The Best Foundations for Large Pores for 2024
Welcome to the best foundations for large pores in 2024! I’m so glad you’re here!
When achieving a flawless makeup look, the right foundation can make all the difference, especially if you’re dealing with skin concerns like large pores (and wrinkles too!)
However, finding the best foundation that suits your skin type and addresses these issues can sometimes feel like looking for a needle in a haystack.
The good news is I’ve done the heavy lifting for you.
From high-end to drugstore, from full-coverage or matte to sheer and luminous finish, we’ll provide all the insights you need to decide on the best foundation for large pores and wrinkles.
So, let’s jump in!
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The Best Foundation for Large Pores
What are Large Pores?
Did you know that pores serve a crucial purpose?
They’re the entryway to hair follicles and secrete oils to moisturize our skin. However, when these pores are larger than usual, they can become a beauty concern for many.
What are Wrinkles?
Ah, wrinkles! Those pesky lines and folds that appear as we age. They’re primarily a result of the natural aging process, sun damage, and repetitive facial expressions.
Finding the Right Type of Foundation for Large Pores (and wrinkles)
A good foundation can minimize the appearance of large pores and wrinkles, providing a smooth canvas for the rest of your makeup.
When dealing with large pores and wrinkles, it’s important to remember that foundation isn’t one-size-fits-all.
Different formulas can offer varying benefits.
Here’s a rundown of some types you may come across:
Liquid Foundation
These are incredibly popular due to their versatility. They come in different finishes – matte, dewy, and natural- and offer various coverage levels.
Cream Foundation
Known for their rich, moisturizing properties, cream foundations can provide full coverage. They’re perfect for dry or mature skin, as they help to hydrate and smooth out wrinkles.
Powder Foundation
A powder foundation can be a good choice if you have oily skin. It helps absorb excess oil and gives a matte finish.
Just be careful if you have dry skin or deep wrinkles, as it can accentuate these features.
Stick Foundation
These are perfect for on-the-go touch-ups. They usually offer full coverage and are good for disguising pores and fine lines.
Mineral Foundation
For those with sensitive skin, mineral foundations can be a blessing. They’re free from irritants and can provide light to medium coverage. Mineral foundations can help reduce the appearance of pores without clogging them.
Tinted Moisturizer/BB/CC Creams
These might be your go-to if you prefer lighter, more natural coverage. They offer skin benefits like SPF and hydration while providing a light tint to even skin tone.
They won’t conceal large pores or wrinkles as effectively as full-coverage options, but they’re perfect for “no makeup” makeup days.
Related article: Tinted Moisturizer Vs Foundation
Finding the Perfect Shade.
Finding the right shade of foundation is as important as finding the right formula.
After all, you’re looking for a natural, flawless finish that enhances your skin, not a mask that hides it. So, let’s chat about how to ensure you get the perfect shade match.
Understanding Undertones and Different Shades
Your skin’s undertone is the color beneath the surface.
You can be the same skin color as someone else but have a different undertone, which is why foundation looks different on different people.
There are generally three categories:
Cool Undertones
If your veins appear blue or purple, you likely have cool undertones. Your skin may burn more easily in the sun. Look for a foundation with a pink, red, or blue base.
Warm Undertones
If your veins look green, you probably have warm undertones. Your skin may tan easily. Look for a foundation with a yellow or gold base.
Neutral Undertones
You might have neutral undertones if you can’t tell if your veins are more blue or green. A foundation with a balance of yellow and pink tones will likely work best for you.
Tips to find the perfect match
Once you’ve got an idea of your undertones, it’s time to start testing.
Here are some tips for finding the perfect foundation match:
Test in Natural Light
Store lighting can be misleading. Always look at foundation shades in natural light for the truest match.
Test on Your Jawline
Swatch the foundation on your jawline and blend it out. This area allows you to see how the foundation will look against your face and neck for the most natural match.
Give it Time
Foundation can oxidize or change color as it interacts with your skin’s natural oils. Wear it for a few hours to see how it changes before making your final decision.
When in Doubt, Go Lighter
If you’re stuck between two shades, go with the lighter one. It’s easier to deepen a foundation shade with bronzer than to lighten a too-dark shade.
When in Doubt, Go Lighter and Stick with Neutral
Neutral Shades: For those who find it tricky to identify their undertones or for those who find they sit somewhere between warm and cool, neutral shades are a fantastic option.
These foundations balance yellow and pink tones, aiming to suit a wider range of complexions.
A neutral shade can often be a safe bet when in doubt, as it tends to blend seamlessly with most skin tones.
Best Foundations for Large Pores and Wrinkles in 2023
The Best Skin-loving Foundation for Large Pores
IT Cosmetics Your Skin But Better Foundation + Skincare.
This innovative product is a perfect marriage of makeup and skincare.
It offers buildable, medium coverage that minimizes the appearance of pores and imperfections and is infused with hydrating and skin-loving active ingredients like hyaluronic acid and aloe vera extract.
Over time, these ingredients help to refine and smooth skin texture, providing benefits even after you’ve removed your makeup.
The result? A foundation that makes your skin look better instantly and improves its appearance over time.
The finish is natural and radiant, leaving skin looking fresh and healthy.
The IT Cosmetics Your Skin But Better Foundation + Skincare is a fantastic choice for anyone wanting a foundation that works overtime to enhance their complexion while offering a beautiful makeup look.
Purchase this Foundation for Large Pores: Sephora, Kohl’s and Ulta Beauty
Best Long-Wear Foundation for Large Pores
Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Makeup
This superstar is beloved for its long-wearing, flawless coverage.
It’s perfect for oily skin types, as it controls oil and shine, minimizing the appearance of pores.
If we’re talking about foundations that hold up against the test of time while providing impeccable coverage, Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Makeup deserves a standing ovation.
This foundation is renowned for its impressive staying power — it claims 24-hour wear and delivers.
This foundation offers medium to full coverage and a natural matte finish, making it fantastic for blurring out large pores and fine lines.
The oil-free formula is excellent for people with acne-prone or oily skin as it controls shine and resists smudging and sweat.
It comes in over 55 shades with various undertones, so finding a match is a breeze.
If you’re looking for a foundation that stays put, offers excellent coverage, and looks natural while minimizing the appearance of large pores and wrinkles, this foundation could be your new best friend!
Purchase this Foundation for Large Pores: Sephora, Ulta Beauty and Walmart
Best Foundation for Large Pores and Sensitive Skin
Clinique Even Better Foundation
This foundation is like a treat for your skin. Not only does it provide moderate, buildable coverage, but it’s also formulated to improve skin’s brightness and texture over time actively.
One of the biggest draws of this foundation is its hydrating formula, making it suitable for dry to combination skin types.
It glides onto the skin beautifully, minimizing the appearance of pores and fine lines with a natural, glowing finish that lasts all day.
As with all Clinique products, the Even Better Makeup is allergy-tested and 100% fragrance-free, so it’s a good pick for sensitive skin.
So, if you’re looking for a foundation that provides coverage and carries skin-improving benefits, Clinique Even Better Makeup is worth a try! I know you’re gonna love it.
Key Benefits of Clinique Even Better Foundation:
- Buildable formula
- soft, dewy finish
- great coverage and a natural look
Purchase this Foundation for Large Pores: Sephora, Ulta Beauty, and Target
Best Matte Foundation for Large Pores
Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation
The Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation became an instant hit when it launched and for good reason.
It offers medium to full coverage that’s buildable and long-lasting, ensuring you stay shine-free throughout the day.
Its oil-free formula makes it a fantastic choice for those with oily skin types or anyone prone to midday shine.
The soft matte finish does a great job of blurring pores and imperfections for a smooth, photo-ready look.
It’s also resistant to sweat and humidity, so it’s a reliable choice for long wear or warmer climates.
With 50 shades, Fenty Beauty has made it its mission to cater to all skin tones and undertones. This means you’re almost guaranteed to find your perfect match, ensuring a flawless, natural-looking finish.
In short, if you’re after a long-lasting, matte foundation that works wonderfully with large pores, Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Soft Matte Longwear Foundation might be your ideal match!
Key Benefits of this Foundation:
- full-coverage foundation
- Smooth finish (matte look)
- Blurs pores nicely!
Purchase this Foundation for Large Pores: Sephora, Ulta Beauty, and Kohl’s
Best Drugstore Foundation for Large Pores
Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless Foundation
Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless Foundation is the best drugstore foundation for large pores!
Designed specifically for normal to oily skin, this foundation is a blessing for those who struggle with large pores. Its micro-powders control shine and blur pores for a smooth, poreless-looking finish. With medium coverage and a natural, matte finish, it keeps your skin looking flawlessly fresh without feeling heavy or looking cakey.
One of the best things about this foundation is its extensive shade range. With 40 shades to choose from, Maybelline has ensured there’s a Fit Me Foundation for almost everyone.
Additionally, the foundation is non-comedogenic, so it won’t clog pores. This is particularly important if you have acne-prone or sensitive skin.
In short, if you’re seeking a foundation that offers excellent performance at a wallet-friendly price, the Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless Foundation might fit the bill perfectly!
Purchase this Foundation for Large Pores: Target, Walmart, and Ulta Beauty
Best Foundation Oily Skin and Large Pores
NARS Soft Matte Complete Foundation
This amazing foundation is a stellar choice for anyone with large pores and wrinkles.
The high-pigment formula delivers full, buildable coverage, easily masking imperfections for a flawless finish.
And despite its full coverage, it feels incredibly lightweight on the skin – no cakey or heavy feeling here!
The soft matte finish is designed to resist oxidation and shine, making it perfect for those with oily or combination skin.
It controls oil without drying out the skin, ensuring a balanced, natural-looking finish that stays put.
A bonus feature of this foundation is its resistant properties. It’s transfer-proof and sweat-proof, making it perfect for special occasions and high-humidity weather.
The NARS Soft Matte Complete Foundation is a high-coverage, long-lasting foundation that can help achieve a smooth, flawless complexion, even for those with large pores.
Key Benefits of this Foundation for Large Pores:
- lightweight formula
- blurs the look of pores
Purchase this Foundation for Large Pores:
Best Hydrating Foundation for Large Pores
Dermablend Smooth Liquid Camo Hydrating Foundation
Dermablend Smooth Liquid Camo Hydrating Foundation is a high-performance, multi-tasking foundation.
This hydrating formula is a real winner for those with large pores, fine lines, or skin imperfections.
It offers buildable medium coverage to minimize the appearance of large pores and wrinkles, acne scars, and hyperpigmentation.
The finish is smooth and natural-looking and never cakey looking.
It’s got an SPF of 25, is dermatologist-tested, non-comedogenic, and fragrance-free!
Purchase this Foundation for Large Pores: Dillard’s, Macy’s, and Lovelyskin.com
The Best Pore minimizing Foundation for Face and Body
Dior Backstage Face & Body Foundation
If you’re looking for a foundation that delivers professional results with a natural finish, the Dior Backstage Face & Body Foundation could be the right foundation for you!
True to its name, it’s designed for both face and body to provide seamless coverage for imperfections, from large pores and fine lines to varicose veins or tattoos on your body.
A favorite among makeup artists, Its lightweight, waterproof formula provides buildable coverage – from a natural, sheer finish to medium coverage.
Despite its fluid texture, it’s incredibly long-lasting and resists sweat and humidity, ensuring your complexion looks fresh and flawless all day.
The Dior Backstage Face & Body Foundation is a versatile, high-performance foundation with a natural finish.
I highly recommend this foundation to anyone looking to minimize the appearance of large pores and wrinkles.
Key Benefits of this Foundation:
- An excellent option for pool days!
- A little goes a long way!
- It does a great job of minimizing the appearance of pores
Purchase this Pore Minimizing Foundation: Sephora, Dior.com, Walmart.com
Lancôme Teint Idôle Classic Long Wear Foundation
This lightweight foundation glides smoothly over the skin, blurring out those pesky pores and creating a more refined, airbrushed effect.
But that’s not all—this breathable foundation is long-lasting, packed, and contains skin-loving ingredients!
This liquid foundation is buildable, offering light to full coverage, helping to conceal and minimize fine lines, wrinkles, and skin imperfections.
Available in a wide shade range, it is fragrance-free and has an SPF of 15.
Purchase this Foundation for Large Pores: Sephora, Ulta Beauty, and Norstrom
Skincare for Large Pores and Wrinkles
A robust skincare routine is the backbone of healthy skin. A good skincare routine can help minimize the appearance of large pores and wrinkles. Here’s what you might want to include:
Cleansing
Start with a gentle cleanser to remove dirt, makeup, and excess oil. Clean pores appear smaller and lead to smoother skin.
Exfoliating
This is a game-changer. Regular exfoliation can remove dead skin cells and unclog pores.
Try an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) exfoliant for wrinkles, while beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) exfoliants are great for large pores.
I love Paula’s Choice exfoliating liquid!
Related article: Why Exfoliate? The Best Face Exfoliators around!
Serums
Lightweight but potent, serums can penetrate deeper into your skin.
Look for ones with ingredients like retinol, vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide for anti-aging and pore-minimizing benefits.
Moisturizing
Hydrated skin is plumper and healthier, which can minimize the appearance of wrinkles and pores. Choose a moisturizer appropriate for your skin type.
My favorite all-around moisturizer is CeraVe’s PM Facial Moisturizer. I use it day and night.
Sunscreen
Sun damage can enlarge pores and accelerate aging. Protect your skin daily with broad-spectrum sunscreen.
Currently, I am using this sunscreen. My dermatologist recommended it at my last appointment, and I am loving it!
Makeup Tips to Help Minimize Large Pores and Wrinkles
Once your skin is primed and ready, it’s makeup time! Here are some tips to get that flawless look
Priming
Primer is a miracle worker when dealing with wrinkles and large pores!
It fills in your pores and wrinkles, creating a smooth canvas for foundation. Look for a primer designed explicitly for blurring pores and fine lines.
My holy grail primer is Hourglass Veil Mineral Primer. It plays nice with my foundations filling in my large pores and a scar I have on my face like magic.
Related article: The Best Primers for Mature Skin
Concealer
A good concealer can rescue those stubborn areas where foundation might not be enough – think dark spots, blemishes, or under-eye circles.
Just a dab can significantly improve the look of these imperfections.
Try a peach- or orange-tinted concealer for dark circles to counteract the blue tones. For redness or blemishes, a green-tinted concealer can do the trick.
My favorite concealer is Lancôme Teint Idôle Ultra Wear Concealer.
It conceals imperfections like dark spots and undereye circles like a dream without settling into my fine lines and wrinkles.
Related article: The Best Concealers for Older Skin
Foundation Application
Apply your chosen foundation with a makeup brush in a circular motion. This will help ensure it fills your pores and wrinkles for a smooth appearance.
A brush gives you control over the coverage and helps distribute the foundation evenly.
Blending
A damp makeup sponge or beauty blender is an excellent tool for pressing the foundation into your skin and achieving a seamless blend.
Just remember to use a dabbing motion, not dragging.
Setting Your Makeup
Setting Powder
A light dusting of setting powder can lock your foundation in place and further minimize the appearance of pores and wrinkles.
Related article: The Best Setting Powders for Mature Skin
Finishing Spray
Finally, mist setting spray to set your makeup for the day. It keeps your foundation from settling into pores and wrinkles and gives your skin a fresh, dewy look.
I wrote an article about the best drugstore setting sprays if you want to hop over and take a peek. 🙂
And voila!
With these skincare and makeup tips, large pores and wrinkles can take a backseat.
Remember, everyone’s skin is different. Finding what works best for you might take a little trial and error.
Shop the best foundations for large pores
FAQs: The Best Foundation for Large Pores
Q: What type of foundation is best for large pores and wrinkles?
A foundation with a non-comedogenic, matte, or satin finish usually works best. It should ideally have skin-nourishing ingredients like hyaluronic acid and peptides.
Q: How can I prevent my foundation from settling into wrinkles and pores?
Start with a good quality primer to smooth the skin’s surface.
When applying foundation, use a brush in circular motions and a damp beauty blender for a seamless finish.
Q: Can foundation make wrinkles and large pores look worse?
Yes, if you choose the wrong type. Heavy, cakey, or oil-based foundations can settle into and accentuate wrinkles and pores. Lighter, hydrating foundations are a better option.
Q: Is it necessary to use a primer if I have large pores?
While not a must, a primer can significantly improve the look of your foundation. It smooths the skin’s surface and can help reduce the appearance of large pores.
Q: Why is it important to match the foundation to my skin’s undertone?
Your undertone affects how the foundation looks on your skin. If the undertones don’t match, the foundation can look off, even if the shade is correct.
Q: Can I reduce the size of my pores?
While you can’t change the actual size of your pores, you can reduce their appearance with a good skincare routine and the right makeup techniques.
Q: Does mature skin need a specific type of foundation?
Mature skin often benefits from hydrating, lightweight foundations with anti-aging ingredients.
Q: Can I use the same foundation year-round?
Possibly, but many people find they need different shades as their skin color changes with the seasons. Also, your skin’s needs may change with weather shifts.
Q: How often should I replace my foundation?
Generally, you should replace your foundation every 12-18 months or sooner if it smells off or the texture changes.
Related Articles
- The Best Foundation for Mature Skin
- The Best Powder for Mature Skin
- My Favorite Clinique Foundations
- Great Silicone Primers for Older Skin
- Best Lotion for Crepey Skin
- Best Mascara for Older Women
- The Best Cream Blushes
- The Best Primer for Older Skin
- How to Treat Knee Wrinkles
- CC Creams for Mature Skin
- The Ordinary for Anti-aging
- Best Clinique Products for Mature Skin
Final Thoughts: The Best Foundation for Large Pores (and Wrinkles!)
Finding the best foundation for minimizing pores and wrinkles might seem daunting at first, but remember, the key lies in understanding your skin type, identifying what coverage and finish you desire, and ensuring the product has the right ingredients that cater to your concerns.
Ultimately, the best foundation for minimizing pores (and wrinkles) is one that makes you feel confident and beautiful while caring for your skin at the same time.
I hope this guide has been helpful in your quest for the best foundation for large pores and wrinkles.
Here’s to a flawless, radiant complexion in 2023 and beyond!
XO, Christine
I’ve been keeping it real since 1963. 🙂
I’m a child of God, a wifey, mama, grandma, full-time creative, domestic engineer, and self-care enthusiast.
I am obsessed with all things makeup and skincare and love getting my hands dirty out in the garden, my art room, or in the kitchen, whipping up something yummy for the fam.
I’m always down to chat and love collaborating with other creatives and brands alike!
Feel free to reach out anytime!