Pore Cleanse Gel Intense
Pore Cleanse Gel Intense
Product Description
Product overview
A powerful AHA/BHA exfoliating gel cleanser formulated with L-Mandelic Acid, Salicylic Acid, and Lactic Acid to deeply purify pores, reduce excess oiliness, and smooth uneven skin texture without stripping hydration. Enriched with Red Clover Extract and Glycerin for a refined, balanced complexion.
Triple Acid Exfoliation
Combines Mandelic Acid (AHA), Lactic Acid (AHA), and Salicylic Acid (BHA) to exfoliate both the skin surface and deep within pores for thorough decongestion.
Texture & feel
SENSORYTriple Acid Exfoliation
Combines Mandelic Acid (AHA), Lactic Acid (AHA), and Salicylic Acid (BHA) to exfoliate both the skin surface and deep within pores for thorough decongestion.
Red Clover Pore Refining
Trifolium Pratense (Red Clover) Extract acts as a natural astringent to minimize excess sebum production and visibly tighten the appearance of pores.
Hydrating Cleanse
Glycerin-infused formula ensures skin stays hydrated and comfortable during cleansing, avoiding the tight, stripped feeling common with exfoliating cleansers.
Visible Pore Reduction
Breaks down buildup within pores to minimize their appearance while reducing unwanted shine for a smoother, more refined-looking complexion.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains Salicylic Acid (BHA), which is generally advised against during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Consult your healthcare provider before use. Medik8 states they cannot provide advice on use during pregnancy.
As a rinse-off cleanser, this product has minimal contact time. Contains no ferments, fatty acid esters, or polysorbates that typically feed Malassezia yeast. Safe for fungal acne-prone skin.
Rated 1/5 on the comedogenic scale. Gel cleanser formula is washed off and contains no pore-clogging oils or heavy emollients. All Medik8 products are formulated with non-comedogenic ingredients.
AHA/BHA acids increase photosensitivity. Daily sunscreen use is essential when using this cleanser. Start slowly if you have sensitive skin — once daily or a few times per week.
Free from parabens, phthalates, alcohol, synthetic colour, and artificial fragrance. Contains natural essential oils (bergamot, lavender, spearmint, patchouli) with Linalool and Limonene listed as allergens — patch test if sensitive to fragrance compounds.
100% vegan formula. Certified cruelty-free. Medik8 is B Corp certified, meeting high standards of social and environmental performance.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSL-Mandelic AcidProven
A chirally correct alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) with a larger molecular size that allows it to penetrate both the skin surface and within pores — giving it dual AHA/BHA-like behaviour. Gently exfoliates dead skin cells and oil buildup for deep, non-irritating pore refinement.
- Type: AHA with oil-soluble properties (BHA-like penetration)
- Benefit: Exfoliates surface and within pores for deep but gentle decongestion
- Research: Studies show mandelic acid is gentler than glycolic acid while providing comparable exfoliation, making it suitable for sensitive and darker skin tones
Salicylic AcidProven
The gold-standard BHA (beta-hydroxy acid) for acne and pore management. Oil-soluble, allowing it to penetrate deep into pores to dissolve clogged sebum and dead skin cells that contribute to enlarged pores and blemishes.
- Type: BHA (Beta-Hydroxy Acid)
- Benefit: Unclogs pores from within, reduces acne-causing bacteria, anti-inflammatory
- FDA Status: 0.5–2% concentrations recognized as OTC acne treatment by the US FDA
L-Lactic AcidProven
A gentle AHA that softly exfoliates the upper layers of skin while simultaneously hydrating thanks to its humectant properties. Supports a smoother, brighter, and more nourished complexion.
- Type: AHA (Alpha-Hydroxy Acid) with humectant properties
- Benefit: Surface exfoliation + hydration for smoother, brighter skin
- Research: Proven to improve skin texture, reduce hyperpigmentation, and support collagen synthesis at effective concentrations
Red Clover (Trifolium Pratense) ExtractPromising
A botanical extract renowned for its pore-tightening and sebum-regulating properties. Acts as a natural astringent to visibly reduce excess oil production and minimize the appearance of pores. Also supports cellular turnover.
- Source: Trifolium Pratense (Clover) Flower Extract
- Benefit: Sebum regulation, pore tightening, natural astringent
- Activity: Contains isoflavones that help regulate sebaceous gland activity
Mangosteen Peel ExtractPromising
Garcinia Mangostana Peel Extract is rich in xanthones, potent antioxidants with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Supports skin clarity and helps protect against environmental damage.
- Source: Garcinia Mangostana (Mangosteen) Peel Extract
- Benefit: Antioxidant protection, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial
- Research: Xanthones from mangosteen shown to have potent free-radical scavenging activity
GlycerinProven
A powerful natural humectant that attracts and locks moisture within the skin. Prevents the tight, dry feeling commonly associated with exfoliating cleansers, keeping the skin barrier comfortable during and after cleansing.
- Type: Humectant moisturizer
- Benefit: Draws moisture into skin, prevents post-cleanse dryness and tightness
- Research: One of the most well-studied and effective humectants in skincare, suitable for all skin types
23 ingredients
Aqua (Water), Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate, Sodium Cocoamphoacetate, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Glycerin, Mandelic Acid, Citric Acid, Isopentyldiol, Maltodextrin, Sodium Hydroxide, Salicylic Acid, Lactic Acid, Trifolium Pratense (Clover) Flower Extract, Garcinia Mangostana (Mangosteen) Peel Extract, Phenoxyethanol, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil, Disodium EDTA, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Herb Oil, Ethylhexylglycerin, Mentha Viridis (Spearmint) Leaf Oil, Pogostemon Cablin (Patchouli) Leaf Oil, Linalool, Limonene.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as your second cleanser in a double-cleanse routine (after Medik8 Lipid-Balance Cleansing Oil). For dry or sensitive skin, limit use to once daily or a few times per week.
How to use
HOW TO USEDampen Your Face
Splash your face and neck with lukewarm water to prepare the skin for cleansing.
Apply a Pea-Sized Amount
Squeeze a small amount of gel into the palm of your hand. A little goes a long way — the formula lathers into a rich, creamy foam.
Massage Gently
Work the gel into your moistened face and neck using gentle circular motions for 30–60 seconds, focusing on areas with enlarged pores and congestion.
Rinse & Pat Dry
Splash with lukewarm water to remove completely. Pat your face dry with a clean towel. Follow with your favourite Medik8 serum and moisturizer.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily or combination skin with visible enlarged pores
- You struggle with excess shine and sebum throughout the day
- You want a cleanser that exfoliates and unclogs pores in one step
- You have rough, uneven skin texture from congestion
- You prefer a vegan, cruelty-free, B Corp-certified skincare brand
- You want a second cleanser for an effective double-cleanse routine
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (contains Salicylic Acid)
- You have very dry or dehydrated skin that needs ultra-gentle cleansing
- Your skin barrier is currently compromised or over-exfoliated
- You are allergic to aspirin (cross-reactivity with Salicylic Acid)
- You are sensitive to natural essential oils (bergamot, lavender, spearmint)
- You need a fragrance-free formula for extremely reactive skin
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal match. Triple-acid formula effectively controls sebum, decongests pores, and mattifies without over-drying. Red Clover targets excess oil production at the source.
Glycerin keeps dry areas hydrated while acids target oily T-zone congestion. Balances well across different face zones without stripping.
Salicylic Acid penetrates pores to dissolve clogs and prevent breakouts. Anti-inflammatory properties help calm existing blemishes. Non-comedogenic formula.
Multiple exfoliating acids and essential oils may irritate very reactive skin. Use once daily or a few times per week. Patch test recommended. Consider Medik8 Gentle Cleanse instead.
Glycerin provides hydration, but the exfoliating acid complex may be too active for very dry skin used daily. Limit to once daily or as a weekly deep-cleanse treatment. Follow with a rich moisturizer.
Results timeline
8+ WEEKSImmediate Cleansing & Freshness
Skin feels deeply cleansed, refreshed, and smoother after each use. Mild tingling sensation confirms active acids are working. Excess surface oil is visibly reduced.
85% noticed instantly cleaner skinPore Refinement & Reduced Congestion
Blackheads and whiteheads begin to clear as BHA dissolves pore blockages. Skin texture becomes noticeably smoother and more even. Some initial purging may occur as pores are decongested.
72% reported visible pore reductionBrighter, Balanced Complexion
Consistent AHA exfoliation reveals brighter, more radiant skin. Sebum production is better regulated. Pores appear tighter and less visible. Skin texture is significantly smoother.
80% reported smoother, more refined skinLong-Term Skin Clarity
Ongoing use maintains clear, balanced skin with reduced breakouts and visibly minimized pores. Complexion appears more youthful and luminous with consistent use alongside a full skincare routine.
88% would repurchaseRatings by platform
500+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Triple AHA/BHA complex delivers professional-grade exfoliation in a daily cleanser
- Visibly minimizes pores and reduces blackheads with consistent use
- Glycerin keeps skin hydrated — no tight, stripped feeling post-cleanse
- A small amount creates a rich lather — 150ml bottle lasts 3–6 months
- Pleasant herbal scent from natural essential oils (lavender, spearmint, bergamot)
- Vegan, cruelty-free, and B Corp certified — ethically manufactured in the UK
- Works excellently as a second step in a double-cleanse routine
Criticized
- Contains Salicylic Acid — not pregnancy or breastfeeding safe
- Higher price point (~$35) compared to drugstore BHA cleansers
- Essential oils (bergamot, patchouli) may irritate those with fragrance sensitivities
- Can be too active for very dry or compromised skin barriers if used twice daily
- Initial purging may occur in the first 1–2 weeks as pores are decongested
- Not widely available in physical retail stores outside the UK and Australia
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESContains 0.5% Salicylic Acid with added Ceramides and Hyaluronic Acid for barrier support. Gentler formula without AHAs (no mandelic/lactic acid). Less exfoliating power but better for sensitive skin. Fragrance-free. 237ml size offers better value per ml.
Features 2% Salicylic Acid and LHA (Lipo-Hydroxy Acid) for pore clearing. No mandelic or lactic acid. Dermatologist-recommended and hypoallergenic. Fragrance-free formula better suited for sensitive, acne-prone skin. Lacks the botanical pore-refining extracts.
BHA cleanser with Salicylic Acid and Tea Tree Oil for acne-prone skin. Simpler formula without the multi-acid AHA/BHA complex. Very gentle pH-balanced approach. Lacks Red Clover and mandelic acid exfoliation. Better for minimal routines.
Straightforward BHA cleanser with Salicylic Acid and Zinc. No additional AHAs for multi-level exfoliation. Simpler but effective for basic pore clearing. No botanical extracts for sebum control. Fragrance-free. Great entry-level option.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStorage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep cap tightly closed between uses. No refrigeration required.
Squeeze tube with flip-top cap. Hygienic dispensing minimizes contamination. Recyclable packaging in line with Medik8's B Corp sustainability commitment.
Yes — 150ml exceeds carry-on liquid limits (100ml). Decant into a smaller container for air travel, or check it in hold luggage. A 40ml travel size is available.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThis product contains Salicylic Acid (BHA), which is generally recommended to be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Medik8 themselves state that as a cosmetics company, they are unable to provide product advice in relation to medical conditions such as pregnancy or breastfeeding. Always consult your doctor or midwife before using any AHA/BHA products while pregnant or nursing. Consider switching to a gentle, acid-free cleanser like Medik8 Gentle Cleanse during this period.
Yes, this product is considered fungal acne safe. As a rinse-off cleanser with minimal skin contact time, it poses very low risk. The formula does not contain fermented ingredients, fatty acid esters, polysorbates, or oils that typically feed Malassezia yeast. The AHA/BHA acids may actually help manage fungal acne by exfoliating and keeping pores clear. The essential oils are present in small amounts and are rinsed off quickly.
Yes, but with care. Since this cleanser already contains AHAs and BHA, layering additional leave-on acid products (like toners or serums with glycolic acid or salicylic acid) immediately after may cause over-exfoliation and irritation. Medik8 recommends pairing it with Crystal Retinal in the evening (apply retinal after cleansing). Vitamin C serums can be used in the AM after cleansing. If using additional acid treatments, consider alternating days or using the gel cleanser only once daily to avoid compromising your skin barrier.
This cleanser is ideal for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. It excels at controlling excess sebum, unclogging pores, and reducing shine. People with normal skin can also benefit, especially if they experience occasional congestion or enlarged pores. Those with dry or very sensitive skin should use it cautiously — limit to once daily or a few times per week, and always follow with a hydrating moisturizer. Medik8 recommends their Gentle Cleanse for very sensitive or dry skin.
Most users notice immediately cleaner, refreshed skin after the first use. Visible pore reduction and smoother texture typically appear within 2–4 weeks of consistent use. Full results including regulated sebum production, reduced breakouts, and a brighter complexion usually develop over 4–8 weeks. Some initial purging (small breakouts) may occur during the first 1–2 weeks as clogged pores are cleared — this is normal and temporary.
Use it as your water-based cleanser — typically the first step in your AM routine or the second step in your PM double-cleanse routine (after an oil cleanser like Medik8 Lipid-Balance Cleansing Oil). Apply to damp skin, massage, rinse, then follow with toner, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM). In the PM, follow with your retinal/retinol and night cream. For oily skin, use morning and evening. For dry or sensitive skin, use once daily or as needed.
No — quite the opposite. This product is rated 1/5 on the comedogenic scale and is specifically designed to unclog pores. It contains no heavy oils or comedogenic ingredients. All Medik8 products are formulated with non-comedogenic ingredients. As a rinse-off gel cleanser, it has minimal pore-clogging potential. The AHA/BHA complex actively works to dissolve existing pore blockages.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. The 150ml tube typically lasts 3–6 months with twice-daily use, as only a pea-sized amount is needed per cleanse. Store in a cool, dry place with the cap tightly closed. If the product changes colour, consistency, or develops an unusual odour, discard and replace.
Verdict: Medik8 Pore Cleanse Gel Intense is a premium, science-backed exfoliating cleanser that delivers on its promises. The unique triple-acid complex (Mandelic + Salicylic + Lactic) provides multi-level exfoliation that effectively minimizes pores, controls oil, and smooths skin texture — while Glycerin and Red Clover Extract ensure the skin stays hydrated and balanced. It is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. The higher price point is justified by the professional-grade formulation, ethical B Corp certification, and UK manufacturing quality. Those with sensitive or dry skin should use cautiously, and it is not suitable during pregnancy due to Salicylic Acid content. An excellent investment for anyone seeking a powerful daily cleanser to achieve visibly clearer, more refined skin.
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
|
|
|
| 0 |
Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
Cleansing, Foaming
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Cocoamphoacetate
Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting, Foaming
|
|
|
| 1 |
Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine
Skin Conditioning, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning, Sufactant, Foam Boosting
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|







