Pore on nose - can this be removed? (Photo)

TCA CROSS, which I have been using for over a quarter of a century, works well for treating for shrinking dilated pores, ice pick scars and even persistent holes from piercings. In experienced hands, it is a quick, simple, safe and effective procedure that, unlike so many of the expensive, here-today-gone-tomorrow fraxel laser and other gizmos, has a several decades long proven track record for safety and efficacy. You would be wise to consult with an experienced, board certified cosmetic dermatologist and best of luck.

A noticeable enlarged or merged pore on the nose, like a 3mm slit, can often be improved but may not be fully "removed." Treatment options that can help refine or reduce its appearance include:
Laser Resurfacing (e.g., CO2 or Erbium) – Stimulates collagen to tighten and smooth the skin.Radiofrequency Microneedling (e.g., Morpheus8) – Targets skin texture and pore size with collagen remodeling.TCA Cross Technique – Uses a high-strength acid applied directly to the enlarged pore to trigger collagen production and close it over time.Punch Excision or Subcision – For more defined defects, minor surgical techniques can remove or revise the pore’s shape.
A consultation with a skilled provider can determine the best match based on your skin type and how deep the opening is.

Fractional CO2 laser is an excellent tool for skin rejuvenation in our center in Santa Monica. We use the fractional multi-depth ablative approach to help resurface the skin, recontour acne scars, improve incisional plastic surgery scars, and reduce surface irregularities from skin tone to dark pigmentation. Our approach utilizes a multi-depth approach that targets melanocytes in the epidermis and collagen fibroblasts in the dermis. This approach can be combined with a TCA Peel in a process known as a sapphire peel. Fractional laser is excellent for acne scars and contour scars in the skin. Patients are advised to undergo skin protocols with Melarase creams before and after treatment to help reduce pigmentation. Melarase AM, Melarase PM, and Melapads can seriously improve surface sun damage and UV related pigmentation. After the laser, we expect redness for a few weeks as the skin improves. PRP and Hydrafacial enzyme facials can further improve skin quality after fractional co2.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Hello! My name is Jessica, I am a physician assistant, and one of the providers at Aesthetic Skin - Winnetka & Chicago. This is a great question. For a 3mm slit on the nose that may have resulted from the merging of two pores—possibly due to trauma from extractions or inflammation—I recommend CO2 laser resurfacing as an effective treatment option. CO2 laser works by removing the outer layers of damaged skin and stimulating collagen remodeling in the deeper layers, which can help tighten and smooth the skin’s texture. Over a series of treatments, this can significantly reduce the appearance of enlarged or merged pores and improve the overall contour of the area. I hope this helps and best of luck!

Hello, my name is Lauren, and I’m the aesthetics injector at Colorado Plastic Surgery Center. A CO2 laser treatment will assist in improving skin texture and minimizing deep pores. I recommend scheduling a consultation with your provider for a comprehensive skin and facial assessment to determine the best approach for you.