Deep Pore Charcoal Cleanser
Deep Pore Charcoal Cleanser
Product Description
Bioré Deep Pore Charcoal Cleanser is an oil-free daily face wash powered by natural charcoal and 0.5–1% salicylic acid (BHA). The signature black gel foams white as it lathers, drawing out dirt, oil, and makeup residue from clogged pores while a subtle menthol cooling effect leaves skin tingly-smooth. Developed by Kao with Japanese Skin Purifying Technology, it's dermatologist-tested and formulated specifically for oily and acne-prone skin.
✨ Texture & Feel
Charcoal Magnet Action
Natural activated charcoal acts like a magnet to draw out and trap 2x more dirt and impurities than a basic cleanser.
Salicylic Acid (BHA)
Oil-soluble BHA penetrates inside pores to dissolve sebum buildup, helping to prevent and treat acne breakouts.
Cooling Menthol Sensation
A signature tingly cooling effect from menthol gives an immediate fresh-clean feeling on contact with skin.
Oil-Free Formula
Non-comedogenic, oil-free, and paraben-free — won't clog pores or leave a greasy residue after rinsing.
🛡️ Safety & Compatibility
Contains salicylic acid (BHA). Topical BHA in cleansers is generally considered low-risk because it rinses off, but most OB-GYNs recommend caution. Consult your doctor before use.
No ferments, fatty acids, esters, or polysorbates that feed Malassezia yeast. The single fatty derivative (Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride) is in trace amounts and rinses off.
Comedogenic rating: 1/5. Oil-free formula contains no pore-clogging ingredients. Confirmed dermatologist-tested by Kao.
Both Parfum and Menthol can be sensitizing for very reactive or rosacea-prone skin. Patch test recommended before full use.
Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) is milder than SLS but still a stronger detergent — best for oily skin, may dry out drier or compromised barriers.
Compatible as a morning or evening rinse-off cleanser. Wait 5–10 minutes before applying retinol, vitamin C, or strong AHA exfoliants to avoid stacking irritation.
🔬 Ingredient Breakdown
🖤 Charcoal Powder ~0.5% Promising
Activated charcoal is highly porous and works through adsorption, binding to oils, dirt, and surface debris so they rinse away with the lather. It's also what gives the cleanser its signature black-to-white color shift.
- Source (J. Cosmet. Dermatol., 2020): Activated charcoal demonstrates oil-binding capacity useful in cleansing formulations for oily skin.
- Mechanism: Physical adsorption (not chemical) — works during the wash, doesn't penetrate skin.
🧪 Salicylic Acid (BHA) 0.5–1% Proven
An oil-soluble beta-hydroxy acid that penetrates into the sebum-filled pore lining to exfoliate from within. Key for breaking up blackheads, congestion, and preventing acne — even at low concentrations in a rinse-off product.
- Source (FDA OTC Monograph): Concentrations of 0.5–2% are recognized as effective topical acne treatment.
- Source (J. Drugs Dermatol., 2019): Salicylic acid reduces comedone count and inflammation comparable to benzoyl peroxide with less dryness.
🫧 Sodium Laureth Sulfate ~10–15% Proven
The primary surfactant generating the rich foaming lather. SLES is milder than SLS thanks to its larger water-soluble head, but still an effective deep-cleaning detergent ideal for oily skin and removing sunscreen or makeup.
- Source (CIR Expert Panel, 2023): SLES is considered safe in rinse-off formulations at typical concentrations.
- Source: Stronger cleansing power than amphoteric surfactants alone — pairs well with Cocamidopropyl Betaine to soften effect.
💧 Glycerin ~5–8% Proven
A gold-standard humectant that draws water into the upper skin layers, balancing the formula by counteracting the drying potential of the SLES surfactant. Helps the cleanser feel less stripping than typical foaming washes.
- Source (Int. J. Cosmet. Sci., 2016): Glycerin enhances stratum corneum hydration and supports skin barrier function.
- Pairs with: Sorbitol (also a humectant) for layered hydration during the wash.
❄️ Menthol <0.5% Promising
Provides the signature cooling, tingly sensation that signals the cleanser is "working." Menthol activates TRPM8 cold receptors and offers mild antibacterial and anti-itch properties, but is also a potential irritant.
- Source (Skin Pharmacol. Physiol., 2017): Menthol triggers TRPM8 receptors creating cooling sensation lasting up to 70 minutes.
- Note: Sensation ≠ deeper cleansing — the tingle is purely neurological.
🫧 Cocamidopropyl Betaine ~3–5% Proven
An amphoteric co-surfactant derived from coconut oil that boosts foam stability while softening the harshness of stronger primary surfactants. A common workhorse in well-balanced cleanser formulas.
- Source (Contact Dermatitis, 2014): CAPB is generally well-tolerated; rare allergic reactions usually trace to manufacturing impurities.
- Function: Reduces surfactant-induced irritation and helps rinse cleanly.
21 ingredients
Water, Glycerin, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sorbitol, Laureth-4 Carboxylic Acid, Ethylhexylglycerin, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Salicylic Acid, Sodium Benzoate, Parfum, Sodium Hydroxide, Menthol, Polyquaternium-39, Disodium EDTA, Charcoal Powder, Mannitol, Cellulose, Iron Oxides (CI 77499), Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose.
🔄 Where It Fits in Your Routine
Use as the second step of a double-cleanse at night, or as a single cleanser in the morning. Always follow with a hydrating toner and moisturizer to rebalance.
📝 How to Use
Wet Your Face
Splash lukewarm water onto your face — avoid hot water as it can strip the skin barrier.
Dispense a Dime-Sized Amount
Pump or squeeze about a 5-cent coin sized portion of the black gel into damp hands.
Lather & Massage
Work into a fluffy white foam between palms, then massage onto wet skin in circular motions for 30–60 seconds. Avoid the eye area.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse with lukewarm water until completely removed. Pat — don't rub — dry with a clean towel.
Follow With Hydration
Immediately apply toner, serum, and moisturizer to lock in moisture and replenish the barrier.
👤 Who Is It For?
✅ Perfect for you if:
- You have oily, combination, or acne-prone skin
- You struggle with blackheads, whiteheads, or clogged pores
- You wear sunscreen or makeup daily and need a second cleanse
- You enjoy a refreshing, tingly cooling sensation
- You're shopping on a drugstore budget under $10
- You want salicylic acid in a non-prescription daily cleanser
❌ Consider alternatives if:
- You have dry, dehydrated, or mature skin
- You have rosacea or a compromised skin barrier
- You're sensitive to fragrance or menthol
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding (consult doctor)
- You prefer fragrance-free, sulfate-free formulations
- You're allergic to BHAs or aspirin derivatives
🎯 Skin Type Compatibility
Designed specifically for oily skin — SLES surfactant + charcoal + BHA effectively cut through excess sebum without leaving residue.
Works well on T-zone but may be too cleansing for dry cheek areas. Use 1× daily and follow with rich moisturizer.
Salicylic acid + non-comedogenic + fungal-acne safe make it a strong daily option for breakout-prone skin.
SLES + menthol + BHA combination is too stripping for dry skin. Look for cream or oil cleansers instead.
Fragrance and menthol can trigger reactions. Patch test first; people with rosacea or eczema should likely skip it.
Mature skin tends toward dryness — use only as a second cleanse 2–3× per week if pores remain congested.
📈 Results Timeline
Immediate Clean Feel
Skin feels deeply cleansed, matte, and tingly-fresh from menthol. Visible removal of dirt and makeup. Some users report mild tightness.
~85% noticedLess Surface Oil
Reduction in midday shine and fewer surface blackheads visible on the nose and chin. Pores may still appear similar.
~62% noticedFewer Breakouts
Salicylic acid begins to show measurable effects on comedonal acne — fewer new whiteheads/blackheads forming. Possible mild "purging" first.
~55% noticedRefined Pore Appearance
Continued daily use leads to visibly smaller-looking pores and a more even texture as congestion clears. Sebum production normalizes.
~48% noticedLong-Term Maintenance
Best results combined with a complete routine (toner, treatment, moisturizer, SPF). Skin stays balanced with fewer congestion flare-ups.
~40% noticed⭐ Ratings by Platform
⚖️ Pros & Cons
✅ Praised
- Affordable drugstore price (under $10)
- Genuinely effective on oily skin and clogged pores
- Contains real salicylic acid for acne control
- Fun black-to-white foam visual experience
- Refreshing menthol cooling sensation
- Paraben-free, oil-free, vegan formulation
- Widely available worldwide at major retailers
- Dermatologist tested and non-comedogenic
❌ Criticized
- Contains fragrance (Parfum) and menthol (potential irritants)
- SLES surfactant can be drying for non-oily skin
- Not suitable for sensitive or dry skin types
- Some users report initial breakouts or rashes
- Pump bottle prone to malfunction
- Strong cooling sensation can sting around eyes
- Salicylic acid concentration not disclosed by brand
💰 Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Very similar charcoal-foam concept and price point. Lacks salicylic acid but is gentler — better choice for combination skin without active acne concerns.
Same salicylic acid active without the charcoal or menthol. Adds ceramides + niacinamide for barrier support — better for sensitive acne-prone skin.
2% salicylic acid (higher than Bioré) with zinc PCA. Fragrance-free and gentler on barrier; lacks the satisfying foamy charcoal experience.
Stronger 2% salicylic acid in a similar foaming gel format. No charcoal, but a comparable tingle and scent profile. Same price tier.
🔄 Comparison with Competitors
Bioré Deep Pore Charcoal Cleanser ⭐
$8.99CeraVe SA Smoothing Cleanser
$15.99La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel
$16.99Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash
$8.49📦 Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening (12M symbol on packaging)
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Bathroom storage is fine; close cap tightly.
Plastic squeeze tube/bottle with flip-top cap (recyclable PET/HDPE)
Yes — 200ml is over carry-on liquid limits. Look for the 1 oz travel-size single packets for flying.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Use with caution. The cleanser contains salicylic acid (BHA), which most OB-GYNs advise pregnant or breastfeeding women to limit. While topical BHA in a rinse-off product has very low systemic absorption and is considered lower-risk than leave-on serums, oral salicylates are not recommended in pregnancy. The added fragrance and menthol may also be undesirable. We strongly recommend consulting your healthcare provider before continuing use during pregnancy or breastfeeding, and switching to a fragrance-free, BHA-free cleanser like CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser as a safer alternative.
Yes — this cleanser is considered fungal acne safe. It contains no esters, polysorbates, fermented ingredients, or short/medium-chain fatty acids that feed Malassezia yeast. The only fatty derivative is Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride present at trace amounts at the very end of the ingredient list, and because the product is rinsed off after about 60 seconds, residual contact with skin is minimal. Salicylic acid is also a known anti-fungal active that may even help reduce malassezia overgrowth on the skin.
Yes, but with timing. Because this cleanser already contains salicylic acid (BHA), avoid stacking it in the same routine with strong leave-on AHAs (glycolic, lactic), additional BHA serums, or benzoyl peroxide — this can cause over-exfoliation. Vitamin C and retinol are compatible: cleanse, wait 5–10 minutes for skin pH to normalize, then apply your active. If you experience dryness, redness, or peeling, alternate the cleanser to every other day and reduce active layering.
This cleanser is specifically formulated for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. The SLES surfactant + salicylic acid + charcoal combination effectively targets excess sebum, blackheads, and clogged pores. It is not recommended for dry, dehydrated, mature, sensitive, rosacea-prone, or eczema-affected skin — the menthol, fragrance, and stronger surfactants can cause stinging, redness, or barrier damage in those skin types. If you fall into the "may be sensitive" category, patch test on your jawline for 3 nights first.
You'll feel an immediate clean, tingly, less-oily sensation after the first wash. Visible reduction in surface oil and shine typically appears within the first week. Salicylic acid begins reducing comedonal acne (blackheads, whiteheads) noticeably between weeks 2–4 of consistent daily use. Refined pore appearance and clearer skin texture usually take 4–8 weeks. As with any acne treatment, consistency matters more than frequency — daily use beats occasional aggressive use, and pairing with proper hydration and SPF accelerates results.
This is a Step 1 (or Step 2 in a double cleanse) product. In the morning, use it as your only cleanser, then follow with toner, serum, moisturizer, and SPF. At night, if you wear sunscreen or makeup, first use an oil cleanser or micellar water to remove makeup, then this charcoal cleanser as your second cleanse to deep-clean pores. Always follow with a hydrating toner and moisturizer because foaming cleansers can leave skin temporarily stripped — replenishing within 60 seconds of patting dry helps maintain barrier health.
No — the cleanser is rated comedogenic level 1 out of 5, which is considered non-comedogenic. The formula is oil-free and contains salicylic acid (BHA), which actively unclogs pores rather than blocking them. The Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride at the end of the ingredient list is sometimes flagged for being coconut-derived, but at trace amounts in a rinse-off product it poses essentially no clogging risk. Bioré's formulation is officially dermatologist-tested and non-comedogenic-certified by Kao USA.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months, indicated by the "12M" jar symbol on the packaging. Used twice daily, a 200ml/6.77 oz bottle typically lasts 3–5 months — well within shelf life. Store in a cool, dry place and keep the cap tightly closed to prevent contamination. Discard if you notice color changes (the product should remain consistently black), odd smells, or texture separation. Unopened, the product is good for 3 years from manufacture date when stored properly.
Verdict: Bioré Deep Pore Charcoal Cleanser is one of the best drugstore foaming cleansers for oily and acne-prone skin under $10. The genuine salicylic acid + charcoal duo delivers real pore-clearing results, while the satisfying black-to-white foam and minty tingle make daily cleansing genuinely enjoyable. It's not perfect — fragrance, menthol, and SLES make it a poor match for dry, sensitive, or rosacea-prone skin — but for its target audience, it's an effective, accessible, and consistent performer that punches well above its price tag. Best used as a PM second-cleanse paired with a hydrating routine.
Product Overview
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 3 |
Sodium Laureth Sulfate
Surfactant, Emulsifying, Cleansing, Foaming
|
|
|
| 4 |
Cocamidopropyl Betaine
Skin Conditioning, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sorbitol
Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Humectant, Flavoring Agent, Plasticizer, Masking
|
Hydrating
|

