The best ways to shrink the appearance of pores
Some women have more noticeable pores than others. This is mostly due to genetics and skin type. But, while you can’t actually physically reduce the size of your pores, you can minimize their appearance. Here are eleven ways to make your pores look smaller:
1. ALWAYS KEEP YOUR FACE CLEAN
Pores expand and appear larger when dirt clogs them. Always wash your face with a gentle cleanser, twice a day — once in the morning and once before bed.
2. Apply primer before foundation
You can reduce the appearance of pores using makeup. Primers should be applied before using foundation. You can also use “blurring” foundations to reduce the appearance of pores even further.
3. BE GENTLE WITH SKIN
Exfoliating too often, aggressively washing your face, and picking at your skin all result in worsened acne, wrinkles, and larger looking pores. You always want to be gentle with your skin so you don’t make any temporary imperfections a more permanent problem.
4. GET FACIALS ON A REGULAR BASIS
You should be getting a facial every four-to-six weeks. Why? Because receiving a professional extraction and exfoliation can properly clean out your pores, and ensure your skin is brighter and healthier.
5. EXFOLIATE ONCE A WEEK
Exfoliating once a week is key to keeping your complexion at its best. Getting rid of dead skin cells keeps your complexion fresh and healthy. Look for gentle cleansers that contain low concentrations of salicylic or glycolic acid to stimulate cell turnover and keep pores clean.
6. DRINK LOTS OF WATER
Keep you skin hydrated by drinking enough water throughout the day. You should also apply a hydrating serum before your usual moisturizer. This will help shrink the appearance of your pores by plumping up the surrounding skin.
7. USE A RETINOID
Using over-the-counter retinoids or retinol serums will increase cell turnover, exfoliating pores and making them appear smaller. Remember to start using retinoids every other day until skin adjusts.
8. NEVER SKIP OUT ON MOISTURIZER
If you stop moisturizing, even for a day, a lot of bad things can happen, including the look of enlarged pores. It’s essential that you use a non-comedogenic moisturizer twice a day. Why? Because if your skin gets dry, it’ll produce even more oil, which will only clog your pores further.
9. APPLY SUNSCREEN DAILY
UV exposure breaks down collagen and elastin found in your skin, which can give pores an enlarged appearance. The best way to protect your pores is to wear sunscreen every single day, rain or shine. Find a sunscreen that has an SPF 30 or higher.
10. USE FACE MASKS
Face masks, such as those made with charcoal or clay, absorb excess oil out of pores, making them appear smaller. Apply a face mask once or twice a week for optimal results.
11. GET A LASER TREATMENT
Lasers can help reduce the appearance of pores. A series of Clear + Brilliant laser treatments shrink the look of pores by increasing collagen, in turn plumping the skin.
Hello, beautiful skin
If you have large pores, you don’t have to live with them. You can easily reduce the appearance of large pores by using the right skincare products, hydrating regularly and visiting aesthetic dermatology professionals for treatments to enhance your routine.
References
- “11 Fast and Easy Ways to Minimize Your Pores, According to Skin Pros,” Good Housekeeping, May 29, 2020.
- “How to Get Small Pores: The Pore Minimizers and Treatments You Need to Try,” Cosmopolitan, December 2, 2019
- “The Best Way to Make Pores Look Smaller, According to Top Dermatologists,” Allure, April 27, 2016.
