ANUA Heartleaf Pore Control Cleansing Oil — Huile Nettoyante Anti-Pores

This oily cleanser formulated with a precise botanical selection to cleanse without irritation.

Houttuynia Cordata Extract (10,000 ppm). Nicknamed "heartleaf" in Korea, this Asian medicinal plant is known for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It soothes irritations, strengthens the skin barrier, and regulates sebum production — a benefit for skin prone to imperfections.

Simmondsia Chinensis Seed Oil (jojoba oil). Its composition mimics human sebum, allowing it to dissolve sebum filaments and excess oil lodged in pores more effectively than mineral oils. Rich in vitamin E, it hydrates without a clogging effect.

Vitis Vinifera Seed Oil (grape seed oil). A source of linoleic acid (55-77%) and antioxidant polyphenols, it repairs the lipid barrier while fighting oxidative stress.

Olea Europaea Fruit Oil + Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil. An emollient duo that softens skin texture and balances sebum production, even in combination areas.

Tocopherol (vitamin E). Protects the skin from free radicals and extends the formula’s stability.

☀️ Morning routine

1. Dispense 2-3 pumps onto dry hands
2. Massage in circular motions on dry face for 1-2 minutes (focus on T-zone if wearing light makeup)
3. Add a splash of lukewarm water to emulsify — the oil turns milky
4. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water
5. Follow with your toner usual foaming cleanser (double cleansing required)

🌙 Evening routine

1. Same protocol, but massage for 3-5 minutes on dry skin if you want to try the "gritting" technique (extraction of visible sebaceous filaments on fingers)
2. Focus on nose, chin, forehead — areas rich in sebaceous glands
3. Emulsify carefully: the water should whiten the oil before rinsing
4. Double cleansing is essential to remove all oily residue
5. Continue with looner, serum, cream

This oily cleanser is designed for several skin types:

• Combination to oily skin who fear oils but seek effective makeup removal without rebound effect
• Fans of double cleansing wanting a gentle first cleanse before foam
• Skin with blemishes (non-comedogenic formula tested on acne-prone skin)
• Users of waterproof makeup or stubborn sunscreen
• Sensitive skin irritated by sulfate surfactants — here, no eye stinging (HET-CAM test validated)

To be nuanced if: You have already reacted to fragrance (present in this 200ml version) or if your ultra-reactive skin prefers the MILD fragrance-free version. Some users report breakouts after prolonged use — test for 7 days before full adoption.

The effects are noticeable from the first uses, but consistency pays off.

From the first use: Complete makeup removal (even waterproof mascara), feeling of clean skin but never tight. The slightly greenish golden texture glides smoothly without sticking.

After 2 weeks: Visible reduction of sebaceous filaments on the sides of the nose (those small gray dots often mistaken for blackheads). Clearer complexion, less dilated pores upon waking.

After 4 weeks: ANUA clinical test reports a 22.8% decrease in sebum quantity — the skin tone better regulates its oil production without the “rebound” effect after stripping. Refined skin texture, less shine by midday.

Note: no “miracle” effect on oxidized blackheads (only professional extraction removes them). But regular use limits their reappearance.

What is the difference between the 200ml version and the MILD version?

The classic 200ml version contains fragrance (a blend of rose, green, rosemary) and 22 ingredients. The MILD version has only 11, no fragrance, and includes Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Oil. If you have sensitive eyes or a synthetic fragrance intolerance, choose the MILD — otherwise, both cleanse equally well.

Why do some people see "grits" and others don’t?

The "grits" (those little white grains on the fingers after massage) are actually dissolved sebum filaments. Their visibility depends on your skin type, the density of your sebaceous glands, and the massage time (minimum 3-5 minutes). If you don’t see any, it doesn’t mean the oil isn’t cleansing — it works deeply without a show.

Non-comedogenic formula: what does that actually mean?

Tested on acne-prone skin, this oil has passed a non-comedogenicity protocol. Translation: it doesn’t clog pores if you follow double cleansing. But beware, some users (notably on TikTok) report acne flare-ups after 1-2 weeks — probably due to purging or individual intolerance. Patch test recommended.

How long does the 200ml bottle last?

With 2-3 pumps per daily use (evening only), expect 4 to 6 months of use. If you double cleanse morning and evening, more like 3 months. The generous size justifies the investment.

Can it be used on the eyes without rinsing?

Yes, the HET-CAM test (a cruelty-free alternative to the Draize test) confirms no eye stinging. You can massage your makeup-covered eyelids without worry. But always rinse after emulsifying — an oily residue blurs vision.

Oil + oily skin: no greasy rebound afterward?

No, if you emulsify properly with water (the oil should turn white) and follow with a foaming cleanser. The “oil dissolves oil” principle works: the vegetable oil attracts oxidized sebum without stimulating glands. The real trap? Forgetting the second cleanse — then yes, you risk clogged pores and shine.

ANUA, a South Korean brand launched in the 2010s, embodies the confident minimalism of modern K-beauty. Its manifesto? "Healthy skin comes from a balanced lifestyle" — healthy skin is not just about products, it requires mental rest, a regular routine, and a calming environment.

Heartleaf (Houttuynia cordata) is the foundation of the entire flagship range: this ancient plant from traditional Asian medicine propelled ANUA to Olive Young bestseller status in 2022 (their 77% Heartleaf toner took first place). The brand rejects an excess of active ingredients: its formulas contain a maximum of 10 to 22 ingredients, with simple packaging and a claimed EWG Green Grade label.

Made 100% in South Korea (certified factories in the Gyeonggi-do region), ANUA focuses on INCI transparency and eco-responsibility — recyclable bottles, no animal testing. Thanks to TikTok virality, the Heartleaf Pore Control range exploded internationally in 2023-2024 through "gritting" videos.

Discover the entire ANUA range

Complete INCI list (22 ingredients):

Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Sorbeth-30 Tetraoleate (self-foaming emulsifier for easy rinsing), Sorbitan Sesquioleate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Butyl Avocadate, Fragrance (blend of rose/green/rosemary), Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil (sunflower), Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil, Olea Europaea Fruit Oil (olive), Simmondsia Chinensis Seed Oil (jojoba), Vitis Vinifera Seed Oil (grape seed), Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Curcuma Longa Root Extract (turmeric), Melia Azadirachta Flower Extract, Tocopherol (vitamin E), Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, Houttuynia Cordata Extract (heartleaf 10,000 ppm), Corallina Officinalis Extract (red algae), Melia Azadirachta Bark Extract, Moringa Oleifera Seed Oil, Ocimum Sanctum Leaf Extract (holy basil).

Points of attention: Presence of fragrance ("Fragrance") — if sensitive, prefer the MILD version. Butyl Avocadate and Ethylhexyl Palmitate may cause issues for fungal-acne-prone skin (not safe for Malassezia). Overall clean formula: free from parabens, sulfates, drying alcohols, silicones.