The Ordinary's Pore Reducer Serum: Benefits, How to Use, and More

Introducing The Ordinary's Pore Reducer

The Ordinary is a popular skincare brand known for its clinical formulations and affordable prices. One of their best-selling products is their pore reducer, designed to minimize the look of enlarged pores for smoother, more even skin texture.

How The Ordinary's Pore Reducer Works

The Ordinary's pore reducer contains 2% salicylic acid as the primary active ingredient. Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that exfoliates the skin by sloughing off dead skin cells and unclogging pores. This helps reduce pore size appearance. The formula also includes ginseng root and aloe vera for soothing and conditioning the skin.

Unclogs Pores

Salicylic acid can penetrate deep into the pore lining because it is oil soluble. This makes it effective at loosening and dissolving built-up dirt, sebum, and dead skin. Unclogging the pores helps minimize their visible size and appearance.

Exfoliates Skin

The salicylic acid in The Ordinary's pore reducer also chemically exfoliates the top layer of skin by weakening the bonds that hold dull, dead skin cells together. This reveals brighter, smoother skin and helps pores appear tighter.

Reduces Inflammation

Clogged, stretched out pores are often inflamed and irritated. The ginseng root extract in this formula contains anti-inflammatory properties to help soothe redness and reduce enlarged pores associated with inflammation.

Benefits of The Ordinary's Pore Reducer

Using The Ordinary's pore minimizing serum can provide several benefits for the skin:

• Minimizes the visible size of enlarged pores
• Brightens overall skin tone and texture
• Regulates excess sebum production
• Prevents future breakouts and clogged pores
• Suitable for acne-prone and oily skin types
• Smooths and refines skin texture
• Non-comedogenic formula won't clog pores

How Long It Takes to See Results

With consistent use, most people notice a difference in their pore size within 2-4 weeks. Maximum results are typically seen after about 3 months of daily application. Individual results will vary based on skin type and severity of enlarged pores.

How to Use in Your Routine

The Ordinary recommends applying their pore minimizer once per day, either morning or evening. Here are some tips for incorporating it into your routine:

Morning

• Cleanse and tone skin
• Apply pore reducer serum evenly over face
• Let it soak in for a minute or two
• Follow with moisturizer and sunscreen

Evening

• Cleanse face to remove makeup, oil and debris
• Apply pore minimizing serum all over face and let it absorb for 2 minutes
• Follow with night moisturizer or treatment products

Use it consistently for at least 6-8 weeks to see results. It can be used daily or scaled back to a few times per week once desired pore appearance is achieved.

Complementary Skincare Ingredients

While The Ordinary's pore reducer works well on its own, pairing it with other beneficial skincare ingredients can enhance its effectiveness:

Retinol

Retinol boosts collagen production and skin cell turnover. This improves overall skin tone and texture for a more youthful, poreless look. Use retinol in the evenings and the salicylic acid pore reducer in the morning.

Niacinamide

Niacinamide (vitamin B3) regulates oil and sebum production which can help minimize stretched out pores. Combining it with salicylic acid balances and tightens pores.

Alpha Arbutin

Alpha arbutin fades dark spots and improves uneven tone that can draw attention to enlarged pores. Its brightening effects complement the pore minimizer nicely.

Lifestyle Tips for Reducing Pores

In addition to using The Ordinary's pore reducer serum, incorporating these lifestyle practices can also help minimize the look of pores:

• Cleanse morning and night to prevent dirt buildup in pores
• Use oil-absorbing clay masks weekly to decongest pores
• Exfoliate 2-3 times a week to remove pore-clogging dead skin
• Wash face after workouts to remove sweat, oils and bacteria
• Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and flush toxins
• Limit alcohol and fried, greasy foods that can enlarge pores
• Quit smoking, as chemicals in smoke harm collagen and elastin
• Moisturize daily to prevent pores from stretching out

Potential Side Effects

The Ordinary's pore minimizer contains salicylic acid, which can cause skin irritation in some people. Potential side effects include:

• Dryness or peeling
• Redness and stinging
• Increased sun sensitivity

Start by applying it once every 2-3 days and gradually increase frequency as your skin tolerates it. Using moisturizer can buffer irritation. Discontinue use if irritation persists.

Who Should Avoid It

The Ordinary's pore reducer should not be used by people who are:

• Sensitive to salicylic acid or aspirin
• Pregnant or breastfeeding
• Taking anti-inflammatory medications
• Younger than 12 years old
• Have open cuts or burns on the skin

Consult a dermatologist before use if you have any concerns.

How It Compares to Other Pore Minimizers

The Ordinary's pore reducer stands out for its simple, clinical formulation centered around 2% salicylic acid. It does not contain many added botanical extracts or oils. Some alternatives to consider:

• Paula's Choice 2% BHA Liquid - very similar, with 2% salicylic acid and green tea extract
• COSRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid - contains 4% betaine salicylate, a more gentle BHA
• Innisfree Pore Clearing Clay Mask - clay mask formula with added volcanic ash

The Ordinary's straightforward, budget-friendly serum is ideal for those looking to minimize pores without added bells and whistles.

Is The Ordinary's Pore Reducer Right for You?

The Ordinary's pore minimizing serum is best for those struggling with:

• Enlarged, visible pores
• Excess sebum and oil production
• Frequent blackheads and breakouts
• Dull, uneven texture and congested skin

Use it consistently for at least 4-6 weeks. Pair with cleansing, moisturizing, SPF, and lifestyle habits that support pore refining. This clinically proven pore reducer can help you achieve a smoother, more even complexion.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.