Pore Perfecting Stick
Pore Perfecting Stick
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle dual-action exfoliating stick that combines kaolin clay with a 5-acid blend to physically and chemically unclog pores, reduce blackheads, and leave skin visibly smoother and mattified. Portable, mess-free, and doubles as a 10-minute mask for deeper pore-clearing benefits.
Dual Exfoliation
Combines physical exfoliation from hydrated silica and kaolin clay with chemical exfoliation from a 5-acid blend for thorough pore clearing.
Texture & feel
SENSORYDual Exfoliation
Combines physical exfoliation from hydrated silica and kaolin clay with chemical exfoliation from a 5-acid blend for thorough pore clearing.
Mushroom Extract
Fomes Officinalis (mushroom) extract helps minimize the appearance of pores and smooths skin texture for a refined look.
Targeted Stick Format
Portable, mess-free stick allows precise application to problem areas like T-zone, nose, chin, and cheeks without affecting dry areas.
Mask Mode
Leave on for 10 minutes as an intensive mask for deeper pore-clearing benefits, then rinse for visibly smoother skin.
Fruit Enzyme Complex
Mango, papaya, and pineapple fruit extracts provide gentle enzymatic exfoliation and deliver antioxidant nourishment to skin.
Niacinamide Boost
Vitamin B3 (niacinamide) helps regulate oil production, minimize pore appearance, and improve overall skin tone and texture.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains salicylic acid (BHA). While the concentration is low and this is a rinse-off product, most dermatologists recommend avoiding BHA during pregnancy. Consult your doctor before use.
Contains farnesol, a sesquiterpene alcohol that may promote Malassezia yeast growth. Not recommended for those with active fungal acne.
Rating 1/5. Oil-free formula with kaolin clay (comedogenic rating 0) and glycerin (rating 0). Very unlikely to clog pores.
Free from parabens, silicones, sulfates, phthalates, mineral oil, and added fragrance. Meets Sephora Clean standards.
Contains a 5-acid blend (lactic, mandelic, glycolic, salicylic, adipic). Those with very sensitive or compromised skin barriers should patch test first and start slowly.
AHAs and BHA increase sun sensitivity. Always apply SPF 30+ the morning after use. Best used in your PM routine.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSKaolin ClayProven
A gentle white clay that absorbs excess sebum and draws out impurities from pores without over-drying the skin. Less aggressive than bentonite clay, making it suitable for sensitive and dry skin types.
- Function: Oil absorption, pore cleansing, and mattifying
- Comedogenic Rating: 0 — will not clog pores
- Irritancy: 0 — very gentle on skin
5-Acid BlendProven
A multi-acid complex combining lactic acid, mandelic acid, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, and adipic acid for comprehensive surface and within-pore exfoliation.
- Lactic Acid (AHA): Gentle surface exfoliation with hydrating properties, suitable for sensitive skin
- Mandelic Acid (AHA): Larger molecule size means slower penetration and less irritation, good for darker skin tones
- Glycolic Acid (AHA): Smallest AHA molecule for deepest surface exfoliation, improves tone and texture
- Salicylic Acid (BHA): Oil-soluble acid that penetrates into pores to dissolve sebum plugs and blackheads
- Adipic Acid: pH adjuster that supports the activity of other acids in the formula
Fomes Officinalis (Mushroom) ExtractPromising
A mushroom-derived extract that helps minimize the visible appearance of pores and smooths overall skin texture. Featured across the Peace Out pore-targeting product line.
- Function: Pore-minimizing and skin-smoothing properties
- Research: Used traditionally for its astringent and skin-refining benefits
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) ~1–2%Proven
A multitasking form of vitamin B3 that strengthens the skin barrier, regulates sebum production, reduces pore appearance, and addresses uneven skin tone.
- Research: Studies show 2% niacinamide reduces sebum excretion rate within 2–4 weeks
- Compatibility: Well-tolerated by most skin types including sensitive skin
- Bonus: Anti-inflammatory properties help calm redness and irritation from exfoliation
Fruit Enzyme ComplexPromising
A trio of tropical fruit extracts — mango, papaya, and pineapple — that provide gentle enzymatic exfoliation and deliver natural antioxidants to nourish and brighten the skin.
- Papaya (Papain): Proteolytic enzyme that breaks down dead skin proteins for smoother texture
- Pineapple (Bromelain): Anti-inflammatory enzyme that exfoliates and helps reduce redness
- Mango: Rich in vitamins A and C for antioxidant protection and brightening
Hydrated SilicaProven
A gentle physical exfoliant derived from silicon dioxide. Provides mild abrasive action to help buff away dead skin cells and smooth the skin surface when massaged in.
- Function: Physical exfoliation and oil absorption
- Gentleness: Finer and less abrasive than many traditional scrub particles
25 ingredients
Water/Aqua/Eau, Propanediol, Sodium Stearate, Hydrated Silica, Kaolin, Glycerin, Lactic Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Hydroxide, Xanthan Gum, Niacinamide, Algin, Mandelic Acid, Fomes Officinalis (Mushroom) Extract, Farnesol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Glycolic Acid, Galactoarabinan, Mangifera Indica (Mango) Fruit Extract, Carica Papaya (Papaya) Fruit Extract, Ananas Sativus (Pineapple) Fruit Extract, Salicylic Acid, Adipic Acid, Sodium Carbonate, Polylysine.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse 2–3 times per week after cleansing. Apply to damp or dry skin, massage, then rinse. Can also be left on as a 10-minute mask. Best used in PM routine due to acid content. Follow with hydrating toner and moisturizer.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Face
Start with clean skin. Remove makeup and cleanse with your regular face wash. Pat gently but leave skin slightly damp for better glide.
Apply the Stick
Gently massage the stick over areas of concern — forehead, nose, cheeks, and chin. Use light, circular motions to activate the exfoliating formula.
Quick Scrub or Mask
For a quick exfoliation, rinse off immediately after massaging. For deeper pore clearing, leave on as a mask for up to 10 minutes.
Rinse & Continue Routine
Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water and pat dry. Follow with toner, serum, and moisturizer. Use 2–3 times per week for best results.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You struggle with visible blackheads or clogged pores
- You have oily or combination skin with a shiny T-zone
- You want a mess-free, portable exfoliating treatment
- You prefer targeted application over full-face treatments
- You like both physical and chemical exfoliation in one step
- You want a mask alternative that doubles as a quick scrub
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (contains salicylic acid)
- You have active fungal acne (contains farnesol)
- You have very dry or eczema-prone skin that cannot tolerate acids
- You are currently using prescription retinoids or strong chemical peels
- You prefer a daily-use exfoliant (this is 2–3x/week only)
- You need a large-format product (this is 15g travel size)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESKaolin clay absorbs excess sebum while 5-acid blend dissolves pore buildup. Leaves skin mattified without over-stripping. Ideal match.
Stick format allows precise T-zone application, avoiding dry areas. Perfect for targeting oily spots while leaving balanced zones untouched.
Works well for occasional pore maintenance and preventing congestion. Use as a weekly treatment to keep skin texture refined and smooth.
Clay and acids may feel slightly drying. Best used sparingly on specific congested areas only. Follow with a rich moisturizer immediately after.
Fragrance-free and gentle formula, but the 5-acid blend may cause tingling. Patch test first and use as a quick scrub rather than a mask initially.
Salicylic acid and clay work well for non-inflammatory acne (blackheads, whiteheads). Not suited for fungal acne due to farnesol content.
Results timeline
MONTH 2+Instant Mattification & Smoothness
Skin looks visibly smoother and more refined right after rinsing. Surface oil is absorbed by kaolin clay, leaving a clean matte finish.
97% noticed instant oil reductionSkin Purification & Texture Improvement
Dead skin cells are cleared through dual exfoliation. Skin feels softer and looks more purified. Some users may experience mild purging in congested areas.
100% agreed skin was exfoliated without irritationReduced Blackheads & Pore Appearance
Consistent use 2–3x/week starts to visibly reduce blackhead frequency and the appearance of enlarged pores. Skin tone begins evening out.
97% agreed it helps prevent blackheadsClearer, Refined Complexion
Long-term use helps maintain clear pores, smoother texture, and a more balanced complexion. Niacinamide contributes to ongoing pore refinement and sebum regulation.
Sustained improvement with regular useRatings by platform
1K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Innovative stick format for targeted, mess-free application
- Dual exfoliation (physical + chemical) in one product
- Visibly reduces surface oil and smooths skin texture immediately
- Doesn't leave skin feeling tight or stripped like traditional clay masks
- Clean, vegan formula free from common irritants
- Doubles as a quick scrub or 10-minute mask
- Travel-friendly compact size
- 97% of users said it helps prevent blackheads and breakouts
Criticized
- Small 15g size runs out quickly (2–4 weeks of regular use)
- Price-to-size ratio is high at $26 for 0.53oz
- Not fungal acne safe due to farnesol
- Contains salicylic acid — not pregnancy safe
- May cause mild tingling or purging initially for acid-sensitive skin
- Some users found results subtle after first use
- Only available in one size option
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
A rinse-off mask with 2% salicylic acid and charcoal/kaolin clay. Similar pore-clearing action but in a tube format without the targeted stick applicator. Lacks the 5-acid blend and fruit enzymes, but offers strong BHA exfoliation at a much lower price.
A volcanic clay mask that absorbs excess sebum and tightens pores. Stronger clay action but no acid exfoliation. Comes in a larger 100ml jar so better value per ounce, but messier application and no targeted stick format.
A leave-on BHA liquid with 4% betaine salicylate (equivalent to ~2% BHA). More focused chemical exfoliation for daily use without the physical scrub component. Larger 100ml bottle means much better value, but no clay or stick format.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Tatcha Clarifying Clay Mask
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep cap tightly closed after each use to prevent the stick from drying out.
Twist-up stick applicator in a compact tube — similar to a deodorant or lip balm format for easy, hygienic dispensing.
Yes — solid stick format is TSA-friendly, mess-free, and compact enough for any travel bag or carry-on.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThis product contains salicylic acid (BHA), which is generally recommended to avoid during pregnancy and breastfeeding. While the concentration is low and the product is rinse-off (reducing systemic absorption), most dermatologists advise caution. Consult your healthcare provider before using any product containing salicylic acid while pregnant or nursing.
No. This product contains farnesol, a sesquiterpene alcohol that can promote the growth of Malassezia yeast, which causes fungal acne. If you are prone to or currently dealing with fungal acne, consider a fungal-acne-safe alternative such as Paula's Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant, which does not contain farnesol or other Malassezia-feeding ingredients.
Since this product already contains AHAs (glycolic, lactic, mandelic acid) and BHA (salicylic acid), avoid using it on the same day as other strong exfoliants or retinol to prevent over-exfoliation. You can alternate: use this stick 2–3 times per week and retinol on other nights. Vitamin C serums can be used in the morning on the days you use this stick at night, but avoid layering them directly together.
This product is best suited for oily and combination skin types dealing with clogged pores, blackheads, and excess surface oil. Normal skin types can also benefit from weekly use as a pore maintenance treatment. Those with dry or sensitive skin should use sparingly on targeted areas only and follow with a hydrating moisturizer.
You should notice instant mattification and smoother skin texture after the first use. Within the first week of consistent use (2–3x/week), 100% of tested users reported exfoliated, purified skin without irritation. Visible reduction in blackheads and pore congestion typically becomes apparent after 2–4 weeks of regular use.
Use it as a second step after your regular cleanser. Apply it to clean skin, massage or leave on as a mask for 10 minutes, then rinse off. Afterward, continue your routine with toner, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM). Best used in your evening routine 2–3 times per week.
No, this product has a comedogenic rating of 1/5, making it very unlikely to clog pores. The formula is oil-free and built around kaolin clay (comedogenic rating 0) and glycerin (rating 0). It is actually designed to do the opposite — unclog and clear pores through dual exfoliation and clay absorption.
The product has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. However, at 15g and with recommended use of 2–3 times per week, the stick itself will likely be used up within 4–8 weeks before shelf life becomes a concern. Keep the cap closed tightly between uses to prevent the stick from drying out.
Verdict: The Peace Out Pore Perfecting Stick is an innovative, well-formulated exfoliating treatment that delivers on its promise of cleaner pores and smoother skin. The targeted stick format is a genuine differentiator — making it ideal for spot-treating the T-zone without the mess of traditional clay masks. The 5-acid blend combined with kaolin clay provides effective dual exfoliation, and the fragrance-free, clean formula earns extra points. However, the small 15g size and relatively high price-per-ounce hold it back from a perfect score. Not suitable for those with fungal acne (farnesol) or during pregnancy (salicylic acid). Best for oily and combination skin types who want a portable, efficient pore-clearing treatment they can use 2–3 times per week.
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 4 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 6 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 3 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 4 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
|
|
|
| 1 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Stearate
Surfactant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emulsifying, Sufactant
|
|
|
| 0 |
Hydrated Silica
Absorbent, Abrasive
|
|
|
| 1 |
Kaolin
Abrasive, Absorbent, Anticaking Agent, Bulking Agent, Opacifying, Skin Protecting, Slip Modifier, Cosmetic Colorant
|
Ache-fighting
Pores
|