As a skincare expert, I recommend this often-overlooked skincare product for addressing enlarged pores.

      When you search for 'treatments for large pores' on Google, the usual options like chemical peels, scrubs, clay masks, acid-based toners, and extractions come up first. While these treatments can be effective under the right conditions, they may not be suitable for everyone’s skin, as many people cannot tolerate the potential side effects, and incorrect or excessive use can actually make enlarged pores appear worse. As an esthetician, I often check the moisturizer a client is using when they express concerns about large pores. In about 99% of cases, they are not using one at all, due to the long-held myth that moisturizers clog pores and contribute to breakouts, which is simply not true.

      In fact, neglecting to moisturize can make pores seem larger. Dehydrated skin usually becomes thin and stretches, leading to more visible pores. Additionally, the lack of moisture in dehydrated skin causes it to produce extra oil in an attempt to compensate, resulting in blocked pores that become enlarged. The takeaway? Moisturizing is crucial, especially if you have large pores.

      Therefore, I typically suggest starting with a hydrating toner, serum, and moisturizer for clients looking to minimize the appearance of large pores, regardless of whether they have oily or dry skin. They’ll see noticeable improvements in their overall skin health and glow within a few weeks, as well as a reduction in the size and visibility of their pores. With improved skin health, clients can also better tolerate more intensive pore-minimizing treatments for a comprehensive approach to reduce pore size.

      Why is it important to moisturize if you have large pores? Proper hydration is vital for skin health and can help prevent dryness that makes pores appear more pronounced. "Dehydrated skin often compensates by producing more oil, which can cause pores to clog and stand out more," explains Charlene Dehaven, clinical director at iS Clinical. "A well-formulated lightweight moisturizer with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid can help balance oil production and diminish the look of pores." For optimal results, choose an oil-free, water-based, non-comedogenic moisturizer that avoids known pore-clogging components.

      So, can you tighten enlarged pores? First, it’s essential to grasp what causes enlarged pores. According to Dehaven, "Enlarged pores are affected by various factors, including genetics, excessive oil production, reduced skin elasticity, and environmental damage." People with oily skin tend to have more visible pores due to the accumulation of excess oil and debris. Also, as collagen and elastin levels decrease with aging or UV exposure, skin loses its firmness, which can further highlight pore visibility.

      Dehaven notes that effective skincare can minimize the appearance of pores. "Regular use of ingredients like retinol can promote collagen production, helping to firm the skin and lessen pore visibility," she explains. "Chemical exfoliants like salicylic acid help remove excess oil and debris, while advanced treatments, including laser therapy, microneedling, and chemical peels, can enhance skin texture and reduce visible enlarged pores." To avoid clogged and enlarged pores, she advises steering clear of heavy, pore-clogging ingredients like mineral oil, lanolin, and some silicones. "Harsh alcohol-based products can strip the skin, triggering increased oil production, while the overuse of thick occlusive creams or overly aggressive scrubs can exacerbate pore congestion and irritation," she adds.

      In summary, while you cannot completely eliminate or shrink pores, you can make them less noticeable and stop them from stretching further and becoming more permanently enlarged. Keeping the skin well-hydrated can help to clear pores of excess oil and prevent clogging, which makes them appear larger. Well-hydrated skin helps pores look more 'closed' and less prominent, as they are not stretched from dehydration.

      **Best Moisturisers for Large Pores:**

      - **Best for Oily Skin:** iS Clinical Moisturising Complex (£98)

      - **Best for Dry Skin:** Dr. Sam's Flawless Moisturiser (£50)

      - **Best for Mature Skin:** La Roche-Posay Effaclar A.Z Gel Cream Moisturiser (£33)

      - **Best for Dull Skin:** The Inkey List Omega Water Cream (£11)

      - **Best for Dehydrated Skin:** Alpha-H High Tide Water Cream (£45)

      - **Best for Combination Skin:** Skin + Me Light Moisturiser (£22)

      - **Best for Breakout-Prone Skin:** Medik8 Clarity Peptides (£45)

      - **Best for Sensitive Skin:** CeraVe Oil Control Moisturising Gel-Cream (£17)

      - **Best for Under Makeup:** Paula's Choice Pro-Collagen Peptide Plumping Moisturiser (£49)

      1. **iS Clinical Moisturising Complex**: Ideal for oily skin, this lightweight moisturizer contains retinol, known for its effects on aging and breakouts,