Ways to Minimize Your Pores

• Keep your skin clean to prevent the accumulation of dirt and oil. Always remove your makeup and wash your face before going to sleep. Wash your face with a gentle cleanser each morning. You may have to experiment with two or three cleanser brands to find one that works well with your skin type. Follow up with a toner. Apply the toner to your face with a cotton ball. The toner induces a constricting action in your pores. Finally, use a non-clogging moisturizer to keep your skin soft and in good condition. Use moisturizers with sun screen protection. Keep your pores minimized by faithfully following a daily skin cleansing routine.
  
  Be choosy about the brand of makeup you use. Buy products that are labeled for use on sensitive skin or non-clogging. Many makeup formulas settle in pores and make them look larger. This will also lead to more breakouts. Avoid wearing makeup that is a different color from your natural skin tone. Take advantage of free makeup seminars and makeovers when offered. The makeup artist will help you select a shade that is right for you. Free makeup sessions are offered in shopping malls at makeup counters. They are especially popular around Christmas and Mother's Day.
  
  Shrinking your pores may be as easy as taking a trip to your kitchen. Use tomatoes to create a face mask that cleans and minimizes the appearance of pores. To make, blend one tomato (skin off) in a food processor. Prepare your face for the treatment by splashing it with warm water. Gently pat your face dry and smooth on the tomato puree. Lay down and rest for about ten minutes while the ingredients in the tomato go to work. Rinse off with warm water followed by a cold water splash. Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants increase the production of collagen and elastin and promote smooth, youthful skin.
  
  Exfoliate on a regular basis to remove dead skin cells. Visit your dermatologist for a professional treatment or use one of the many at-home microderabrasion treatments. Facial scrubs fortified with oatmeal also work well. Test at-home treatments on a small area of your face. Some brands can burn or cause rashes. Read package directions and do not leave the product on the face for more than the recommended time. If your skin feels raw to the point of being painful do not use the product again.