Pores are the tiny skin openings that cool and condition the body by releasing sweat and oil. Every square centimetre of the skin has up to half a million pores. On the other hand, open pores can look like small pits on the skin, creating an appearance similar to that of an orange peel. They develop as a result of accumulated dead cell material, blocked pores or insufficient free water and low moisture levels in the skin.

They are most commonly found in the T-zone area (i.e. areas around the forehead, nose and chin) of the face, but can also develop anywhere else on the body. They can affect all types of skin.