Pores: everybody has them, but some find them to be more visible than others. Your pore size is usually down to your genetics, with your hormones and level of sebum production playing into how large or small they appear on your skin.
Although it’s not what a lot of people want to hear, you can’t physically alter your pores, and nor can you get rid of them; they’re integral to the function of your skin.
But if you’re conscious of your pores, there are ingredients such as retinol you can incorporate into your skincare routine, that balance out overactive sebum production and therefore help your pores to appear smaller.
Aside from adjusting your skincare routine, makeup has also come a long way with formulations made specifically for oilier skin types. Thick, cakey foundations have been swapped out for lighter formulations that still provide coverage without creasing, and primers have revolutionised the base game.
The majority of pore-minimising products contain silicone as it’s a great ingredient for creating a smooth, even canvas.
However, silicone has become somewhat controversial in recent years. Its occlusive and hydrophobic qualities make it harder to cleanse from the skin, which some people argue can lead to acne. That doesn’t mean you should be put off using it all together though; just incorporate a serious double cleanse at the end of the day if you haven’t already.
Makeup is no longer about covering up, but about helping you to feel the best in your skin. Below, find our edit of the best makeup products for minimising the look of pores..
Smashbox Photo Finish Pore Minimizing Primer
When it comes to primers, Smashbox undoubtedly remains one of the leading authorities. This primer is one of the few pore-minimising options on the market that is formulated without silicone, but that doesn’t mean it compromises on delivering results.
Not only does this create a flawless, blurred base for your foundation, but it’s also water-resistant and helps to protect your makeup from sweat and humidity throughout the day, so that’s one less thing to worry about. What’s more, Smashbox’s products are tested in studios to see how they perform under photographic light, so you can count on this primer looking its best on camera.
IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Pores Blush
If pores on your cheeks are your main concern, rather covering your whole face with a primer or foundation, reach for this blusher from IT cosmetics, which delivers a wash of healthy glow to the cheeks while blurring the look of pores.
The way this blusher seamlessly blends into the skin is magic, but it also might be down to the skin-loving blend of silk, hydrolyzed collagen and peptides.
Maybelline Fit Me Matte & Poreless Foundation
High-quality finish foundations don’t always have to break the bank, as proved by this super-affordable option from Maybelline. This flexible formula adapts to your skin tone and texture, blurring imperfections but still allowing your natural skin to show through.
If you’ve got a busy schedule and don’t have time to re-apply face powder every hour, you’ll be pleased to know this foundation has micro-powders built into its formula, which continue to minimise shine throughout the day.
REFY Skin Finish
If you’ve got oily skin, chances are a powder is already a staple in your routine, but not all of them are created equally. This translucent water-based powder acts as a filter for your skin, absorbing excess oil and smoothing over pores.
What’s really impressive about this powder is how manages to do all of this without being mattifying, because let’s be honest, not everyone with oily skin wants a matte finish all the time! Instead, this powder leaves your skin with a natural, soft-satin glow.
ELF Poreless Putty Primer Universal Sheer
This primer has gone viral all over TikTok and once you see the results it’s clear why. Not only does the putty-textured primer make your pores vanish before your eyes, but the squalane helps to prevent your makeup creasing and cracking throughout the day.
When it comes to application, try pushing the primer into the skin with your fingers instead of rubbing it around, as this will help to blend the product in for the most seamless finish.
NYX Professional Makeup Blurring Vitamin E Infused Pore Filler Face Primer Stick
This primer stick is so effective at blurring pores, even the most loyal foundation-lover will be tempted to forgo the extra coverage.
The handy solid-stick applicator makes it easy to spot-apply and touch up while you’re out and about, so whether it’s pores or fine lines that you want to make disappear, just swipe and go. It’s a winner for those with dehydrated skin too, thanks to the Vitamin E which will help deliver some much-wanted moisture.
;
