Fans also say it makes skin feel “like velvet.”
While you can reduce the apparent size of your pores, they technically can’t shrink in diameter. It’s an unfortunate reality for those of us with prominent pores; luckily, though, products with pore-blurring powers do exist, particularly in the realm of primers. I’ve found a handful of formulas that work wonders to smooth imperfections, but that said, most are silicone-rich and sit heavily, almost mask-like, on my skin—a feeling that’s particularly uncomfortable in the sweaty summer months.
While searching for a primer that blurs large pores without adding an extra, palpable layer to my skin, I stumbled upon a promising option in the Iconic London Velvet Smooth Pore Refining Primer. The product is a best-seller for the British beauty brand, and it’s 25 percent off during the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, which ends August 4.
Iconic London Velvet Smooth Pore-Refining Primer
Orig. $29 $22 at Nordstrom
The Iconic London Velvet Smooth Pore Refining Primer is a lightweight, makeup-gripping cream that creates a smooth, even base for foundation. In doing so, it also prevents makeup from settling into—and thus accentuating—fine lines and large pores. The primer can also be worn alone, on bare skin, to create a filter-like finish that’s perfect for minimal makeup days. However it’s applied, it blurs imperfections without a weighty feel.
In the brand’s words, the creamy formula has an airy, “whipped” texture—a welcome departure from dense, occlusive formulas I’ve tried in the past. Furthermore, its semi-matte finish keeps midday shine at bay, even in sweaty conditions, making it particularly ideal for warm weather wear.
In addition to whittling the appearance of large pores, enhancing foundation application, and prolonging makeup weartime, the primer leaves skin feeling silky in seconds without residue. Bonus: It delivers a dose of complexion-boosting anti-aging protection thanks to antioxidant-rich red grape extract.
Reviewers confirm that the Velvet Smooth Pore Refining Primer lives up to its title. One Nordstrom shopper said it makes “pores disappear” and makeup “apply more evenly and smoothly.” Another shopper, via the brand’s site, said the primer “smooths” over pores and makes skin feel “like velvet,” while another said it makes skin feel “like silk.”
For a lightweight primer that eradicates the appearance of large pores, minimizes shine, and delivers filter-like smoothness, shop the Iconic London Velvet Smooth Pore Refining Primer at Nordstrom while it’s 25 percent off until August 4. I certainly am. Shop more smoothing primers, below.
Iconic London Underglow Blurring Primer
Orig. $30 $23 at Nordstrom
Hourglass Vanish Primer
$24 at Nordstrom