Pores... we all have them. But they come in all different sizes! And if you've ever been bothered by the appearance of large pores, you're not alone (trust me!). I get this complaint from a lot of my clients, and over the years, I've discovered a few tips and tricks for minimizing the appearance of pores and improving skin texture.
My Pore-Minimizing Plan
While large pores are genetic, there are some things you can do to improve their appearance — but the foundation is always exfoliation and hydration. Here is my three-step plan for minimizing pores:
Step 1. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate
No... that's not all three of the steps! But keeping your skin hydrated is super important if you're concerned with the appearance of your pores.
The key here is hydration with water, not oil. Pores are more visible in an oil-rich environment, so you want to trick your pores into balance by amping up the water-based hydration. Water-based ampoules, essences, and toners are among my favorite options to give your skin a moisture boost.
- I love the Dr Esthé Aqua Infusion Water Drop Cream because it's *so* gentle, and it feels light and refreshing on the skin. Use it as part of your morning and nighttime skincare routine, and you'll notice a difference almost immediately.
- Another one of my favorite water-based products is my CBE Botanicals Conduct Hydrating Mineral Mist, which is formulated with bio-extracts for more effective hydration.
- Want to add an ampoule to your home skincare routine? Dr Esthé HYAL Moisture Solution Ampoule is perfect if you're concerned with the appearance of your pores. It's ultra-hydrating, and is designed to infuse and seal moisture deep in the skin for long-lasting hydration.
And don't forget to drink enough water every day! That's the easiest (and cheapest) way to keep your whole body hydrated — and might just be the most important.
Step 2. Clear Out the Junk
If you feel like your pores are showing up more prominently than ever, you could be due for a good clean-out. After all, larger pores tend to accumulate a lot of "junk."
Monthly facials are great for maintenance and to clean out those clogged pores, but exfoliating products at home can help, too. Here are some of my product picks for sweeping out clogged pores and gently resurfacing your skin:
- My CBE Botanicals Scrub Away the Day Cleanser is formulated to deeply cleanse and gently exfoliate any skin type. It also has salicylic acid in it to help refine skin texture. Start using it one or two times a week, and you should see a difference in pore size!
- Speaking of salicylic acid... this NeoGenesis Salicylic Acid Gel is great if you want a more targeted way to address pore size. In addition to hydrating and balancing the skin, this gel works to improve the skin barrier — and the appearance of pores.
- One of my favorite ways to exfoliate is with a weekly mask, like the NeoGenesis Enzyme Crème Mask. It gently exfoliates the skin, and is made with niacinamide, which can help reduce oil build up and... you guessed it, prevent clogged pores.
- If you want a more powerful way to clear out the junk, consider trying a chemical peel. While you can ask for one at your next aesthetician appointment, you can't go wrong with the HOUSE OF PLLA® HOP+ PLLA Pro Micro Peel. Containing Poly-L lactic acid, PHAs, BHAs, and AHAs, this at-home peel removes dead skin cells, improves uneven skin texture, and boosts collagen production — all of which can help reduce pore visibility.
Step 3. Shine On with LED
I love adding LED therapy to any skincare regimen. When used routinely, LED gadgets can help promote skin cell regeneration and calm irritation, and, most importantly here, make your pores look smaller.
Pro tip: The key here is using LED therapy when your skin is properly hydrated! You don't want to use LED therapy on large pores if your skin is dry, because it can actually make your pores look more prominent.
- For at-home use, one of my favorite devices is the Time Master Pro. This handheld gadget combines Low Frequency Ultrasound Therapy, EMS, and LED, including blue, green, red, and infrared light options. It helps plump and tone skin, so you'll get multiple benefits — and plump, hydrated skin makes those pores less obvious.
- Another favorite that I personally use is the Glow Younger TriLight LED Device. This small-but-mighty gadget features red, yellow, and infrared light options, and when used routinely, can help improve the overall appearance of your skin. It's handheld, relatively affordable, and easy to travel with... so it gives you no excuses!
For Extra Credit
While adding high-quality serums, creams, and lotions to your skincare regimen can help improve the appearance of large pores, one of the simplest changes you can make is using sun protection. Overexposure to UV rays breaks down collagen and elastin in the skin, which can ultimately lead to your pores growing larger. So, switch to a moisturizer with SPF or incorporate sunscreen into your daytime routine!
Microneedling (or my favorite, nano-channeling) can also help plump up the skin and
shrink pore size. It works by making tiny punctures in the skin, which stimulates collagen production. While some microneedling tools are available for home use, I recommend adding a microneedling procedure to your next facial visit, so you can try it out with the guidance of a professional.
Want to get more support with your skincare journey? Join me in the Christine Byer Beauty Club. I offer a 14-Day FREE preview with full access to everything in the Club. Get personalized support for your questions and have access to savings and the opportunity to win a FREE consultation. If you don’t find value in your membership, cancel within the 14 days at no charge.
