By now, we all know that you can’t actually shrink your pores. What you can do, though, is take the right steps to keep pore appearance at a minimum:

1). Cleanse twice a day, always.

Our skin often sports makeup for 12 hours or more every day, and when we’re out and about, we’re subjected to pollution and other types of environmental stress. That’s why you should think twice about how to unclog pores in your nighttime cleansing routine! In the evening, remove every trace of makeup and follow with a gentle cleanser. In the morning, cleanse again to wash away any oil, hair product or skin cells that may have transferred to your face from your pillow overnight.

Our pick: LovelySkin LUXE Clarifiying Gel Cleanser

2). Exfoliate on the regular.

Exfoliating may just be the quickest way to smaller pores because it removes dulling, pore-clogging impurities from the skin’s surface. You’ll also enjoy an all-around brighter, smoother and more even complexion. Depending on your skin type, you can exfoliate anywhere from once a week to three or more times a week, and there are countless cleansers, serums, lotions, masks and peels to choose from.

Our pick: LovelySkin LUXE Exfoliating Gel Mild 11%

3). Grab a makeup primer.

Makeup has a tendency to settle in any type of skin depression, including large pores, fine lines, wrinkles and acne scars. To create a smooth, even canvas for foundation, apply a silicone-based primer. Silicone has a light, silky texture that smooths over skin to “fill in” imperfections for the best application.

Our pick: La Roche-Posay Anthelios 50 Daily Anti-Aging Primer with Sunscreen

4). Avoid pore-clogging products.

Low-quality skin care and makeup items sometimes contain inexpensive “filler” ingredients, like mineral oil and petrolatum, two notorious pore-wreckers. Invest in high-quality products, and be sure to check the label for the word, “non-comedogenic,” which means that the product is specially formulated without heavy, pore-clogging additives. We also recommend mineral-based makeup since it sits on top of skin.

Our pick: jane iredale Rose Gold Refillable Compact with PurePressed Base Refill

5). Make an appointment with your dermatologist.

Pore size is genetic and can’t always be changed, but if you’re constantly dealing with blockages, blackheads and whiteheads, it might be time to schedule an appointment with your dermatologist. Professional peels, laser treatments and prescription-strength Retin-A are all powerful options that can help you achieve a healthy, beautiful complexion.

Do you have a question about how to unclog pores? Let us know in the comments below, or tell us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram using #LovelySkin!