How to minimise the appearance of pores
Contrary to popular belief, pores can’t be opened, closed or shrunk. However, they can be cleared and decongested to reduce their apparent size. Read on to discover exactly what pores are, why they can look enlarged, and how to minimize their appearance.
What a re p ores?
Pores are small openings on the skin’s surface at the top of hair follicles from which sebum or sweat are released to help lubricate or cool the skin. There are two types of pores:
Oil pores sit at the top of hair follicles that are linked to sebaceous glands. They release sebum to keep skin naturally moisturized, and can become clogged and look enlarged Sweat pores sit at the top of hair follicles that are linked to sweat glands. Much smaller than oil pores, they can’t be seen by the naked eye
When discussing how to minimise the appearance of pores, we are referring to oil pores.
What c auses l arge p ores?
Pore size is often determined by genetics, but external factors can affect the visibility of your pores too.
Skin d ebris : If pores are clogged by dead skin cells, dirt and sebum, they may appear largerDehydration : Dehydrated skin often produces excess sebum to lubricate the skin and compensate for the lack of water, causing pores to swellPollutants: When pollutants settle on the skin, they can congest and stretch pores, enhancing their appearanceSun damage: Overexposure to the sun can cause skin to lose elasticity, resulting in dilated poresAge i ng : As we age, skin naturally produces less collagen and elastin, two proteins responsible for skin’s plumpness and firmness. As such, skin loses its elasticity and pores appear less tight. Cell turnover also slows with age, potentially causing a build-up of dead skin cells that can congest pores
How to m inimise th e a ppearance o f p ores
1. Cleanse r egularly
Throughout the day, environmental aggressors like pollutants and dirt settle onto the skin, potentially clogging pores and enhancing their appearance. Cleansing twice a day will wash away these impurities, helping to keep skin and pores clear.
Cleanser for pores
No7 Derm Solutions™ Comforting Cream Cleanser gently cleanses & hydrates. This formula has been designed to remove impurities and make-up, without leaving skin feeling more sensitive. After use, skin is left clean, feeling softer and comfortable.
No7 Derm Solutions™ Calming Gel Cleanser deeply cleanses & hydrates removing impurities, excess oil and make-up, without drying. Leaving skin clean, feeling softer, supple and hydrated.
2 . Tone after cleansing
Pore minimising toner
3 . Incorporate r etinol i nto y our s kincare r outine
Incorporating retinol into your nighttime skincare routine supports surface skin’s natural renewal process, preventing dead cells from accumulating and congesting pores. With continued use, skin feels smoother and pores appear visibly reduced.
Retinol for pores
4 . Invest i n a cids
Acids and chemical exfoliants, including AHAs (alpha hydroxy acid) and BHA (beta hydroxy acid), can help to minimise the appearance of pores by smoothing, tightening and unclogging the skin.
Salicylic a cid for clogged pores
Also known as a BHA, salicylic acid is a powerful, oil-soluble exfoliant that can penetrate pores, exfoliating both the skin’s surface and its deeper layers. It helps to unblock clogged pores and exfoliate dead cells to reduce the risk of future congestion.
No7 Laboratories Clearing Skin Paste helps to unblock clogged pores, exfoliate away dirt and impurities, and prevent new blemishes. Skin looks healthy and clear, while pores appear minimised.
Glycolic a cid to reduce the look of pores
A chemical exfoliant known as an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), glycolic acid works to exfoliate the outermost layer of the skin, supporting its natural renewal process. Skin appears clear, refined and even in tone, while pores look visibly reduced.
Ascorbic a cid for large pores
Also known as Vitamin C, ascorbic acid may help to protect skin and delay visible signs of aging, including the appearance of enlarged pores.
No7 Radiance+ 15% Vitamin C Serum infuses the skin with Vitamin C, that supports the natural skin renewal process. In just two weeks, skin’s tone and texture look more even, lending the complexion a radiant appearance.
5 . Exfoliate
A physical exfoliator not only helps to remove surface debris, scrubbing away dry and dead cells that settle into pores and cause congestion, but can also help keep the skin looking plump, tight, and youthful.
Best exfoliator for clogged pores
6 . Keep s kin h ydrated
If skin is dehydrated and lacking in water, it’s likely to produce excess sebum to lubricate the skin. As the oil glands become more active, pores dilate to release these larger quantities of sebum. Consequently, keeping skin healthy and hydrated will help regulate sebum production and prevent pores from expanding.
Pore minimising serum
No7 HydraLuminous Water Concentrate is powered by pure hyaluronic acid and our HydraDrench Complex to provide an instant burst of moisture, while ablend of mulberry and Vitamins C and E helps shield skin from environmental damage.
Alternatively, No7 Protect & Perfect Intense Advanced Serum blends hyaluronic acid with No7’s powerful anti-wrinkle peptide based technology technology, Matrixyl 3000+, to help replenish skin with moisture and reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and pores.
7 . Wear SPF
As sun damage can emphasise signs of aging (including enlarged pores, wrinkles and dullness), consider applying an SPF as part of your morning routine to shield skin from potential damage.
No7 Lift & Luminate Triple Action Day Cream, No7 Protect & Perfect Intense Advanced Day Cream, No7 Restore & Renew Multi Action Face & Neck Day Cream, and No7 Early Defence Day Cream are all formulated with SPF 30 and our Double Defence Technology to protect skin from the sun and environmental stressors.
Current price: £19.57. Recommended Retail Price: £27.95. Save £8.38 .
Current price: £19.57. Recommended Retail Price: £27.95. Save £8.38 .
Current price: £20.97. Recommended Retail Price: £29.95. Save £8.98 .
8 . Use a face mask for pores
A purifying face mask formulated with exfoliating acids or particles provides a highly concentrated dose of the key ingredients needed to effectively tighten and cleanse pores.
There are many ways to help minimise the appearance of pores. Try the above tips to find the method that works best for your skin.
