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Enlarged pores are one of the most frustrating skincare woes I can personally think of. And while using a pore-filling primer or mattifying foundation to conceal them is often a good course of action, I find these products can often clog your pores even more, and therefore leave looking even bigger. As you’re probably aware, even if you have oily skin like myself, it’s still important to prep your skin with a lightweight moisturizer before makeup, which is precisely why using a pore-minimizing moisturizer is key. You’ve likely heard this before, but I’ll say it again: when you don’t give your skin any moisture, it compensates for the dehydration by producing even more oil. With that being said, using a formula that’s overly rich, thick, and full of oil isn’t going to help blur your pores or fine lines and it certainly won’t help keep shine at bay.
Now, I’m not suggesting that prepping skin with a blurring and oil-controlling primer won’t help, but if you can get the same pore-refining benefits from your moisturizer, why not go ahead and skip a step to save time and money? There are plenty of solid two-in-one hydrators that keep your skin’s oil levels balanced and minimize the look of large pores. Like I said, as someone who struggled with keeping my shiny t-zone from looking like a straight-up oil slick on the daily and my pores from peering through my foundation, I can attest to the magical powers of the products below.
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1. Formula 10 Seriously Shine-Free Moisturizer
Amazon.
This another oil-controlling moisturizer that was recommended to me by a makeup artist, who uses it models during long location photo shoots as well as on brides during summer weddings. It keeps the skin matte all day long without leaving the skin feeling tight or dry, and make your pores look practically invisible. How this star skincare product is so affordable is beyond me.
2. Embroylisse Lait-Creme Concentre
Amazon.
There is a reason why nearly every single makeup artists I’ve ever worked with has this French pharmacy classic in their kit. As someone who has pretty oily skin year-round, I love how this cream gives my skin a tout, hydrated feel and eliminates the need for any primer under my foundation. I’ve been using it for over a decade, and I can honestly say t’s an absolute gem that magically works on almost any skin type.
3. Paula’s Choice CLEAR Oil-Free Moisturizer
Courtesy of Paula’s Choice.
This nighttime moisturizer is oil-free and non-greasy, so it won’t cause you to break out when you’re trying to catch some Zzzs. It’s got some powerhouse ingredients, including ceramides, niacinamide and antioxidants, so your skin will be fortified and hydrated.
4. Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream Face Moisturizer
Courtesy of Olay.
This fan-favorite moisturizer helps skin turnover, so your healthy, firm skin cells will be at the top of your skin barrier. The moisturizer contains hyaluronic acid, Vitamin E and carob extract. Some women saw results in just two weeks with this non-greasy or -sticky moisturizer.
5. EltaMD Barrier Renewal Complex Face Moisturizer
Courtesy of EltaMD.
Counting ceramide, niacinamide and hyaluronic acid as three of its main ingredients, this moisturizer can do a few different things. It will control the look of fine lines, while also improving your overall skin texture and tone. The moisturizer should be used at night.
