Have you ever heard the saying, “You’re your worst critic?” It’s pretty common in girl culture. We use it in everyday conversation to convince one another that no one else can see the imperfections that are clearly internally screaming “LOOK AT ME!”
One of those common flaws is enlarged pores. Though pores are necessary to release oils and sweat that the skin produces, they’re not all that pretty. At least we don’t visually see them as adding beauty to our overall complexion.
To us nit-picky women, we’d prefer to smooth them out by minimizing their appearance. We prefer to find methods and treatments to reduce their size. And that’s what this article is all about. So jump on the bandwagon if large pores bother you, and find your go-to ways to shrink ‘em today.
Wash Your Face 2-3 Times a Day
If you wait too long between facial washes, buildup will get clogged in your pores. It’s natural, but it does cause an enlarged pore appearance. That’s why we highly recommend making at least two daily washes a part of your regular skincare routine. Preferably in the morning before you put makeup on and at night, right before you hit the hay.
Any other suggestions? Why yes, we don’t mind if we do. Choose a gentle cleanser like one of our fav options listed below and always use lukewarm water. Notice how we lean towards oil-based products. Why? Because they get the job done, breaking down clogged pores and blackheads efficiently.
Our Pick for a Cleansing Balm: Clean It Zero Original Cleansing Balm ($21, shop here)
Our Pick for a Gentle Cleanser: Sulwhasoo ($40, shop here)
Moisturize Twice a Day
Second to facial washing twice a day is moisturizing twice a day. Good thing you can get both necessary steps done in under 5 minutes!
We know that you know that no moisturizing = increase in dryness, flakiness, and skin irritation. Well what you may not have known is that it also leads to enlarged pores. Why? Because if you let your skin experience that dryness, it’ll automatically produce excess oil to combat the surface feeling. That’s why we emphasize using high-quality facial moisturizers in your skincare routine.
Additional tip: Keep it consistent, applying after your morning and bedtime washes. Great product picks listed below.
Our Pick for Best Value: CeraVe Daily Moisturizing Lotion ($13.31, shop here)
Our Pick for Sensitive Skin: Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Face Cream ($10.14, shop here)
Keep Sun Protection Handy and Apply Often
This suggestion is a must if you’re approaching sunny weather – or if you live in an area of the world that often sports hot and sweaty temps.
You see, the sun’s rays are known for damaging skin cells. Advertently, collagen and elastin loss are the result. The whole damage cycle points back to enlarged pores.
It’s a good thing that there’s an easy fix: Wearing sunscreen with your daytime skincare products and makeup. Most brands even make tinted sunscreens now with high SPF for added protection. But don’t worry, you won’t have to search above and beyond for dermatologist approved suggestions, we have ‘em right here.
Our Pick for Regular Sunscreen: Aveeno Protect + Hydrate Moisturizing Face Sunscreen SPF 60 ($8.99, shop here)
Our Pick for Tinted Sunscreen: Neutrogena Purescreen+ Tinted Sunscreen for SPF 30 ($16.85, shop here)
Add Retinol to Your Skincare Routine
Weak collagen → weak pores → enlarged pores. That’s the cycle, but how do we halt the unwanted facial pore effects? By stimulating collagen production and strengthening those pore walls.
Your #1 BFF in this endeavor is retinol; the stuff works like magic.
On your retinol journey, you have one of two routes you can take: 1) Get a prescription cream from your dermatologist like Tretinoin or 2) Use an OTC option. We have two great go-to’s listed below, but be careful. Retinoids are potent. You’ll want to use the product sparingly and gradually increase your tolerance.
Our Picks:
COSRX Retinol Cream ($18.45, shop here)
Shani Darden Skin Care ($89, shop here)
Before Applying Makeup, Slap on a Primer
If you’re looking to have a beautiful makeup application, you have to start with a trustworthy primer. Why? Because it’ll make facial pores practically disappear, showcasing a clean, smooth, matte-like complex. Evening out texture, subtly hiding imperfections before the foundation and concealer get applied.
Our Picks: