# Hero Cosmetics Pore Release Blackhead Clearing Solution for sensitive skin

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

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/hero-cosmetics/pore-release-blackhead-clearing-solution/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: [Hero Cosmetics](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/brands/hero-cosmetics)
Category: [Exfoliants](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/best/exfoliators)

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.

Works for sensitive skin; other products fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate exfoliation for your normal skin, as gluconolactone and salicylic acid help clear pores without causing irritation, though the primary goal of addressing redness and irritation is only partially supported by soothing ingredients like Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice.
- The formula provides general hydration and soothing benefits, which are supportive but not directly targeted at your specific concerns of redness and irritation.
- The product is safe for your normal skin with sensitivity, as it lacks harsh ingredients and includes soothing components like Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/hero-cosmetics/pore-release-blackhead-clearing-solution/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/hero-cosmetics/pore-release-blackhead-clearing-solution/for/dry-skin): Caution
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/hero-cosmetics/pore-release-blackhead-clearing-solution/for/combination-skin): Superior
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/hero-cosmetics/pore-release-blackhead-clearing-solution/for/sensitive-skin): Average (this page)
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/hero-cosmetics/pore-release-blackhead-clearing-solution/for/acne-prone-skin): Average
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/hero-cosmetics/pore-release-blackhead-clearing-solution/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/hero-cosmetics/pore-release-blackhead-clearing-solution/for/mature-skin): Low
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/hero-cosmetics/pore-release-blackhead-clearing-solution/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Caution
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/hero-cosmetics/pore-release-blackhead-clearing-solution/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High

## Key ingredients

Salicylic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Gluconolactone, Lotus Water, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice

## What the research says

- Gluconolactone 14% solution significantly improved mild to moderate acne by reducing inflamed and non-inflamed lesions similarly to 5% benzoyl peroxide, but with fewer side-effects in 150 patients. ([The Australasian Journal of Dermatology, 1992](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1303072/))
- 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/))
- Combining 10% gluconolactone chemical peeling with oxybrasion or microneedle mesotherapy increased skin hydration and decreased sebum, pH, and TEWL in twenty-one Caucasian women, with no significant differences between the two methods. ([Skin Research and Technology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37357656/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- Repeated short-contact 70% glycolic acid peels provided superior results in atrophic acne scars compared to daily low-strength glycolic acid cream or placebo in 58 women over 24 weeks. ([International Journal of Dermatology, 2000](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11095203/))
- Serial glycolic acid peels combined with a modified Kligman formula significantly reduced facial PIH severity in Indian patients compared to the modified Kligman formula alone. ([Dermatologic Surgery, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28114204/))
- Glycolic acid, salicylic acid, gluconolactone, and licochalcone A combined with 0.1% adapalene showed no hindrance compared to adapalene monotherapy and provided benefits in reducing complications in 25 subjects with mild-to-moderate acne vulgaris. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30858720/))
- Gluconolactone and tartaric acid significantly lower transepidermal water loss and erythema after sodium lauryl sulphate challenge compared to vehicle, untreated control, and glycolic acid in healthy subjects. ([The British Journal of Dermatology, 1997](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9470910/))
- A polyhydroxy acid skin care regimen provided antiaging benefits comparable to an alpha-hydroxyacid regimen while demonstrating enhanced mildness and better tolerance in subjects. ([Cutis, 2004](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15002657/))
- Topical green tea and green tea plus lotus multiple emulsions reduced casual sebum secretions compared to placebo in healthy adults, with the combined treatment producing significantly greater reductions than green tea alone over a 60-day period. ([Hippokratia, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23935347/))
- Combined topical application of lotus and green tea improved facial skin surface parameters including roughness, scaliness, smoothness, and wrinkling in healthy Asian men compared to single treatments and placebo. ([Rejuvenation Research, 2013](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23267660/))
- Cosmetics containing lotus-derived callus extract showed a significant skin-whitening effect in 21 volunteers. ([Plants, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38068559/))
- A cream combining propolis, tea tree oil, and Aloe vera reduced erythema scars, acne severity index, and total lesion count better than erythromycin cream in sixty patients with mild to moderate acne vulgaris compared to placebo. ([Clinical Pharmacology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30588129/))
- Topical aloe vera gel significantly accelerated split-thickness skin graft donor-site healing compared to placebo in 12 patients, but showed no significant difference in pain relief. ([Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29649056/))
- Topical application of Aloe vera cream reduced postoperative pain at rest and during defecation, accelerated wound healing at two weeks, and decreased analgesic requirements in patients after open hemorrhoidectomy compared to placebo. ([Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20569031/))

## Why other products fit sensitive skin better

- Topical application of TAT-SOD significantly suppresses UVB-induced erythema formation, blood flow rise, and apoptotic sunburn cell formation in human volunteers compared to a vehicle control. ([European Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27460952/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, users with oily and combination skin frequently praise this toner for effectively reducing blackheads and minimizing pore appearance without stripping moisture. The majority describe it as a gentle and hydrating alternative to harsh exfoliants, though a small subset of users experienced purging or found it ineffective for stubborn deep-set congestion.

- Liked: Gentle, non-drying (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Effective pore clearing (often mentioned)
- Liked: Pleasant texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Quality packaging (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Caused breakouts (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Ineffective for some (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Packaging usability (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Price vs. value (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your exfoliant PM once a week to help with redness and irritation. Start slowly and only increase frequency if your skin feels happy and comfortable.
- Apply the exfoliant after cleansing and toner , but always before your moisturizer . This ensures the product absorbs properly into the skin.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the exfoliant into your skin without rubbing . Let it absorb for a minute before moving on.
- Since your skin is sensitive , apply the exfoliant on completely dry skin for the best tolerance. This helps prevent any extra stinging or discomfort.
- Always do a patch test before your first use and avoid the delicate eye area .
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/028e5e793422a3b665c02ff502cf5a68.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does Pore Release Blackhead Clearing Solution work for sensitive skin?

Hero Cosmetics Pore Release Blackhead Clearing Solution is an average fit for sensitive skin because its acids help clear pores, though it only partially supports calming redness and irritation. To work well for sensitive skin, an exfoliant treatment needs ingredients that actively soothe redness and repair the skin while clearing pores without causing irritation.
Sources: [The Australasian Journal of Dermatology, 1992](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1303072/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/)

### Which ingredients make this exfoliant a good fit for sensitive skin?

Gluconolactone and salicylic acid help clear pores on sensitive skin without causing irritation, while aloe barbadensis leaf juice and lotus water provide soothing benefits. However, to truly calm redness and irritation, this skin type needs products with targeted soothing ingredients like niacinamide and snail secretion filtrate.
Sources: [The Australasian Journal of Dermatology, 1992](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1303072/)

### 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/)

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

Glycolic acid can be too harsh for sensitive skin, leaving it dry and irritated, so this type of skin needs a gentler exfoliating ingredient and calming plant extracts to keep the skin barrier safe and comfortable.
Sources: [Cutaneous and Ocular Toxicology, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35920724/)

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

This exfoliant goes in your evening routine once a week to help clear pores without causing irritation. Products for this skin need gentle exfoliating acids combined with soothing ingredients to keep the skin calm and comfortable.

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

You can use this exfoliant with retinol, but to keep your skin calm and avoid irritation, apply them on different nights or use the exfoliant in the morning and retinol at night. Because this product contains exfoliating acids like salicylic and glycolic acid alongside retinol, it needs extra soothing ingredients and gentle hydrators to keep sensitive skin comfortable.

### How often should I use this exfoliant?

Start by using this exfoliant once a week, and if your skin tolerates it well and shows good results, you may carefully use it more often. To fit your sensitive skin better, this type of product needs gentle exfoliating acids paired with generous soothing and calming ingredients to keep redness at bay.

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

This exfoliant is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts for sensitive skin, as reviewers rarely report these issues and the formula contains gentle acids that clear pores safely. To work best for sensitive skin, this type of product needs soothing ingredients like aloe to calm redness and keep the skin feeling soft and smooth.
Sources: [The Australasian Journal of Dermatology, 1992](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1303072/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/)

### Is this exfoliant fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for sensitive skin

- [COSRX The Vitamin C 23 Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cosrx/the-vitamin-c-23-serum/for/sensitive-skin) — High fit — CA$33.98 at Amazon
- [Skin1004 Probio-Cica Intensive Ampoule](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/skin1004/probio-cica-intensive-ampoule/for/sensitive-skin) — High fit — CA$24.44 at Amazon
- [The Ordinary Matrixyl 10% + HA](https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-ordinary/matrixyl-10-ha/for/sensitive-skin) — High fit — CA$14.40 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- 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

## Where to buy

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

## Ingredients

Water, Butylene Glycol, Gluconolactone, Arginine, Salicylic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Nelumbo Nucifera Water Root, Glycerin, Hydrolyzed Gardenia Florida Extract, Biosaccharide Gum-1, Sodium Levulinate, Glyceryl Caprylate, Maltodextrin, Sodium Anisate, Sodium Hydroxide, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Citric Acid
## 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/hero-cosmetics/pore-release-blackhead-clearing-solution/for/sensitive-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/hero-cosmetics/pore-release-blackhead-clearing-solution/for/sensitive-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/hero-cosmetics/pore-release-blackhead-clearing-solution/for/sensitive-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/hero-cosmetics/pore-release-blackhead-clearing-solution/for/sensitive-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/hero-cosmetics/pore-release-blackhead-clearing-solution/for/sensitive-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/hero-cosmetics/pore-release-blackhead-clearing-solution/for/sensitive-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/hero-cosmetics/pore-release-blackhead-clearing-solution/for/sensitive-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/hero-cosmetics/pore-release-blackhead-clearing-solution/for/sensitive-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/hero-cosmetics/pore-release-blackhead-clearing-solution/for/sensitive-skin (this page)
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/hero-cosmetics/pore-release-blackhead-clearing-solution/for/sensitive-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/hero-cosmetics/pore-release-blackhead-clearing-solution/for/sensitive-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/hero-cosmetics/pore-release-blackhead-clearing-solution/for/sensitive-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/hero-cosmetics/pore-release-blackhead-clearing-solution/for/sensitive-skin