Is phenol peel or Co2 laser effective for large pores?

Both modalities can be used and it really depends on the experience and expertise of the doctor, not the modality used.  But in my hands, I strongly favor croton oil peels for treatment of large pores and/or acne scars and/or facial rhytids and uneven pigmentation.

Pore size may be decreased by resurfacing with peels, dermabrasion, LASERS and micro-needling/PRP.  Micro-needling and Fraxel LASER treatments should be repeated to obtain significant results. Dermabrasion and deep peels (TCA and Phenol) will produce significant results  with one treatment.Depending on the amount of improvement one seeks and the downtime that can be tolerated will determine which option a patient will decide to undergo.Please consult in person with an experienced Board Certified Plastic Surgeon prior to making treatment decisions.

You can think of your pores partially as funnel shaped which are larger at the top with thickened sebaceous and irregular layers of skin.  In part by ablating the surface of the skin you can remove some of these layers and partially tighten the underlying collagen by a variety of methods either Lasers or Deep peels.All of the methods can be partially effective in resurfacing as well as partially reducing pore size as desired.  It really depends upon your surgeons experience with the modality used. Too superficial of a peel or too few laser passes and you will see minimal change.Too deep and you will end up with a burn or significant skin pigment changes.Decide based more on your surgeons experience with either and the results they think they can obtain on examination.Warm regards,Dr Quinton Chivers Plastic and Reconstructive surgeon.