Core treatments
Vivace® RF Microneedling
The most powerful collagen stimulus: microneedles combined with radiofrequency rebuild the skin’s structure around the pores. The pores appear visibly finer — and the results are long-lasting.
Find out more →SkinPen® Precision
A purely mechanical collagen stimulus, FDA-approved and suitable for all skin types — including darker skin that is sensitive to energy.
Find out more →HydraFacial™
Removes sebum and dead skin cells from the pores — without the need for manual extraction — and infuses the skin with moisture. Makes the pores appear finer immediately.
Find out more →BioRePeel®
Salicylic acid dissolves sebum within the pores, whilst TCA and amino acids stimulate collagen production. Two benefits in one treatment, with no visible peeling.
Find out more →In addition, depending on your skin type
- Stellar M22™ IPL — when large pores are combined with redness and an uneven texture.
- PRX-T33® — deep collagen stimulation without needles, strengthens the dermis and smooths the skin’s texture.
- Dermadrop TDA® — Needle-free infusion of active ingredients containing peptides and hyaluronic acid, used as a maintenance treatment between more intensive sessions.
Always included
Included in every facial treatment: Dermalux™ LED. The red light stimulates the fibroblasts — the cells that produce collagen — and thus helps to strengthen the very structure that is at the heart of the problem with large pores.
If impurities are also an issue, it is worth taking a look at Acne & blemished skin →. The free AURA 3D skin analysis will show you which blend is right for your skin.
Free AURA 3D skin analysis →Three steps to smaller pores
AURA 3D Skin Analysis + Plan
We measure pores, sebum and skin elasticity in 3D to determine which of these two factors is most important for you. This forms the basis of your personalised plan. CHF 0, with no pressure to buy.
Empty & set up
We clear the pores of sebum and stimulate collagen production in the surrounding tissue — over several sessions, not all at once.
Protect & preserve
With UV protection and a suitable skincare routine, you can ensure the results; regular maintenance keeps your pores looking fine.
We treat the structure, not just the surface.
Specialisation
Pre-ageing is our focus, not just an item on the treatment list. Our team is V-NISSG-certified.
Substance over style
We don’t just work on the surface, but on the underlying collagen structure. That is where it is determined whether pores become permanently finer.
Honest assessment
We don’t promise „zero-pore skin". We’ll tell you what’s realistically achievable — and how to get there.
You might be wondering
Is it really possible to reduce the appearance of large pores?
Let’s be honest: you can’t magically make them smaller — a pore has no muscle and cannot contract. But you can make them look significantly smaller. Dermatological research identifies three main causes of large pores: excess sebum, reduced elasticity around the pore, and follicle volume. We can target two of these — sebum and elasticity — and that is precisely what refines the complexion. The treatment will determine which factor is most important for you.
Why have my pores got bigger over the years — my skin isn’t even that oily anymore?
This is because, as we age, it is not sebum but the skin’s structure that becomes the issue. The collagen and elastin framework in the dermis breaks down, the skin becomes thinner and loses its elasticity — and studies show that pores become measurably larger as skin elasticity decreases. The pore itself hasn’t grown; it simply lacks the support around it. That is why boosting collagen production is a more effective approach for mature skin than simply cleansing more.
I cleanse thoroughly every day — why do my pores remain enlarged?
Because cleansing only addresses one of the two factors. Sebum is actually the factor most closely linked to pore size — keeping the pore clear makes it appear finer immediately. But cleansing does not support the structure that gives the pore its shape. And cleansing that is too harsh or too frequent backfires: the barrier suffers, and the skin produces more sebum. Keep it clean, yes — but the second lever is collagen.
Does cold water or toner close the pores?
No, that’s a common myth. A pore has no muscle and cannot contract or close. Cold water may make the skin appear tighter for a short time, but it does not change the size of the pores. What really matters is keeping the pore clear and strengthening the connective tissue around it.
What is the difference between Vivace and SkinPen when it comes to pores?
Both stimulate collagen production using fine needles. SkinPen works purely mechanically and is suitable for all skin types, including darker skin. Vivace combines the needles with radiofrequency, thereby stimulating the deeper layers more intensely. Which is right for you depends on your skin type and your current condition — we’ll clarify this during the analysis.
How many sessions will I need, and how long will the results last?
Collagen production is a process: the structure builds up over several weeks following the treatment, usually over a series of sessions. You’ll often notice the first signs of improvement early on, but the long-lasting results develop over a few months. With UV protection and targeted maintenance, the results will last. We will draw up the exact plan following the AURA 3D skin analysis.
How much does treatment for large pores cost?
This depends on the treatment and the number of sessions — you can find an overview on our Prices page →. Not ready for an on-site analysis yet? Our Skin Quiz → gives you a quick overview in five minutes — no appointment or email required.
Smaller pores aren’t achieved by scrubbing harder, but by texture.
Large pores can be minimised — if you tackle both aspects: unclogging the pores and strengthening the surrounding collagen structure. The AURA 3D skin analysis will show which of these is the main priority for you. It’s free, with no pressure to buy.
Free AURA 3D skin analysis →CHF 0 · 60 mins · Konradstrasse 1, 8005 Zurich Central Station
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„Aleksandra was very professional, warm and friendly. She gave me excellent advice on what I needed, even though I’d booked a completely different treatment. All the risks and considerations were clearly explained, and I never felt like I was being pressured into anything. A great consultation… I’ve found my new go-to place for treatments.'
„A huge thank you to Alex for her advice. Her expertise and her calm, professional manner won me over straight away. She takes her time, tailors her advice to individual needs and gives fantastic tips for a home skincare routine. It’s exactly the kind of consultation you’d hope for – knowledgeable, warm and genuine."
„I really appreciate that there’s no pressure to buy extra services or products – just genuine, high-quality care. After nearly a year of visiting Alestetics, I’ve had nothing but positive experiences. Alex has been professional, kind and attentive throughout my visits. I highly recommend them!"
„I love coming here; it always feels like I’m going to a spa. They don’t try to sell me anything and are very open about what the treatments can (and cannot) do for me. They take health and wellbeing very seriously and always make sure I know how to look after myself outside the clinic as well."
„Alex is amazing! She listens to what the customer needs and explains the process. She is very knowledgeable and also makes recommendations. For me, her fluency in English is extremely helpful when we communicate."
„I had a Vivace treatment combined with PRX-T33. The appointment went smoothly; the staff were very professional and efficient. The clinic is close to HB and centrally located. Alexandra was very nice and friendly. I’ll definitely be coming back!"
„I had RF microneedling and EXILIS treatments on my stomach at Alestetics and am extremely pleased with the results. In fact, the results are much more noticeable than I had expected. Katia is highly professional, very attentive and incredibly warm. I highly recommend her!"
„I spent a long time looking for the right salon for me and I’m absolutely delighted that I chose alestetics®. The salon is beautiful, and everything is spotlessly clean and hygienic. Thanks to the team’s caring, friendly and professional manner, I felt very comfortable and safe throughout the entire treatment."
„I’ve been to Alestetics several times now. Before the treatment, they carried out an Aura skin analysis, during which they explained my skin condition to me in great detail — it was incredibly professional and transparent. Katia, Antonia and Alex are incredibly caring, knowledgeable and professional. You never feel like 'just another customer'."
„Today I had my first laser treatment (4 areas) with Katia and I felt completely at ease. She was particularly sensitive to my needs, as I can be a bit sensitive to pain at times. Her friendly manner made the treatment a really pleasant experience!"
„Katia is simply brilliant at her job! I’ve now had my third laser treatment. As I’m quite sensitive to pain, I really appreciate the fact that Katia always distracts me with a friendly chat. I feel very well looked after."
„I had a wonderful experience at the aesthetics clinic with Katia. She took the time to listen to my concerns, explained everything clearly, and made sure I felt confident throughout. I would highly recommend Katia for high-quality and truly personalised treatment."
„Review of the BTL Exilis treatment. I’m an active man and work out regularly, but despite my best efforts, I couldn’t get rid of that stubborn belly fat. I noticed a difference after just the first treatment. After several sessions, the difference was clearly visible."
„All the treatments here are sensational. This wellness haven truly lives up to its reputation. It’s centrally located — right next to Zurich main station — and the atmosphere at the spa is serene and calm. Every visit to Alestetics is my monthly treat and feels like a mini-break."
„I’ve had several Endospheres treatments at alestetics. Alex and Katia are very professional, but also very friendly and caring. They’ve always taken my needs and wishes into account (avoiding the tummy after pregnancy). I can’t recommend them highly enough!"
„I had five EXILIS treatments with Katia at alestetics®. The service was excellent – Katia is very professional and warm, and explains everything in detail. You feel at ease with her straight away. I’d definitely recommend her!"
„I feel understood, and they're absolutely lovely and professional!!"
„I had an excellent experience with the Icoone treatment. Antonia was simply fantastic – very professional, warm and incredibly friendly. She took plenty of time and made sure I felt comfortable throughout the entire treatment."
„I visit Alestetics regularly for Hydrafacial and microneedling treatments. The team are really friendly and flexible. The location is perfect, and the studio is clean and comfortable. After three treatments, my skin feels much clearer and my pores are slightly smaller."
„I feel completely at ease with Alex and her team! From the welcome to the treatments, the hygiene and the atmosphere: everything is simply always perfect. I originally came across Alestetics because of their laser treatments, but now I also go there for my facials."
„The treatments at Alestetics have worked wonders on my sensitive skin. With Katia, you’re in absolutely professional hands!"
„I'm absolutely delighted to have found this clinic in Zurich where, after just four sessions, I've seen amazing results! The girl who looks after me, Katia, is so lovely; she put me at ease right from the start and is incredibly professional!"
„My favourite salon in Zh! Top-notch service, lovely welcome tea, friendly staff, helpful consultations, and I left feeling happy and glowing, looking gorgeous after my treatments. Thanks Katia, Alexandra, and the Alestetics team – one love!"
„At first, I was really impressed by the Endospheres therapy. But the Icoone treatment has surpassed everything: it massages the skin gently and painlessly from head to toe. I started the treatments less for firmer skin and more for my health. The team are like best friends to me."
„Very friendly and professional staff, who take the time to carry out a skin analysis and offer valuable advice! I highly recommend it. It was a pleasure to have the AURA 3D skin analysis and to discuss my daily skincare routine."
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