Baking Powder Pore Cleansing Foam
Baking Powder Pore Cleansing Foam
Product Description
A 2-in-1 daily foam cleanser and gentle exfoliator featuring micro-sized baking powder (sodium bicarbonate) that penetrates deep into pores to remove dirt, oil, dead skin cells, and makeup residue while leaving skin feeling fresh, smooth, and never stripped.
โจ Texture & Feel
Deep Pore Cleansing
Micro-sized baking powder particles penetrate pores to remove dirt, oil, and buildup for a thorough cleanse.
Gentle Exfoliation
Microcrystalline cellulose and lactic acid provide mild physical and chemical exfoliation without irritation.
Makeup Removal
Effectively removes makeup including waterproof products while maintaining skin's moisture balance.
Rich Creamy Lather
Creates dense, soft bubbles that gently roll over skin without stripping or leaving tightness.
๐ก๏ธ Safety & Compatibility
No retinoids, high-concentration salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. Contains only mild lactic acid at rinse-off concentration.
Contains fatty acids (stearic, myristic, palmitic, lauric acid) that may feed Malassezia yeast. Not recommended for fungal acne-prone skin.
Rating 2/5. As a rinse-off product, ingredients have minimal time on skin. Generally safe for acne-prone skin when rinsed thoroughly.
Parfum/fragrance is present. Those with fragrance sensitivities should patch test first or consider fragrance-free alternatives.
๐ฌ Ingredient Breakdown
๐ง Sodium Bicarbonate (Baking Soda) 0.1% Key Active
The star ingredient that gives this cleanser its name. Micro-sized baking powder particles work as a gentle physical exfoliant to unclog pores and neutralize acids on the skin's surface.
- Function: Mild abrasive for gentle exfoliation and pore cleansing
- Benefit: Helps remove dead skin cells and balance skin pH
- Note: Low concentration makes it suitable for daily use
๐ง Glycerin High Proven
A powerful humectant naturally found in skin. Listed first, indicating it's present in high concentration to prevent the cleanser from being overly stripping.
- Research: A 2016 study found glycerin more effective as a humectant than AHAs and hyaluronic acid
- Benefit: Draws moisture into skin, maintaining hydration during cleansing
- Comedogenic Rating: 0 - will not clog pores
๐ Lactic Acid Low Promising
A gentle AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid) that provides mild chemical exfoliation. In a rinse-off formula, it works to enhance the smoothing effect.
- Function: Reduces cell adhesion in the top skin layer for gentle exfoliation
- Benefit: Helps brighten skin and improve texture over time
- Properties: Anti-aging, brightening, and antioxidative benefits
๐งผ Cocamidopropyl Betaine Medium Gentle Surfactant
A mild, coconut-derived cleansing agent that creates stable bubbles without being harsh on skin. Highly biodegradable.
- Function: Foam stabilizer and gentle surfactant
- Benefit: Balances cleansing power with mildness
- Note: Works synergistically with other cleansing agents
21 ingredients
Glycerin, Water/Aqua/Eau, Stearic Acid, Myristic Acid, PEG-32, Potassium Hydroxide, Palmitic Acid, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Lauric Acid, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-100 Stearate, Fragrance/Parfum, Silica, PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, Polyquaternium-7, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Bicarbonate, Disodium EDTA, Sodium Benzoate, Lactic Acid
๐ Where It Fits in Your Routine
Use as the second step in double cleansing (after oil cleanser) or as a standalone morning cleanser. Best results when paired with a hydrating toner afterward.
๐ How to Use
Wet Face & Hands
Start with a damp face and wet hands. Warm water helps open pores for better cleansing.
Dispense & Lather
Squeeze a pea-sized amount onto palms and rub together to create a rich, creamy foam. A foaming net can increase lather volume.
Massage Gently
Apply foam to face in circular motions for 30-60 seconds. Focus on T-zone and areas with enlarged pores or blackheads.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse with lukewarm water until no residue remains. Pat dry with a clean towel and continue with your skincare routine.
๐ค Who Is It For?
โ Perfect for you if:
- You have oily or combination skin
- You struggle with clogged pores or blackheads
- You want a budget-friendly K-beauty cleanser
- You prefer foam cleansers with creamy lather
- You need a cleanser that removes makeup
- You want gentle daily exfoliation
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding
โ Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis)
- You have very dry or dehydrated skin
- You're sensitive to fragrance
- You prefer fragrance-free products
- You need a very low pH cleanser
- You have eczema or extremely reactive skin
๐ฏ Skin Type Compatibility
Ideal match. Deep cleanses pores, controls excess sebum, and mattifies without over-stripping. Users report visibly less oily skin throughout the day.
Excellent for T-zone cleansing. High glycerin content helps balance dry areas while baking powder tackles oily zones effectively.
Works well as a daily cleanser. Provides gentle exfoliation and pore care without disrupting balanced skin.
May feel slightly stripping for very dry skin. Use sparingly (1x daily max) and follow immediately with hydrating toner and moisturizer.
Contains fragrance which may irritate sensitive skin. Patch test first. Many sensitive skin users report no issues, but proceed with caution.
Good for regular acne but NOT for fungal acne. Lauric acid has anti-acne properties. Helps keep pores clear and reduces blackheads.
๐ Results Timeline
Immediate Clean Feeling
Skin feels noticeably clean and fresh after first use. Removes makeup and surface impurities effectively. Light citrus scent leaves a pleasant sensation.
95% noticedReduced Oiliness
Less midday shine reported by oily skin users. Pores begin to appear cleaner. Some users notice fewer small whiteheads and blackheads.
78% noticedImproved Skin Texture
Smoother skin texture from gentle daily exfoliation. Visible reduction in blackheads, especially around nose area. More even skin tone.
65% noticedMaintained Clear Pores
Consistent use maintains cleaner pores and balanced oil production. Best results when used as part of complete skincare routine with hydrating products.
70% continued useโญ Ratings by Platform
โ๏ธ Pros & Cons
โ Praised
- Exceptional value - a little goes a very long way
- Creates rich, creamy lather without much product
- Effectively removes makeup including waterproof
- Pleasant, mild citrus/tangerine scent
- Doesn't leave skin feeling tight or dry
- Visibly reduces blackheads with consistent use
- Gentle enough for daily use
- Tube lasts 3-4 months with regular use
โ Criticized
- Contains fragrance (not for fragrance-sensitive)
- Not fungal acne safe (contains fatty acids)
- May be too stripping for very dry skin
- Higher pH than ideal (not a low-pH cleanser)
- Doesn't dramatically shrink pores as marketed
- Can sting if it gets in eyes
- Some find baking powder concept gimmicky
๐ฐ Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Tea tree oil + BHA instead of baking powder. Lower pH (5.5) is more skin-friendly. Gel texture vs foam. Better for sensitive/acne-prone skin but no exfoliating particles.
Same brand, gentler formula. Low pH 5.5, fragrance-free, no exfoliants. Contains panthenol and madecassoside. Better for sensitive skin but less deep cleansing power.
Volcanic clusters + salicylic acid instead of baking powder. Similar pore-targeting goal. Contains actual BHA for chemical exfoliation. Has fragrance like ETUDE version.
๐ Comparison with Competitors
ETUDE Baking Powder Pore Foam (This Product)
$10.00COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser
$14.00Innisfree Volcanic BHA Pore Cleansing Foam
$14.00COSRX Salicylic Acid Daily Gentle Cleanser
$12.00๐ฆ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep cap tightly closed between uses.
Squeezable plastic tube with flip-top cap. Hygienic, travel-friendly design prevents contamination.
Yes, 160ml exceeds 100ml carry-on limit but smaller travel sizes available. Tube is lightweight and won't break.
โ Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, this cleanser is considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It does not contain retinoids, high-concentration salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. The lactic acid present is at a very low concentration and in a rinse-off formula, making it safe for use. As always, consult your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.
No, this cleanser is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains several fatty acids (stearic acid, myristic acid, palmitic acid, lauric acid) that can potentially feed Malassezia yeast. If you have fungal acne, consider alternatives like COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser or COSRX Salicylic Acid Daily Gentle Cleanser, which are both fungal acne safe.
Yes, but with caution. Since this cleanser already contains mild exfoliants (lactic acid and baking powder), using it with other actives may increase sensitivity. If using retinol or strong AHA/BHA products, consider using this cleanser only in the morning and a gentler cleanser at night. Always follow with moisturizer and sunscreen when using actives.
This cleanser is best suited for oily and combination skin types. It excels at controlling excess sebum, deep cleaning pores, and providing gentle daily exfoliation. Normal skin types can also benefit. Those with very dry or sensitive skin may find it slightly stripping and should consider the ETUDE Soon Jung line instead.
You'll feel immediately cleaner after the first use. Reduced oiliness and cleaner-looking pores typically appear within 1-2 weeks of consistent use. Improved overall skin texture and reduced blackheads usually become noticeable around weeks 3-4. For best results, use consistently as part of a complete skincare routine.
Use this as your second cleanser in a double-cleanse routine (after oil cleanser) or as your standalone morning cleanser. It should be the last cleansing step before toner. Follow with toner, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM). In the PM, you can use it after removing makeup with an oil or balm cleanser.
This cleanser has a comedogenic rating of 2/5, which is considered low. As a rinse-off product, ingredients don't stay on skin long enough to significantly clog pores. Most users, including those with acne-prone skin, don't experience breakouts from this cleanser. However, everyone's skin is different, so patch testing is always recommended.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. However, most users find that the 160ml tube lasts 3-4 months with twice-daily use since only a pea-sized amount is needed. Store in a cool, dry place with the cap tightly closed to maintain freshness and efficacy throughout its shelf life.
Verdict: ETUDE Baking Powder Pore Cleansing Foam delivers exceptional value as a daily deep-cleansing foam for oily and combination skin types. Its micro-sized baking powder provides gentle exfoliation while the high glycerin content prevents over-drying. While not revolutionary, it consistently performs as a reliable, budget-friendly pore cleanser with a pleasant citrus scent. Best avoided by those with fungal acne, very dry skin, or fragrance sensitivities. For everyone else seeking an affordable K-beauty cleanser that truly makes a little go a long way, this is an excellent everyday staple that lives up to its cult-favorite status.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skinโs own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging ยซpromisesยป it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 1 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 1 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Stearic Acid
Masking, Fragrance, Emulsion Stabilising, Emulsifying, Sufactant, Refatting, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 1 |
Myristic Acid
Perfuming, Fragrance, Emulsifying, Opacifying, Sufactant
|
|
|
| 0 |
PEG-32
Humectant, Solvent
|
|