What To Look For
Alpha hydroxy acid increases cellular renewal and reduces the skin's outermost layer. Glycolic acid, perhaps the most popular of all AHAs, penetrates the skin rapidly and dissolves the glue-like substance that holds dead cells on the skin. Lactic acid works in the same fashion, but is gentler and has the capacity to bind moisture. Lactic acid may be better for sensitive skin types. Choose a cleanser with 2.5 percent to 5 percent lactic or glycolic acid to remove dull skin and clean the pores. Choose an oil-free moisturizer with the same ingredients and vitamin C to firm tissues around the pores, making them appear tighter and smaller.
Common Pitfalls
Shun aggressive manual exfoliants and refrain from using harsh astringents to cleanse and toner the skin. Although both skin conditions may see to indicate this treatment, exfoliants that contain heavy abrasives can create micro-tears on the skin and cause too much stimulation of the sebum (oil) producing glands which can further clog the pores and make them appear larger. Harsh astringents can cause further dehydration of the skin. Stay away from heavy creams. A moisturizer in a lighter preparation will be less likely to clog already congested skin.
Where To Buy
Find appropriate cleansers and moisturizers in drug stores or department stores. Day spas and skin care clinics also carry a wide selection of products for dull, large pore skin. Shop online stores, such as Drugstore.com, DermStore or SkinStore. There you can conveniently compare products, since you can easily find the ingredient and prices. Look at the sections of skin care products geared toward acne or anti-aging. These products will likely contain the ingredients you need.
Cost
A cleanser can range from $8 to $40 and a moisturizer $12 to $60 or more. The difference in price can depend on where you purchase them. Drug stores tend to have the lowest prices and you can find quality products with claims backed by scientific analysis and market research. Products purchased in a skin care center cost more, but have been thoroughly researched and may contain higher concentrations of other essential vitamins and additives that benefit the skin.
Insider Tips
Have an esthetician perform a lactic or glycolic acid chemical peel before beginning the use of your new products. She can tailor a treatment especially for your skin types using a higher concentration of AHA than you can purchase on your own. This causes a more rapid shedding of dead skin. She can also perform manual extractions to expel impacted sebum from the pores. Afterwards, you product will penetrate the skin easier with more success.
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