Enlarged pores are a certainty for many - as are separations and taxes. But just because I'm a certainty doesn't mean you can't do anything about it. While it isn't technically possible to permanently reduce the size of pores, you can make them appear tighter with a few tips and tricks. Read on if you want your skin pores to shrink in no time!
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Having the Right Facial Care
Step 1. Always use an oil-free cleaner and rinse it with cold water
It will remove all dirt, sebum and make-up without depriving the skin of the necessary hydration. Cold water closes the pores.
Step 2. Use a clay-based mask
Clay masks absorb sebum and water from the skin, making pores appear narrower. Look for ones that contain bentonite and kaolin.
- Clay masks can dry out your skin if you use them too often. Along with other skin care products, use them a maximum of once or twice a week to prevent your skin from drying out and your problem from recurring.
- Try masks that suit your skin's needs. Some clay masks are perfect for sensitive skin, others for oily skin. Talk to a beautician if you're not sure which one to buy.
Step 3. Try other masks
A homemade one could be this: mix together 2 whole eggs, 4 tablespoons of sugar, a few drops of acidic liquid (vinegar, lemon, lime, orange or pineapple juice). Spread it on your face and wait 15 minutes. Rinse with very cold water. Once dry, the mask cleanses the pores of dirt and sebum, closing them.
Step 4. Try the tonics
Toners do exactly what their name suggests: they tone, or "even out" the skin. They can be used by both men and women, and they especially help if you have shiny skin due to a buildup of sebum. They will eliminate some of the sebum and shine, preventing the skin from cracking, and will prevent the pores from becoming clogged, thus making them appear smaller.
- Use the toner after the cleanser, but before the moisturizer. Dry your face thoroughly, then apply a few drops of toner - depending on the type of toner you bought, you can spray, smear or massage it - and then switch to the moisturizer.
- If your skin is tough, apply it daily to minimize pores and reduce shine. If it is more sensitive, use it every other day or every 2 days to prevent the skin from drying out.
Step 5. Use astringents like tonics
They resemble tonics, but are stronger and alcohol-based. They make skin tissues tighten and firm, reducing pores. Astringents based on alcohol or acetone are only recommended for oily and tolerant skin. They may be too aggressive and astringent for sensitive and dry skin.
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There are also natural astringents:
- Witch hazel
- Rose water
- Orange blossom water
- Green tea
- Apple cider vinegar
- Cucumber
- Elderberry flower
Step 6. Use an exfoliator to clean the clogged pores
Exfoliating means removing the layer of dead skin cells, called the stratum corneum. You can exfoliate the skin with a special sponge (do not rub too much) and your usual cleanser, or with a scrub, perhaps based on chopped peach stones. Do this a couple of times a week, no more.
Step 7. Use chemical exfoliation for more targeted action
For stronger action, try chemical exfoliation. Stronger than natural, it must be used once in a while, or to strengthen its effect use it calmly so that the skin gradually gets used to a higher concentration.
- Tretinoin is a very common chemical exfoliant. It is a retinoid, that is related to vitamin A, and can only be prescribed by the doctor or dermatologist. It is worth it, however.
- Alpha hydroxy acids (AHA) are another class of chemical exfoliants. They can be bought at the drugstore and used at home for a professional exfoliation. Look for AHAs that are glycolic acid based.
- Beta hydroxy acids (BHA) are useful. BHAs are oil soluble, which AHAs are not, and this means they can penetrate deep into oily skin and exfoliate it from the inside out. These acids are suitable for acne sufferers.
Make Your Pores Smaller Step 8 Step 8. Pay attention to sun exposure
Not only can it damage the skin, it increases the size of the pores. To remedy this, apply non-comedogenic sunscreen if you plan to spend a lot of time outdoors.
Part 2 of 3: Using Make-up to Hide Large Pores
Step 1. Don't forget to apply a primer before your make-up
Prepare the skin for the makeup you will apply, and the result will be smoother and more homogeneous. As many make-up artists like to say: "Not priming is a crime". Remember to add it to your morning routine to hide large pores.
If you've already got your makeup on but forgot your primer, don't panic. Some primers can be applied to makeup without compromising it. However, check that the primer is designed specifically for this function
Step 2. Use a concealer
They are used to even out skin color, hide redness and enlarged pores. Opt for concealers that last for more than 12 hours.
Step 3. Remove your make-up every night
What is the use of make-up if you find yourself with clogged and dilated pores? Nothing, right? So take your makeup off every night. Add it to your skincare routine. Remember that clogged pores look more dilated than free ones.
If you're the type who doesn't occasionally remove make-up before bed, grab some makeup remover wipes - or better yet, make them yourself - and place them on your nightstand so you can use them when you're in a hurry
Step 4. Choose a concealer that makes your skin shiny
Concealers and tinted moisturizers that leave your skin shiny are much better than matte ones for hiding pores. Choose products with good durability and oil-free. Avoid those labeled "matte".
If desired, top off the application with a light layer of face powder to control shine and absorb excess oil
Part 3 of 3: Pay Attention to Other Factors
Make Your Pores Smaller Step 12 Step 1. Drink lots of water throughout the day
Water is vital for the organs: they must stay alive and healthy. Some doctors recommend drinking at least 2 liters of water a day, others drinking whenever you feel thirsty. Drinking water - and eliminating sugary drinks, juices, and energy drinks from your diet - may help your pores to shrink.
Make Your Pores Smaller Step 13 Step 2. Pay attention to what you eat
Although there is no scientific proof yet, many people are convinced that a bad diet contributes to dilating the pores of the skin. This is because unbalanced diets could contribute to the overproduction of sebum, which stays in the pores and prevents them from looking nice even.
Step 3. Exercise
Engaging in moderate / intense physical activity will make you sweat and this helps to expel impurities from the skin. However, be sure to wash your face after training to remove sweat and possibly make-up. Otherwise, the pores may become clogged.
Step 4. Run an ice cube over the skin to narrow the pores
We have already learned that ice can constrict them by compressing blood vessels and firming the skin around them. If you're in a hurry and need to minimize pores for a few hours, try this trick.
Advice
- Always wash your face before putting on makeup and before going to sleep.
- Avoid touching your face too often, the oil can be transferred from the hands to the face by greasing it.
- Stay away from liquid foundation, and wash it off if you use it very very Well.
- Never squeeze pimples.
