Volcanic BHA Pore Cleansing Foam
Volcanic BHA Pore Cleansing Foam
Product Description
Product overview
A pore-clearing, deep cleansing foam powered by Jeju Volcanic Clusters and a blend of AHA + BHA acids. This multi-tasking K-Beauty cleanser absorbs excess sebum, gently exfoliates dead skin cells, and leaves oily and combination skin feeling clean, balanced, and refreshed without stripping moisture.
Volcanic Clusters Technology
Jeju volcanic ash particles smaller than pores absorb excess sebum and draw out impurities for deep cleansing.
Texture & feel
SENSORYVolcanic Clusters Technology
Jeju volcanic ash particles smaller than pores absorb excess sebum and draw out impurities for deep cleansing.
Triple Acid Exfoliation
Salicylic Acid (BHA) + Lactic Acid + Glycolic Acid (AHAs) work together to unclog pores and smooth skin texture.
Soothing Madecassoside
Centella Asiatica-derived ingredient calms and soothes skin while preventing post-cleansing irritation.
Oil Control with Zinc PCA
Helps regulate sebum production throughout the day for a balanced, shine-free complexion.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains salicylic acid (BHA). While topical BHA under 2% is generally considered safe, consult your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy.
Not recommended. Contains fatty acids (stearic, myristic, palmitic, lauric acid) that may feed malassezia yeast.
Hypoallergenic and dermatologist tested. However, patch test recommended for very reactive skin due to AHA/BHA content.
Excellent choice. Low comedogenic rating (1/5) with pore-clearing salicylic acid to help prevent breakouts.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSJeju Volcanic Ash 1,073 ppmProven
Natural mineral-rich volcanic clusters from Jeju Island, Korea. These micro-particles are smaller than pores, allowing them to penetrate and absorb excess sebum and impurities effectively.
- Source: Formed when lava hardens following volcanic eruption on Jeju Island
- Function: Sebum absorption, pore cleansing, detoxification
- Clinical: 96% of users agreed pores felt cleansed after use
Salicylic Acid (BHA) <2%Proven
Oil-soluble beta hydroxy acid that penetrates into pores to dissolve sebum plugs, dead skin cells, and debris. A gold-standard ingredient for acne and blackhead treatment.
- Mechanism: Dissolves the bonds between dead skin cells for gentle exfoliation
- Benefits: Unclogs pores, reduces blackheads, anti-inflammatory properties
- Research: Extensively studied for acne treatment with proven efficacy
Lactic Acid + Glycolic Acid (AHA)Proven
Alpha hydroxy acids that provide surface-level exfoliation, helping to remove dead skin cells and improve overall skin texture and radiance.
- Lactic Acid: Gentle AHA that also provides hydration; derived from milk
- Glycolic Acid: Smallest AHA molecule for deeper penetration; improves texture
- Synergy: Combined with BHA for comprehensive pore-clearing action
MadecassosideProven
One of the main active compounds from Centella Asiatica (Cica), known for its powerful soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Function: Calms irritation, promotes wound healing, antioxidant protection
- Benefit: Counterbalances potential irritation from exfoliating acids
Zinc PCAPromising
A zinc salt of pyrrolidone carboxylic acid that helps regulate sebum production and provides antimicrobial benefits.
- Oil Control: Helps reduce excess sebum secretion
- Antimicrobial: May help reduce acne-causing bacteria
- Synergy: Works with volcanic ash to control shine throughout the day
29 ingredients
Water / Aqua / Eau, Glycerin, Myristic Acid, Stearic Acid, PEG-32, Potassium Hydroxide, Butylene Glycol, Palmitic Acid, Lauric Acid, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Hydrated Silica, Lauryl Glucoside, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-100 Stearate, Fragrance / Parfum, Sodium Chloride, Silica, Salicylic Acid, Polyquaternium-7, Zinc PCA, Volcanic Ash, Sodium Metaphosphate, Sodium Benzoate, Lactic Acid, Lactic Acid/Glycolic Acid Copolymer, Glycolic Acid, Madecassoside, Citric Acid, Polyquaternium-10
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as the second step in the Korean double cleansing method. Apply after oil-based cleanser to remove remaining impurities. Can also be used alone in the morning.
How to use
HOW TO USEDispense Product
Squeeze a pea-sized amount (about 1cm) onto clean, dry palms. A little goes a long way with this concentrated formula.
Create Lather
Add a small amount of water and work between palms to create a rich, creamy foam with dense micro-bubbles.
Massage Gently
Apply foam to wet face using gentle circular motions for 30-60 seconds. Focus on oily T-zone and areas with enlarged pores.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse completely with lukewarm water. Pat dry with a clean towel and follow with toner and the rest of your skincare routine.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily or combination skin
- You struggle with enlarged pores or blackheads
- You want to control excess sebum and shine
- You prefer the Korean double cleansing method
- You want gentle exfoliation with daily cleansing
- You're looking for a vegan, cruelty-free cleanser
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry or dehydrated skin
- You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
- You're pregnant and want to avoid all BHA products
- You prefer fragrance-free products
- You have extremely sensitive or reactive skin
- You need a low pH cleanser (this is ~pH 8-9)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESPerfect match. Volcanic clusters absorb excess sebum while BHA keeps pores clear. Controls shine without over-drying.
Ideal for balancing oily T-zone while being gentle enough for normal areas. Focus application on oilier zones.
Works well for maintaining clear pores and smooth texture. May use just in PM if morning feels too stripping.
May feel too stripping. Use sparingly (2-3x weekly) and follow with hydrating toner and rich moisturizer immediately.
Hypoallergenic tested. Madecassoside helps soothe. Patch test first; start with every other day use.
BHA helps prevent breakouts by keeping pores clear. Low comedogenic rating. Great for hormonal and inflammatory acne.
Results timeline
MONTH 2+Clean, Refreshed Feeling
Skin feels squeaky clean with a matte finish. Excess oil and surface impurities removed. Pores appear visibly cleaner.
96% felt pores cleansedReduced Oiliness
Less midday shine. Makeup stays put longer. Skin feels more balanced with reduced sebum production throughout the day.
90% noticed less sebumSmoother Texture
Skin texture improves as AHA/BHA work to remove dead skin cell buildup. Fewer visible blackheads and whiteheads.
85% saw texture improvementRefined Pores
Continued use shows minimized pore appearance and clearer overall complexion. Fewer breakouts and smoother skin surface.
80% reported fewer breakoutsRatings by platform
5K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Excellent for controlling oily skin and sebum
- Creates rich, satisfying foam with just a pea-size amount
- Visible pore-cleansing results after first use
- Long-lasting tube (4+ months with daily use)
- Vegan, cruelty-free, and sulfate-free formula
- Triple acid exfoliation for smoother texture
- Pleasant, fresh scent that isn't overpowering
- Affordable K-beauty option with proven ingredients
Criticized
- Can be drying for dry or dehydrated skin types
- Not fungal acne (malassezia) safe
- Contains added fragrance
- Higher pH level (~8-9) than ideal for skin
- May sting eyes if foam gets in contact
- Some report tightness after use
- Caution needed during pregnancy due to salicylic acid
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Similar BHA-based foam cleanser with tea tree oil instead of volcanic ash. Slightly gentler formula, also K-beauty. Good for sensitive-oily skin.
Salicylic acid cleanser with ceramides and hyaluronic acid. More hydrating formula, fragrance-free. Better for those wanting barrier support.
Rice-based K-beauty foam cleanser. More gentle and brightening-focused without BHA. Better for dry-combo skin needing gentle cleansing.
Gentle salicylic acid cleanser from a Western brand. Fragrance-free, more balanced pH. Slightly more expensive but very well-formulated.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep cap tightly closed after use.
Squeeze tube with flip-top cap. Recyclable through TerraCycle partnership program.
Yes, 150ml exceeds carry-on limit. Available in travel-friendly sample sizes. Decant for air travel.
Frequently asked questions
FAQUse with caution. This cleanser contains salicylic acid (BHA), which is generally considered safe topically at concentrations under 2% according to ACOG. However, many healthcare providers recommend avoiding BHA during pregnancy as a precaution. For breastfeeding, topical salicylic acid is generally considered safe as minimal amounts are absorbed systemically. Always consult your healthcare provider before using any BHA products during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
No, this product is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains several fatty acids (Myristic Acid, Stearic Acid, Palmitic Acid, Lauric Acid) that can feed the malassezia yeast responsible for fungal acne. If you have fungal acne, consider alternatives like La Roche-Posay Effaclar Gel or Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser that are free of fungal acne triggers.
Since this cleanser already contains AHA and BHA, be cautious about layering additional exfoliating acids immediately after. With retinol, use this cleanser in the AM and apply retinol at PM, or use on alternate days if skin becomes irritated. Vitamin C can be used after this cleanser (wait for skin to dry). Avoid using additional leave-on AHA/BHA products in the same routine to prevent over-exfoliation. Always introduce new actives gradually.
This cleanser is BEST for oily and combination skin types. It's specifically formulated to absorb excess sebum and control shine. It also works well for acne-prone skin and those with enlarged pores or blackheads. Those with dry, very sensitive, or dehydrated skin should use with caution or choose a gentler alternative, as the formula can be stripping.
Immediate: You'll feel clean, refreshed skin with reduced oiliness right after the first wash. Week 1-2: Reduced midday shine and less sebum production. Week 3-4: Smoother skin texture and fewer visible blackheads as the AHA/BHA work to clear pores. Month 2+: Refined pore appearance and clearer overall complexion with consistent use. Clinical studies showed 96% of users felt their pores were cleansed after use.
Use as Step 2 in the Korean double cleansing method: First use an oil-based cleanser to remove makeup and sunscreen, then follow with this foam cleanser for deep pore cleansing. In the morning, it can be used as your only cleanser. Always apply to wet skin, massage gently, rinse thoroughly, then follow with toner, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM only).
This cleanser has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5, meaning it's unlikely to clog pores. In fact, it's designed to do the opposite—the volcanic clusters and BHA actively work to unclog pores and remove sebum buildup. The formula is specifically designed for oily, acne-prone skin. However, if you're prone to fungal acne specifically, this product is not suitable due to its fatty acid content.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Since only a pea-sized amount is needed per use, the 150ml tube typically lasts 3-4 months with twice-daily use. Store in a cool, dry place with the cap tightly closed. If the product changes color, texture, or smell, discontinue use even if within the PAO period.
Verdict: The Innisfree Volcanic Clusters Pore Clearing Facial Foam is an excellent K-beauty cleanser for those with oily and combination skin seeking deep pore cleansing with gentle exfoliation. The unique combination of Jeju volcanic ash, salicylic acid, and AHAs delivers on its promise to control sebum and improve skin texture. The rich, satisfying foam and long-lasting formula offer great value. However, it's not suitable for those with fungal acne or very dry skin, and the higher pH level is a minor drawback. For its targeted purpose—controlling oily, pore-prone skin—it's a top-tier choice backed by clinical testing and overwhelmingly positive reviews.
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 5 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 5 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 3 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 |
Myristic Acid
Perfuming, Fragrance, Emulsifying, Opacifying, Sufactant
|
|
|
| 1 |
Stearic Acid
Masking, Fragrance, Emulsion Stabilising, Emulsifying, Sufactant, Refatting, Cleansing
|
|
|
| 0 |
PEG-32
Humectant, Solvent
|
|
|
| 0 |
Potassium Hydroxide
Buffering
|
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|