These emollient balms will leave your skin virtually pore-free.

Have you ever wanted to add a filter to your skin... in real life? A balm blur does just that by smoothing out the look. thin lines and shortcomings and make pores smaller. You can wear them solo to subtly align the texture, or apply under make-up for an even, long-lasting foundation. Keep reading for our favorite cleansing balms and more tips on how to use them. 

What do emollient balms do?

Formulas typically provide a soft-focus matte finish that helps create a smoother look and can even extend the wear of your makeup. Because of this, emollient balms often come in the form of primers and moisturizers. Some emollient balms also contain SPF, so you can protect your skin while applying primer.

How to combine emollient balms with foundation

Since many emollient balms contain silicone, it is important to pair them with silicone-based cosmetics rather than water-based cosmetics. A tinted moisturizer or water-based foundation can eventually separate or fade quickly when combined with a silicone-based emollient balm, while the silicone base is enhanced by a blurry balm. 

Try it yourself

Want to add an emollient balm to your routine? NYX Professional Makeup Pore Filler Primer Targeted Bluring Stick allows you to define areas with the largest pores and mattifies excess shine. We also recommend Maybelline New York Fit Me Matte + Poreless Matte Face Primer blur and protect your skin with SPF 20 and Lancôme Blur & Go Primer Stick, which glides smoothly over the skin to reduce pores and fine lines.