Editor’s tip: The consistency is water-based, so a little bit goes a long way. The dropper applicator makes removing just a small amount of product easy.
Key ingredients: niacinamide, zinc | Fragrance-free: yes | Who it’s for: people with uneven skin and signs of congestion
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most effective pore minimizer?
Effectively minimizing the appearance of pores involves a combination of skincare ingredients and practices that target oil control, exfoliation, and protecting your skin barrier. “People should focus on incorporating the right ingredients rather than the product type. Skincare ingredients that exfoliate and clear oil and debris from pores include powerhouse options like retinoids and AHAs/BHAs such as salicylic and glycolic acid. To keep oil production in check, niacinamide is a star. And for collagen support, look for ingredients like retinoids, vitamin C, peptides, growth factors, and SPF—essential for maintaining skin structure and smoothness,” says Dr. Saedi.
What do dermatologists recommend for pore minimizers?
Regular cleansing with gentle, non-comedogenic products is key to clearing pore-clogging oil that can make pores appear more prominent. Exfoliation also plays a crucial role by dissolving dead skin cells trapped in pores, keeping them clear and refined. Treatments with retinoids, which promote cell turnover, are a long-standing dermatologist favorite, along with niacinamide, which helps regulate oil production. Your pore-minimizing strategy may depend on your skin type. “If the patient’s skin is oily or combination, using a retinoid or beta or alpha hydroxy acid would be more effective for reducing oil and ultimately pore size. For those with dry or sensitive skin, focusing on niacinamide or gentler exfoliating acids like lactic acid is more beneficial,” says Dr. Hanson. No matter your skin type, a broad-spectrum SPF is essential, as UV damage can weaken skin structure and prevent pores from looking refined.
Can you really reduce pore size?
The short answer is no. “Over-the-counter products don’t actually shrink pore size; they simply help keep them clean, which makes them appear smaller,” explains Dr. Camp. In addition to implementing the right pore-minimizing ingredients into your routine, some lifestyle factors, like diet, sleep, and skincare habits, can also influence pore visibility. “While these don’t technically change pore size, a diet high in glycemic foods can spike insulin levels, increasing sebum production. Conversely, a diet high in healthy fats and antioxidants can help decrease inflammation and promote a smooth skin texture. Meanwhile, inadequate sleep and chronic stress raise cortisol levels, which can lead to increased oil production, clogged pores, and inflammation,” says Dr. Hanson.
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When Allure tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle in an effort to best serve you. We review ingredients, scrutinize brand claims, and, when necessary, examine peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies. In addition to testing each and every product that’s included in each and every review, we rely on experts who shape their fields, including dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine, to help us vet the ingredients and formulas.