How to Minimize Pores Naturally

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Pores are tiny hair follicles in the skin. They may take on a larger appearance when they are clogged with dirt or oil. They can become larger due to the increase of dead skin cells that gather at the base of the pore. Pores also get larger if you squeeze blackheads or pimples (which also damages and scars your skin). The most effective means of minimizing pores naturally is to keep them clear. This includes regular cleansing, exfoliating and care.

Method 1
Method 1 of 3:

Using A Steam Bath To Open Up Pores

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  1. Steam is recommended by estheticians for opening up the pores to clean them out. [1]
    • Cleaning out your pores can help to minimize their appearance.
    • Steam is a cheap and all natural way to minimize your pores.
    • You can add herbs and scented oils for a nice scented steam bath.
    • Spas often use steam baths as a treatment for large pores before a facial.
  2. You will want the water to be hot enough to steam. [2]
    • Heat a larger pot of water to make sure you have enough for a steam bath.
    • Make sure it is hot enough for steam, or else this method won't work very well.
    • Take the water off of the heat once it is steaming.
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  3. You use many different herbs or spices, depending on your preference. [3]
    • Estheticians recommend basil, mint, rosemary, and lavender for a relaxing scent.
    • If you prefer other herbs or spices, you can use these as well.
    • You could also try adding orange peels or lemon peels the water for more scent.
  4. The towel will help to trap any steam. [4]
    • Let this sit for 5 minutes.
    • The sit time will help your herbs to steep and will allow steam to build up.
    • Don't let the bowl sit too long or the water will cool too much and you might lose steam.
  5. Slowly move your face over the steam. [5]
    • Do this for 10-15 minutes, inhaling the aromatic scent.
    • This will allow the steam to bring oxygen and moisture to your face.
    • The moisture and oxygen from the steam will help to open your pores for cleaning.
  6. This will allow you to wash off any oils or debris released from your pores during the steam bath. [6]
    • Don't use water that is too hot or too cold.
    • Pat your face dry with a clean, dry towel.
    • Avoid using any lotions or oily products on your skin after this steam bath, as they may re-clog your pores.
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Method 2
Method 2 of 3:

Cleansing Your Pores With Toners

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  1. Avoid products that contain alcohol or benzoyl peroxide because these can dry your skin, similar to the way that these ingredients can dry out your hair. [7] [8]
    • It is very important to emphasize that once your pores are enlarged, they might not shrink back down entirely. Natural products can help to minimize their appearance but they aren't a miracle cure. Over the counter and prescription treatments are usually more effective, but they aren't all natural. [9] Do a little research on the ingredients in these products to help you choose the best product for your skin.
    • Toners get deep into the pores, cleaning out oil, dirt, and dead skin cells. Buildup of these products in your pores make them appear larger.
    • If you have acne prone skin, toners may irritate your skin.
    • You can buy a natural toner at many natural food stores, online retailers, and pharmacies.
    • You can also make a natural toner or astringent.
  2. This is a quick and cheap do-it-yourself toner that you can use daily. [10]
    • Mix one part apple cider vinegar and two parts water.
    • Soak a cotton ball in this mixture and wipe it across your face, or you can use a small spray bottle.
    • Put this toner on just after cleansing for best results.
    • Don't worry, the vinegar smell will dissipate after a few minutes.
    • Follow up with a light moisturizer to avoid dry skin. This method can be a little harsh for people with sensitive skin.
    • If you find the vinegar a little bit harsh, try a different method for making a natural toner.
  3. Lemon juice is a natural astringent and very cost effective. [11]
    • Squeeze 1/4 cup of lemon juice.
    • Add ¾ cup of witch hazel. You can find this at natural food stores and herbal supply shops.
    • Combine ingredients in a spray bottle and store in the refrigerator for up to a month.
    • Results will vary per person, but you can expect this toner to clean pores to aid in reducing their appearance and brighten the tone of your skin.
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Method 3
Method 3 of 3:

Using Baking Soda as an Exfoliant to Reduce Pores

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  1. This is cheap and very effective for buffing dead skin cells from your face. [12]
    • Dead skin cells will clog pores and enhance their appearance, so it is best to use a natural exfoliant to help reduce the appearance of pores.
    • This method is recommended by beauty experts and estheticians.
    • Baking soda also has some antiseptic properties that will help to ward off breakouts.
  2. This is what you will massage on your face to exfoliate. [13]
    • Take approximately 4 teaspoons of baking soda and 1 tablespoon (14.8 ml) of water.
    • Mix these together until they make a thin paste.
    • Let the mixture sit for about 2 minutes.
  3. You can do this by splashing water on it or wiping it with a wet cloth. [14]
    • The exfoliant will stick to your face too much if you don't moisten it before you use the product.
    • You don't want your face to be dripping wet, but damp.
    • Having a thin layer of moisture on your face will help the exfoliant to loosen dead skin cells from the surface of your skin.
  4. Massage in small circles. [15]
    • Take care around your eyelids, as you don't want to get this product in your eye.
    • Make sure you massage into the skin under your chin and on your neck.
    • Do this for 3 minutes.
  5. That will ensure none of the baking soda is left on your face.
    • You don't want any baking soda residue on your face. It will dry out and can irritate your skin.
    • The cold water will help to close your pores after a good cleansing from the baking soda, similar t how cold water will close your hair shaft.
    • Pat your face dry with a clean towel.
  6. This will help to keep your skin free of dead cells and reduce the appearance of your pores.
    • If you have dry or acne prone skin, you should avoid doing this every week.
    • Those with sensitive skin can opt for a bi-weekly treatment.
    • Follow up with a light moisturizer.
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Expert Q&A

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  • Question
    Can you really shrink your pores?
    Laura Martin
    Licensed Cosmetologist
    Laura Martin is a Licensed Cosmetologist based in Milledgeville, Georgia. She has been working as a hair stylist since 2007, and began a career as a cosmetology teacher in 2013. She worked as a teacher at Arrojo Cosmetology School, teaching cosmetology practices, hairstyling, and hair color application. She also brought her cosmetology expertise to her work as a staff writer for fashion blog Style Noted, writing pieces related to hair and fashion. She received an MFA in Creative Writing from Georgia College & State University, where she was also an English Teaching Fellow. Additionally, she received a BA in Creative Writing and Literature from New York University.
    Laura Martin
    Licensed Cosmetologist
    Expert Answer
    Clean pores in hydrated, pH-balanced skin will appear smaller. However, you cannot make your pores smaller.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
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  • Question
    What helps shrink pores?
    Laura Martin
    Licensed Cosmetologist
    Laura Martin is a Licensed Cosmetologist based in Milledgeville, Georgia. She has been working as a hair stylist since 2007, and began a career as a cosmetology teacher in 2013. She worked as a teacher at Arrojo Cosmetology School, teaching cosmetology practices, hairstyling, and hair color application. She also brought her cosmetology expertise to her work as a staff writer for fashion blog Style Noted, writing pieces related to hair and fashion. She received an MFA in Creative Writing from Georgia College & State University, where she was also an English Teaching Fellow. Additionally, she received a BA in Creative Writing and Literature from New York University.
    Laura Martin
    Licensed Cosmetologist
    Expert Answer
    Pore size is genetic. Pores can be stretched if they are constantly clogged or from forceful extractions but you can't shrink your pores. Keeping skin clean and hydrated will minimize the appearance of pores. Cool temperatures can also provide a temporary quick-fix.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
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    Not Helpful 1 Helpful 2
  • Question
    How can I reduce pores on my face?
    Laura Martin
    Licensed Cosmetologist
    Laura Martin is a Licensed Cosmetologist based in Milledgeville, Georgia. She has been working as a hair stylist since 2007, and began a career as a cosmetology teacher in 2013. She worked as a teacher at Arrojo Cosmetology School, teaching cosmetology practices, hairstyling, and hair color application. She also brought her cosmetology expertise to her work as a staff writer for fashion blog Style Noted, writing pieces related to hair and fashion. She received an MFA in Creative Writing from Georgia College & State University, where she was also an English Teaching Fellow. Additionally, she received a BA in Creative Writing and Literature from New York University.
    Laura Martin
    Licensed Cosmetologist
    Expert Answer
    You cannot change the number or size of your pores. But, using a blurring primer is a great way to minimize their appearance.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
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    Not Helpful 3 Helpful 2
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      References

      1. ↑ http://www.womenshealthmag.com/beauty/how-to-shrink-pores
      2. ↑ http://www.womenshealthmag.com/beauty/how-to-shrink-pores
      3. ↑ http://www.womenshealthmag.com/beauty/how-to-shrink-pores
      4. ↑ http://www.womenshealthmag.com/beauty/how-to-shrink-pores
      5. ↑ http://www.womenshealthmag.com/beauty/how-to-shrink-pores
      6. ↑ http://www.womenshealthmag.com/beauty/how-to-shrink-pores
      7. ↑ http://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/acne/understanding-acne-treatment#1
      8. ↑ http://www.prevention.com/beauty/worst-beauty-products-your-skin
      9. ↑ http://www.womenshealthmag.com/beauty/how-to-shrink-pores
      1. ↑ http://www.huffingtonpost.com/organic-authoritycom/apple-cider-vinegar-beauty_b_1924171.html
      2. ↑ http://www.healthyandnaturalworld.com/witch-hazel-for-acne/
      3. ↑ http://www.womansday.com/style-beauty/beauty-tips-products/natural-beauty-2#slide-6
      4. ↑ http://www.womansday.com/style-beauty/beauty-tips-products/natural-beauty-2#slide-6
      5. ↑ http://www.womansday.com/style-beauty/beauty-tips-products/natural-beauty-2#slide-6
      6. ↑ http://www.womansday.com/style-beauty/beauty-tips-products/natural-beauty-2#slide-6

      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      To minimize pores naturally, start by making a thin paste with 4 teaspoons of baking soda and 1 tablespoon of water, then letting it sit for 2 minutes. Next, moisten your face with water and massage the paste onto your face and neck for 3 minutes to remove the dead skin cells. After you’ve massaged in the paste, rinse if off with warm water to remove any residue. Finally, splash cold water on your face to close your pores before patting your face dry with a clean towel. For more tips from our Beauty co-author, including how to make a natural skin toner with lemon juice, keep reading!

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      Reader Success Stories

      • Roxy Ryan

        Dec 10, 2017

        "The toner made with apple cider vinegar and the other made with lemon juice was found effective by me!"
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