How can I minimise open pores? (30-40)

Open pores are a nuisance whatever age you happen to be and prevention – via a rigorous and regular effective cleansing routine – is better than cure; however, there are now a number of products on the market which can help minimise the appearance of enlarged pores.

A serum applied before your daily moisturiser is one way to treat open pores, while also guarding against the signs of ageing. Lancôme Primordiale Skin Defence protects against free radicals, which damage the skin, while also treating open pores and fine lines every time you use it.

Estée Lauder Idealist Pore Minimizing Skin Refinisher, £34, is another serum with brilliant pore-perfecting powers. With an instant pore-tightening effect, the refining lotion gets rid of flaky skin cells and helps smooth out the skin's surface.

Regular exfoliation is also a good way to tackle unsightly pores. Bliss Pore Perfecting Facial Polish, £24, thoroughly cleans the skin, getting rid of dead skin cells and excess oil, which can clog pores and enlarge them over time. Use it three times a week, in-between your regular cleanser, for the best results.

Our favourite budget buy for those suffering from pore problems is Boots Botanics Pore Perfecting Day SPF15 Moisture Lotion, which costs a credit-crunch-friendly £3.99. Perfect for slightly oily skin types, it helps control shine throughout the day and provides a great make-up base.

Finally, we know it isn't glamorous in any shape or form, but you still can't beat a weekly unclogging session with Biore Pore Perfect Deep Cleansing Pore Strips, £7.99. We simply don't know a quicker way to get rid of blackheads.

Thursday 2 October 2008

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