How to Minimize the Appearance of Pores

Oily skin and the appearance of large pores often go together like peanut butter and jelly. Unfortunately, you may find that this skin combo isn’t nearly as satisfying as your favorite childhood snack. No matter which way you slice it (diagonal or straight down the middle), large pores are no fun. So, how do you make pores appear smaller? The good news is, there are specific skin care steps you can take to minimize the appearance of pores. Keep reading to find out exactly how to shrink how big your pores look. Hint, hint: It involves a facial cleanser, primer, and face masks—among other helpful skin care tips and products.

LARGE PORE MINIMIZING TIP #1: BE GENTLE WITH YOUR SKIN

As tempted as you may be to scrub your face to oblivion, there’s absolutely no need. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, scrubbing your face can irritate your skin, which could lead to the appearance of larger pores. Not cool! It may be hard to practice restraint, but being gentle with your skin is the key to success when trying to minimize pores.

LARGE PORE MINIMIZING TIP #2: CLEANSE AND EXFOLIATE REGULARLY

By now, you should know cleansing and exfoliating are non-negotiable. If you’re looking for a pore reducer, reach for a facial cleanser that gets your skin clean (duh) and exfoliates all at once, like the L’Oréal Paris Pure-Clay Exfoliate & Refine Cleanser. Formulated with clay and red algae, this facial cleanser helps pores appear tighter and minimized, and helps to blur imperfections—what’s not to like?

Every morning, squeeze a small amount of the facial cleanser into your hands and add water to watch it transform from clay to mousse (cue the “ooh” and “aah” sounds!). Gently massage onto your face using circular motions to exfoliate, then rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water and pat skin dry. 

Of course, you’re not excused from cleansing in the p.m. At night, reach for a micellar water that pairs well with oily skin. The L’Oréal Paris Micellar Cleansing Water Complete Cleaner Waterproof – All Skin Types is just right for the job.

LARGE PORE MINIMIZING TIP #3: USE PRODUCTS FORMULATED WITH RETINOL

When it comes to skin care products, retinol is one of the most popular ingredients around. Whether you’re struggling with dark spots, fine lines and wrinkles, or large pores, a skin care product formulated with retinol could be just what you’re looking for. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, retinol is a derivative of vitamin A that works by unclogging pores and restoring the appearance of the skin’s natural radiance. (Read How Does Retinol Work? to learn more.)

LARGE PORE MINIMIZING TIP #4: FIND THE RIGHT FACE MASK—AND DOT IT ON

We all know and love face masks, but you’re probably used to using them just one way—to cover your face completely. Instead of applying a face mask all over, try using one in specific spots to target your problem areas. Don’t you just love it when you find out your favorite skin care product has a new purpose? Yeah, us too! Try the L’Oréal Paris Pure-Clay Exfoliate & Refining Face Mask, which helps draw out the buildup of impurities, dirt, and oils, unclog and tighten the appearance of pores, and exfoliate dead skin cells from skin’s surface for a smoother look and feel. Think of it as your secret weapon pore minimizer! 

To use, dot the face mask onto your skin wherever your pores are looking a little on the larger side, then rock the spotty look for 10 to 15 minutes. Once the timer dings, go ahead and rinse off.

LARGE PORE MINIMIZING TIP #5: ALWAYS WEAR SUNSCREEN

No matter your skin care concern, sunscreen is a great product to keep in your arsenal. Simply put, sunscreen does much more than protect your skin from damaging sun rays. According to the AAD, the more sun-damaged your skin, the less firmness it has. When skin starts to lose its firmness, pores look more noticeable, which is the last thing you want. So, you should always make it a point to add sunscreen to your routine.

One of the easiest ways to do so is to use a moisturizer formulated with broad-spectrum sunscreen, like the L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Triple Power Day Lotion SPF 30. Formulated with Pro-Retinol, vitamin C, and hyaluronic acid, this offering works to reduce wrinkles, firm, and brighten skin in just one week. Not to mention, you’ll be able to protect your skin from harmful sun rays. 

Don’t stop there when it comes to sun protection! Limit your amount of time in the sun, seek shade, and cover up exposed areas in long sleeves, pants, a broad-brimmed hat, and UV-blocking sunglasses.

LARGE PORE MINIMIZING TIP #6: DON’T FORGET ABOUT PRIMER

When it comes to reducing the appearance of pores, the work doesn’t stop just because you’ve completed your skin care routine. Once you’re done working your way through your cleansers and moisturizers, it’s time for makeup. Before you highlight, contour, and powder your face, you’ll need to be sure to prep your skin with primer. The L’Oréal Paris Pro-Matte Lock Makeup Primer helps smooth skin for better makeup application—plus, the matte finish makes it an excellent pick for oily skin.

That’s a wrap on pore-reducing skin care tips, but these aren’t your only options when it comes to making pores look smaller. Makeup can be another saving grace. Read all about it in this article: The Makeup Routine for Large Pores.