Male, 20 & holes recently started appearing on my nose, recommendations? (Photo)

Question

I need some help :( Recently some holes started appearing on my nose and im really concerned about it I'm a 20yo male with normal skin.

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

I can understand why this would be concerning, especially if you've noticed these changes developing recently.

From your photo, the "holes" on your nose appear more consistent with enlarged pores or enlarged sebaceous openings rather than true holes in the skin. The nose naturally has a high concentration of oil glands, and these pores can become more noticeable due to genetics, increased oil production, or changes in the skin over time.

Another possibility is that these are small atrophic (depressed) scars, particularly if you've had acne or inflammation in that area in the past—even if it seemed mild. Sometimes these scars become more apparent under certain lighting conditions.

Less commonly, small pits can be associated with conditions such as sebaceous hyperplasia, dilated pores, or other benign skin changes. Based on your age and the appearance in the photo, these are less likely, but they are still worth considering if the spots continue to change.

If your skin is otherwise healthy, a consistent skincare routine may help improve their appearance. This includes:

Using a gentle cleanser twice daily.
Applying a topical retinoid at night, which can help normalize skin cell turnover and improve the appearance of pores over time.
Using a salicylic acid (BHA) product a few times a week if your skin tolerates it, as it helps keep pores clear.
Wearing a broad-spectrum sunscreen every day to protect collagen and prevent the skin texture from worsening.

If these are truly enlarged pores, topical skincare can make them appear smaller, but it won't permanently shrink them. Procedures such as microneedling, fractional laser resurfacing, or radiofrequency microneedling are often more effective for improving skin texture and minimizing the appearance of enlarged pores or shallow scars.

One thing I would pay attention to is whether these spots are continuing to enlarge, becoming painful, bleeding, or changing rapidly. If so, they should be evaluated to rule out other skin conditions that may require specific treatment.

The reassuring news is that, based on your photo, I don't see anything that immediately suggests a serious skin problem. These types of texture changes are common, and there are several effective options available to improve their appearance if they continue to bother you.

Stanley Castor, MD · Answer

You can get a chemical peel to help to soften the dead skin and assist with the manual extraction of your clogged pores. I would see a skin care specialist for a deep cleansing facial.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Our treatments use combination therapy to improve the epidermis and dermis. We see atrophic and hypertrophic scars, as well as scars that have hypo and hyperpigmentation. Our main concern is rebuilding collagen and that is why we use a HIDEF protocol that includes combination therapy. Morpheus 8, scar subcision, fibrous release, fractional laser, CO2 laser, Thulium laser, PDL Vbeam laser, and fractional resurfacing can be used in addition to TCA Cross and chemical peels to further improve skin. Patients should start Melarase AM and Melarase PM for active hyperpigmentation. Always begin with a consultation to discuss the best treatment options for your type of skin. .

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

At least from the photo provided, there appear to be numerous closed comedones (blackheads). An experienced dermatologist can easily clean these out, and following this, any remaining particularly dilated pores can be treated with TCA CROSS. You would be wise to make sure that you consult a board certified cosmetic dermatologist and best of luck.

Male, 20 & holes recently started appearing on my nose, recommendations? (Photo)

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