We all want smooth, even skin—but texture and pores are a universal struggle. In this episode, Dr. Dustin Portela and PA Austin Lee break down what “skin texture” really means, why pore size is mostly genetic, and the common bumps that throw people off track—from milia and sebaceous hyperplasia to keratosis pilaris and blackheads.

They also explain why you can’t actually “shrink” your pores, but you can improve how they look with smart skincare and treatments. From exfoliation with AHAs and BHAs to retinol, hydration, microneedling, dermaplaning, and chemical peels, Dustin and Austin share the best options for smoothing things out—plus the ones to avoid. Along the way, you’ll get a crash course in why over-exfoliation backfires, how social media filters skew reality, and why confidence matters more than “glass skin.”

This week’s “Did You Know?” reveals just how many pores you really have on your face (hint: it’s more than you think) and how often your skin actually renews itself.

Follow Us: Dr. Portela TikTok: @drdustinportela Instagram: @drdustinportela YouTube (Reactions): @208SkinDoc YouTube (Educational): @drdustinportela Pinterest: @DrDustinPortela

Austin Lee TikTok: @austinleepac Instagram: @austinleepac

Product of the Week — Dean Skincare Clear Choice Acne Pads Formulated with 5% glycolic acid and 2% salicylic acid, these dual-action exfoliating pads help clear debris, reduce oil buildup, and smooth skin texture. A go-to for teens and adults alike, and perfect for keeping in your gym bag for quick post-workout clean-ups.