How to Minimize Pores: You Can't! Do This Instead

Are you wondering how to minimize pores? It’s a futile endeavor. Pores are tiny openings in the skin that help it perform its vital functions. One type of pore secretes sebum, while the second type releases sweat. Oil-producing pores can sometimes appear enlarged if they become clogged, which can be frustrating. While you can’t change the size of the pores you were born with, you can help refine their appearance with the following methods.

Minimizing pores is a common side effect of a good beauty routine. Proper cleansing and moisturizing play a significant role. The right ingredients in your skin care are also crucial. Here are some methods to specifically boost your pore-refining journey.

Enlarged pores likely mean you have oily skin. However, it doesn't mean you don't need hydration and moisturizers. For hydrated skin, you’ll need both internal and external support. Eating foods rich in essential fatty acids, drinking lots of fluids, and sleeping seven to eight hours of sleep help. Adopt products with hyaluronic acid to draw moisture from the air and infuse your skin cells with water.

Meanwhile, moisturizing locks hydration in and keeps it in your skin longer. Without moisturizing, water can evaporate quickly. A common misconception is that oily skin needs no moisturizer. On the contrary, depriving oily skin of moisture tricks your sebaceous glands into producing more oil. It creates larger pores that are at risk of clogging. Choose a water-based moisturizer. It does the job without burdening your pores.

Niacinamide or vitamin B3 is one hero ingredient that delivers multiple benefits to the skin. One of these is refining pores, improving their appearance, and evening out the skin tone. According to a National Center for Biotechnology Information study, niacinamide balances the skin’s oil production rate. It minimizes pores that have gotten enlarged due to congestion. It also improves skin elasticity and tightens the skin around the pores, making them less conspicuous. 

POND'S Bright Pore Conditioning Toner cares for the pores by controlling oil with niacinamide and providing UV protection. Use this after cleansing to help refine the appearance of pores and make skin look smoother and more radiant. After toning, apply POND’S Triple Glow Serum, which has niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and Gluta-Boost C, for brighter, even-toned skin.

If you have acne and large pores, steer clear of physical exfoliants, which can be too harsh for your skin. Opt for AHAs and BHAs to lift dead skin cells and reveal fresh, smooth skin instead. Typical AHAs used for refining pores include glycolic acid, lactic acid, and mandelic acid. On the other hand, the BHA salicylic acid penetrates deep within the skin to eliminate impurities (including acne-causing bacteria), unclogging blocked pores.

Sun damage is not something to take lightly, especially if you have acne-prone skin. Unprotected sun exposure not only puts you at risk of premature skin aging and wrinkles but can also dehydrate your skin. It restarts the cycle of excessive sebum production, making pores appear larger as they expand with oil. There are several sunscreens to choose from for oily skin, but keep in mind that SPF 30 is the minimum required protection. 

Add POND'S UV Bright Sunscreen into your routine. It has a non-sticky formula that combats the effects of photoaging, including premature lines, dullness, and uneven skin tone.

Keep in mind that pores are not the enemy and they’re there to help your skin. So instead of trying to erase them, give them a little love. Follow these tips on how to minimize pores to refine your skin, control oil, and even out skin tone.