“The efficacy and adverse effects of treatment options for facial pores: A review article”

Abstract

Introduction: Skin pores are enlarged openings of the pilosebaceous follicles that can be affected by age, gender, genetics, exposure to UV light, ethnicity, and sebum secretion. Many treatment modalities reduce facial pores’ count and area, including oral and topical medications as well as different wavelengths of lasers. Finding a safe and cost-effective treatment protocol is necessary since facial pores are one of the main reasons for cosmetic complaints. Aim: This review compares available treatment options for reducing facial pores’ number and area according to the published clinical trials. Methods: A search on PubMed and Google Scholar was performed. Nineteen published clinical trials regarding treatment options for facial pores were included and reviewed based on the authors’ clinical experience. Results: A total number of 591 cases (83.7% female) aged 18–80 years were included. Three assessment methods including digital imaging, physician assessment, and patient’ satisfaction were used in the studies to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of each modality. Furthermore, combining different modalities increased the efficacy of reducing pores’ size and number. Mild, reversible burning and erythema were common side effects. Conclusion: Multiple sessions and combination therapies improve facial pores’ area and number. In young patients, the focus should be on controlling sebum production, while in older patients, the focus should be on rejuvenation in addition to the control of sebum production.