• Large pores are less noticable with a pre-foundation skin primer.schminkraum image by Digitalpress from Fotolia.com
  
  Large pores are a problem for many people. They become evident when dilated, infected or clogged with oil. However, oil produced by pores is also necessary for providing soft, hydrated skin. Genetics and age contribute to large pores. Other factors for large pores include thick oily skin, blackheads and decreased skin elasticity due to sun damage. It is not possible to shrink large pores, but there are products available that will hide their appearance.
  
  

Exfoliators

• An exfoliator removes dead skin cells from the face. Exfoliation is an essential step in attaining flawless skin. All skin accumulates dead skin cells that clog pores and make them appear larger. Exfoliators are small bead-like particles suspended in a cream or liquid facial wash. Exfoliants are slightly abrasive when rubbed onto the skin. The friction created removes dirt and accumulated dead cells from the pores.
  
  Exfoliating once a week will keep skin smooth and glowing. Gentle scrubs with small beads are preferable. Cheap facial scrubs with large grains can tear the skin and cause more damage.
  
  At-home facial scrubs can be purchased at most drug or grocery stores.
  
  

Face Masks

• Face masks are a great addition to your skin care regime. Face masks are created to suit all skin types with different needs. Large pores accumulate oil, which can cause blackheads. Blackheads make pores appear larger and deeper.
  
  Natural clay masks work to clean and tighten pores. Natural clay absorbs excess oil and detoxifies the skin without over drying. Most clay masks work well with sensitive skin.
  
  Face masks, used weekly, will tighten your pores and reduce their appearance.
  
  

Hydroxy Acids

• Hydroxy acid is an ingredient designed to gently remove dead skin cells. Dead skin cells are exfoliated naturally in youth, but slow down with age. Hydroxy acids can be found in moisturizers or incorporated in solutions used in dermatologists' offices.
  
  The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) categorizes hydroxy acid as a cosmeceutical. Cosmeceuticals are products that may improve the function of the skin. Hydroxy acid exfoliates and smoothes the skin's appearance.
  
  

Skin Primer

• Skin primer reduces the appearance of large pores. It is a pre-foundation cosmetic designed to even out skin tone and keep foundation from seeping into pores.
  
  Skin primer should be applied under your foundation with a makeup sponge and left to dry. Use a cream or cream-to-powder foundation on top. Cream foundations conceal large pores better than liquid foundations.
  
  A final dusting of translucent powder will make pores less obvious. The AAD suggests that makeup should be hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic and non-acnegenic. This will produce fewer allergies and will not plug pores.