The Absolute Best Primers for Minimizing Large Pores — Our Picks

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Many people who have larger or more visible pores are particularly sensitive. As much as we would love it if there were a magical potion out there to shrink pores for good, that’s just not possible (at least, not yet). There are many ways to make your pores appear smaller. It is important to find the right skincare regimen that will help reduce their size over time. For a quick fix, you can score the right primer!

How can a primer help reduce my pores?

Though pore size can be determined by genetics or other factors, it’s more common to see larger pores in oily skin types. According to an episode of The Science of Beauty podcast, your pores will look their largest when the oil glands are most active — which you’ll usually find in the T-zone area. Your pores will be more visible the more oily you are in the area.

So, if you want to get that under control fast, a mattifying primer that’s oil-free is the absolute best option. You will have a flawless foundation application, thanks to this primer. But that said, dry skin types can have large pores too — in which case you’ll want to go for a more hydrating formula. This is true whether you have combination or normal skin. Though it may not be a long-term solution, using any one of the primers that we’ve picked out for you below may become your new BFF when it comes to keeping your pores in check. Keep reading for all the details!

Catrice Prime & Fine Poreless Blur Primer

If you have combination skin or skin that’s on the drier side, this may be an excellent primer for you. While it’s mostly oil-free, it does contain sustainable palm oil to help deliver hydration to the skin for a natural finish. If you’re not a fan of matte primers but want to pore-minimizing benefits, reach for this one!

Pros

• Blurring skin formula
• Natural, soft-focus finish
• Affordable

Cons

Available at

Dr. Brandt Pores no More Pore Refiner Primer

This primer is great for oily skin! It’s designed to make larger pores instantly look smaller and create a smooth canvas that’s prepped for foundation. This primer has a matte finish so it’s great for those who don’t like shiny skin.

Pros

• Matte finish
• Shine control
• May shrink pores over time

Cons

• Expensive
• Sensitive skin may be irritated

Available at: Ulta, Walmart, Sephora, Amazon

Elizabeth Mott Thank Me Later Face Primer

This primer is cheaper than higher-end products, according to shoppers. It has a matte formula to help control oily skin and create a flawless complexion that’s prepped for makeup. It’s lightweight and guaranteed to last all day.

Pros

• Affordable price
• Lightweight, non-greasy feeling
• Evens out skin texture

Cons

• Super oily skin may not be suitable

Available at: Amazon, Walmart

Maybelline Baby Skin Instant Pore Eraser Primer

This primer may be our most popular out of all the primers we have! With over 53,000 reviews on Amazon alone, it’s amassed a huge following for a number of reasons. Shoppers say you’re getting an amazing bang for your buck with this primer, especially if you have extra oily skin that needs a helping hand. Some reviewers even said that they use this primer alone if they’re going for a more natural, poreless complexion!

Pros

• Super affordable
• Can be worn by itself

Cons

• Silicone can clog pores

Available at: Target and Ulta

Benefit Cosmetics Pro Balm Face Primer

It wouldn’t be a proper roundup without mentioning this OG pore minimizing primer! Since this product has launched, it’s captured the hearts of beauty lovers all over. The translucent formula instantly shrinks pores and mattifies the skin to reduce oiliness.

Pros

• All skin types are welcome
• Can be worn by itself

Cons

• Higher price tag
• For extra oily skin, may not be matte enough

Available at: Amazon. Sephora. Ulta. Target. Nordstrom

TOUCH IN SOOL No Pore Blem Primer

This primer is perhaps the most overlooked of all the primers on this list. It has a gel formula that’s hydrating, leaving your skin with a luminous blurred finish — as opposed to a more matte appearance. It also contains collagen, which may increase skin elasticity and help with anti-aging.

Pros

• Gel formula
• Natural luminous finish
• Collagen-infused formula
• Affordable

Cons

• Extra oily skin may not be able to use this product

Available at: Amazon, Walmart

Wet n Wild Prime Focus Primer Cream Serum

What sets this primer apart is the fact that it’s a skin serum as well. The formula sinks deeply into the face to not only minimize pores and prep your skin for makeup application — but to improve skin texture, brighten up your complexion and protect your epidermis from environmental stressors!

Pros

• All skin types are welcome
• Additional skin benefits
• Affordable price

Cons

• Some don’t love the formula’s scent

Available at: Ulta Target, Amazon, and Amazon

Yves Saint Laurent NU BLOTTING LOTION Pore Minimizer & Mattifying Primer

Though this is a luxury beauty product, anyone with super oily skin who’s also prone to breakouts may find that it’s worth every penny. The formula contains salicylic acid. It may be used to treat and prevent breakouts. You get the matte finish you desire and a poreless appearance. 

Pros

• Blemish & oil control
• Color-correcting formulation
• Gel formula

Cons

Available at: Sephora

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Take a look at our other picks and deals Here!