Smooth, flawless skin is what we all want. But, most of us don't have it. And while some problems like dry or oily skin are often easily treated with skin care, other problems can be more difficult.

Acne sufferers or those with oily skin may notice that they have enlarged pores. It's a common problem with oilier skin. Skin care products that claim to reduce pore size may work well. Or primers designed to minimize pores can help, depending on the product. But if you don't have these solutions on hand, a foundation and a blending brush will work to give you the complexion you want.

Pore minimizing products
Skin care products claiming to reduce the size of pores can help. But it takes time for those products to produce noticeable results. For a quicker fix, the best way to deal with large pores is to conceal them. Benefit's The Pore Professional does this beautifully. It conceals pores and fine lines instantly. Its lightweight consistency is comfortable to wear. Wear it alone or under makeup. It may be used throughout the day to reduce shine.

Another option is a foundation primer. Not everyone needs a primer, but they definitely help those with large pores. Too Faced offers an effective primer called Primed and Poreless. It's a lightweight product that gives skin a matte finish. Just apply it before foundation.

Minimizing pores with foundation – the right tools
Large pores make a flawless makeup application difficult. If you're not careful, foundation can actually emphasize enlarged pores. Using a good stippling brush like MAC's number 187 is essential. That's because using a sponge or fingertips can highlight large pores when the product becomes lodged inside pores. Blending foundation evenly into the skin is key to concealing large pores. A good brush performs better for this purpose than sponges or fingertips.

Minimizing pores with foundation – the technique
To minimize pores using foundation, you need a good foundation and a stippling brush like the aforementioned MAC number 187 brush. Just dot foundation onto the skin, making sure to cover each area of the face. Blend foundation into the skin with your brush in a circular motion. Then, reverse direction and continue blending in a circular motion. This ensures that foundation blends well into the skin and effectively minimizes the appearance of large pores.

Follow up by patting on powder if desired. Avoid wiping on powder. It could smear foundation and undo the work you just did.

When it comes to reducing the look of large pores many options exist. Fortunately, they are fairly inexpensive and don't require a trip to the dermatologist's office. Pore minimizing products, primers or a foundation with the right brush provide instant results.