5 Expert Tips To Keep Powder Foundation From Clogging Your Pores

When it comes to foundation, those with acne-prone skin can be quite wary about choosing a product that won’t  clog their pores. Powder foundation, when applied and removed the right way, can actually be a great choice for those with oily, acne-prone skin and doesn’t have to be relegated to just the warm weather months. 

Ahead, celebrity makeup artist and L’Oréal Paris expert Sir John shares his pro tips on how to apply (and remove) powder foundation so that it won’t clog your pores.

How to Keep Powder Foundation from Clogging Your Pores

While there are many different formulations to choose from, Sir John explains why those with acne-prone skin shouldn’t overlook powder foundation and offers tips on how to keep it from clogging pores. 

Tip 1. Start With Skin care

“Makeup starts at the skin care level,” says Sir John. “If you have acne prone skin, your skin may be excessively oily, so try to use products that combat oil.” 

One way to combat oily skin is to cleanse your skin, morning and night, with an exfoliating formula, like the L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives 3.5% Glycolic Acid Cleanser. This cleansing gel gently scrubs the top layer of skin to reveal smoother and brighter skin. 

Tip 2. Use A Primer

Smooth the look of existing blemishes by prepping the skin with a mattifying, blurring primer like the L’Oréal Paris Infallible Pro-Matte Lock Primer. Not only will the primer allow the foundation to adhere for way longer, but, according to Sir John, it will also serve as a barrier between the skin and the foundation. 

Tip 3. Choose A Non-Comedogenic Powder Foundation

When it comes to picking a powder foundation, be sure to choose a non-comedogenic aka non-pore clogging option like the L’Oréal Paris Infallible 24Hr Fresh Wear Foundation in a Powder. In case you missed it, this foundation went viral on TikTok after users with oily skin discovered it’s ability to keep skin looking matte and flawless. 

“A powder like this one blots that excess oil and keeps the skin looking and feeling matte,” says Sir John. 

Tip 4. Use Clean Brushes

The way in which you apply the powder foundation is key to ensuring it won’t clog your pores. According to Sir John, “The cleanliness of your brushes matters more than anything else.” Before applying any foundation to your skin, be sure the brush has been cleaned since its last use. 

“Every time you do your makeup, do a quick wipedown with an antibacterial spray or micellar water to take off any residue or oil,” says Sir John. “Makeup brushes can be a huge conduit for bacteria growth, so make sure to invest the time in cleaning your brushes.” In that same vein, if you’ll be applying makeup with your fingers, be sure to wash your hands before and after touching your face.

The L’Oréal Paris Micellar Cleansing Water Complete Cleanser Waterproof - All Skin Types is great for this; it gently purifies brushes (and skin) of pore-clogging makeup and dirt. Once you’ve cleaned your brush, dip it into the powder foundation and buff it onto your freshly-primed skin in a circular motion. 

Tip 5. Removal 

In order to keep your skin clear, the removal process is essential.“When it comes to preventing breakouts, it’s all about the take down,” says Sir John. “Double cleansing helps to clean the skin, reset pores and clear away oil.” 

Grab that same micellar water used to clean your makeup brushes and use it to saturate a cotton pad. Then, rub the cotton pad across your face to remove all of your makeup — foundation, mascara and all (even your waterproof formulas). Once you’ve finished removing your makeup, follow up with a cleanser, like the aforementioned glycolic acid cleanser to clear any traces of makeup that may be left behind. 

Next: What Exactly Makes Makeup Waterproof?

Written By: Caitlyn Martyn, Photo: Chaunte Vaughn