Many people face skin issues like open pores, especially on the face, back, and neck. These pores can become large, clogged, or turn into spots. Understanding the types, causes, and treatments of open pores can help improve your skin and boost your confidence.
What Are Open Pores?
Open pores are small holes on your skin that let out sweat and natural oils. Everyone has pores, but sometimes they look bigger and more visible—this is what we call open pores. They often appear on the face, especially the nose, cheeks, and forehead.
How many types of open pores are there?
There are mainly 3 types of open pores on the face. Each type of open comedones looks different and can affect your skin in different ways. Understanding the open pores types can help you choose the right skincare open comedones treatment.
Types of Open Pores on Face
There are 3 types of open pores on face pictures
1. O-Shaped Pores
- These pores are round and large, usually found on oily skin.
- Common on the nose, cheeks, and forehead.
- Caused by excess sebum (oil) and clogged pores.
2. U-Shaped Pores
- These pores are softer and slightly stretched, like a U shape.
- Found on dry or aging skin.
- They appear when skin loses elasticity due to age or dryness.
3. Y-Shaped Pores
- These are deep and wide open, like a Y shape.
- Seen in mature or sagging skin.
- Often caused by sun damage or lack of skin firmness.

Understanding Big and Large Pores: Causes and Common Areas
If you have ever noticed a big pore on your back, a large spot on the back of your neck, or even one large pore on your face, you’re not alone. Many people experience enlarged pores on different parts of the body, not just the face. In this blog, we’ll discuss the causes of big pores, where they appear, and how to manage them.
What Are Big or Enlarged Pores?
Pores are tiny openings in the skin that release sweat and oil. Sometimes, these pores become larger or more visible. This condition is called enlarged pores or large pores.
You may notice:
- One big pore on your face
- A large pore on your back
- A big spot on the back of your head
- A big spot on the back of your neck
- A big spot on the back of your leg
- Even big pores under the eyes, though rare, can occur due to skin thinning or poor skincare.
Cause of Large Pores and Big Spots
Let’s explore the main reasons for big pores:
1. Excess Oil (Sebum) Production
The most common cause of enlarged pores is oily skin. When your skin produces too much oil, it can stretch the pores, making them appear larger.
2. Clogged Pores
When dead skin, dirt, or oil collects in your pores, it can make one large pore stand out or even cause a big pore on back or other body parts.
3. Sun Damage
Over time, UV rays can damage your skin’s collagen, making it less firm. This can lead to a large pore on back or big pores under eyes due to sagging skin.
4. Aging
As we get older, our skin loses its elasticity, which is a major cause of large pores.
5. Genetics
Some people naturally have big pores or may notice a large spot on back of neck or elsewhere due to their skin type.
6. Improper Skincare
Skipping proper cleansing can lead to dirt buildup in pores. This may result in a big spot on the back of the head or big spot on the back of leg that looks like a large pore or bump.
Best Treatment: Salicylic Acid for Open Pores
One of the most effective solutions for large or open pores is salicylic acid. It helps:
- Remove dead skin cells
- Clear clogged pores
- Reduce oil production
- Prevent acne and blackheads
Many people use salicylic acid for open pores and blackheads with great results. You can find reviews on salicylic acid for large pores Reddit where users share their positive experiences.
You can also apply salicylic acid for open pores on face as part of your daily skincare routine. Be sure to choose the right concentration (usually 1% to 2%) to avoid skin irritation.
Highly Recommended Product

Sometimes, people have one big pore on face that’s deeper or more visible than others. It could be a clogged pore, an acne scar, or even a skin cyst. If you see one large pore, don’t squeeze it—cleanse gently and consider consulting a dermatologist.

Final Thoughts
Now that you know the causes of big pores and where they appear, you can take steps to treat them:
- Clean your skin daily
- Exfoliate 1–2 times a week
- Use oil-free skincare products
- Protect your skin from the sun
- Stay hydrated and eat healthy
If you notice a large pore on your back or a big spot that doesn’t go away, it’s best to get it checked by a skin expert.