# Biore Deep Pore Charcoal Cleanser for sensitive skin

**Lovi Fit: Low fit for sensitive skin.**
Normal Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: Concerning.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/biore/deep-pore-charcoal-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for Canada.

Brand: [Biore](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/brands/biore)
Category: [Cleansers](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/best/cleansers)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with sensitive skin: redness, stinging, and reactions to new products. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

A weak match for sensitive skin; the cleansers alongside fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate exfoliation for redness and irritation due to salicylic acid, which aids in mild skin renewal, and glycerin for humectant action, though menthol may cause discomfort for your sensitive skin.
- The cleansing action is moderate, with sodium laureth sulfate and salicylic acid helping to decongest pores.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/biore/deep-pore-charcoal-cleanser/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/biore/deep-pore-charcoal-cleanser/for/dry-skin): Low
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/biore/deep-pore-charcoal-cleanser/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/biore/deep-pore-charcoal-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin): Low (this page)
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/biore/deep-pore-charcoal-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/biore/deep-pore-charcoal-cleanser/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/biore/deep-pore-charcoal-cleanser/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/biore/deep-pore-charcoal-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Low
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/biore/deep-pore-charcoal-cleanser/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Charcoal, Salicylic Acid, Glycerin, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Laureth Sulfate

## What the research says

- Topical 30% l-menthol decreased cold pain thresholds and enhanced pain responses to suprathreshold noxious cold stimuli without affecting other stimuli in 39 healthy subjects compared to ethanol control. ([Pain, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16527405/))
- A single application of a moisturizing fluid containing hyaluronic acid 1%, glycerin 5%, and Centella asiatica stem cells extract significantly increased skin hydration by 29% and reduced transepidermal water loss at 24 hours compared to baseline and an untreated control site in twenty healthy women. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/))
- Twice daily application of a multitargeted dermocosmetic cream provided comparable efficacy to benzoyl peroxide 5% gel in reducing inflammatory, non-inflammatory, and total lesions in 150 Caucasian subjects with mild-to-moderate acne over 56 days, while demonstrating superior skin tolerability. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/))
- A moisturizer containing licochalcone A, 1,2-decanediol, L-carnitine, and salicylic acid significantly reduced noninflammatory, inflammatory, and total acne lesion counts compared to a vehicle control in Thai patients during a 12-week maintenance phase. ([BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/))
- Soap-and-water wash and superactive charcoal paste applied topically at various times after T-2 toxin exposure effectively reduced skin lesion severity in swine compared to untreated controls. ([Fundamental and Applied Toxicology, 1989](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2612785/))
- Cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen achieved a higher cure rate (39%) than salicylic acid (24%) and a wait-and-see approach (16%) for cutaneous warts at 13 weeks in primary care patients. ([CMAJ, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20837684/))
- Treatment with 2% supramolecular salicylic acid hydrogel resulted in a regression and markedly improvement rate of 51.01% compared to 43.10% for Adapaline gel in patients with mild to moderate facial acne vulgaris, showing no significant difference in efficacy. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38590107/))
- Topical 5% benzoyl peroxide plus salicylic acid achieved the greatest lesion reduction at early 2 to 4 week time points compared to benzoyl peroxide, clindamycin, and combination benzoyl peroxide/clindamycin, while 5% benzoyl peroxide plus salicylic acid and combination benzoyl peroxide/clindamycin showed similar efficacy at 10 to 12 weeks in acne patients. ([Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20488582/))
- The emollient V0034CR significantly reduced TEWL compared to vehicle and vehicle plus glycerol, and significantly increased corneometry scores compared to vehicle and vehicle plus petrolatum in healthy volunteers with dry skin, demonstrating combined barrier function improvement from petrolatum and hydration improvement from glycerol. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31532576/))
- Ten days of treatment with a cream containing 20% glycerin significantly increased skin hydration measured by corneometer values in 17 healthy volunteers compared to a placebo cream, but showed no influence on transepidermal water loss or skin sensitivity to an irritating surfactant. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18498456/))
- Niacinamide/glycerin body moisturizers provided better rapid and prolonged improvement of cosmetic xerosis through functional improvement of stratum corneum barrier function compared to no treatment and conventional moisturizers in female subjects. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22206073/))
- The cytotoxic effect of sodium lauryl sulphate on normal human keratinocytes was significantly decreased when combined with cocamidopropyl betaine, Tween 20, and Tween 80 at concentrations well below the critical micelle concentration. ([Skin Pharmacology and Applied Skin Physiology, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12677096/))
- Sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) treatment decreases lipid membrane chain conformational order and stiffness leading to increased water sorption and diffusivity, whereas sodium lauryl ether sulfate (SLES) treatment increases lipid membrane conformational order and stiffness with increased water sorption capacity driven by its hygroscopic nature. ([Langmuir, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24359219/))

## Why other cleansers fit sensitive skin better

- Topical menthol induced significant pain, cold sensations, punctate and cold hyperalgesia, and increased cutaneous perfusion in 10 subjects compared to ethanol control, acting as a human model for cold pain by sensitizing peripheral cold C nociceptors and activating cold-specific A delta fibres. ([Brain, 2004](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14985268/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, this cleanser is highly effective for users with oily and acne-prone skin, providing a deep clean and excellent oil control. Many users appreciate the refreshing sensation and notice improvements in complexion. However, a significant number of users with dry or sensitive skin report that the product can be overly drying and may cause irritation or redness.

- Liked: Deep clean feeling (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Oil control (often mentioned)
- Liked: Refreshing sensation (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Drying and stripping (often mentioned)
- Liked: Clears complexion (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Irritation and redness (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Messy application (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Strong fragrance (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your cleanser in the AM and PM routines every day. Start using it daily since your sensitive skin needs gentle care.
- Apply this first in your morning and evening skincare routine before toner and moisturizer. This clears away dirt without upsetting your skin.
- Gently massage a small amount onto your face using soft circles. Avoid any rough rubbing to keep redness away.
- Apply the cleanser on slightly damp skin to help it wash away impurities softly. Clean skin feels fresh and comfortable afterwards.
- Avoid getting the cleanser in your eyes and do a quick patch test before first use. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/6a08416bd9315041c09c72f61cf27cc1.mp4

## Questions and answers

### Why is Biore Deep Pore Charcoal Cleanser a weak match for sensitive skin?

This cleanser is a weak match for sensitive skin because it contains menthol, which may cause discomfort, alongside strong cleansing agents and salicylic acid that can strip moisture. Cleansers suited for this skin need hydrating and soothing ingredients like niacinamide and ceramides, with gentle cleansing properties and no allergens to protect the skin barrier.
Sources: [Pain, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16527405/)

### Which ingredients make this cleanser a poor fit for sensitive skin?

This cleanser is a weak match for sensitive skin because menthol may cause discomfort, and strong cleansing ingredients like sodium laureth sulfate can strip moisture. A cleanser of this type needs effective hydrating and soothing ingredients like niacinamide and ceramide-3 to prevent irritation and keep redness down.
Sources: [Pain, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16527405/)

### What does Activated Charcoal do for sensitive skin?

Activated charcoal is unlikely to benefit sensitive skin because activated charcoal products lack clinical evidence to support claims that they can provide skincare benefits. Sensitive skin needs products with gentle ingredients that calm irritation and strengthen the skin barrier.
Sources: [Clinics in Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32513407/)

### What does Salicylic Acid do for sensitive skin?

Salicylic acid may cause irritation on sensitive skin, so it requires careful use and good sun protection to keep skin comfortable. A product for this skin type needs gentle, soothing ingredients and a mild formula that respects the skin barrier.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 1999](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10233334/), [International Journal of Toxicology, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14617432/)

### Where does this cleanser go in a skincare routine for sensitive skin?

This cleanser fits into both morning and evening routines for sensitive skin, though it may cause discomfort because it contains menthol. A cleanser for this skin needs to be very gentle and fragrance-free to clean without causing redness or irritation.
Sources: [Pain, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16527405/)

### Can I use it with retinol, and in what order?

This cleanser is a weak match for sensitive skin and contains ingredients like menthol and salicylic acid that may cause irritation when paired with retinol. To protect easily irritated skin, this skin type needs a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser and hydrating ingredients like glycerin or ceramides instead.
Sources: [Pain, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16527405/)

### How often should I use this cleanser?

This cleanser is a weak match for your sensitive skin because ingredients like salicylic acid and menthol may cause discomfort, redness, and irritation. A cleanser for this skin needs gentle, hydrating ingredients like glycerin and soothing plant extracts to keep the skin calm and comfortable.

### Can it clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for sensitive skin?

This cleanser is unlikely to clog pores since it helps clear them out, but it may cause dryness and irritation for sensitive skin. This type of skin needs gentle, hydrating ingredients like glycerin and soothing plant extracts rather than harsh cleansing agents and menthol.
Sources: [Pain, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16527405/)

### Can I use this cleanser around the eyes or on my body?

This cleanser is generally too harsh for the thin skin around the eyes due to ingredients like menthol and strong cleansers that may cause discomfort. Sensitive skin of this type needs gentle, hydrating ingredients and fragrance-free cleansers that protect the skin barrier.
Sources: [Surgical and Radiologic Anatomy, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12375070/), [Pain, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16527405/)

### Is it fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for sensitive skin

- [La Roche-Posay Hydrating Gentle Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/la-roche-posay/toleriane-hydrating-gentle-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — CA$30.56 at Amazon
- [Cetaphil Gentle Foaming Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cetaphil/gentle-foaming-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — CA$16.96 at Amazon
- [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — CA$20.96 at Amazon

## Routine for sensitive skin

### AM

- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — CA$44.95 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [Clarins Toning Lotion with Camomile](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/clarins/soothing-toning-lotion/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — CA$49.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer with Sun Protection: [Torriden DIVE-IN Mild Sunscreen](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/torriden/dive-in-mild-sunscreen/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — CA$27.34 at Amazon

### PM

- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — CA$17.99 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — CA$44.95 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [Clarins Toning Lotion with Camomile](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/clarins/soothing-toning-lotion/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — CA$49.00 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Purito Centella Unscented Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/purito/centella-unscented-serum/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — CA$23.25 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Probio-Cica Enrich Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skin1004/madagascar-centella-probio-cica-enrich-cream/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — CA$30.98 at Amazon

### Weekly

- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — CA$17.99 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — CA$44.95 at Amazon
- Enzyme Powder: [Dr. Barbara Sturm Enzyme Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/dr-barbara-sturm/enzyme-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin) — High fit — CA$157.17 at Amazon
- Nourishing Mask: [Anua Heartleaf 77% Soothing Sheet Mask](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/anua/heartleaf-77-soothing-sheet-mask/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — CA$10.00 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Purito Centella Unscented Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/purito/centella-unscented-serum/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — CA$23.25 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Probio-Cica Enrich Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skin1004/madagascar-centella-probio-cica-enrich-cream/for/sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — CA$30.98 at Amazon

## Where to buy

No store in Canada has a checked price for this product, so the page shows none.

## Ingredients

Water, Glycerin, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sorbitol, Laureth-4 Carboxylic Acid, Ethylhexylglycerin, Acrylates C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Sodium Hydroxide, Menthol, Methylparaben, Polyquaternium-39, Propylparaben, Charcoal Powder, Disodium Edta, Mannitol, Cellulose, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Methylisothiazolinone, Salicylic Acid, Sodium Benzoate, Iron Oxides
## About the Lovi Fit

Lovi: Unbiased, science-based skincare AI trained on real user outcomes.

Lovi calculates every fit score from the full ingredient list with brand-independent rules its dermatologists and cosmetic chemists build and review, and personalizes every pick with AI trained on the real results of millions of users. Lovi trains its fit score models on a proprietary dataset built from more than 10,000 expert-labeled products and more than 100,000 simulated examples, following an internally consistent methodology presented at Cosmoprof, AMWC, and Skin of Color Update. Levels from best to worst: Superior, High, Average, Low, Caution, Warning.

Behind this fit score: Nadia Kapleva, MS (Co-founder, Medical Director); Alexey Shagraev, PhD (Co-founder, CEO and CTO); Dr. Sofía Perea Pérez, MD, MSc (Medical Board); Aishani Shah, MD (Medical Board); Asya Zubkova, MS (Medical Board); Hanna Kurets, MD (Medical Board, Medical Advisor); Elina Nazarenko, MD (Medical Board); Victoria Derkova, MS (Medical Board).

Page built Nov 8, 2026.

More from Lovi: https://lovi.care/skincare/llms.txt

## This page in other countries

- United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/biore/deep-pore-charcoal-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/biore/deep-pore-charcoal-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/biore/deep-pore-charcoal-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/biore/deep-pore-charcoal-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/biore/deep-pore-charcoal-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/biore/deep-pore-charcoal-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/biore/deep-pore-charcoal-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/biore/deep-pore-charcoal-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/biore/deep-pore-charcoal-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin (this page)
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/biore/deep-pore-charcoal-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/biore/deep-pore-charcoal-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/biore/deep-pore-charcoal-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/biore/deep-pore-charcoal-cleanser/for/sensitive-skin