Everybody’s obsessed with pores—or at least making them look smaller. In this filtered, selfie-obsessed era, it’s important to keep in mind that real, unretouched skin naturally has texture—it’s simply a part of being human. In fact, without pores, we wouldn’t be able to sweat or release the sebum that keeps our skin from drying out. Despite what you might have heard, pores are virtually impossible to eradicate. However, if you’d like to minimize the size of pores, there are certain ways you can achieve it.

The best pore minimizers on this list include facial cleansers, face masks, and exfoliating toners. But what exactly do these magical concoctions actually do for the skin? “Pore minimizers refer to products that improve the overall appearance of the pores, making them appear smaller,” explains Dr. Marisa Garshick, a board-certified dermatologist based in NYC. She adds that dead skin cells and excess sebum are usually the two major causes of enlarged pores. Thankfully, those aforementioned exfoliators, as well as products like cleansing oils, are experts at purging the pores and skin.

We consulted three of our favorite board-certified dermatologists, peeked into beauty editors’ personal skin care routines and stashes, and pored (no pun intended) over countless customer reviews to compile the guide to the 12 best pore minimizers for porcelain, near-perfect skin.

Dr. Brandt Skincare Pores No More Pore Refiner Primer

Created by celebrity dermatologist Dr. Fredric Brandt (who’s worked with top A-listers like Madonna, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Kelly Ripa), this two-in-one pore refining primer helps keep makeup in place by mattifying the skin and creating a smooth canvas. The formula contains oil-absorbing spheres and a derivative of exfoliating salicylic acid. And if you’re not a makeup kind of gal, no worries! You can easily wear this product alone for a natural look.

Key Ingredients: Oil-absorbing spheres, red clover flower extract, derivative of salicylic acid

Size: 1 fl. oz

Skin Type: Oily, combination, normal

Amazon rating: 4.6/5 stars

An Amazon reviewer says: “My sister gave me a tube of this because she raved over it. I am amazed at how good it is at hiding my pores! It can be used instead of makeup, or for more coverage, it is great under foundation.”

URL: https://www.elle.com/beauty/makeup-skin-care/g12505954/best-pore-minimizers/