Large pores are right at the top of the list of major skincare concerns that Pinays have, along with acne, hyperpigmentation, and sun damage. Although large pores are more of a cosmetic concern, we totally understand why you're looking for a quick fix for them. Here's a guide:
What causes big pores?
There are a lot of factors that could cause big pores. It can be genetics, too much sun exposure—which causes the shrinking of tissue beneath your skin and thus stretching the edges of your pores—your gender (guys usually have larger pores than girls!), the natural aging process, or you may just have really oily skin.
Can I shrink my pores?
There's actually no way to make your pores disappear (so those non-makeup products that claim they can make your pores *~vanish~* are probs lying) because they are actually needed in order to have healthy skin! Pores allow sebum, which is the oil that keeps your skin well-lubricated, to travel from the sebaceous glands to the surface of your skin. So in short, closing or shrinking your pores is actually a bad idea, but it wouldn't hurt to make them *look* smaller.
Here's a list of products for a full skincare routine that will help you minimize your pores:
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Cleanser: Beach Born Witch Hazel Wash
ICYDK, witch hazel is super good for a multitude of reasons. It helps in clearing pores, controlling acne, and reducing inflammation. Sounds like everything we want in a skincare product!
CONTINUE READING BELOW ↓watch nowBeach Born Witch Hazel Wash, P227.50, Beach Born
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Toner: Dickinson's Original Witch Hazel Pore Perfecting Toner
In case you can't tell, we love Witch Hazel! It's an astringent that won't dry out your skin, and its anti-inflammatory properties are great for those with oily, acne-prone skin. This toner from Dickinson's won't dry out your skin. Bonus: You can use Witch Hazel in many other ways like: treating mosquito bites, cleaning minor cuts, and soothing irritated skin.
ADVERTISMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW ↓Dickinson's Original Witch Hazel Pore Perfecting Toner, P399, Healthy Options
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Exfoliator: Pixi Glow Tonic
When buying exfoliators, it's better to choose a chemical exfoliant rather than a physical one. This cult favorite from Pixi won't further aggravate irritated skin, while its 5% glycolic acid content will help slough away dead skin cells and clear out blackheads to keep your pores clean!
ADVERTISMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW ↓Pixi Glow Tonic (15mL), P390, Calyxta -
Serum: Skin Genie Apple Cider Vinegar Serum with Vitamin C, E, Tomato and Aloe Vera Extract
This highly-reviewed serum from a local brand is a staple in people's bathroom counters: It clears out clogged pores, evens out your complexion, and makes you look *~glowy~* sans the oily feeling. Bonus: It has SPF 50!
Skin Genie ACV Serum with Vitamin C, E, Tomato and Aloe Vera Extract, P399, Skin GenieADVERTISMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW ↓ -
Moisturizer: Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel
When your face gets dry, your skin compensates by producing more oil, and oily skin causes your pores to open up. To combat it, use an intense hydrating moisturizer such as this one from Neutrogena. Its star ingredient, hyaluronic acid, works like a magnet for moisture. (Did you know that one gram of hyaluronic acid holds up to 6 liters of water? I love science.)
ADVERTISMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW ↓Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel, P898, Watsons
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Sunscreen: Bioré UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence SPF 50+ PA++++
Sunscreen isn't just for the beach—it's a daily essential. Excessive sun exposure increases your chance of developing a myriad of skin problems, plus it can dry out your skin and make your pores look bigger. This bestselling sunscreen from Bioré is water-based, so your skin won't feel sticky after application, and it contains hyaluronic acid and citrus essence for smoother and plumper skin. An added bonus: There's no white cast after application!
ADVERTISMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW ↓Bioré UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence SPF 50+ PA++++, P488, BeautyMNL
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Clay Mask: Innisfree Super Volcanic Pore Clay Mask
This three-in-one K-beauty fave removes sebum, brightens skin, and treats blemishes! Use this once or twice a week in order to remove the deep-seated gunk from your pores to avoid getting them clogged.
ADVERTISMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW ↓Innisfree Super Volcanic Pore Clay Mask, P800, Calyxta
