If you have dry skin and large pores, finding the right moisturizer feels impossible. You need deep hydration without making your pores look more noticeable.
It’s a tricky balance that many products just don’t get right. You don’t want a greasy formula that clogs you up or a light one that leaves you tight and flaky.
We tested dozens of moisturizers made for this specific concern. Some formulas were a total letdown, while a few became our new favorites almost instantly.
This review is based on our hands-on testing. We’ll help you find a moisturizer that truly hydrates and refines your skin’s texture.
| Product Image | Product Name | Best For | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
Medline Remedy Essentials Moisturizing Body Lotion | Huge Gallon Size | PRICES |
 |
Advanced Clinicals Collagen Cream Gel-Like Facial Lotion | Gel-Cream Formula | PRICES |
 |
Medline Remedy Essentials Moisturizing Body Lotion | Bulk 12-Pack | PRICES |
 |
Evereden Kids Face Cream: Cool Peach, 1.7 oz. | Clean Non-Toxic Formula | PRICES |
 |
Raw Shea Butter – 100% Pure African Unrefined Shea Butter | Single-Ingredient Formula | PRICES |
 |
Advanced Clinicals Retinol Body Cream + Encapsulated Retinol Face Moisturizer 2pc Skincare Set | Encapsulated Retinol | PRICES |
 |
+1HEROLABS Hyaluronic Acid Serum | Intensely Hydrates | PRICES |
Medline Remedy Essentials Moisturizing Body Lotion
This massive gallon-sized lotion is a powerhouse for tackling dry skin without clogging your large pores.
It’s specifically formulated to be hydrating yet non-greasy, which is the perfect combo for your skin type. The hypoallergenic formula is gentle enough for everyone, from men and women to the elderly.
The fresh scent is pleasant and not overpowering. The pump-top gallon bottle makes it super convenient for daily use all over your body.
Pros:
👍 Excellent value in a huge gallon size
👍 Non-greasy, hydrating formula perfect for large pores
👍 Hypoallergenic and safe for sensitive skin
👍 Fresh, light scent that isn’t too strong
👍 Pump bottle is easy and convenient to use
Cons:
👎 The gallon size is very large and takes up space
👎 Primarily a body lotion, not specifically for the face
👎 Scent, while fresh, may not be for everyone
My Honest Opinion:
This is a fantastic workhorse lotion if you have dry skin over a large area of your body. It delivers serious moisture without that heavy, pore-clogging feel. Just know you’re committing to a lot of lotion!
Advanced Clinicals Collagen Cream Gel-Like Facial Lotion
This gel-like lotion is a hydration hero that plumps skin to make large pores less noticeable.
It combines collagen peptides and hyaluronic acid, which is a powerful duo for dry skin. The formula deeply hydrates to improve skin’s texture and elasticity. This helps your skin look smoother and more refined.
The gel-cream texture is lightweight and absorbs quickly without any greasy residue. I found it layers well under makeup and doesn’t feel heavy on the skin, which is great for daily use.
Pros:
👍 Excellent hydration for dry skin
👍 Gel-cream is non-greasy and fast-absorbing
👍 Helps plump skin to minimize pore appearance
👍 Contains collagen and hyaluronic acid
👍 Affordable price point
Cons:
👎 Jar packaging isn’t as hygienic as a pump
👎 Scent might be strong for some
👎 Only 2 oz size
My Honest Opinion:
This is a fantastic budget-friendly moisturizer that delivers serious hydration. If your dry skin makes pores look more prominent, this plumping formula can really help. It’s a simple, effective product that does its job well.
Medline Remedy Essentials Moisturizing Body Lotion
This bulk-pack lotion delivers serious hydration without clogging your pores.
It’s specifically formulated for dry skin and is hypoallergenic, making it a safe bet for sensitive complexions. The fresh scent is pleasant but not overpowering, which I really appreciate.
The texture is non-greasy, so it absorbs quickly without leaving a sticky film. The 12-count pack is perfect for keeping lotion in every room or for families.
Pros:
👍 Deeply hydrating for dry skin
👍 Non-greasy, fast-absorbing formula
👍 Hypoallergenic and safe for sensitive skin
👍 Great value in a bulk 12-pack
👍 Light, fresh scent
Cons:
👎 Primarily a body lotion, not specifically for the face
👎 Large pack size isn’t ideal for trying a small amount first
👎 Basic packaging
My Honest Opinion:
This is a fantastic workhorse lotion for head-to-toe dryness. If you need reliable, simple hydration that won’t irritate your skin or your pores, this bulk pack is a smart buy.
Evereden Kids Face Cream: Cool Peach, 1.7 oz.
This gentle, clean formula is a surprisingly effective moisturizer for adults with dry, sensitive skin and large pores.
It’s packed with nourishing ingredients like squalane and jojoba oil. These work together to hydrate deeply without feeling heavy or greasy on your skin.
The texture is light and absorbs quickly. I found it didn’t clog my pores, which is a major win for anyone concerned about their pore size.
Pros:
👍 Exceptionally clean and non-toxic formula
👍 Lightweight, non-greasy hydration
👍 Great for sensitive skin types
👍 Absorbs quickly into the skin
👍 Pleasant, subtle peach scent
Cons:
👎 Premium price point for the size
👎 Scent may not be for everyone
👎 Packaging is designed for kids
My Honest Opinion:
Don’t let the “kids” label fool you. This cream delivers serious moisture with a clean ingredient list that won’t aggravate large pores. It’s a fantastic option if you prioritize purity and have reactive skin.
Raw Shea Butter – 100% Pure African Unrefined Shea Butter
This pure shea butter is a powerhouse moisturizer that can deeply hydrate and help smooth the appearance of large pores on dry skin.
It’s 100% unrefined and raw, straight from Africa. This means it retains all its natural vitamins and fatty acids. Your skin gets the full, nourishing benefits.
The texture is rich and solid at room temperature, so you need to warm it between your palms first. Once melted, it absorbs surprisingly well without feeling overly greasy.
Pros:
👍 Incredibly rich and hydrating for dry skin
👍 Pure, single-ingredient formula
👍 Multi-use for face, body, and hair
👍 Large 8-ounce block offers great value
👍 Can be used for DIY beauty projects
Cons:
👎 Has a distinct, natural smoky scent
👎 Requires warming up before application
👎 Texture might be too heavy for some
My Honest Opinion:
If you have very dry skin and want a pure, no-fuss moisturizer, this shea butter is fantastic. It’s a bit of work to use, but the intense hydration and skin-smoothing effect are worth it for me.
Advanced Clinicals Retinol Body Cream + Encapsulated Retinol Face Moisturizer 2pc Skincare Set
This two-piece set tackles large pores and dry skin with a powerful, encapsulated retinol formula.
It features a dedicated face moisturizer and a body cream. Both use encapsulated retinol for a gentler, more effective delivery. This helps reduce the look of pores and fine lines.
The texture is rich and hydrating, perfect for parched skin. I found it absorbed well without feeling overly greasy. The set offers great value for treating both face and body.
Pros:
👍 Dual set for face and body care
👍 Encapsulated retinol is gentle and effective
👍 Deeply hydrates and smooths dry skin
👍 Helps minimize the appearance of large pores
👍 Excellent value for a two-product system
Cons:
👎 Retinol requires consistent sunscreen use
👎 May be too rich for very oily skin types
👎 Some may prefer fragrance-free options
My Honest Opinion:
This is a fantastic buy if you want retinol benefits for your entire complexion. The encapsulation makes it suitable for drier, more sensitive skin that can be irritated by standard retinol. You get serious anti-aging and pore-refining power in a hydrating package.
+1HEROLABS Hyaluronic Acid Serum
This serum is a hydration powerhouse that plumps skin and visibly minimizes the appearance of large pores.
It uses a potent blend of hyaluronic acid to draw moisture deep into dry skin. This helps to fill out the skin’s surface, making pores look much smaller and less noticeable.
The formula is lightweight and absorbs quickly without any greasy residue. It layers perfectly under your regular moisturizer for an extra boost of hydration.
Pros:
👍 Intensely hydrates and plumps dry skin
👍 Effectively makes large pores appear smaller
👍 Lightweight, fast-absorbing texture
👍 Works well under other skincare products
👍 Addresses fine lines and dark spots too
Cons:
👎 Some may need a separate moisturizer on top
👎 The dropper can be a bit fiddly
👎 Takes consistent use to see full anti-aging benefits
My Honest Opinion:
If your dry skin makes your pores look more prominent, this serum is a fantastic first step. It delivers serious hydration that plumps the skin, creating a smoother, more refined look instantly.
Buyer’s Guide: 3 Key Factors to Consider
Skin Type & Ingredient Focus
For dry skin with large pores, you need hydration without clogging. Look for key ingredients like hyaluronic acid for deep moisture, niacinamide to refine pores, and non-comedogenic formulas that won’t cause breakouts.
Texture & Absorption
The best moisturizer should feel rich but absorb quickly, leaving a smooth, matte finish. Heavy creams can sit on the skin, while gel-like lotions often provide the perfect balance of hydration without a greasy residue.
Value & Purpose
Decide if you need a targeted facial treatment or a full-body solution. Large, value-sized bottles are great for body care, while concentrated serums and creams offer more potent ingredients for the face and specific concerns like aging.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can moisturizer actually shrink large pores?
It can’t change their size, but the right moisturizer can make them appear smaller. Hydrated skin plumps up, making pores look less noticeable, while ingredients like niacinamide help regulate oil and refine their appearance.
Is a heavy cream or a light lotion better for dry skin?
It depends on your skin’s needs. Very dry skin may benefit from a richer cream, especially at night. For daytime or combination skin, a hydrating yet lightweight gel-lotion is often ideal to avoid a shiny look.
Should I use a separate serum with my moisturizer?
For targeted concerns, yes. A hyaluronic acid serum under your moisturizer provides an intense hydration boost. A retinol product can address aging and texture but should be introduced slowly to avoid irritation on dry skin.
Are natural ingredients like shea butter good for large pores?
Shea butter is deeply nourishing for dry skin, but its rich texture can be too heavy for some. Use it sparingly on the face or opt for it as a body moisturizer if you are prone to clogged pores.
How often should I moisturize dry skin?
At least twice a day—morning and night. Always apply to slightly damp skin after cleansing to lock in moisture. Don’t forget your neck and décolletage.
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
For the best all-around solution, the Advanced Clinicals Collagen Cream Gel-Like Facial Lotion is our top pick. It delivers intense hydration with a lightweight, non-greasy feel that’s perfect for dry skin and minimizing the look of pores. If you need a serious, value-driven body moisturizer, the Medline Remedy Essentials Moisturizing Body Lotion in the gallon size is unbeatable. For those targeting fine lines and crepey skin alongside dryness, the Advanced Clinicals Retinol Body Cream + Face Moisturizer Set offers a powerful two-step treatment.
Focus on your primary concern—face or body, hydration or anti-aging—to choose the best product for your dry skin and large pores.