When buying a pore mask, you first must know what your skin care goals are. Do you want to minimize the appearance of large pores? Do you want your skin to radiate youthfulness? Are you more concerned with preventing acne? Or is it a combination of all three? What kind of skin do you have? Sensitive? Oily?
Clearing pores
To clear and shrink large pores, you should buy a clay-based pore mask. These clays are known to reduce the size of pores without using any artificial chemicals. It is important to confirm the mask contains clay. Most will contain some, but not all.
Preventing and treating mild acne
Pore masks are useful in treating and preventing mild to moderate acne. Firstly, all clay-based masks have natural acne-fighting capabilities due to their pore cleansing properties. For additional acne-fighting power, try to buy a pore mask with an acne-fighting additive. Some masks contain benzoyl peroxide, a common, over-the-counter acne medication as an additive. This is an effective treatment for some. For those that prefer all-natural treatments, look for anti-bacterial botanicals such as lemon grass oil.
Note: please, please, please see your dermatologist for moderate to severe acne. No over the counter medication or treatment, pore masks included, are strong enough to tackle severe acne.
Youthfulness
Almost every pore mask is somewhat effective in promoting a healthy, more youthful complexion. If this a main concern, try to find a mask with botanical extracts and anti-oxidants.
For Oily Skin
Almost every pore mask on the market is appropriate for people with oily skin. Just be sure it is a clay-based product as these are the most effective in absorbing excess facial oil.
For Sensitive Skin
Shopping for pore masks for sensitive skin is a bit trickier. For moderately sensitive skin, select a product with aloe vera. If you want even more protection, look for some of the following ingredients: vitamin E, chamomile, sea algae and/or vitamin B. You may not be able to apply the mask as often as directed.
You may also want to apply a good moisturizer right after the treatment to minimize any dryness or redness. For severely sensitive skin, a clay-based mask may not be appropriate. Try a crème-based treatment.
Price
Everyone values money differently, but I would never spend more than $50 on a pore mask. Some of the best treatments on the market are available in the $20-50 range.
Related Articles: All About Pore Masks, How to Use a Pore Mask, What Causes Oily Skin?
Pore Care Articles: How to Shrink and Clear Pores, How to Keep Your Pores Clear