Large pores can be normal for some people. But just because it's natural doesn't mean you can't do something about it. Although there is no such thing as permanently shrinking your pores, you can make them look smaller by following a few tips and tricks. Read on if you want to shrink your pores quickly.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Proper Facial Care
Step 1. Always use an oil-free facial cleanser and rinse with cold water
The cleanser will remove dirt, grease and makeup without stripping your skin of essential moisture. Cold water closes your pores.
Step 2. Use a clay mask
Clay masks tend to strip the skin of oil and water, giving a temporary appearance of smaller pores. Look for clay masks that contain bentonite and kaolin.
- Clay masks can dry out your face if you use them too often. Use the clay mask once or twice a week at the most along with other facial beauty products, to prevent your skin from drying out.
- Experiment with clay masks that work in conjunction with your skin's tolerance. Some clay masks are more suitable for sensitive skin, while others are more suitable for oily skin. Talk to an esthetician if you're not sure which clay mask to buy.
Step 3. Try other face masks
A homemade mask could be done like this: mix two whole eggs, four tablespoons of sugar and a few drops of some acidic liquid (such as vinegar or lemon, lime, orange, or grapefruit juice). Apply the preparation all over the face and wait 15 minutes. Rinse with ice water. The mask removes dirt and oil from your pores as it dries, thus reducing their size.
Step 4. Try skin toners
Skin toners do exactly what the name suggests: they tone, or "even out," your skin. They can be used by men and women, and are especially useful if your skin has an excess of shine during the day due to the accumulation of oil. They also help remove some oil and shine, help prevent acne breakouts, and prevent pores from clogging, making them look smaller.
- Use the toner after cleansing your face, but before hydrating it. Dry your face, and apply a little of the toner, depending on what type you buy, you can spray it, apply it or rub it, and then apply a moisturizer.
- If your skin is tough, apply toner every day to minimize the appearance of pores and reduce excess shine. If your skin is more sensitive, use a toner every other day or every other day to reduce the risk of dryness.
Step 5. Use astringents as much as toners
Astringents are like toners, except that they are often stronger and have an alcohol base. They cause facial tissue to constrict and tighten, and reduce the appearance of pore size. Alcohol- or acetone-based astringents are only recommended for oily skin. These astringents can be too strong and can dry out sensitive skin.
- You can also try natural astringents. These are some:
- Scottish elm
- Water of roses
- Orange blossom water
- Green Tea
- Apple cider vinegar
- Cucumber
- Elderflower
Step 6. Use physical exfoliation of the skin to clear up clogged pores
Exfoliation means cleaning the dead layer of skin on top of the epidermis, called the stratum corneum. You can physically exfoliate your skin by rubbing a cleanser on your face with a facial sponge (don't scrub too hard) or use a gritty scrub. Do it maximum twice a week.
Step 7. Use a chemical peel on your skin for a more specific approach
Chemical peels are stronger than physical exfoliants, so don't abuse them and use them occasionally until your skin gets used to higher concentrations.
- Threitonin is a common chemical exfoliator. It's a retinoid, which means it's related to vitamin A, and it's prescription. But is it worth it.
- Alpha-hydroxyl acids (AHAs) are another type of chemical exfoliator. AHAs can be purchased from the store to use at home as a professional grade chemical peel. Look for AHAs that are based on glycolic acid.
- Beta hydroxy acids (ABH) are useful as well. ABHs are oil soluble, AHAs are not, which means they can penetrate deep into oily skin and exfoliate from the inside out. These are suitable for people with acne prone skin.
Step 8. Avoid excessive sunlight
The sun can not only damage the skin, it can also exaggerate the size of the pores. To counteract this, use a mild, non-comedogenic sunscreen when you plan to spend a lot of time outdoors.
Method 2 of 3: Use Makeup to Hide Larger Pores
Step 1. Don't forget to use a foundation under your makeup
If you prep your skin before applying the last layer of makeup, your makeup tends to look smoother and more even. As many makeup artists say, "Not applying foundation is a crime." Make sure to incorporate this into your morning routine to keep pores looking smaller in the future.
If you've already applied makeup, but forgot the foundation, don't worry. You can apply certain foundations on top of makeup. Make sure the foundation is on top of your makeup, as some are designed specifically for this
Step 2. Use a concealer
Concealers are used to make skin more uniform in color, hide blemishes and deeper pores. There are concealers that last 12 hours or more.
Step 3. Wash off your makeup every night
Makeup can clog your pores and make them look bigger. Make sure to wash off your makeup before you go to sleep. Incorporate this into your daily skincare routine. Remember that clogged pores look larger than unclogged ones.
If you don't usually wash your face before going to sleep, use makeup remover wipes, or better yet, make some yourself and leave them near your bed so you can use them in a pinch
Method 3 of 3: Pay Attention to Other Factors
Step 1. Drink lots of water throughout the day
Water is a vital element for your organs: they need it to stay alive and look healthy. Some doctors recommend drinking at least 2 liters of water a day, while others recommend that you drink water when you are thirsty. Drink water and avoid sugary sodas, juices, and energy drinks. This can help your pores appear smaller.
Step 2. Pay attention to your diet
Although there has been no proven scientific link, many people believe that unhealthy diets can contribute to larger pores. This is because poor diet contributes to excessive production of sebum, which gets trapped in the pores and prevents you from looking clean and beautiful.
Step 3. For a quick fix, apply an ice cube to the pores to reduce their size
We learned earlier that ice can shrink pores by constricting blood vessels and tightening the surrounding skin. If you are in a rush and need to get your pores look smaller quickly, try this trick.
Advice
- Always wash your face before applying makeup and before going to bed
- Avoid touching your face excessively, the oil from your hands transfers to the face and makes it extremely oily.
- Avoid liquid foundation, if you use it make sure to wash it very, very well
- Don't squeeze the pimples