My pores have gotten me totally down lately. I never had issues with large pores in my teens and twenties, but my mid-thirties brought a drastic change in my skin—some changes good (it went from oily to *gasp* normal), and some bad (like these craters of pores that started showing up). Upon further research and consultation with my dermatologist, it seems like another one of those lovely byproducts of aging includes decreased elasticity in your skin. Combine that with with oil and skin cell build up, and all those factors may cause your pores to become larger. Although there is nothing you can do to actually decrease pore size, you can minimize their appearance.
If you’re wondering how to minimize pores, here are some tried and true ways to minimize the appearance of pores on your face—for good.
Apply Sunscreen Every Day
Sun damage may be making your pores appear larger. Aside from protecting your skin from harmful UV rays, applying a broad spectrum sunscreen 30 minutes before you leave the house every day will help keep your skin younger looking and keep pores tighter over time.
Steam Your Face
Some women swear by steaming their face regularly (about once a week) to keep pores clear. Rinse a washcloth in very warm—but not hot—water and use it to cover your face. NOTE: Be very careful with the temperature of the water; you don’t want to burn your skin. This will open up your pores and remove any dirt buildup.
Tone Up
Swipe your face with a toner or an astringent after washing or steaming. After you have opened your pores and cleansed them, a dab of astringent will tighten the pores, giving your face a youthful and fresh appearance and will banish any remaining dirt and oil.
Exfoliate Regularly
Exfoliating with a grainy face wash or a gentle washcloth at home should be part of your regular beauty routine; this removes dead skin cells and allows fresh, new skin to flourish. Exfoliation is a fantastic way to excavate any deep-down dirt, and will help those pesky pores appear to constrict. Just be sure not to exfoliate too often or too harshly—twice a week is enough. Overdoing it may irritate skin or even stretch out your pores, giving you the opposite result.
Use Baking Soda
It’s not just good in the kitchen! The mild antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties in baking soda may help constrict pores and prevent future breakouts. Twice a week before bed, make a paste with two teaspoons of baking soda mixed with water. Massage this paste into your skin for 30 seconds and then rinse clean—you’ll love your bright, new look.
Apply a Primer
If you find that your foundation is settling into your pores, try using a primer before putting on makeup. A good prime base will make your face appear smoother and eliminate the uneven tone, helping your foundation go on smooth and abolish the appearance of those blasted pores.
Photo: Getty/yomogi1
