How to Tighten Pores: Expert Tips

Pore size is a common skincare concern for many, and if you're wondering how to tighten pores, you're not alone. Large or visible pores can make the skin appear uneven, and even exacerbate issues like acne or oiliness. In this guide, our expert skincare specialists put together tips, advice and product recommendations to help with shrinking the appearance of enlarged pores.

What causes larges pores?

Before we dive into the solutions, let’s first understand why pores can appear enlarged. Several factors contribute to the visibility of pores:

Excess Sebum Production: Oily skin tends to produce more sebum, which can get trapped in the pores and make them appear larger.

Ageing: As we age, the skin loses its elasticity and the pores can stretch, making them more noticeable.

Clogged Pores: Dirt, make-up, and dead skin cells can build up inside the pores, causing them to expand.

Genetics: Some people are naturally more prone to large pores, based on their skin type and genetics.

Sun Damage: UV rays can damage the skin, leading to a breakdown of collagen and elastin, which in turn weakens the skin structure around the pores.

How to tighten pores on the face: Skincare tips

The first step to tackling enlarged pores is by investing in a skincare routine that addresses the underlying causes. While you can't "shrink" pores permanently, you can minimise their appearance with the right products and techniques.

1. Cleanse your skin regularly

Clogged pores are more likely to become enlarged over time, so it’s essential to cleanse your skin thoroughly but gently. Use a deep-cleansing facial cleanser to remove excess oil, dirt, and make-up. Avoid harsh scrubs that can irritate the skin, as this may actually make pores more noticeable.

Clarins Recommended Product: Total Cleansing Oil. This gentle yet effective cleanser removes make-up and impurities while maintaining your skin’s natural balance.

2. Exfoliate to remove dead skin cells

Exfoliation is key to helping reduce pore size. Dead skin cells can build up inside pores, making them look larger. By exfoliating regularly (but not too often), you can keep your pores clear and refined. Opt for a mild exfoliant that smooths your skin without causing irritation.

Clarins Recommended Product: One-Step Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser. This refreshing exfoliating cleanser removes make-up, cleanses and gently exfoliates, all while maintaining the skin’s balance.

3. Use a pore-minimising toner

Toners are often overlooked in skincare routines, but they can play a crucial role in minimising the appearance of pores. A good pore-minimising toner helps to refine the skin’s texture by removing any leftover impurities after cleansing, balancing the skin’s pH, and tightening the pores. Look for a toner that targets excess oil and helps to refresh the skin without drying it out.

Clarins Recommended Product: Purifying Toning Lotion. The toning lotion that purifies, tightens pores and helps to preserve the balance of combination to oily skin types.

4. Moisturise to keep skin hydrated

It might seem counterintuitive, but keeping your skin well-hydrated can actually help minimise the appearance of pores. When the skin is dry or dehydrated, pores can look more pronounced. Make sure to use a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturiser that hydrates without clogging pores.

Clarins Recommended Product: Hydra-Essentiel Silky Cream. This moisturiser hydrates skin and improves its texture, giving it a soft, smooth finish.

5. Incorporate Niancinamide and Vitamn C

Niacinamide (also known as Vitamin B3) is a hero ingredient for those seeking to minimise pore size. It helps balance oil production, reduce inflammation, and improve skin elasticity, which in turn makes pores appear smaller. Additionally, Vitamin C can help brighten the skin and promote collagen production.

Clarins Recommended Product: Double Serum. This award-winning serum features both niacinamide and Vitamin C, along with other powerful ingredients to improve skin texture and tone.

Make-up tips for reducing the appearance of pores

While skincare helps to address pore size over time, sometimes you need a quick fix. Fortunately, there are several make-up products that can instantly make your pores look smaller and smoother.

1. Start with a primer

For a filter-effect make-up finish, opt for a primer that blurs the appearance of pores and preps the skin for the rest of your make-up.

Clarins Recommended Product: SOS Primer - Mattifying. The SOS Mattifying primer targets visible pores and shine, primes and hydrates skin for 24 hours.

2. Choose a Pore-Minimising Foundation

Some foundations are specifically formulated to minimise the appearance of pores while providing coverage. Opt for a lightweight, breathable formula that offers medium to full coverage, depending on your preference.

Clarins Recommended Product: Skin Illusion Full Coverage. This foundation not only provides long-lasting coverage but also helps smooth out the appearance of pores for a flawless finish.

3. Set with a translucent powder

A finishing powder helps lock in your make-up and set your look, but it can also help blur the appearance of pores. Choose a translucent powder that mattifies the skin without looking cakey or heavy.

Clarins Recommended Product: Ever Matte Loose Powder. This finely-milled powder sets make-up and controls shine while leaving your skin with a soft, airbrushed finish.

Additional tips on shrinking pore appearance

Avoid Touching your Face: Touching your face throughout the day transfers oils and bacteria to your skin, which can clog pores and make them appear larger.

Don’t Skip Sunscreen: Sun damage can weaken the skin around your pores, making them more noticeable. Protect your skin daily with an SPF 30 or higher.

Use Clay Masks for Deep Pore Cleansing: Clay masks draw out impurities from deep within the pores, helping to clear out blockages that cause pores to expand.

Clarins Recommended Product: SOS Pure Face Mask. This non-drying, absorbent purifying face mask with a creamy texture removes impurities and tightens pores in just 10 minutes.

Final thoughts

The best approach to tightening pores is a combination of prevention and treatment. By adopting a consistent skincare routine that focuses on cleansing, exfoliating, and hydrating, as well as incorporating pore-minimising make-up products, you can achieve smoother, more refined skin. For a flawless complexion, Clarins offers a range of skincare and make-up products designed to help you minimise the appearance of pores, giving you a more even and youthful-looking complexion. Ready to see the difference? Explore Clarins' full range of products today and discover the perfect solution for your skincare concerns.