A blocked pore filled with sebum and dead skin that stays open oxidises and turns dark — a blackhead. The same blockage under a closed surface stays white. Both are congestion rather than infection, which is why squeezing makes them worse and the right active makes them better.

Salicylic acid is oil-soluble, so it penetrates into the pore rather than sitting on top of it. That is what makes our anti-acne serum with 2% salicylic acid effective here. Activated charcoal helps draw out surface congestion - our charcoal de-tan soap covers both face and body, which matters for chest and back congestion.

Pore size itself is genetic and cannot be changed. What you can change is how visible pores are, since a clear pore looks considerably smaller than a blocked one.

No. They remove the surface plug while leaving the pore open, so it refills within days. An oil-soluble active works on the cause.