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Clogged pores is a skincare problem that many of us deal with. While some people are blessed with small pores that do not easily become clogged, many of us have to face the reality (and consequences, let’s be honest) of clogged pores.
How do pores become clogged so easily? How can we combat them? We introduced why pores easily become clogged in this article, where we also introduced 20 Japanese skincare items for tackling clogged pores. But in this article, we’re going to specifically talk about our 20 favorite facial cleaning products, ranging from cleansing oils, gels, and face washes for clogged pores. Stay tuned for our top recommendations!
How we decided
- Effectiveness On Clogged PoresEffectiveness at removing sebum, keratin plugs, blackheads, and buildup
- Skin-Type CompatibilitySuitable options for oily, dry, sensitive, acne-prone, and combination skin
- Ingredient QualityUse of proven pore-targeting ingredients like charcoal, clay, enzymes, baking soda, or cleansing oils
- Usability & Routine FitEasy to use, including all-in-one, makeup-removing, and low-maintenance formulas
FANCL Black & Smooth Mild Cleansing Oil 120ml
For those who especially struggle with clogged pores and cannot seem to find the right cleansing products that actually work, consider trying out this charcoal-based cleansing oil. This Black & Smooth cleansing oil from FANCL has specifically been formulated to unclog even the most clogged pores. It includes ingredients such as charcoal and adsorbent mud, that target stubborn blackheads and keratin plugs. Bonus points are that it’s been formulated to be suitable even for sensitive skin, and those with eyelash extensions can use it safely - anyone can use it!
Pros
- Charcoal targets blackheads
- Gentle for sensitive skin
- Safe for lash extensions
Cons
- Higher price
- Small bottle
DHC Deep Cleansing Oil 200ml
This award-winning olive oil cleanser is a tried and true Japanese cleansing oil for tackling clogged pores. It’s a classic, it’s rich in antioxidants from the olive oil, and it gets the job done. This cleansing oil has a thick texture, allowing it to seep into the pores and get rid of any unwanted residue. Many Japanese Taste customers have also pointed out that it’s easy to use and that it leaves their skin feeling clean and moisturized.
Pros
- Rich olive oil formula
- Removes heavy makeup
- Leaves skin moisturized
Cons
- Thick texture
- Can feel heavy on oily skin
FANCL Mild Cleansing Oil
If you have sensitive skin and clogged pores, then the Fancl Mild Cleansing Oil is the perfect choice for you. It features a mild formula that will not irritate sensitive skin, yet it also effortlessly wraps around and into the skin to remove excess makeup. This Japanese Taste fan-favorite product also comes in a two-pack option so that you can stock up!
Pros
- Very gentle formula
- Effective makeup removal
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- Less powerful on heavy makeup
- Higher cost
Rafra Balm Orange Hot Cleansing Gel 100g
For busy people who do not have a lot of time to dedicate to a full on skincare routine but still would like to care for clogged pores, consider trying this hot cleansing gel. This Japanese cleansing gel performs multiple functions at once including removing makeup, cleansing, and moisturizing the skin. When incorporating this cleansing gel into your routine, you’ll immediately notice smoother skin. This is due to the addition of skin-friendly and pore-friendly ingredients like royal jelly, olive oil, and honey.
Pros
- Cleanses, removes makeup, moisturizes
- Warming effect boosts circulation
- Smooth skin finish
Cons
- Heat sensation not for everyone
- Scent may be strong
Keana Beaute Pore Care Cruelty-Free & Halal Cleansing Gel 40g
This is a great cleansing gel option for those worried about clogged pores around the nose and cheeks. Bonus points are that it’s cruelty-free and halal. Containing the active ingredients of charcoal, vitamin C derivative, and cica the cleansing gel effectively targets clogged pores and moisturizes the skin without stripping it of its natural oils.
Pros
- Cruelty-free and Halal
- Charcoal + Cica combo
- Balances oil and moisture
Cons
- Small size
- Mild on heavy makeup
Perfect One Focus Smooth Cleansing Balm For Blackheads & Clogged Pores 75g
This is a 6-in-1 cleansing balm specifically intended for tackling clogged pores and blackheads. It’s an effortlessly easy-to-use skincare item that melts onto the skin and clears it of unwanted makeup residue and excess gunk. It contains soapnut extract which is a natural cleansing ingredient known for its ability to remove keratin plugs and gently unclog pores. Collagen has also been included to hydrate and plump up the skin. Another great skincare product for busy people or those who just don’t want to bother with a multi-step skincare routine.
Pros
- 6-in-1 formula
- Melts keratin plugs
- Hydrating with collagen
Cons
- Balm may feel heavy
- Needs proper rinsing
Lululun Charcoal Cleansing Balm Clear Black 90g
This effective cleansing balm tackles clogged pores phenomenally, especially around the nose area. It not only removes makeup from the skin, but it also removes sebum and keratin plugs that cause clogged pores. Consisting mainly of charcoal this cleansing gel can get rid of any blackheads while leaving your skin feeling smooth. Give it a try if you struggle with clogged pores or enlarged nose pores.
Pros
- Strong charcoal cleansing
- Removes sebum well
- Smooth finish
Cons
- Can dry sensitive skin
- Strong cleansing feel
Ettusais Jelly Mousse Face Wash For Acne & Clogged Pores 165g
Dealing with clogged pores can be especially difficult for those with acne-prone skin. If you’re constantly struggling with acne breakouts on top of clogged pores, then this Japanese face wash may be the answer to both problems.
This unique face wash is enriched with white clay and baking soda – particularly useful ingredients for tackling clogged pores and acne. Watch the magic happen as this product goes from gel to foam to cleanse all of your acne and pore problems away. This jelly mousse face wash is a fan favorite in the Japanese Taste community, especially for those with acne-prone skin. Many customers have noted how effective this product is, and how they saw positive results with regular use.
Pros
- White clay + baking soda
- Deep pore cleansing
- Fun gel-to-foam texture
Cons
- Can be drying
- Not ideal for dry skin
Shiseido Aqualabel Milky Mousse Foam Facial Cleanser For Clogged Pores 130g
This face wash from Aqualabel is a foam cleanser specifically designed to treat clogged pores while maintaining soft skin. It has a mousse-like texture that contains fine particles small enough to reach deep into your skin’s pores to bring out any unwanted impurities and keratin plugs. It’s also enriched with collagen and glycerin to keep your skin feeling smooth and supple. You won’t have to worry about clogged pores or dry skin with this innovative Japanese face wash.
Pros
- Fine foam reaches pores
- Hydrating ingredients
- Soft skin finish
Cons
- Not strong on makeup
- Mid-range price
Keana Beaute Pore Cleansing Scrub Cruelty-Free & Halal Face Wash 120g
If you’re specifically worried about clogged pores and blackheads, then consider trying this Japanese pore-cleansing scrub. Not only is its formula cruelty-free and halal-friendly, but it also lathers into a thick foam to thoroughly cleanse the skin and clear out the pores.
This unique cleansing scrub contains vitamin C derivative, Cica, and plant-derived enzymes to cleanse, unclog pores, and protect the skin’s natural moisture barrier. Who doesn’t love multifunctional skincare? Keana Beaute Pore Cleansing Scrub has also received certification from the Japan Asian Halal Association.
Pros
- Enzyme + vitamin C
- Thick foaming scrub
- Cruelty-free, Halal
Cons
- Scrub may irritate
- Can feel drying
Pluest Mannan Jelly Hydro Face Wash 120g
Here’s another unique and innovative Japanese face wash for clogged pores to add to the books. This unique face wash from Pluest has a jelly-like texture and harnesses the power of hydrogel technology to cleanse, unclog pores, and keep the skin hydrated. It contains 12 botanical ingredients to moisturize the skin including konnyaku, a natural scrub that gently removes impurities from the pores. We especially love the fact that this face wash has been tailored to the needs of dry skin.
Pros
- Jelly texture hydrates
- Gentle konnyaku scrub
- Botanical ingredients
Cons
- Light cleansing power
- No makeup removal
pdc Wafood Made Uji Matcha Enzyme Face Wash 30 Packets
This powder-type face wash gets straight to work by removing dirt from clogged pores, leading to smooth skin. What’s unique about this face wash, aside from that it’s a powder face wash, is that it contains real Uji Matcha which acts as a natural scrubbing agent which breaks down any sebum, while melting any remaining unwanted gunk.
If you are someone who is worried about blackheads and keratin plugs clogging your pores then this face wash powder is perfect for you! Regular use of this face wash power will lead to smoother skin and shrunken pores. As this face wash also comes as individual sachets, it’s also the perfect face wash to take on the go.
Pros
- Matcha breaks down sebum
- Enzyme cleansing
- Individual sachets
Cons
- Powder format not convenient
- Can be drying
Rosette Age Clear Face Wash Makeup-Removing Cleansing Paste 150g
This budget-friendly cleanser is perfect for those who do not want to go through the trouble of double cleansing. The soft foam sweeps away light makeup, excess sebum, and pore-clogging residue in a single, convenient step leaving you with soft and smooth skin. It contains eggshell membrane and Rosette’s signature red beauty oil as moisture-containing ingredients. It’s also free of additives and preservatives and is gentle on the skin.
Pros
- Removes light makeup
- Gentle formula
- Affordable
Cons
- Not for heavy makeup
- Limited pore-targeting
Ishizawa Lab Keana Nadeshiko Baking Soda Scrub Face Wash 100g
Ishizawa Lab Keana Nadeshiko Scrub Wash features baking soda powder as the active ingredient to deeply remove any impurities deep from the pores. The baking soda melts easily in water and cleanses away clogged keratin and sebum without harming the top layer of the skin. The result? Smooth skin and nearly invisible looking pores. This is easily one of the best-known facial products in Japan for taking care of clogged pores. It also comes in a men’s specific version.
Pros
- Removes dead skin cells
- Leaves skin feeling significantly smoother
- Do not completely strip the skin
Cons
- May be too harsh for daily use
- Can be drying
Reihaku Hatomugi W Cleansing Foam 130g
This Japanese face wash is packed with hatomugi (job’s tears) and does all the work. Assisting in the removal of dead cells, dust, excess oil, and residual makeup, this Japanese cleanser promotes a bright and smooth complexion. In addition, it enhances pore clarity, protecting the skin from acne and inflammation. It’s the perfect face wash for those who are looking to tackle multiple skincare concerns with only one product.
Pros
- Removes oil and light makeup
- Brightening effect
- Affordable
Cons
- Not deep pore focused
- Can feel basic
BCL Tsururi Ghassoul Paste Face Wash Blackhead Remover 120g
The Tsururi Ghassoul Paste Face Wash efficiently clears clogged pores and eliminates grease and grime from the skin. Infused with ghassoul (Moroccan lava clay), Andean rock salt, and charcoal, it naturally and effectively absorbs dirt and oil from pores, producing a luxuriously rich, fluffy foam. One Japanese Taste customer noted that it gently cleansed their skin and was not drying whatsoever.
Pros
- Clay absorbs oil
- Rich foam
- Non-drying feel
Cons
- Not makeup-removing
- Strong cleansing
Matsuyama Hadauru Moisturizing Cleansing Foam 110g
The Matsuyama Hadauru Moisturizing Cleansing Foam is carefully made to soak up and remove pore-clogging dirt. Made with soybean-derived ingredients, Matsuyama's formula helps your skin hold onto moisture better. After washing, your skin won't feel tight or dry – instead, it'll feel just right, hydrated, and balanced.
The best part about this cleansing foam is its texture. It has a luxuriously rich foamy texture that creates soft bubbles that effortlessly wrap around the skin, gently cleansing it while not disturbing its natural moisture barrier.
Pros
- Moisture-retaining formula
- Rich, soft foam
- Barrier-friendly
Cons
- Premium price
- Mild pore action
FANCL Facial Washing Powder 50g
The FANCL Facial Washing Powder delicately removes dirt and impurities while diminishing dirt from deep inside the pores without causing irritation. This unique powder-to-foam cleanser starts as a fine powder and transforms into a luxurious, dense foam when mixed with water. Additionally, it primes the skin for better absorption of subsequent treatments, serums, and moisturizers applied after cleansing.
Pros
- Gentle powder-to-foam
- Deep pore cleansing
- Improves absorption
Cons
- Powder format learning curve
- Not makeup-removing
This fan-favorite powder cleanser can also be found on our website in 2-pack and 3-pack options.
Have you tried any of these Japanese cleansing products before? If not, which one do you want to try first? Let us know in the comments below.
