As people age, their pores can grow larger. This typically is more common in those with oily skin, but can happen with any skin type. A pore moisturizer is a product designed to moisturize the skin while also reducing the look of pores. Such moisturizers often contain ingredients such as salicylic acid and exfoliants, which help to clean out clogged pores, which may add to pore visibility. While many experts agree it isn't possible to actually shrink pores, some moisturizers may help to reduce the look of pores.
Pore moisturizers work in different ways. Some of these products might contain salicylic acid or silicone, both of which can help to reduce the look of pores. Some pore moisturizers might contain exfoliants as well, which are designed to slough off the top layer of dead skin to reveal the fresh skin below. This can also help to reduce the look of clogged pores and to improve the look of the skin overall.
Visible pores are most often found on people with oily skin. When the skin is oily, it produces more sebum, which can clog pores and make them appear larger. Some pore moisturizers may help reduce the amount of sebum on the skin, keeping it clear and healthy looking. Ingredients such as retinol and vitamin C can help keep skin clear of excess oil and may help increase the production of collagen and elastin, which may improve the skin's appearance as well.
Some people with oily skin might avoid facial moisturizers believing that they will make their skin more oily. Using a pore moisturizer with ingredients that are designed to not only keep the skin clear but to ensure that pores do not become clogged may actually help, however. These ingredients might include salicylic acid, glycolic acid, or various forms of silicon. Some of these products also contain anti-aging ingredients, such as vitamin E and kinetin, and antioxidant ingredients as well. Anti-inflammatory ingredients, such as aloe vera and zinc, may be beneficial as well.
Consumers should not assume that a good pore moisturizer will cost a lot of money. Many of the top-rated pore moisturizers are relatively inexpensive products and can be found in normal drug and cosmetic stores. Internet research or a discussion with a dermatologist may help in choosing an effective pore moisturizer with the proper ingredients to keep skin looking clear and healthy.