Pores

Sebum and dead cells collecting until pores look wider.

Moderate evidenceRetinoid⚠ In pregnancy Do not use

Retinol

In a vehicle-controlled trial, 0.4% retinol applied for 24 weeks moved the fine-wrinkle score by −1.64 against −0.08 for vehicle. Thirty-six people, and it was forearms, not faces. In pregnancy, guidance says do not use it.

Moderate evidenceAntioxidant

Niacinamide

In a 12-week split-face study of 50 people, 5% niacinamide reduced fine lines, yellowing, red blotchiness and pigmented spots. The control was not nothing but the same moisturiser, and the manufacturer paid for the trial.

Moderate evidenceAcid

Salicylic acid

Salicylic Acid

Most acne trials used 30% peels performed in a clinic. What Korea allows as an acne functional claim is 0.5%, and only in rinse-off cleansers. There is a sixtyfold gap between those two numbers.

Moderate evidenceOther

Tea tree oil

Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Oil

In a double-blind trial of 60 people using a 5% gel for 45 days, total lesion count and acne severity improved significantly more than with placebo — 3.55 and 5.75 times more, respectively. It is one trial, and 45 days is short.

Clinical procedures related to this concern

Procedures are not listed alongside topical ingredients. They are not something you use at home.

In preparation.