How to Minimize Pores: My Skincare Routine for Smooth, Glowing Skin. Pores – they’re a fact of life, and while we can’t completely erase them (no magic pill for that, sorry!), we can certainly minimize their appearance. Over the years, I’ve tried countless products in an attempt to keep my skin smooth and clear, and I’ve finally found a routine that works for me. Trust me, this one’s a game-changer. But here’s the secret: consistency is key. You’ve got to be consistent with your routine, but also make sure your face is properly cleansed before applying products; otherwise, they won’t be effective. I swear by using a facial steamer to open up my pores before applying anything to allow the products to penetrate deeper and work their magic. I still have a way to go before I am fully satisfied with the condition of my skin however its come along way with consistency care.
Why Pores Appear Larger
Before diving into my skincare routine, let’s take a quick look at why pores even exist and why they sometimes appear larger. Pores are tiny openings in the skin that allow sweat and oil to escape. They’re a natural part of our skin, but when they become clogged with dirt, oil, or dead skin cells, they can appear larger. Genetics, sun exposure, and aging can also contribute to larger, more noticeable pores.
When oil glands become overactive or if the skin becomes dehydrated, pores can stretch and become more prominent. But fear not, there are ways to keep them in check. Now, let’s jump into the products I use to keep those pores at bay.
Skin Care Tips
1. Double Cleansing
- Start with an oil-based cleanser to remove makeup and sunscreen, followed by a water-based cleanser to eliminate dirt and oil.
- Benefits: Keeps pores clear of debris, preventing them from appearing enlarged.
2. Exfoliate Regularly
- Use a gentle chemical exfoliant like AHAs or BHAs 2-3 times a week.
- Benefits: Removes dead skin cells and unclogs pores, making them appear smaller over time.
3. Clay Masks
- Apply a clay mask once a week.
- Benefits: Absorbs excess oil and tightens skin, reducing the appearance of pores.
4. Use a Pore-Minimizing Primer
- Apply a primer with blurring effects before makeup.
- Benefits: Temporarily smooths skin texture and minimizes pore visibility.
5. Stay Hydrated
- Use lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizers with ingredients like hyaluronic acid.
- Benefits: Keeps skin hydrated and prevents overproduction of oil, which can enlarge pores.
6. Avoid Over-Washing
- Cleanse your face twice a day—morning and night.
- Benefits: Prevents over-drying, which can lead to oil production and larger pores.
7. Sun Protection
- Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily.
- Benefits: Protects skin from UV damage, which can break down collagen and make pores more noticeable.
8. Incorporate Retinoids
- Use retinol or prescription retinoids in your nighttime routine.
- Benefits: Increases cell turnover, unclogs pores, and improves overall skin texture.
9. Healthy Lifestyle
- Stay hydrated, eat a balanced diet, and avoid excessive sugar and dairy.
- Benefits: Promotes overall skin health, keeping pores less prominent.
10. Facial Steaming
Benefits: Opens pores for better absorption of products.
Use a facial steamer once a week before applying serums or masks. You can check out the Vanity Planet facial steamer here.
Now, let me walk you through my personal skincare routine to minimize pores and get that glowing, smooth skin we all crave.
1. Salawahsoo Gentle Cleansing Foam
| Formulated without: Parabens, Formaldehydes, Formaldehyde-Releasing Agents, Phthalates, Mineral Oil, Retinyl Palmitate, Paraben-free, Oxybenzone, Coal Tar, Hydroquinone and talc-free |
How to Use: I start my day and night with the Salawahsoo Cleanser. It’s gentle, yet effective at removing dirt and makeup without stripping my skin. Apply a small amount to damp skin, massage gently, and rinse.
Benefits: This cleanser is packed with soothing ingredients like ginseng and rice, which leave my skin feeling soft, balanced, and ready for the next steps. My pores are already looking more refined after just one use.
Pro Tip: If you’re flying through Singapore, grab it at the airport duty-free stores. Sometimes, you’ll even find a bundle pack at better prices!
- Formula helps maintain hydrated, supple skin long after cleansing
- This cleansing foam gently removes dead skin cells without overstimulating the skin, leaving behind a layer of moisture …
- Nonionic cleansing components allow for long-lasting bubble structure, making it easy to form rich, abundant foam for a …
2. Paula’s Choice Toner with BHA
Key Ingredients: Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA) – This gentle exfoliant works deep inside pores to remove dirt and excess oil.
How to Use:
After cleansing, I apply a small amount of the toner onto a cotton pad and swipe it across my face, focusing on areas prone to clogged pores, like my T-zone. I only use this once a day, usually in the evening, to avoid over-exfoliating.
Benefits:
The BHA in this toner does wonders to gently exfoliate and clear up any pore-clogging debris. Over time, it helps reduce the size of my pores, making my skin look smoother and clearer.
3. Reedle Shot
Key Ingredients:
- Niacinamide – Increases ceramide synthesis that results in a stronger, healthier skin barrier and better skin hydration.
- Hyaluronic acid – Is a hydration booster and a humectant, meaning it draws water from the environment and deeper layers of the skin to the surface. It can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, making it a powerful moisturizer.
How to Use:
I use this product every 3 days, applying it after the toner and before my moisturizer. I massage it gently into my skin and let it absorb fully before continuing with my routine.
Benefits:
This product is like a superhero for acne and pore minimization. The salicylic acid deeply penetrates the pores, clearing them out while tea tree oil helps fight any breakouts. It’s perfect for anyone who needs to tackle both texture and acne in one go.
- * While using our Reedle Shot essence, you may feel a slight tingling sensation, which is completely normal and indicate…
- [Step Zero] Reedle Shot is your ‘Step Zero’ in skincare. Keep your routine the same, but adding Reedle Shot as the first…
- [Korean Glass Skin ] Support the skin’s natural renewal process, promoting the gentle release of accumulated impurities …
4. Salawahsoo Moisturizer or Laneige Vitamin C Cream
Key Ingredients:
- Salawahsoo Moisturizer:
- JAUM Moisturizing Complex – Known for its soothing and moisturizing effects. Relieves skin discomfort caused by dryness and strengthens skin’s moisture barrier.
- Laneige Vitamin C Cream
- Vitamin C & E – Brightens and evens out the skin tone.
How to Use:
If I’m using the Salawahsoo Moisturizer, I apply it generously all over my face as the final step in my routine. For the Laneige Vitamin C Overnight Mask, I use it on nights when my skin needs extra nourishment and glow – just apply it in the evening and leave it on overnight. Although on the pricier side, its worth every penny as you can feel the moisturizers are richer meaning they have more quality ingredients within.
Benefits:
Both of these moisturizers lock in hydration while delivering key ingredients to brighten and smooth out my skin. Vitamin C helps fade dark spots and even out my complexion, while the moisturizer keeps my skin plump and nourished. My pores appear smaller because my skin is smooth and balanced.
Why These Products Work for Me
Over the years, I’ve tried a ton of products – some expensive, some not so much – but these have consistently delivered results. I love that they target pore size, acne, and skin texture without being overly harsh. The combination of gentle exfoliation (thanks to BHA and salicylic acid) with hydration and brightening ingredients has made all the difference for me.
The key to minimizing pores isn’t just slapping on products haphazardly; it’s about finding the right combination that works for your skin. These products give me smooth, balanced skin, and they’ve become staples in my routine.
Final Thoughts
Minimizing pores isn’t about magic potions – it’s about consistency and using the right products. This skincare routine has helped me achieve clearer, smoother skin, and I genuinely believe it can do the same for you. Remember, skin is personal, so always patch-test new products and take the time to find what works best for your skin type.
So, if you’re struggling with visible pores, give these products a try. Trust me – your skin will thank you for it.
