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If you want clearer pores and smoother skin, focus on ingredients that target buildup inside pores, not just surface dirt. Salicylic acid (BHA) is one of the most effective for blackheads and clogged pores because it penetrates oil and clears sebum.
Clay or charcoal helps absorb excess oil, while niacinamide supports oil control and reduces the look of enlarged pores over time. AHAs like glycolic or lactic acid gently exfoliate the skin’s surface for a smoother texture.
Match the formula to your skin type: gel or foaming cleansers suit oily or congested skin, while creamier ones suit dry or sensitive skin.
For heavy makeup or sunscreen, start with an oil cleanser to dissolve buildup, then follow with a water-based cleanser. Avoid harsh scrubs and alcohol-heavy products, which can irritate and worsen pores.
Based on these key principles, here are our top Japanese skincare products that effectively target clogged pores while staying gentle on the skin.
Our recommendations
Cleansing Oils
1. DHC Deep Cleansing Oil
DHC Deep Cleansing Oil is an award-winning Japanese gentle cleansing oil, containing many skin-loving ingredients like organic olive oil, which does not irritate the skin. This is a great product to use for thoroughly removing your makeup before washing your face. It only contains natural ingredients and does not contain any harsh chemicals.
Even though it is an oil, it has a water-soluble formula that thoroughly removes any makeup, even sunscreen and hard-to-remove waterproof makeup, without leaving an oily residue on your skin.
Users consistently highlight its ability to dissolve makeup, sunscreen, and daily impurities while still leaving the skin soft and hydrated rather than stripped or oily.
Pros
- Removes makeup thoroughly
- Gentle on all skin types
- Natural ingredients protect skin barrier
Cons
- Can feel oily on skin
- More expensive than other makeup remover
2. FANCL Mild Cleansing Oil
Not only is this Mild Cleaning Oil from FANCL effective at removing makeup and unclogging pores, but it is also especially recommended for those with sensitive skin. The unique and gentle formula of this cleansing oil, which contains rose hip and squalane, glides effortlessly across your skin to remove makeup and unwanted dirt without stripping natural oils from your skin.
It's consistently praised for its ability to effectively remove sunscreen, makeup, and daily buildup while still feeling gentle on the skin. Many reviews highlight its smooth, thick texture that spreads easily and emulsifies with water, rinsing off cleanly without leaving residue or tightness.
Pros
- Smooth and easy application
- Very gentle on sensitive skin
- Removes dirt effectively without irritation
Cons
- Small bottle, expensive per use
- Not ideal for heavy makeup
3. Shu Uemura Ultime8 Sublime Cleansing Oil
This premium Japanese cleansing oil contains 8 precious oils, including Tsubaki (camelia) oil, which effortlessly removes makeup from your skin while keeping it hydrated and shrinking pores. Formulated with over 75% skin-friendly ingredients, this cleansing oil will leave your skin feeling soft and nourished while protecting it at the same time.
Users consistently describe Shu Uemura cleansing oils as high-performance oil cleansers that effectively remove makeup, sunscreen, and excess sebum while still feeling gentle on the skin. Many reviews highlight their ability to lift out impurities and “dirt coming out of pores” during cleansing, with a smooth texture that emulsifies easily when water is added.
Pros
- Hydrates and nourishes skin deeply
- Luxurious soft texture feels amazing
- Shrinks visible pores
Cons
- Very pricey for regular use
- Not ideal for oily skin
Face Washes
4. Reihaku Hatomugi W Cleansing Foam
Reihaku Hatomugi W Cleansing foam is a natural cleanser that contains hatomugi or coix seed extract to cleanse your skin without stripping away its natural oils. It is a medicated face wash that has a dense lather to cleanse away excess makeup or unwanted dirt from your pores. Its medicated components prevent new acne breakouts from forming and other unwanted skin problems from occurring.
Users generally describe this cleansing foam as a gentle, affordable everyday cleanser that creates a rich, dense foam and cleans pores effectively without harshness. Many reviews highlight that it removes excess sebum, light makeup, and impurities well while still leaving the skin feeling soft and hydrated rather than tight or stripped. The Hatomugi (Job’s Tears) extract is often mentioned for giving a calming, lightly moisturizing finish, making it suitable for daily use.
Pros
- Gentle and non-irritating foam
- Medicated for acne prevention
- Dense lather cleans thoroughly
Cons
- Slightly drying for some skin
- Not strong enough for makeup
5. Ishizawa Lab Keana Nadeshiko Baking Soda Scrub Face Wash
The Keana Nadeshiko line from Japanese skincare brand Ishizawa Laboratories is a famous Japanese line of skincare products targeted at unclogging pores by using baking soda. This baking soda scrub-type face wash, in particular, is especially successful in removing blackheads.
Baking soda is known to lift blackheads effectively, soften and remove dead skin cells, and shrink pores without irritating the skin. It also melts easily in water and cleanses built-up keratin and sebum from the pores. It is said that this product has become popular among Japanese girls who often experience enlarged pores.
Pros
- Effectively removes blackheads
- Exfoliates dead skin cells
- Shrinks enlarged pores
Cons
- Can irritate sensitive skin
- Slightly abrasive on skin
6. FANCL Facial Washing Powder
Another Japanese Taste fan-favorite powder cleanser, but this time from FANCL. This face wash turns from powder to foam when activated with water to gently cleanse your face while adequately unclogging pores. A little goes a long way with this product, and since it is a powder cleanser, it is easy to take and use on the go.
Users consistently praise its gentle yet effective cleansing performance, especially for removing dirt, excess oil, and light makeup without irritating the skin. Many reviews highlight its unique powder-to-foam texture, which transforms into a rich lather when mixed with water, creating a soft and comfortable cleansing experience.
Pros
- Easy to use on-the-go
- Gentle and non-stripping formula
- Powder activates into soft foam
Cons
- Slightly powdery texture
- Needs water to activate
7. Pluest Mannan Jelly Hydro Face Wash
If you often experience clogged pores but have dry or sensitive skin, this jelly-based cleanser may be a good fit. Using Japanese hydrogel technology, it works by gently lifting dirt and excess sebum from inside the pores without stripping the skin’s natural moisture barrier. Its key ingredient, konjac, is known for softly removing impurities while helping to unclog pores without irritation, making it suitable for sensitive skin types.
Users generally describe this hydro face wash as a gentle yet effective cleanser that leaves the skin feeling smooth, refreshed, and hydrated. The soft gel texture spreads easily, does not require heavy foaming, and is convenient for daily use. Many also note that with consistent use, it helps improve skin texture and reduces the feeling of pore congestion over time.
Pros
- Moisturizes while cleansing gentl
- Deeply cleans pores effectively
- Soft gel texture spreads easily
Cons
- Slightly sticky texture
- Not foamy enough for some
Want to discover more Japanese pore cleansers? Explore our full guide to Japanese cleansing oils, gels, and face washes for clogged pores and find the right routine for your skin type.
Toners & Lotions
After cleansing your skin, it is important to follow up with a toner, which is also referred to as a lotion in Japan. In a pore-unclogging or minimizing skincare routine, is especially important not to skip this step. This is because toners and lotions allow moisturizers and creams to easily penetrate into the skin. They also aid in moisturizing the skin.
8. Dr.Ci:Labo VC100 Essence Lotion Pore Refining Toner 150ml
Dr.Ci:Labo VC100 Essence Lotion Pore Refining Toner is a Japanese pore-refining toner that also works like a lightweight essence, targeting pores, dullness, uneven texture, dryness, and loss of firmness in one step. It has a serum-like texture that absorbs quickly without leaving a sticky finish, making it comfortable for daily use.
The formula is designed to brighten and smooth the skin while improving overall clarity and hydration. It is free from alcohol, fragrance, mineral oil, colorants, and parabens, making it suitable for sensitive skin. Infused with orange essential oil, it also provides a light, refreshing scent.
It is widely reported as a multi-function Japanese toner that hydrates, smooths texture, and helps refine pores while remaining lightweight and easy to use daily.
Pros
- Reduces blackheads efficiently
- Smooths and softens skin texture
- Moisturizes without heaviness
Cons
- Expensive compared to others
- Strong fragrance
9. Keana Beaute Pore Tightening Cruelty-Free & Halal Skin Lotion 300ml
Keana Beaute Pore Tightening Lotion is a Japanese water-based toner designed to reduce the appearance of enlarged pores, control excess oil, and smooth skin texture. Its formula combines pore-refining ingredients like artichoke leaf extract, witch hazel, and a vitamin C derivative with soothing botanical extracts such as heartleaf. It also includes light hydrating agents and mild exfoliating components to improve skin clarity while keeping the texture lightweight and fast-absorbing.
Users generally describe it as a refreshing, non-sticky toner that helps tighten pores and reduce shine, especially in oily areas like the T-zone. Some note smoother skin with regular use, while others mention mild dryness if not followed with moisturizer. Overall, it is seen as a budget-friendly pore toner best suited for combination to oily skin.
Pros
- Functions as cleanser and toner
- Tightens pores; removes dead skin cells
- Brightens complexion
Cons
- Less hydrating than other toners
- May cause breakouts
10. Mizuhashi Hojudo Emulsion Remover Cleansing Lotion
Another fan favorite of Japanese Taste customers is the Mizuhashi Hojudo Emulsion Remover Cleansing Lotion, especially for pore care. This cleansing lotion cleanses and dissolves sebum, makeup, and any other unwanted dirt that remains in the pores.
Mizuhashi Hojudo believes that enlarged and clogged pores cannot be thoroughly unclogged with face wash alone, so they recommend following up with a pore-unclogging toner after washing your face. This toner can also be applied to other areas of your skin that have clogged pores, such as on the scalp or back.
Users generally describe this toner as an effective and refreshing product that helps remove excess oil and improve the appearance of pores with regular use. Many reviews mention that it helps lift facial oil and impurities, leaving the skin feeling cleaner and more balanced after cleansing. Some users report that pores look less visible and skin texture feels smoother, especially when used consistently in both morning and night routines.
Pros
- Deep pore cleansing, oily, acne-prone skin
- Reducing darkened pores, excess sebum
- Gentle daily use without irritation
Cons
- Higher cost than basic cleansers
- Not a substitute for heavy makeup removal
Exfoliators
11. Cure Natural Aqua Gel Exfoliator
If you’re familiar with Japanese skincare products, then you might have come across this Aqua Gel Exfoliator from Cure before. This remarkable gel exfoliator uses activated hydrogen gel water and botanical ingredients to impressively remove old and dead skin cells.
This best-selling exfoliator is often referred to as ‘magic in a bottle’ because it is an impressive exfoliant that doesn’t contain chemicals or ingredients that will harm the skin. It is also extremely gentle on the skin, so it will not lead to skin irritation. Many Japanese Taste customers noted that including this exfoliator in their skincare routine left their skin feeling soft and gentle.
Pros
- Removes dead skin cells gently
- Non-irritating for sensitive skin
- Leaves skin soft and smooth
Cons
- Expensive for some users
- Not suitable daily
12. Ishizawa Lab Keana Nadeshiko Baking Soda Moist Peeling Gel
This Peeling Gel from Ishizawa Laboratories uses baking soda as an active ingredient to gently peel away dead skin cells and dirt away from your skin. Even though it is a peeling gel, it contains skin-hydrating ingredients like glycerin to prevent the skin barrier from drying out.
This Japanese gel exfoliator is generally described as a very gentle yet effective product that removes dead skin cells and leaves the skin smooth, soft, and refreshed. Many reviews highlight that the skin feels noticeably cleaner and more polished after use, with a fresh and “slippery smooth” finish.
Pros
- Removes blackheads gently
- Hydrates skin while exfoliating
- Softens and smooths pores
Cons
- Limited usage per week
- Baking soda smell
Pore Strips
13. Kose Cosmeport Softymo Black Nose Strips
Clogged and enlarged pores commonly appear on the nose, so pore strips have become a common skincare product to get rid of them. If you don’t have a lot of time to implement a multi-step skincare regimen into your daily routine but still want to target clogged pores around your nose, consider using these nose strips from Kosé.
These Softymo Black Nose Strips effectively remove all impurities, blackheads, and any other dirt from pores. They also unclog, clean, and shrink them. Keep a pack of these and use them anytime you want to minimize your pores.
Pros
- Removes blackheads effectively
- Convenient for quick use
- Shrinks pores temporarily
Cons
- May irritate sensitive skin
- For nose-only
14. Kao Bioré Charcoal Nose Strips Deep Cleansing Pore Strips
These particular pore strips from Kao Bioré contain charcoal, particularly bamboo charcoal, which is extremely powerful in unclogging pores. These nose strips work to unclog, clean, and shrink pores. Bamboo charcoal is specifically known for absorbing sebum, one of the main substances that clog pores.
If pores around your nose area are of special concern to you, keep a pack of these charcoal nose strips on hand, and they’ll work in a jiffy.
Pros
- Effectively removes blackheads and dirt
- Shrinks pores and cleans thoroughly
- Menthol cools and refreshes skin
Cons
- Not suitable for sensitive skin
- Can irritate if peeled too quickly
Face Masks & Packs
15. Ishizawa Lab Keana Nadeshiko Japanese Rice Face Mask
This sheet mask from Ishizawa Lab uses rice serum, an original Japanese ingredient proven to shrink pores, and is also effective in anti-aging and moisturizing the skin. There is also a Men’s version available.
Most users say these Japanese rice face masks feel very hydrating, soft, and refreshing on the skin, with a noticeable improvement in smoothness and glow after use. Many reviews mention that the skin feels plumper, brighter, and more supple after use, making it popular for daily or regular skincare routines. It is also appreciated by users with dry or sensitive skin, who find it gentle and soothing.
Pros
- Anti-aging benefits
- Moisturizes skin deeply
- Shrinks pores effectively
Cons
- Serum-rich sheet can feel heavy or sticky
- Potential for irritation
16. Kanebo Suisai Beauty Clear Micro Clay Wash 130g
This clay wash from Kanebo is a Japanese facial cleanser with two types of clay to deeply remove sebum, dead skin cells, and impurities while locking in moisture. Enriched with Moroccan lava clay and apricot juice, it smooths pores without drying.
Users describe this clay face wash as a gentle but effective cleanser that leaves skin smooth, clean, and refreshed without dryness or tightness. It removes makeup and impurities well with a small amount, making it easy and long-lasting for daily use. The mild formula has little to no chemical smell and is suitable for sensitive or combination skin. Many also say it helps clean pores while keeping skin balanced and comfortable after washing.
Pros
- Absorbs sebum, dead skin cells, impurities
- Can be used as a rinse-off mask
- Leaves skin smooth without dryess
Cons
- Clay texture can feel gritty
- Mint fragrance may be strong for sensitive noses
17. Kose Clear Turn Japanese Rice Sheet Mask EX (Pore Tightening Face Mask)
This is another great face mask option, especially for those who are searching for a product that can perform multiple functions at once. Not only does this sheet mask act as a toner, serum, emulsion, cream, face pack, and eye mask all in one, but it also effectively tightens pores. Just plop it onto your face for 5 to 10 minutes after washing your face and you’ll be good to go!
These rice sheet masks are praised for being very hydrating and effective, with plenty of essence in each sheet. Many say the masks leave skin feeling soft, refreshed, and noticeably more moisturized, even after just a few uses. Some users report improved skin condition when used regularly, such as 2–3 times a week.
Pros
- Tightens pores visibly
- 6-in-1 formula
- Hydrates and softens skin
Cons
- Fragrance may irritate
- May feel heavy on oily skin
18. IPSA Luminizing Clay Mask
If you’re looking for a non-sheet face mask option, then this Luminizing Clay Mask from IPSA is a great choice. Clay is a popular skincare ingredient for thoroughly cleansing the skin, especially unwanted dirt from pores.
If your skin is more on the oily side, then this clay mask is especially recommended for you. You only need to implement this mask once or twice a week into your skincare routine to see positive results.
Pros
- Deep cleans pores
- Clay-based detox
- Reduces excess oil
Cons
- Can dry skin
- Weekly use only
19. Ishizawa Lab Keana Rice Pack
Loved by users for its hydrating and pore-smoothing effects, the Keana Rice Pack helps skin feel soft, plump, and refreshed without stripping moisture. Many reviews mention improved skin texture, reduced pore visibility, and a brighter, healthier-looking complexion with regular use. It’s a great option if you want a gentle Japanese skincare mask focused on hydration and smoother-looking pores.
Learn more about Keana rice pack and how to use it.
Pros
- Targets problem areas
- Improves skin texture
- Shrinks pores effectively
Cons
- Limited coverage
- Needs rinsing
20. BCL Tsururi Ghassoul Mineral Clay Facial Pack
This facial pack from BCL is formulated with Moroccan clay to remove and cleanse impurities from your skin, which in turn minimizes enlarged pores. You can use this product as a face pack and only apply it to specific areas of concern on your face, or even use it as a face mask if you like.
Users describe this clay mask as a simple, effective cleanser for blackheads and excess oil, especially on the nose. It helps remove buildup, smooth rough texture, and leaves skin feeling clean and refreshed, often without the need for harsh scrubbing.
Many say it works well for oily or combination skin and improves pore appearance over time with regular use. However, some note it can feel drying or too strong for sensitive skin, so a moisturizer is recommended after use.
Pros
- Removes impurities thoroughly
- Clay-based detox
- Targets problem areas
Cons
- Slightly drying
- Can be messy
