Pore Release
Pore Release
Product Description
Product overview
A derm-tested, triple-acid exfoliating treatment by Hero Cosmetics that penetrates pores with 2% BHA, 5% PHA, and 1% AHA to dissolve blackheads from within — without stripping, stinging, or drying. Calmed by aloe and lotus water for a gentle yet effective clear-pore experience.
Triple-Acid Exfoliation
Combines BHA (2%), PHA (5%), and AHA (1%) to exfoliate both the surface and deep within pores for thorough blackhead removal.
Texture & feel
SENSORYTriple-Acid Exfoliation
Combines BHA (2%), PHA (5%), and AHA (1%) to exfoliate both the surface and deep within pores for thorough blackhead removal.
Calming Botanical Blend
Aloe leaf juice and lotus root water soothe and hydrate skin during exfoliation, preventing irritation and dryness.
Oil-Soluble Deep Clean
Salicylic acid dissolves oil and debris inside pores — unlike surface-only scrubs — for results that last.
Gentle Enough for Sensitive Skin
No fragrance, no drying alcohols, no parabens. Dermatologist-tested formula leaves skin calm and balanced.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains 2% salicylic acid. ACOG considers topical salicylic acid at 2% or less generally safe during pregnancy, but some dermatologists advise caution. Consult your physician before use.
Topical salicylic acid at 2% is unlikely to be absorbed in significant amounts or appear in breastmilk. Considered safe during lactation per WHO guidelines. Avoid application near breast area.
Free of ferments, fatty acids, esters, polysorbates, and oils that feed malassezia yeast. Safe for fungal acne-prone skin.
Rated 1/5 on the comedogenic scale. Oil-free, silicone-free formula is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts.
AHA and BHA exfoliants may increase photosensitivity. Always apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ during the day when using this product.
Avoid layering with other strong actives like retinol, benzoyl peroxide, or additional AHA/BHA products in the same routine to prevent irritation.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSalicylic Acid (BHA) 2%Proven
The gold-standard oil-soluble beta hydroxy acid that penetrates inside pores to dissolve excess sebum and dead skin cells. Works from within the pore, unlike surface-only exfoliants.
- Mechanism: Oil-soluble acid that dissolves lipid bonds in clogged pores and has anti-inflammatory properties
- Clinical data: 2% is the maximum OTC strength permitted in the US; shown to reduce blackheads and acne lesions within 7–14 days of consistent use
- FDA Status: Classified as an active drug ingredient (OTC acne treatment)
Gluconolactone (PHA) ~5%Proven
A polyhydroxy acid (PHA) that gently exfoliates the skin surface while providing moisturizing, antioxidant, and skin barrier-repairing benefits. Gentler than traditional AHAs.
- Benefit: Exfoliates dead skin cells with less irritation than glycolic acid; attracts water to the upper skin layer
- Research: Studies show PHAs can improve skin hydration, reduce wrinkles, and stimulate the skin's own hyaluronic acid production
- Advantage: Does not increase sun sensitivity like traditional AHAs; suitable for sensitive and rosacea-prone skin
Glycolic Acid (AHA) ~1%Proven
The most researched alpha hydroxy acid. Lifts dead skin cells from the surface, revealing smoother, brighter skin. In this low concentration, it provides mild exfoliation without significant irritation.
- Action: Dissolves the bonds between dead skin cells on the surface, promoting cell turnover
- Long-term: Can stimulate collagen production and improve skin texture with consistent use
- Synergy: Works with BHA — AHA clears the surface while BHA penetrates deeper into pores
Nelumbo Nucifera Root Water (Lotus Water)Promising
Sacred lotus root water that soothes, revitalizes, and provides antioxidant protection. Helps calm exfoliated skin and supports skin recovery.
- Properties: Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant; rich in minerals and vitamins
- Benefit: Calms skin during chemical exfoliation, reducing potential redness and irritation
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf JuiceProven
A time-tested soothing and hydrating ingredient that helps reduce inflammation and provides moisture to counterbalance the drying effects of exfoliating acids.
- Action: Contains polysaccharides and glycoproteins that soothe irritation and promote skin healing
- Hydration: Acts as a humectant, drawing moisture to the skin's surface
19 ingredients
Active Ingredient: Salicylic Acid 2.0%. Inactive Ingredients: Water/Aqua/Eau, Butylene Glycol, Gluconolactone, Arginine, Glycolic Acid, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Nelumbo Nucifera Root Water, Glycerin, Hydrolyzed Gardenia Florida Extract, Biosaccharide Gum-1, Sodium Levulinate, Glyceryl Caprylate, Maltodextrin, Sodium Anisate, Sodium Hydroxide, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Citric Acid.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply to clean, dry skin right after cleansing — before other toners or serums. Use in the PM routine 1–3x weekly. Always follow with SPF in the AM.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Dry
Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and pat completely dry. Pore Release works best on clean, dry skin.
Saturate & Apply
Soak a cotton round with Pore Release and gently press into skin. Spot-treat your T-zone or apply all over your face.
Let It Absorb
Wait 2–5 minutes for the formula to fully absorb and dry before moving on to the next step in your routine.
Follow Up
Apply your regular moisturizer. For stubborn blackheads, follow with Mighty Patch Nose for enhanced extraction. Use 2–3x weekly initially, then 1–2x weekly for maintenance.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You struggle with stubborn blackheads, especially on the nose, chin, and T-zone
- You want a chemical exfoliant that won't strip or irritate sensitive skin
- You need a gentle alternative to harsh pore strips and physical scrubs
- You want to visibly minimize enlarged pores
- You prefer clean, fragrance-free, vegan skincare
- You have oily or combination skin prone to congestion
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry or flaky skin that is easily over-exfoliated
- You are already using multiple strong actives (retinol + other acids)
- You need a daily-use hydrating toner — this is a treatment, not a daily toner
- You are looking for anti-aging as the primary benefit
- You have open wounds, sunburned, or severely irritated skin
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal match. BHA dissolves excess oil inside pores, controls shine, and prevents new blackheads. Lightweight watery texture adds zero greasiness.
Perfect for targeting oily T-zone areas while the gentle PHA and botanical blend avoid drying out cheeks and other dry zones.
Great for periodic deep-cleaning of pores and maintaining smooth texture. Use 1–2x weekly for preventive maintenance.
Fragrance-free with soothing aloe and lotus water. The PHA is gentler than traditional AHAs. Start with 1x weekly use and patch test first.
Exfoliating acids can be drying. Use only on congested areas (nose, chin) rather than all over, and always follow with a rich moisturizer.
Non-comedogenic, oil-free formula with proven acne-fighting salicylic acid. Clears existing blackheads and helps prevent new ones from forming.
Results timeline
MONTH 2+Smoother Texture
Skin feels cleaner and smoother to the touch after the first few applications. Surface debris and dead skin cells begin to dissolve.
70% noticed smoother skinVisible Pore Reduction
Blackheads begin to loosen and clear. Pores appear visibly smaller as buildup dissolves from the inside out. Derm-tested results show visible pore minimization within 7 days.
65% saw fewer blackheadsClear, Refined Pores
Consistent 2–3x weekly use leads to significantly clearer pores, fewer new blackheads, and a more even skin texture across the face.
80% reported clearer poresLong-Term Prevention
Transition to 1–2x weekly maintenance. Pores stay clean, blackheads are prevented, and overall skin clarity continues to improve with sustained use.
85% maintained results with weekly useRatings by platform
5K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Triple-acid formula (BHA + PHA + AHA) provides multi-level exfoliation
- Gentle enough for sensitive skin — no stinging or burning on application
- Fragrance-free, vegan, and clean ingredient list
- Visibly reduces blackheads within 1–2 weeks of consistent use
- FSA/HSA eligible, making it budget-friendly for many
- Pairs excellently with Mighty Patch Nose for enhanced results
- Elegant glass bottle packaging
Criticized
- 100ml bottle can run out quickly if used all over the face
- Results are gradual — not an instant blackhead removal solution
- Glass bottle is fragile and not ideal for travel
- Price per ml is higher than some K-beauty BHA toner alternatives
- Can cause dryness if overused (more than 3x weekly)
- Some users see no dramatic difference compared to other BHA toners
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Uses betaine salicylate (4%) instead of salicylic acid for gentler exfoliation. Larger 100ml bottle at a lower price. No PHA or AHA — single-acid approach. Slightly more hydrating texture.
Also uses AHA, BHA, and PHA triple-acid approach. 150ml bottle is 50% larger at a lower price. Contains tea tree and niacinamide as bonus ingredients. Slightly less gentle — may tingle on sensitive skin.
Straightforward 2% salicylic acid without PHA or AHA. No soothing botanicals like lotus water or aloe. Much more affordable but a stripped-down formula. May be slightly more drying.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store at room temperature, out of direct sunlight and heat. Natural color of product may fade over time — this does not affect efficacy.
Glass bottle with screw cap — protects formula integrity and is recyclable
Yes, under 100ml (3.38 fl oz) — TSA compliant. Note: glass bottle requires careful packing.
Frequently asked questions
FAQPore Release contains 2% salicylic acid, which is the maximum OTC strength. ACOG considers topical salicylic acid at 2% or below generally acceptable during pregnancy, but some dermatologists recommend caution due to its relation to aspirin. For breastfeeding, topical salicylic acid is considered safe since minimal amounts are absorbed through the skin. Always consult your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy or lactation.
Yes, Pore Release is considered fungal acne safe. The formula is free of ferments, fatty acids, oils, esters, and polysorbates — all of which can feed malassezia yeast. The clean, water-based formula with simple preservatives makes it suitable for those prone to fungal acne.
It is best to avoid layering Pore Release with other strong actives (retinol, additional AHA/BHA, or vitamin C) in the same routine to prevent over-exfoliation and irritation. You can alternate: use Pore Release on certain evenings and retinol or vitamin C on others. If you must combine, apply vitamin C in the morning and Pore Release in the evening. Always listen to your skin and reduce frequency if you notice dryness or irritation.
Pore Release is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. It excels at dissolving excess oil and clearing clogged pores. Sensitive skin types can also use it thanks to the soothing aloe and lotus water, though starting with once-weekly use is recommended. Those with very dry skin should use it only on congested areas rather than all over the face.
Most users notice smoother skin texture within the first few uses. According to Hero Cosmetics' consumer study, visible reduction in blackheads and minimized pores can be seen within 7 days of consistent use (2–3x weekly). Full results with significantly clearer pores typically develop over 2–4 weeks. Results are gradual and cumulative — consistency is key.
Pore Release should be Step 2 in your routine, applied immediately after cleansing on clean, dry skin. It goes before hydrating toners, serums, moisturizers, and sunscreen. Use it in your PM routine 1–3x weekly. Do not apply to wet skin, as this can dilute the active ingredients and reduce effectiveness.
No, Pore Release is non-comedogenic with a rating of 1/5. It is oil-free, silicone-free, and contains no heavy emollients or pore-clogging ingredients. In fact, it is specifically designed to unclog pores. The watery, lightweight formula absorbs quickly without leaving residue.
Pore Release has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. Store it at room temperature away from direct sunlight and heat. The product's natural color may fade over time, but this does not affect its performance or safety. The glass bottle helps protect the formula from degradation.
Verdict: Hero Cosmetics Pore Release is a well-formulated, gentle yet effective triple-acid exfoliating treatment that stands out for its thoughtful combination of 2% BHA, 5% PHA, and 1% AHA with calming botanicals. It delivers on its promise of clearing blackheads from within while keeping skin calm — a rarity in the exfoliating toner category. The fragrance-free, vegan, and fungal acne-safe formula makes it accessible to a wide range of skin types. Its main drawbacks are the relatively small bottle size for the price and the gradual nature of results. For those willing to be patient and consistent, Pore Release is a solid, dermatologist-backed investment in clearer pores.
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 3 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 4 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 4 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 2 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 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Gluconolactone
Solvent, Fragrance, Humectant, Skin Conditioning
|
Anti-Aging
|
|
| 1 |
Arginine
Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
|
|
| 4 |
Salicylic Acid
Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Hair Conditioning, Antidandruff Agent, Antiacne Agent, Denaturant, Preservative, Exfoliant, Keratolytic, Corn/Callus/Wart Remover
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Pores
|