Skin signal

Pores

Visibility, congestion, and sebum balance

Pore size is largely genetic, but their visibility changes with oil production, sun damage, and dead-cell buildup. MIRU tracks pore visibility in your T-zone and cheeks separately — so you can see which actives actually reduce congestion.

What dermatologists assess

Pore diameter in T-zone vs cheeks

Presence of sebaceous filaments vs true blackheads

Oil shine distribution and timing

Skin texture smoothness under side-lighting

Top actives for pores

Salicylic Acid (BHA)

Oil-soluble — penetrates into pores to dissolve sebum plugs.

2% for regular use; lower concentrations for sensitive skin

Niacinamide

Regulates sebum production, visibly shrinks pore appearance over 8 weeks.

5% concentration is well-studied for oil control

Clay (Kaolin, Bentonite)

Absorbs excess oil on contact, temporary mattifying effect.

Weekly mask — not daily, or skin over-compensates with more oil

Retinol

Increases cell turnover, preventing dead-cell buildup that stretches pores.

Slow introduction — every other night for 2 weeks, then nightly

This reflects standard dermatological guidance — educational, not a personal assessment. For persistent or changing concerns, a dermatologist is best placed to help.