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How to Stop Foundation Settling in Pores

Published Categorized as Makeup Tips

You work so hard to perfect your makeup look, but your foundation still ends up settling into your pores. If you can relate to this, you know how frustrating it can be to deal with a polka-dotted look on your face when a smooth and flawless look was what you were aiming for. Time to change that and learn how to stop foundation settling in pores! Keep reading, and we’ll share our top tips to help you apply your foundation and keep it from settling into your pores.

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Table of Contents

NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Pore Filler Blurring Primer, Vegan Face Primer (Packaging May Vary) Beige 0.64 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)

How to Stop Foundation Settling in Pores

How do you keep foundation from settling into pores?  If your foundation always seems to settle in your pores after you apply it, there are a few different things you may need to try.  Use the suggestions below to prevent that dreaded textured foundation look.

  • Start with clean skin:  Starting with clean skin is very important before applying foundation.  If your skin isn’t clean, there will be more oil and debris in your pores, which can irritate your skin, lead to acne, and make it more likely that the foundation you choose will settle into your pores.
  • Exfoliate your face:  Exfoliation is also very important for clearing your pores and removing any dirt, oil, or other debris that may be clogging them.  If your pores are clogged, your foundation definitely won’t sit right, plus it may cause more irritation.  If you have oily skin, trying a salicylic acid exfoliator, such as the Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant, is a good choice to help keep your pores clear.
  • Keep your face moisturized:  Skin that isn’t hydrated and dry won’t be smooth.  If you don’t already follow a consistent routine for moisturizing your face, that is one simple change you make right away.  You should moisturize your face before applying makeup and before you go to bed each evening.  We like the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel and CeraVe Moisturizing Cream.
  • Choose the right type of foundation:  Next, you need to choose the best foundation type for your skin.  Some foundations are better at minimizing pores, while others may make your pores appear even larger.  Many wonder whether powder or liquid foundations are better for large pores.  Silicone or powder foundations are typically best for those with large pores.  Some liquid foundations, cream foundations, or shimmery foundations may not be ideal if you have large pores that you want to make look smaller.
  • Apply foundation correctly:  Finally, don’t forget to learn how to apply your foundation correctly to minimize the appearance of your pores and prevent the foundation from settling in them.  Round, dense foundation brushes often work best for those with large pores, since they can help hide the pores and create a more flawless and smooth finish.

Why Does Foundation Settle Into Pores?

Learning why your foundation settles into your pores can help you understand how to stop foundation from getting cakey and ensure your face looks flawless all day.  Proper application of foundation is key for preventing it from settling into your pores.

If your foundation is settling into your pores, look at the tips we shared above. It may be that your skin and pores aren’t clean before you begin applying your foundation or that your skin is too dry and needs to be more hydrated. If you haven’t been using primer when applying foundation, that could also be the cause behind your foundation settling into your pores.

Some common reasons that foundation settles into pores include:

  • Using powder products over a liquid foundation before the liquid foundation is set
  • Having large pores
  • Pores that have become large due to age
  • Using too much foundation
  • Choosing a foundation that is too dark for your skin

Finally, if you aren’t using the right type of foundation or aren’t applying it correctly, that could certainly be a reason why it is settling into your pores.  If you don’t think you have the best foundation for your large pores, keep reading; we’ve highlighted a few top selections that are less likely to settle into your pores below.

How Do You Get Foundation Out of Your Pores?

If you have foundation in your pores and don’t have the smooth makeup look you desire, you need to know how to remove the foundation from your pores.  The tips below can also be helpful when you’re ready to take your makeup off at the end of the day and want to ensure that nothing is left behind to possibly clog your pores.

  • Use a face cleanser that is designed for removing makeup.  Let the cleanser sit on your skin for at least 15 seconds after massaging it and before rinsing it off.
  • Work gently.  Don’t scrub too hard to avoid damaging your skin.
  • If you have large pores, use a face steamer to open up your pores and break down the makeup.  Doing this will ensure your cleanser can penetrate the pores and really get rid of any makeup that may be trapped in them.

Foundation That Doesn’t Sink into Pores

Following the tips shared above to keep your skin exfoliated, clean, and hydrated before applying foundation is important when trying to stop it from settling into your pores.  However, if you aren’t using the right foundation, you may still notice that you can’t achieve the look you desire.  Try one of the foundations listed below alongside the tips we shared earlier to achieve a truly smooth and flawless look.

Lancome Teint Idole Ultra 24H Long Wear Matte Foundation

This is an oil-free foundation with a formulation that aims to hide imperfections and deliver 24-hours of buildable full coverage.  It has a breathable and lightweight matte finish that will feel and look great over your pores.  There are 50 shades to choose from, so nearly everyone should be able to find their perfect match.

Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless Liquid Foundation

The name says it all for this liquid foundation from Maybelline.  The medium coverage foundation is available in 40 different shades and is designed to minimize the appearance of pores and eliminate excess shine.  It has an oil-free and non-comedogenic formula.

Clinique Stay-Matte Oil-Free Makeup Foundation

The Stay-Matte Oil-Free Foundation from Clinique is ideal for users with combination or oily skin and large pores.  Its formula can keep face oils under control and absorb odors, leaving behind a gorgeous matte finish that can last up to eight hours.  20 different shades are available.

Estee Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Foundation

Individuals with large pores who have tried the Double Wear Foundation from Estee Lauder are very pleased with how great it looks on their face and that it doesn’t clog their pores.  This foundation, which is available in 55 different shades, offers 24-hours of lasing matte coverage.  Its oil-free and oil-controlling formula is ideal for those with combination or oily skin.

IT Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream

Last, but not least, you may also like the Your Skin But Better CC Cream from IT Cosmetics.  This is a full-coverage foundation specifically designed to reduce the appearance of large pores, acne scars, wrinkles, dark circles, and other blemishes and imperfections.  In addition to providing a smooth, poreless look, the CC cream also includes SPF 50+ protection.

FAQs

How can you make your pores look smaller?

To make your pores look smaller, there are a few different things you can try.  One idea is to make sure you wash your face regularly to remove any oils, bacteria, or dirt that can get into your pores and make them bigger.  Developing a consistent face washing routine (without over washing) can help make your pores smaller over time.
Another idea to try to make your pores look smaller is to ice your face.  Placing ice cubes on your pores and letting them sit there for about 20 seconds can tighten your skin and shrink your pores.
Finally, you can also try to cut back on fatty and sugary foods that can make your pores bigger. Instead, choose more fruits and vegetables and other healthier foods.

How can you close your pores naturally?

One home remedy that may help close your pores is to make a baking soda paste.  Use about three tablespoons of baking soda and add enough warm water to make a thick paste.  Then, rub the paste over your face using circular motions for about 30 minutes.  Repeat this every day until your pores become noticeably smaller.

Why does foundation settle into pores?

Some common reasons that foundation settles into pores include: using powder products over a liquid foundation before the liquid foundation is set, having genetically large pores, pores that have become large due to age, using too much foundation, or choosing a foundation that is too dark for your skin.

How do you get foundation out of your pores?

Use a face cleanser designed to clean out pores. Wash face gently and thoroughly. You can also use a face steamer.

Keeping Foundation Away from Pores: Closing Thoughts

Doing your makeup is not easy.  Many individuals make mistakes with applying their foundation and keeping it from settling in their pores. So you certainly shouldn’t feel alone.  Getting your foundation to look like a second skin is an achievable goal, however.  And, we hope the tips and suggestions we’ve shared will help you reach this goal and perfect your makeup routine.

For more foundation and face makeup tips, check out these related posts on our blog:

By Ellis James

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