It’s nearly impossible to shrink oversized pores, but there are clever ways to make them appear smaller. We got skincare and beauty pros to spill the pore minimizing strategies that will give you the clear complexion you deserve.
Stay away from silicone
Often used in cosmetics to make formulas softer and easier to spread, silicone is a no-no for women with large pores. “Makeup products with silicone will clog pores and make them look worse”. Steer clear of ingredients such as dimethicone, cyclopentasiloxane, and phenyltrimethicone—fancy names for silicone, in beauty products.
Fall in love with primer
Face primer was practically made for women with large pores. “Primer will make the skin appear smoother and more even”. Pores are dramatically minimized and makeup stays in place longer. Apply primer to the face and let it dry completely before putting on your makeup. Think of it as a spackle for your face, for lack of a more appealing word. You can even use it over your makeup, rather than under, to help makeup stay in place.
Look beyond the facial
Facials can refresh and improve the appearance of skin, for sure. But to really show your pores who’s boss, consider going higher tech. Contact a dermatologist or facialist in your area to learn which treatments they recommend for large pores. Learn more about the transformative powers of laser treatments.
Keep your compact intact
Who knew the packaging of your powder compact could affect the appearance of pores? If you carry a compact, don’t throw away the liner that comes between the sponge and the product at purchase. The liner will prevent oil on the sponge from contaminating the product. Women with enlarged pores tend to have oilier skin, and “most women don’t realize that the surface of their powder will darken and harden from contact with oil and bacteria left on the applicator over time.
Exfoliate, exfoliate, exfoliate
Large pores are caused by dead skin cells that don’t exfoliate properly and block pores. “You usually see this in people with oily or acne-prone skin. Exfoliating is the best way to keep pores clean and minimize their appearance. The cleaner the skin, the smoother it looks! Try using a sonic cleansing system with a mild cleanser. This helps vibrate out the dead skin from the pores to make them look as small as possible. You can also use a chemical exfoliant with glycolic acid or salicylic acid to help dissolve the glue holding dead skin cells in place on your skin.
Blotting papers are your BFF
We believe blotting papers are your secret weapon for battling large pores. “Using blotting papers on the area with enlarged pores keeps the oil down and makes pores look smaller. Blotting papers are the easiest, quickest way to refresh your makeup. Always blot oil first and then reapply makeup as necessary.
Keep it light
If you have large pores, beware of skincare products that are comedogenic, or pore-blocking. Think heavy moisturizers and thick, creamy foundations Instead, go for lighter makeup products, including water-based liquid foundations instead of oil-based ones. Use mineral-based powder foundation with a skincare component.
Don a mask
Pores look noticeably larger when they’re stuffed with dirt and oil, so do a deep detox weekly or even semi-weekly with masks designed to suck the gunk out. The star ingredient here is charcoal—its negative charge attracts and binds to positively charged toxins, like a magnet pulling dirt and oil out of pores.
Don’t skip the moisturizer (even if you’re scared of oil)
Attention women with large pores, don’t be afraid to moisturize! Healthy, hydrated skin will be more plump and even, which always makes pores appear smaller. Just be sure to choose an oil-free moisturizer with sebum-control powder, and for anti-aging benefits.
