If you want a smoother complexion with less visible pores beauty products, there are some easy
things you can do. These expert tips from dermatologists will help you minimize
pores naturally, plus they’ll give you a healthier complexion, too!
Pores are the openings in your skin where hairs, sweat and oil emerge. These tiny
holes are actually designed to serve a purpose. “They allow for the transport of
sebum from the glands to the surface of your skin, where it’s released and washed
away,” explains Debra Jaliman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of
the skincare brand ShikSona Beauty.
But while it’s true that you can’t physically shrink your pores, there are ways to
minimize how large they appear, including cleaning your skin properly and avoiding
certain lifestyle choices.
Here are some of the top ways to shrink your pores:
1. Cleanse and exfoliate your skin regularly.
Keeping your face clean is the best thing you can do for your pores. Washing your
face twice a day with a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser can help remove dirt and
oil that can clog them and make them appear larger. Exfoliating once or twice a
week with a product that contains alpha hydroxy acids, such as glycolic acid, lactic
acid and citric acid can also help keep your pores unclogged and looking smaller. A
toner or serum that contains salicylic acid can also be effective at unclogging pores
and helping them look less noticeable.
2. Choose makeup and skin products that work for your skin type.
Avoid makeup and skin care products that contain ingredients that are too harsh or
drying for your skin type. This can irritate your skin and cause it to produce excess
oil, which will make your pores look bigger. Instead, choose makeup and skin care
that’s formulated for your skin type and is labeled as noncomedogenic. A gel or
liquid formula will likely work well for oily skin, while creams and balms are better
suited to drier complexions.
3. Don’t touch or pick at your pores.
It’s tempting to pick at a pimple or squeeze your pores when you see them getting
clogged, but this will only cause them to expand and become more visible. Besides,
popping a blemish can lead to infection and scarring. “Touching and picking at your
pore also causes them to stretch, which can make them look larger,” says
dermatologist Deveny.
4. Don’t forget to use sunscreen.
Using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 every day can help
minimize the appearance of your pores by blocking out UV rays, which can cause
them to darken and appear larger over time.
5. Consider a cosmetic procedure.
If your pore size has been a long-time struggle, it might be time to consider a
treatment like a chemical peel or microneedling. These treatments can be very
effective in helping your pores look smaller and less clogged by eliminating dead
skin cells, which can make them appear larger over time.