Wash your face once in the morning and once in the evening. [1] X Expert Source Margareth Pierre-Louis, MDBoard Certified Dermatologist Expert Interview. 15 May 2020. Washing more than this can dry out your skin and cause it to become irritated, making your pores appear larger. Wash your face with a gentle cleanser (without sulfates) and use warm, rather than hot water. Gently dab (don’t rub) your face dry with a clean, soft towel.
You should exfoliate a couple of times a week, using a gentle exfoliating scrub with fine particles. Scrubs with larger exfoliating particles can be abrasive, causing micro tears and scratches on the skin. Alternatively, you can use a clean washcloth to gently rub your face using small circular motions, or make a natural, homemade facial scrub from ingredients in your pantry. If you can afford it, consider splurging on a motorized cleansing brush, such as Clarisonic, which exfoliates the skin as it cleans and is said to be twice as effective as washing your face by hand. [3] X Research source You can also use a chemical exfoliant like alpha or beta hydroxy acid, which dissolves dead skin cells. Chemical exfoliants are actually more gentle and effective, especially BHAs. [4] X Research source
When buying a moisturizer, look for one labelled “noncomedogenic” as this means that it will not clog your pores. If you tend to have sensitive skin, you should stay away from moisturizers containing colors or fragrances, as this can be irritating. If you have oily skin, you may also want to look for a moisturizer that controls oil production.
To make a steam treatment, boil some water and pour it into a heat-proof bowl. Add a couple of drops of tea tree oil if you have acne-prone skin. Lower your face over the bowl and place a towel over your head. Allow the steam towards your face for about ten minutes. When you’re done, wash you face and then splash with cold water. The steam doesn’t remove oil or dirt, so first wash it away. Then, splash your face with cold water to help close the pores.
Clay masks can be made from Bentonite clay, Fuller’s Earth clay, Kaolin clay, and others. Each has different absorption properties and minerals, though, so pick one that’s right for you. You might talk to a beautician to determine a good fit. Buy a clay mask at your local drug or beauty supply store, or make your own by mixing one tablespoon of bentonite clay, one tablespoon of oatmeal and one tablespoon of water. Thoroughly cleanse your face, then apply the mask and leave it to sit for about 10 to 15 minutes until the clay becomes tacky. Your face should feel tight beneath the mask. Don’t let the clay harden as this can over-dry your skin. Rinse off the clay using warm water, then pat your face dry. Repeat this once a week.
You can prevent this from happening by wearing sunscreen every day and reapplying it at least every two hours. [6] X Expert Source Margareth Pierre-Louis, MDBoard Certified Dermatologist Expert Interview. 15 May 2020. You can buy many daily facial moisturizers that contain SPF, so it shouldn’t be difficult. When you’re spending a lot of time outdoors, you should also wear a hat and sunglasses to provide extra protection from the harmful rays of sunlight. If you have sensitive or acne-prone skin, be sure to pick a non-comedogenic sunscreen – many kinds can clog pores.
Picking at a blackhead can also transfer bacteria from your fingers and nails, causing your blackhead to transform into a nasty pimple. If you must remove blackheads, you should do so with a sterilized comedone extractor, which you can buy online or at the drug store. Be sure to invest in a quality toner, such as witch hazel. You can find toners at your local drug store. Toners really makes sure your pores are clean before sealing them closed. Daily use of toner, also benefits the size of your pores.
Some people say that drinking more water gives the skin a glow or reduces acne. Whatever the case, it can’t hurt. Aim for at least 8 glasses per day. [8] X Trustworthy Source University of Wisconsin Health Integrated healthcare system of the University of Wisconsin focused on treating and providing support to patients and public health initiatives Go to source Some foods are better for your skin health than others. If you have oily, acne-prone skin, avoid eating junk foods and a diet high in fat. Choose unprocessed foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains whenever possible. [9] X Research source Keep in mind that skin type is hereditary – passed down from your parents. If you have oily skin with visible pores, you won’t be able to make them completely invisible.
Apply this paste to the problem areas and leave to dry for 5 to 10 minutes before rinsing with warm water. This can help to minimize the appearance of pores. Baking soda also dries out the skin, which can help to fight acne. Any method that reduces skin oil will also make pores appear smaller.
Mix 2 raw eggs whites with 1/4 cup of fresh orange juice. Apply this mask to the face and leave to sit for 15 minutes before rinsing with warm water. The orange juice helps to brighten your complexion. [10] X Research source
Retinoids increase cell turnover, which helps to unclog the pores and may make them less noticeable. [11] X Research source Retinol, a relatively gentle retinoid, is available in many anti-aging products sold at drug stores and beauty supply stores. [12] X Expert Source Margareth Pierre-Louis, MDBoard Certified Dermatologist Expert Interview. 15 May 2020. Tretinoin is a stronger retinoid commonly used to treat acne and available only with a prescription; you would need to speak to your doctor or dermatologist before pursuing this treatment.
Non-ablative laser treatments like Medlite, Genesis and Fraxel increase collagen production which tightens pores, causing them to look smaller. The major drawback to laser treatment is the cost. You will probably require two to three sessions, at $500 a pop. [3] X Research source
Choose a concealer and foundation than perfectly matches your skin tone, as this will help the make-up to appear more natural. Go for mattifying make-up if your skin tends to be oily and moisturizing make-up if your skin tends to be dry. Apply the make-up lightly and evenly using a sponge or brush. Don’t cake it on, as this will simply draw more attention to the areas you are trying to conceal. Make sure to wash your brush or sponge frequently, to avoid a build-up of bacteria. Make sure to thoroughly remove make-up at night. Leaving it on will clog your pores, causing them to look worse.
A good primer (preferably a silicone-based one) will temporarily fill in your pores, without clogging them. This provides an even surface for your make-up, making your pores almost invisible. [13] X Research source
You can find blotting papers at your local drug store or pharmacy, or online.
