Photo: Jupiterimages/Polka Dot/Getty Images
The pores on your face can become enlarged for lots of reasons: sun damage, genetics, natural skin oils and makeup residue. Whatever the reason, large pores can poke holes in any girl's skin confidence. Pore-reducing facial cleansers are easy to make at home, and cost a lot less than their store-bought counterparts. Grab some natural ingredients and get your skin -- pores and all -- back on the right track.
Clarifying Cleansing Mask
Bentonite is a type of clay -- available at health stores -- that helps remove impurities from the skin. The addition of jojoba oil and apple cider vinegar helps tighten skin and break down dirt that causes blackheads and enlarged pores. Mix 2 tbsp. bentonite clay, 1 tbsp. apple cider vinegar and 1 tbsp. jojoba oil in a small bowl. Whisk with a fork until the ingredients are creamy. Apply to dry skin with your fingers and let the mask sit for 20 minutes, then remove with a cotton washcloth and lukewarm water.
Tea Toner
Toners can be used in place of a traditional cleanser to tighten skin, reduce the appearance of enlarged pores and give skin a tingly, clean feeling. Simply boil 1 cup spring water and steep 2 tbsp. organic green tea (loose or tea bags) for 4 minutes. Let the mixture cool completely, then apply to dry skin with a cotton swab or cotton washcloth. There's no need to rinse this toner off. For extra-oily skin, add 1 tsp. witch hazel to the mixture.
Citrus Scrub
Your favorite breakfast juice contains alpha hydroxy acids that remove dead skin, promote even skin tone and shrink pores. Mix 2 tbsp. lemon juice, 2 tbsp. orange juice and 1/4 cup cornmeal in a small bowl. Apply the mixture to damp skin and gently scrub with your fingertips for 2 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with warm water.
Exfoliating Fig Cleanser
Figs are chock-full of skin-clearing vitamins and antioxidants that can deep-clean enlarged pores, while baking soda gently buffs away dirt, oil and dead skin cells. Puree two whole figs in a blender or food processor, then stir in 2 tbsp. baking soda and 2 tbsp. plain yogurt. Apply the mixture to dry skin and massage with your fingertips. After 10 minutes, remove the cleansing mask with lukewarm water and a cotton washcloth.
