It’s Impossible to Eliminate Pores, But These Products Can Make Them Appear Smaller

We hate to break it to you, but it’s impossible to shrink your pores permanently. Their size wholly depends on your genetics, so you’re stuck with the pores your parents gave you. Still, we should be thankful for pores, as they allow us to sweat when our bodies need to cool down or produce sebum to keep our skin healthy. However, there are several ways to make them appear smaller if their size has started to concern you.

The best pore minimizers vary, including anything from chemical exfoliants to face masks. “Pore minimizers refer to products that improve the overall appearance of the pores, making them appear smaller,” says Dr. Marisa Garshick, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City. She explains that pores often look bigger when they’re clogged with dead skin cells and excess sebum. That’s why you should use those exfoliating products and cleansing oils to clear everything out. Plus, our favorite pore-filling makeup primers can make it seem like you don’t have any pores at all.

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: “This is not a miracle or Photoshop in a bottle, but it definitely blurs the look of pores and decreases shine and my pores are on the larger side. Works pretty well!”

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