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Pore Refresh Grinding Cleansing Balm

Pore Refresh Grinding Cleansing Balm

Product Description

Product overview

Made in Various INTERNATIONAL

A sorbet-textured cleansing balm with an innovative hygienic grinding dispenser that deeply cleanses pores, melts away makeup and sunscreen, and soothes skin with Green Tea Extract and Guaiazulene — all without stripping moisture or leaving greasy residue.

Vegan Certified Cruelty-Free Fragrance-Free Paraben-Free Hypoallergenic No Artificial Colorants Silicone-Free Sulfate-Free
Pregnancy
Yes
Fungal Acne
No
Comedogenic
1/5
Size
50ml / 1.69 fl oz
Type
Cleansing Balm
Key Active
Green Tea Extract
Targets
Pores & Sebum
Use
PM / As Needed
Real reviews · YouTube Shorts
Why it's different

Hygienic Grinding Dispenser

Innovative twist-to-dispense mechanism prevents direct hand contact with product, keeping the formula fresh and sanitary with every use.

01

Texture & feel

SENSORY
Consistency
Sorbet / Semi-solid
Scent
Fragrance-free
Absorption
Melts on contact
Finish
Clean, hydrated

Hygienic Grinding Dispenser

Innovative twist-to-dispense mechanism prevents direct hand contact with product, keeping the formula fresh and sanitary with every use.

99% Pore Cleanliness

Clinically shown to improve pore cleanliness by up to 99% after use, dissolving sebum plugs, makeup, and sunscreen from deep within pores.

Green Tea Sebum Control

Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract helps regulate excess oil production while delivering powerful antioxidant protection to the skin.

Guaiazulene Soothing

Sodium Guaiazulene Sulfonate calms redness and soothes irritated skin, making this balm gentle enough for sensitive complexions.

One-Step Cleansing

Removes waterproof makeup, SPF, and impurities in a single step — no double cleansing required for everyday wear.

Botanical Oil Blend

Jojoba Seed Oil, Rice Bran Oil, and Soybean Oil nourish skin during cleansing, leaving it soft and hydrated — never tight or stripped.

02

Safety & compatibility

SAFE
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe

No retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. All ingredients are considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Not Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Safe

Contains Soybean Oil, Sorbitan Sesquioleate, PEG-10 Isostearate, and Jojoba Seed Oil which may feed Malassezia yeast. Avoid if you have active fungal acne.

Low Comedogenic Risk (1/5)

Non-comedogenic formula with low pore-clogging potential. As a wash-off product, residue time on skin is minimal, further reducing risk.

Sensitive Skin Friendly

Hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and free from artificial colorants. Contains soothing Guaiazulene and Aloe extracts for calming irritation.

Vegan & Cruelty-Free

Certified vegan with no animal-derived ingredients. Not tested on animals at any stage of production.

Contains PEG Emulsifiers

PEG-20 Glyceryl Triisostearate and PEG-10 Isostearate are used as mild surfactants for clean rinsing. Generally well-tolerated but those with extremely compromised barriers may wish to patch test.

03

Ingredient breakdown

INGREDIENTS

Camellia Sinensis Leaf ExtractProven

Green tea extract is the star active in this formula, prized for its potent antioxidant content (EGCG polyphenols) and ability to regulate sebum production. It helps control oiliness while protecting the skin from environmental free radical damage.

  • Antioxidant: Rich in catechins (especially EGCG) that neutralize free radicals and protect against oxidative stress
  • Sebum control: Studies show green tea extract can reduce sebum secretion and improve acne-prone skin
  • Anti-inflammatory: Helps calm redness and supports skin conditions including rosacea and atopic dermatitis
Extensively studied ingredient with strong evidence for antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits on skin.

Sodium Guaiazulene SulfonateProven

A water-soluble derivative of azulene (derived from chamomile), this soothing agent is responsible for the balm's characteristic blue tint. It is highly effective at calming irritation and reducing redness, making this formula gentle for sensitive skin.

  • Anti-inflammatory: Azulene derivatives are well-documented for their ability to reduce inflammation and soothe irritated tissue
  • Redness reduction: Helps calm visible redness and reactive skin during the cleansing process

Glycine Soja (Soybean) OilProven

A conditioning plant oil rich in linoleic acid (48–59%) and Vitamin E that naturally dissolves makeup and SPF while supporting the skin's moisture barrier. Excellent at breaking down oil-based impurities without stripping.

  • Linoleic acid: High content of barrier-repairing linoleic acid helps maintain skin's moisture balance
  • Vitamin E: Natural antioxidant that minimizes inflammation and shields against free-radical damage
Contains fatty acids that may not be suitable for fungal acne (Malassezia) prone skin.

Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed OilProven

A wax ester that closely mimics human sebum, jojoba oil creates a non-greasy protective layer on skin. Its unique composition allows it to mix with sebum and potentially help balance oil production in oily skin types.

  • Sebum-mimicking: Most similar to human sebum of all plant oils — may help regulate natural oil production
  • Non-greasy moisturizing: Forms a thin semi-occlusive layer that hydrates without heaviness
  • Antibacterial: Contains properties that can help fight certain strains of bacteria on skin

Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran OilPromising

A nourishing oil derived from rice bran that is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and fatty acids. Helps condition and soften the skin during the cleansing process, supporting a hydrated post-cleanse feel.

  • Nutrient-rich: Contains gamma-oryzanol, tocotrienols, and phytosterols for antioxidant protection
  • Skin softening: Emollient properties leave skin feeling supple without a heavy residue

Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root ExtractPromising

Turmeric root extract contains curcumin, a powerful bioactive compound known for anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and skin-brightening properties. Supports acne-prone skin and may help regulate sebum production.

  • Anti-inflammatory: Curcumin reduces inflammation markers, showing promise for acne and irritated skin
  • Brightening: Acts as an antioxidant and skin-brightening agent to improve radiance
  • Sebum regulation: A 2013 study suggested turmeric may help regulate sebum production

28 ingredients

Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Synthetic Wax, PEG-20 Glyceryl Triisostearate, PEG-10 Isostearate, Polyglyceryl-2 Oleate, Sorbitan Sesquioleate, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, Water, Carbonated Water, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, Melia Azadirachta Flower Extract, Coccinia Indica Fruit Extract, Solanum Melongena (Eggplant) Fruit Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Flower Extract, Glycerin, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, 1,2-Hexanediol, Ocimum Sanctum Leaf Extract, Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract, Corallina Officinalis Extract, Glyceryl Oleate Citrate, Butylene Glycol, Tocopherol, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Oil, Sodium Guaiazulene Sulfonate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Caprylyl Glycol

FREE FROM: Artificial Fragrance, Parabens, Artificial Colorants, Silicones, Sulfates, Harsh Alcohols, Mineral Oil, Formaldehyde, Phthalates, Animal-Derived Ingredients
04

Where it fits in your routine

ROUTINE
1
Cleansing Balm (This Product)
2
Water Cleanser
3
Toner
4
Serum
5
Moisturizer

Use as the first step in your PM routine on dry skin. Follow with a water-based cleanser for a complete double cleanse, or use alone for light makeup days.

05

How to use

HOW TO USE
1

Twist & Dispense

Turn the container clockwise to grind out an appropriate amount of balm. The hygienic grinding mechanism dispenses fresh product without touching the formula directly.

2

Massage onto Dry Skin

Apply to dry face and gently massage in circular motions for 30–60 seconds. The sorbet texture melts on contact, dissolving makeup, sunscreen, and sebum from pores.

3

Emulsify with Water

Add a small amount of lukewarm water and continue massaging. The balm will turn milky white, lifting dissolved impurities from the skin's surface.

4

Rinse Thoroughly

Rinse completely with lukewarm water. Follow with your preferred water-based cleanser if double cleansing, or continue with your skincare routine.

06

Who is it for?

WHO

Perfect for you if:

  • You wear sunscreen, makeup, or heavy SPF daily and need effective first-step cleansing
  • You have oily or combination skin and want sebum control during cleansing
  • You prefer hygienic packaging that prevents contamination
  • You have sensitive skin and need a fragrance-free, soothing formula
  • You want a travel-friendly cleansing balm under 100ml
  • You are pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe cleansing option

Consider alternatives if:

  • You have active fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis) — this formula is not FA-safe
  • You prefer a larger size for better value — this is only 50ml
  • You want a traditional jar or tub format with a spatula
  • You need a balm that completely eliminates the need for a second cleanser with heavy makeup
  • You are sensitive to PEG-based emulsifiers
07

Skin type compatibility

SKIN TYPES
Oily Skin
Excellent

Green tea extract helps regulate excess sebum. Rinses cleanly without leaving oily residue or shine. Ideal first-step cleanser for oil-prone skin.

Dry Skin
Good

Botanical oils provide hydration during cleansing. Leaves skin soft and non-tight, but very dry skin may need a richer second cleanser and extra moisture afterward.

Combination Skin
Excellent

Balances well across T-zone and drier cheek areas. Cleanses oily zones effectively while nourishing drier areas with plant oils.

Sensitive Skin
Excellent

Fragrance-free, hypoallergenic formula with Guaiazulene for soothing. No artificial colorants or harsh surfactants. Gentle enough for reactive skin.

Acne-Prone Skin
Good

Low comedogenic rating (1/5) and deep pore cleansing action. However, not fungal acne safe. Good for hormonal/bacterial acne types when followed by a proper second cleanser.

08

Results timeline

6–8 WEEKS
First Use

Immediate Clean Feel

Skin feels thoroughly cleansed, soft, and hydrated — not stripped or tight. Makeup and sunscreen dissolve completely. Pores appear visibly cleaner right away.

95% noticed after first use
1–2 Weeks

Reduced Pore Congestion

Regular use helps minimize buildup in pores. Blackheads and sebaceous filaments start to appear less prominent. Skin texture begins to smooth out.

80% noticed improvement
3–4 Weeks

Balanced, Clearer Complexion

Sebum production feels more balanced. Fewer breakouts from clogged pores. Skin looks fresher and more radiant, particularly in the T-zone area.

70% noticed clearer skin
6–8 Weeks

Refined Pore Appearance

Consistent deep cleansing contributes to visibly smaller-looking pores and an overall smoother, more even skin texture. Skin maintains better hydration balance.

65% noticed pore refinement
09

Ratings by platform

430+ REVIEWS
Amazon
4.3
Rating
150+
Reviews
Main complaint: Small 50ml size for the price point; some found texture bits during rinsing
Ulta
4.2
Rating
30+
Reviews
Main complaint: Product runs out quickly; wish it came in a larger size option
YesStyle
4.6
Rating
50+
Reviews
Main complaint: Texture can feel slightly grainy when emulsifying with water
Olive Young
4.7
Rating
200+
Reviews
Main complaint: Grinding mechanism can be stiff at first; dispenses too much product initially
10

Pros & cons

BALANCED

Praised

  • Hygienic grinding dispenser keeps product fresh and clean — no fingers in the jar
  • Effectively melts away waterproof makeup and sunscreen in one step
  • Fragrance-free and gentle enough for sensitive and reactive skin
  • Leaves skin feeling clean and hydrated, never tight or stripped
  • Compact, travel-friendly size under 100ml for carry-on luggage
  • Vegan, cruelty-free formula free from parabens and artificial colorants
  • Soothing Guaiazulene calms redness during cleansing

Criticized

  • Small 50ml size means it runs out quickly for daily users (about 4–6 weeks)
  • Texture can feel slightly grainy or chunky during the emulsification step
  • Higher cost per ml compared to traditional jar cleansing balms
  • Grinding mechanism can be stiff initially and dispenses inconsistent amounts
  • Not fungal acne safe — multiple ingredients may trigger Malassezia
  • May still require a second cleanser for very heavy or theatrical makeup
11

Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)

DUPES
82% Match
Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm
$19.00
Budget Pick (100ml)

Double the size at a similar price. Classic sherbet balm texture. Contains fragrance and mineral oil unlike Dr. Althea. Jar format with spatula instead of grinding mechanism. Widely available.

75% Match
Radiance Cleansing Balm
$15.00
Budget Pick (100ml)

Double the size for less money. Contains rice bran water and fermented soybean extract for a radiant finish. Has fragrance (lavender water). Traditional jar format. Great for brightening.

70% Match
All Clean Balm
$16.00
Budget Pick (120ml)

More than double the size at a similar price. Contains shea butter and citrus/herb extracts for a nourishing cleanse. Has fragrance. Traditional jar format. Very effective at removing stubborn makeup.

12

Comparison with competitors

SIDE-BY-SIDE
Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm
Size 100ml
Key Actives Acerola Berry + Vitamin C
Fragrance Contains Fragrance
Packaging Jar + Spatula
Pregnancy Safe Yes
FA Safe No
Vegan Yes
Cost/ml $0.19/ml
Radiance Cleansing Balm
Size 100ml
Key Actives Rice Bran + Fermented Soybean
Fragrance Contains Fragrance (Lavender)
Packaging Jar + Spatula
Pregnancy Safe Yes
FA Safe No
Vegan No (Beeswax)
Cost/ml $0.15/ml
All Clean Balm
Size 120ml
Key Actives Shea Butter + Citrus/Herb Oils
Fragrance Contains Fragrance
Packaging Jar + Spatula
Pregnancy Safe Yes
FA Safe No
Vegan Yes
Cost/ml $0.13/ml
13

Storage & shelf life

12 MONTHS
Period After Opening (PAO)

12 months after opening

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep the lid closed tightly after each use to maintain freshness.

Packaging

Innovative twist-grinder container that dispenses product hygienically without direct hand contact. Blue-tinted container design.

Travel Friendly

Yes — 50ml is well under the 100ml carry-on limit. Solid balm format won't spill or leak. Compact size fits easily in toiletry bags.

13

Frequently asked questions

FAQ

Yes. This cleansing balm does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid (BHA), hydroquinone, chemical sunscreens, or any other ingredients commonly flagged as unsafe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. It is formulated with gentle botanical extracts and plant-based oils, making it a suitable choice for expectant and nursing mothers. As always, consult with your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.

No, this product is not considered fungal acne safe. It contains several ingredients that may feed Malassezia yeast, including Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, Sorbitan Sesquioleate, PEG-10 Isostearate, Synthetic Wax, and Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil. If you are prone to fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis), consider an FA-safe cleansing oil instead.

Yes. As a wash-off first cleanser, this balm is removed before you apply active ingredients, so there are no interaction concerns. It does not contain actives that would conflict with retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, or BHAs. Simply cleanse with the balm first, follow with your water-based cleanser if double cleansing, then apply your actives as usual.

This cleansing balm is designed for all skin types but is especially excellent for oily, combination, and sensitive skin. The Green Tea Extract helps regulate sebum, while Guaiazulene soothes reactive skin. Dry skin types will also benefit from the nourishing plant oils, though they may want a richer moisturizer afterward. It is not recommended for those with active fungal acne.

You will notice an immediate clean, hydrated feel after the very first use. Reduced pore congestion and fewer blackheads typically become noticeable within 1–2 weeks of consistent use. A visibly smoother, more balanced complexion generally develops over 3–4 weeks. For pore refinement, expect to see gradual improvements over 6–8 weeks of daily evening use.

This is a first-step cleanser (oil cleansing step) used in the evening on dry skin to dissolve makeup, sunscreen, and sebum. Apply it before your water-based cleanser in a double-cleansing routine. If you wore minimal makeup or just sunscreen, it can be used as a standalone cleanser. Use it as step 1, followed by water cleanser, toner, serum, and moisturizer.

This product has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5. The formula is described as non-comedogenic by the brand. While it contains plant oils (soybean, jojoba, rice bran), these are generally well-tolerated. As a wash-off product, it is on your skin for a very short time, which significantly reduces any pore-clogging risk. Make sure to rinse thoroughly after emulsifying.

The product has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. The 50ml container typically lasts 4–6 weeks with daily evening use, well within the 12-month shelf life. The hygienic grinding mechanism helps preserve freshness by preventing contamination from fingers, extending the product's effective life compared to traditional open-jar cleansing balms.

— Skincarisma verdict
4.2 / 5 ★★★★☆

Verdict: The Dr. Althea Pore Refresh Grinding Cleansing Balm stands out for its innovative hygienic grinding dispenser, fragrance-free formula, and effective pore-cleansing performance powered by Green Tea Extract and Guaiazulene. It is an excellent choice for sensitive skin types who want a vegan, gentle first cleanser that removes makeup and sunscreen without irritation. The main drawbacks are its small 50ml size (higher cost per ml than competitors) and the fact that it is not fungal acne safe. If you prioritize hygiene, portability, and a clean-ingredient formula over value-per-ml, this is a top-tier K-beauty cleansing balm worth trying.

Product Overview

question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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.

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Quick Product Notes

Click on icons for more information
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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

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Notable Effects & Ingredients

anti-aging Anti-Aging from 2 ingredient(s):
Tocopherol Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
brightening Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Glycerin
wound Promotes Wound Healing from 3 ingredient(s):
Tocopherol Simmondsia Chinensis Seed Oil Glycerin
ache Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
Cetyl Ethylhexanoate
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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!

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Ingredients Related to Skin Types

Click on icons for more information
dry-skin Dry Skin
4
oily-skin Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
1
sensitive-skin Sensitive Skin
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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.

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Ingredient Safety Breakdown

EWG Health Ratings
Low risk
Medium risk
High risk
Unknown risk
48% 3% 48%

Product ingredient list

Showing first 5 of 27 ingredients
EWG CIR Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions Notes
1 B
Cetyl Ethylhexanoate
Skin Conditioning, Emolient
ache Ache-fighting
1 A
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Perfuming, Emollient
1 A
Synthetic Wax
Masking, Emollient, Fragrance, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emulsion Stabilising, Antistatic Agent, Binding Agent, Binding
3 Unknown
PEG-20 Glyceryl Triisostearate
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Surfactant, Emulsifying
0 Unknown
PEG-10 Isostearate
Surfactant, Emulsifying
VIEW ALL INGREDIENTS