Large “pot holes” are quite a hassle to deal with. You can’t simply cover them up with concealers, and they can be quite difficult to “shrink”. The trick to a poreless appearance requires quite a bit of work, but if you follow these steps well, you might be looking like a cover girl in no time.
STEP ONE: KEEP CLEAN
Although pore size is largely determined by genes (and pimples), there are ways to fake smaller-looking pores. The first step is to ensure that your pores are as small as they can be - by making them clean and free of gunk.
Blackheads and whiteheads “expand” the inside of a pore. By clearing your pores of them, they will inevitably have a smaller appearance. I’ve written on how to get rid of clogged pores, but if you’re lazy and just want a quick fix, you can try Peter Thomas Roth’s Pumpkin Enzyme Mask.
The pumpkin mask uses fruit enzymes and Alpha hydroxy Acids (AHA) to decongest pores and remove dead skin cells: Cleaning your skin and making it easier for extractions. And due to its cooling gel texture, it works as a great alternative to clay masks, which can be quite abrasive and drying.
STEP TWO: COVER UP THE PORES
It is without a doubt that a good primer goes a long way. A primer works to set your makeup and make it go the distance, but great primers can mask the appearance of large pores too.
My go-to favourite is Smashbox’s original primer. The lightweight gel blends effortlessly into my skin, filling up any uneven surfaces (or pore gaps). The brand has an entire range of primers for different skin types and concerns, but in my opinion, the original is still second to none.
Alternatively, if you’re just looking for a targeted primer for your pores, Benefit’s Porefessional is famous for this very purpose. The silky texture works to mask the appearance of large pores, while priming the skin in the process. What’s more, its oil-free formula is perfect for Singapore’s humidity.
STEP THREE: BLUR IT OUT
Instead of piling on layers of concealer or foundation to hide your pores, the trick is to choose a product that will help you diffuse its appearance. A hot makeup trend, “light diffusing” foundations are becoming increasingly popular in Asia as its formulas are great for faking great skin. Containing reflective micro particles, these foundations work to refract light when it touches your face, giving you the illusion of a flawless (and poreless) complexion. The only gripe I have about this awesome invention is that most formulas aren’t the most budget-friendly.
For days when my pores are out of control, I indulge in Chanel’s Perfection Lumiere Velvet. The extremely light texture glides onto the skin, blurring out all forms of imperfections, pores included. The foundation dries to a velvety finish, which is great for days when I want to create a dewy complexion.
But if you prefer something that goes the distance, Laura Mercier’s Smooth Finish Flawless Fluide is another great option for a pore-free finish. The brand’s newest foundation uses reflective waters to mask imperfections, and it’s extremely fine texture promises to give you 12-hours worth of wear.
With these tips, you might be well on your way to a fresh and poreless complexion in no time.
Benefit the POREfessional, $49, is available at all Benefit counters and Sephora stores. For more information, visit www.benefitcosmetics.com and follow the brand on Facebook.
Chanel Perfection Lumiere Velvet, $78, is available at Chanel Fragrance and Beauty Boutiques and Chanel Beauty Counters. For more information, visit www.chanel.com/fragrance-beauty and follow the brand onFacebook, Twitter, and YouTube.
Laura Mercier Smooth Finish Flawless Fluide, $75, is available at all Laura Mercier counters. For more information, visit www.lauramercier.com and follow the brand on Facebook.
Peter Thomas Roth Pumpkin Enzyme Mask is available at all Sephora stores. For more information, visit www.peterthomasroth.com.sg and follow the brand on Facebook.
Smashbox Photofinish Foundation Primer, $65, is available at all Sephora stores. For more information, visit www.smashbox.com or www.sephora-sea.com and follow Sephora on Facebook.