Clear Pore Cleanser/Mask
Clear Pore Cleanser/Mask
Product Description
Product overview
A dermatologist-tested 2-in-1 acne treatment that works as both a daily cleanser and an intensive deep-cleaning mask. Formulated with 3.5% benzoyl peroxide, kaolin and bentonite clay to kill acne-causing bacteria, absorb excess oil, and clear blackhead-causing impurities for smooth, clean skin.
Kills Acne-Causing Bacteria
3.5% benzoyl peroxide penetrates pores to eliminate P. acnes bacteria that cause breakouts and inflammation.
Texture & feel
SENSORYKills Acne-Causing Bacteria
3.5% benzoyl peroxide penetrates pores to eliminate P. acnes bacteria that cause breakouts and inflammation.
Dual Clay Technology
Kaolin and bentonite clay work together to absorb excess oil, draw out impurities, and control shine all day.
Cooling Sensation
Menthol creates a refreshing, tingly cooling effect that intensifies as it penetrates pores during mask use.
2-in-1 Versatility
Use daily as a quick cleanser or 2-3x weekly as an intensive mask for deep pore cleansing and extra oil control.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEBenzoyl peroxide is FDA Category C but considered generally safe by NHS and ACOG due to minimal systemic absorption (~5%). Consult your healthcare provider before use.
Low systemic absorption makes it low risk for nursing infants. Avoid applying to chest area and wash hands before handling baby.
Contains Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate (coconut-derived) which may feed Malassezia yeast. Not recommended for pityrosporum folliculitis.
Benzoyl peroxide can cause irritation, redness, burning, and peeling. Start with cleanser use before attempting mask. Discontinue if severe irritation occurs.
Benzoyl peroxide bleaches colored fabrics, towels, and hair. Use white towels and avoid contact with clothing.
Increases photosensitivity. Apply sunscreen daily when using this product and avoid unnecessary sun exposure.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSBenzoyl Peroxide 3.5%Proven
The gold standard OTC acne treatment. Releases oxygen into pores to kill P. acnes bacteria, reduces inflammation, and helps prevent new breakouts from forming.
- Mechanism: Oxidizes bacterial proteins and cellular structures
- Research: Studies show 2.5-5% as effective as 10% with less irritation
- Advantage: Bacteria cannot develop resistance to benzoyl peroxide
Kaolin ClayProven
A gentle white clay that absorbs excess sebum without over-drying. Creates the mask texture and helps draw impurities from pores.
- Origin: Natural mineral clay (aluminum silicate)
- Function: Oil absorption, pore cleansing, skin smoothing
- Comedogenic: Rating 0 - will not clog pores
Bentonite ClayProven
A powerful absorbent volcanic clay with a negative ionic charge that attracts and binds to positively charged toxins, bacteria, and impurities.
- Origin: Volcanic ash sediments
- Function: Deep detoxification, oil control, pore minimizing
- Benefit: Antimicrobial properties against harmful bacteria
GlycerinProven
A powerful humectant that draws moisture into the skin, helping to offset the drying effects of benzoyl peroxide and clay.
- Research: Studies show glycerin more effective than hyaluronic acid as humectant
- Function: Hydration, skin barrier support, moisture retention
- Comedogenic: Rating 0 - non-pore clogging
MentholSensory
Derived from peppermint oil, provides the signature cooling sensation and contributes to the refreshing feeling during use.
- Function: Cooling effect, sensory experience, mild antiseptic
- Note: Purely for sensory experience, not therapeutic
14 ingredients
Active Ingredient: Benzoyl Peroxide 3.5%
Inactive Ingredients: Water, Glycerin, Kaolin, Bentonite, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Titanium Dioxide, Citric Acid, Xanthan Gum, Benzyl Alcohol, Sodium Citrate, Sodium Hydroxide, Fragrance, Disodium EDTA, Menthol
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as a first cleanse (PM) or only cleanse (AM). When using as mask, apply after removing makeup with a separate makeup remover first.
How to use
HOW TO USEAs a Daily Cleanser
Wet face with lukewarm water. Squeeze product into hands and gently massage all over face, avoiding eye area. Rinse thoroughly and pat dry. Can be used 1-3 times daily.
As an Intensive Mask (2-3x/week)
Apply an even layer over dry or damp skin, avoiding eye area. Allow to dry for up to 5 minutes while feeling the cooling sensation build. Rinse thoroughly with warm water.
Start Slowly
Begin with once daily use, then gradually increase to 2-3 times daily if tolerated. If dryness or peeling occurs, reduce frequency. Always follow with moisturizer.
Sun Protection
Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen SPF 30+ every morning when using this product, as benzoyl peroxide increases sun sensitivity.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily or combination skin with frequent breakouts
- You struggle with blackheads and clogged pores
- You want a multi-tasking product (cleanser + mask)
- You prefer benzoyl peroxide over salicylic acid
- You need an affordable drugstore acne solution
- You want something from a dermatologist-recommended brand
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very sensitive or dry skin
- You're allergic to benzoyl peroxide
- You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
- You dislike strong menthol/cooling sensations
- You're already using multiple acne actives (retinoids, AHAs/BHAs)
- You use colored towels or pillowcases (product will bleach them)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal match. Clay absorbs excess sebum, BP controls bacteria, and the formula leaves skin matte without over-stripping.
Works well for T-zone. May be too drying for cheeks - apply selectively and always follow with moisturizer.
Specifically formulated for acne. 3.5% BP effectively kills bacteria without excessive irritation of higher concentrations.
May be too drying. Use only as occasional mask, not daily cleanser. Pair with hydrating products and rich moisturizer.
Not recommended. BP and menthol can cause significant irritation, burning, and redness. Patch test essential if attempting use.
Results timeline
WEEK 4-8Immediate Clean Feeling
Skin feels deeply cleansed, refreshed, and matte. Cooling sensation during use. Pores appear temporarily tighter.
95% notice cleaner feelingInitial Purging May Occur
Some users experience temporary increase in breakouts as BP brings existing clogs to surface. This is normal and typically subsides.
30% experience purgingVisible Improvement
Breakouts begin clearing, blackheads reduce, skin texture improves. Oil production is more balanced throughout the day.
70% see clearer skinSignificant Results
Most users see substantial reduction in acne, smaller-looking pores, and better overall skin clarity with consistent use.
85% satisfied with resultsRatings by platform
9K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Effective at clearing breakouts and blackheads
- Versatile 2-in-1 formula saves time and money
- Affordable drugstore price point ($8-12)
- Dermatologist-tested and recommended brand
- Leaves skin feeling deeply clean and matte
- Refreshing cooling sensation during use
- Long-lasting oil control throughout the day
- FSA/HSA eligible purchase
Criticized
- Can cause burning/irritation on sensitive skin
- Strong menthol scent not for everyone
- Bleaches colored towels, fabrics, and hair
- Too drying for some skin types
- Mask function too intense for beginners
- Contains fragrance (potential irritant)
- Not suitable for fungal acne
- Some report formula inconsistency between batches
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Same active ingredient category with slightly higher BP concentration (4% vs 3.5%). Lacks clay component but gentler for daily use. No cooling sensation.
More hydrating formula with ceramides, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid. Better for sensitive/dry acne-prone skin. No mask function. Higher price point.
Lower BP concentration (2.5%) makes it gentler for beginners. No clay or mask function. Good stepping stone before trying higher strength products.
Leave-on treatment with 5.5% BP (not a cleanser). Contains LHA for gentle exfoliation. French pharmacy quality but significantly higher price.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Check expiration date on packaging.
Store at room temperature 20°C-25°C (68°F-77°F). Avoid extreme temperatures below 40°F and above 100°F.
Squeeze tube with flip-top cap. Easy to control dispensing amount.
Yes, 4.2 fl oz is over 3.4 oz TSA limit - transfer to smaller container for carry-on or pack in checked luggage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQUse with caution during pregnancy. Benzoyl peroxide is FDA Category C but considered generally safe by NHS and ACOG due to minimal systemic absorption (only ~5% enters bloodstream). However, it's best to consult your healthcare provider before use. For breastfeeding, it's considered low risk - just avoid applying to chest area and wash hands before handling baby.
No, this product is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, a coconut-derived surfactant that may feed Malassezia yeast. While benzoyl peroxide itself has some antifungal properties, the overall formula is not recommended for pityrosporum folliculitis (fungal acne). Consider alternatives like sulfur-based treatments or antifungal ingredients instead.
Use caution when combining with other actives. Benzoyl peroxide can be irritating, especially when used with retinoids, AHAs, BHAs, or vitamin C. If you want to use multiple actives, alternate them (BP in morning, retinol at night) or use on different days. Never layer BP directly with vitamin C as they can deactivate each other. Always introduce new combinations slowly and watch for signs of irritation.
This product is best suited for oily and acne-prone skin types. The clay-based formula absorbs excess oil while benzoyl peroxide fights bacteria. It works well for combination skin when applied to T-zone only. It's NOT recommended for dry, sensitive, or very reactive skin types as the benzoyl peroxide and menthol can cause significant irritation, burning, and dryness.
Results timeline varies by individual. You'll feel immediate cleansing effects on day one. Some users experience initial purging (temporary increase in breakouts) during weeks 1-2 as existing clogs come to surface. Most users see visible improvement in breakouts and skin texture within 2-4 weeks of consistent use. Significant, lasting results typically appear after 4-8 weeks of regular use.
Use as the first step of your routine - it's a cleanser. In the evening, if you wear makeup, use a makeup remover first, then follow with this cleanser. After cleansing, continue with toner, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM only). When using as a mask, apply to clean skin, let dry 5 minutes, rinse, then continue with your regular routine.
No, this product has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5 and is unlikely to clog pores. The main ingredients - kaolin clay, bentonite clay, and glycerin - all have comedogenic ratings of 0. The formula is specifically designed for acne-prone skin and helps unclog existing pores rather than create new blockages. It's oil-free and rinses clean without residue.
The product has a 12-month Period After Opening (PAO). Store at room temperature (68°F-77°F) and avoid extreme temperatures. Check the expiration date printed on the packaging. If the texture, color, or smell changes significantly, discontinue use even if still within the expiration period.
Verdict: Neutrogena Clear Pore Cleanser/Mask is an effective, affordable 2-in-1 acne treatment that delivers on its promises for oily and acne-prone skin. The combination of 3.5% benzoyl peroxide with dual clays provides powerful oil control and breakout-fighting action. Its versatility as both cleanser and mask offers excellent value. However, it's not for everyone - sensitive skin types should avoid it, and the menthol sensation plus fabric-bleaching properties require some lifestyle adjustments. For the right skin type, this drugstore classic remains a solid choice that has earned its loyal following over the years.
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 skin’s 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 «promises» 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 2 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Kaolin
Abrasive, Absorbent, Anticaking Agent, Bulking Agent, Opacifying, Skin Protecting, Slip Modifier, Cosmetic Colorant
|
Ache-fighting
Pores
|
|
| 2 |
Bentonite
Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emulsion Stabilising, Absorbent, Bulking Agent, Opacifying, Suspending Agent -Nonsurfactant
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate
Surfactant, Cleansing, Foaming
|
|