I wasn’t actually expecting to like the new Murad Pore Extractor Pomegranate Mask, but I was pleasantly surprised. The reasons for my uncertainty were mostly based on the fact that I thought this sounded like the sort of product most suited to very oily skin that can take a bit of a pounding from harsh and drying clays, thick exfoliators and formulas designed to suck everything out of your pores. The two red flags for me were the “pore extractor” name, which sounds like it could be rather aggressive, and the fact that you apply it to areas prone to enlarged pores, so I figured this is a formula the makers perceive as too strong for all over the face. Thankfully, this is actually a really lovely product that won’t dry you out or batter your delicate skin.
The Murad Pore Extractor Pomegranate Mask is a fruity-scented, creamy mask that feels great on the skin. As mentioned, you apply it to areas prone to enlarged pores, but you can use it all over – I didn’t find it drying or uncomfortable at all. I left it on for around 10 minutes, then added a bit of water and moved the product around for a light, manual exfoliation before washing it away, which was also easy; it didn’t dry or become hard and crispy at any stage, so there was none of that usual unpleasantness that can often come with masks aimed at problematic skin. I couldn’t possibly comment on whether it shrinks pores as I’ve never been able to tell if this type of product has any real impact on such things, but I can say that skin looked and felt brighter and more refined without any dryness or sensitivity. I would happily use this the recommend 2-3 times a week and I think, unless you’re extremely sensitive (if in doubt, patch test!) you could get away with it too. It’s £30 here – link – and I think a single pot will last quite a while, especially if you just use it on areas of concern.
*PR Sample