Guide

Why do pores look enlarged?

Pores are openings for hair follicles and oil glands. They can look larger for several reasons, and the cause decides the treatment:

Oil-related pores: High sebum production stretches the opening, common in the T-zone and in younger skin.
Laxity-related pores: As collagen declines, the skin around each pore loses support and pores look elongated or teardrop-shaped, often on the cheeks.
Clogged pores: Debris and blackheads make pores more visible.
Scar-related pores: Past acne can leave pitted texture that resembles pores.

Sofwave is mainly relevant for the second type. For an overview of all causes, see our enlarged pores page.

How does Sofwave help with pores?

Sofwave uses seven parallel ultrasound beams to heat a thin band of the mid-dermis while a cooling system protects the skin surface. That heat triggers new collagen and elastin. As the dermis firms, the walls around pores gain support, which may make sagging, oval pores appear rounder and smaller. Sofwave does not directly reduce oil production, so it works best on pores linked to aging or loss of elasticity.

The device is FDA-cleared for lifting the eyebrow and improving lines and wrinkles on the face, and Re:berry includes it on its lifting menu. Learn more on the Sofwave treatment page.

Who is a good candidate?

Adults whose cheek pores have become more visible with age
People who also want mild firming or fine-line improvement
Those who prefer low downtime and a single short session

Sofwave is less likely to help pores driven mainly by oil or congestion, where options such as skin Botox or HydraFacial may be more relevant. It is usually postponed during pregnancy, over open wounds or active acne, and in people with certain implants in the area.

What to expect during treatment

A doctor checks whether your pores are mainly oil-related, laxity-related or both.
Numbing cream may be applied for comfort.
The handpiece is pressed against the skin in overlapping passes while cooling protects the surface.
Most people feel short bursts of heat. Afterward, skin may look pink for a few hours.

How many sessions?

Many patients have one session and review the result at about three months. Some doctors suggest a second session or yearly maintenance. Pore change from collagen remodeling is usually subtle and gradual, not instant. Results vary by individual.

Smart combinations

Because enlarged pores usually have more than one cause, Re:berry often designs a combination:

Sofwave plus skin Botox: Firming plus reduced oil and finer surface texture.
Sofwave plus a collagen booster: Laetigen or Rejuran Healer to improve dermal quality.
Sofwave plus HydraFacial: Cleaner, clearer pores on the surface with firmness underneath.

Alternatives to consider

Thermage FLX for pores, which uses radiofrequency for dermal tightening.
Skin Botox for pores, often chosen for oily skin.
Laser toning or fractional approaches for texture.

How will I know if my pores are laxity-related?

Laxity-related pores often look oval or teardrop-shaped rather than round, sit mainly on the cheeks, and tend to become more noticeable from the 30s onward. They may look better when you gently lift the skin upward with your fingers. Oil-related pores are usually round, concentrated on the nose and central forehead, and come with shine through the day. Many people have both types. A doctor's assessment in good lighting, sometimes with magnification, helps separate them so treatment money and time go toward the right cause.

A sample pore plan

Visit 1: Consultation, Sofwave for firmness, and possibly skin Botox for oil control.
Weeks 2 to 4: Gentle skincare, sunscreen and, if recommended, a cleansing facial.
Month 3: Review of pore appearance and texture, with optional booster sessions.

Plans vary by person and are adjusted after review.

Practical notes for visitors

Sofwave typically allows makeup the next day, which suits short trips. Use sunscreen daily and avoid strong exfoliants for several days. Pricing depends on the area and plan, and is confirmed in writing at consultation.

Does Sofwave shrink pores permanently?

No treatment permanently changes pore size, because aging, oil production and sun exposure continue. Sofwave may make laxity-related pores look smaller by firming the surrounding skin, and the improvement can last many months. Maintenance sessions, sunscreen and a consistent skincare routine help keep the effect longer.

Is Sofwave or Thermage better for pores?

Both stimulate collagen in the dermis but use different energy. Sofwave uses focused ultrasound at about 1.5 mm with surface cooling, while Thermage FLX uses radiofrequency heating across a broader depth. Either may help pores linked to laxity. The choice depends on your skin type, comfort and overall goals, and is best discussed with a doctor.

Can I combine Sofwave with skin Botox on the same day?

Often, yes, depending on the doctor's plan. Sofwave is usually done first and skin Botox afterward. Combining them addresses both firmness and oil-related pore appearance. Your doctor will confirm sequencing and whether any other treatment that day makes sense for your skin.