How to minimise the appearance of pores – from cleansers to creams

Pores are a natural part of our skin’s structure – and, regardless of what you might see on social media, everyone has them. But if you feel like yours are especially noticeable, there are some steps you can take to minimise their appearance.

Firstly, what actually are pores? 

Pores are the tiny openings in our skin that surround the hair follicles and release sebum and sweat. While they’re mostly unnoticeable on a person’s face unless you get uncomfortably close to them, factors such as age, overproduction of sebum and a build-up of dirt, dead skin cells and makeup can all make pores enlarged and more visible. 

Contrary to what some would have you believe, pores can’t be made to close, shrink or disappear. But it IS possible to reduce the appearance of them by using certain skincare. Here’s how…

Thoroughly cleanse your face every day, and exfoliate regularly

Ensuring your pores are kept unclogged of dirt, oil and impurities will keep them looking less noticeable. Cleanse your face twice a day, and incorporate gentle exfoliating ingredients into your skincare routine.

Use skincare that contains niacinamide

Niacinamide, otherwise known as vitamin B3, has a whole host of benefits for skin, including boosting its barrier function and helping to reduce fine lines, dullness and uneven tone. It can also balance oil production and improve the skin’s elasticity, both of which can help pores appear smaller.

Use a mattifying moisturiser or primer

This will give the skin a “blurred” effect and a smooth feel while also providing a good base for makeup to grip on to. Look out for silicones like dimethicone in the ingredients list.

Luckily, you’ll find all three of these pore-perfecting products inside this month’s Go Love Yourself OK! Beauty Box: an exfoliating cleanser (Symbiosis London [White Peony + Peelmoist] Enlightening and Exfoliating Cleansing Gel), an oil-balancing serum with niacinamide (Keys Soulcare Promise Serum) and a mattifying face cream (Figs & Rouge Blush Pink Limited Edition Velvet Cream), plus two more brilliant beauty treats.

Altogether these five products are worth over £120, but the box is available to new subscribers for just £4.95*, giving you super-smooth skin with a super saving.

*OK! Beauty Box subscription is £15 a month thereafter plus free p+p, with box contents always worth at least £60.