Skin Imperfection: Large Pores

Thank you all so much for taking your time in voting on my last poll on Skin Imperfections! As promised, I will be sharing my advice on how to conceal four common skin imperfections. First, I will be covering the top vote, which was large pores! The next three skin imperfections that you voted for will be covered on separate posts. Stay tuned…

Causes for Enlarged Pores

•                Sun damage

•                Genetics

•                Hormonal changes (i.e. Puberty or menopause).

•                Acne

•                Blackheads

•                Skin dehydration

•                Trapped dirt, oil or dead skin cells

•                Incorrect cleansing/skin care

•                Excessive oil production

•                Too much makeup (cakey)

•                Smoking

•                Unbalanced/improper diet

Large Pores

Step 1: Cleanse, Tone, & Moisturize

Enlarged pores usually happen when the pores themselves are clogged. This step is extremely important even if you don’t plan on wearing makeup. Make sure to use a cleanser that removes excess oil and other impurities from your face followed by a toner and moisturizer. I use Proactiv and I am completely in love with this product. 

Step 2: Apply an oil-controlling product

Oil controlling products give the skin a long-lasting matte finish and help refine and tighten pores. These products should be applied to the T-Zone and wherever you may have enlarged pores. It will also help reduce shine and absorb oil. I use MAC's Oil Control Lotion.

Step 3: Apply a pore-minimizing product

Applying a pore-minimizing product will help reduce the size of enlarged pores. I strongly suggest this step. Here are three pore-minimizing products you can try: Hydroxatone Pore Minimizer, Estee Lauder Idealist Pore Minimizing Skin Refinisher, and Clinique Pore Minimizer.

 

Step 4: Primer

I can’t tell you how much this step helps. Using face primers (especially oil-free primers) will help reduce the visibility of large pores. If you are going to use a foundation I suggest you use a primer. My favorite primers are by Too Faced, Smashbox, and MAC.

Step 5: Foundation

Use a water-based, oil-free foundation. Make sure you only use a small amount or else it will actually make the pores look more visible. Using a sponge will work best because you are actually pressing on the product onto your skin. My favorite matte foundation is NARS Sheer Matte Foundation. 

Step 6. Loose Translucent Powder

Using a loose translucent powder will help absorb excess shine and prevent clogging. You should press the powder on to your skin, but use sparingly wherever there are enlarged pores. Make sure that you only use a small amount or else it can appear white. My current favorite translucent powder is Makeup Forever HD Powder. 

Thanks for reading!