Derm DMs: Can Skin-Care Products Change Your Skin Type?

I have very large pores around my nose, which is why I’ve made it a point to fill my skin-care shelf with products that are designed to minimize the look of pores. From primers, pore strips and non-comedogenic moisturizers, I have tried too many to count. Despite my continuous efforts, most days, I can still spot small dots around my nose, making it difficult to achieve a flawless-looking complexion. It made me wonder if my skin-care products are actually changing my skin in the long run or if my large pores are just something I will have to deal with due to my genetics. I tapped board-certified dermatologist and Skincare.com expert, Joshua Zeichner, M.D., to find out. Ahead, he explains how much impact skin-care products can have. 

Can Your Skin Type Change Based on the Products Used? 

According to Dr. Zeichner, your skin type is 100% determined by your genetics. Therefore, the types of skin concerns that you may have, such as large pores, excess oiliness or acne, are also predetermined. “While your skin-care products can help address the appearance of your skin concerns that result from your genetics, they cannot change your genetics themselves,” he explains. Therefore, think of your skin-care products like a Band-Aid — it’s something that’s used to address the symptoms of your injury rather than heal the actual injury itself. The same applies to your skin-care products. They can be effective and helpful when addressing specific concerns, but ultimately, you cannot turn your dry skin type into an oily one if you have a genetic predisposition for dry skin.

With that said, it’s also important to consider other factors that may be playing a role in your skin type and skin needs. “While your skin type is predetermined, your environment is not,” says Dr. Zeichner. “Depending on the climate you live in, your diet, environmental stress and what type of products you’re using on your face, your skin can either be positively or negatively affected.” 

Can Your Skin Type Make Some Products Ineffective?  

Dr. Zeicher explains that you may not be able to tolerate certain skin-care products depending on your skin type. For example, if you have sensitive skin, you may not be able to use harsh ingredients, such as retinoids or alpha-hydroxy acids. Similarly, if you have oily skin, Dr. Zeichner says that gentle, hydrating cleansers or micellar water may not be as effective. Instead, your skin may require a foaming cleanser formulated with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, like the CeraVe Acne Foaming Cream Cleanser from our parent company, L’Oréal.

So, while I may not be able to get rid of my large pores for good, it doesn’t mean I’m going to completely forgo my skin-care products. It’s nice to know that there are some topical products out there that can help, even if it is only temporary. If you ask me, every little bit counts.

Read More: 

How to Determine Your Skin Type So You Can Better Take Care of Your Skin

Find the Best Face Oil for Your Skin Type

A Personalized Skin-Care Routine for Every Skin Type