As dermatologists will tell you, exfoliation can be a powerful addition to any skincare routine. Not only does the process remove dead skin cells, but according to previous reports, it can also help unclog pores, make your skin smoother and brighter, and even help your skin better absorb all your other products. While this may make you want to reach for a heavy-duty scrubber, experts say, when it comes to exfoliation, less is more.
Why These Pads Are a Must-Have
These pore-minimizing pads were so popular with shoppers last Black Friday that they sold out over that very weekend. Now, Medicube's beloved "zero pore" toner pads are on sale for 20% off this week. Priced at $14.90 at Amazon (regularly $18.90), they offer an affordable way to upgrade your skincare routine.
As Dr. Lindsey Zubritsky, a Mississippi-based board-certified dermatologist, previously stated, it's all too easy to harm your skin when exfoliating. The key to correctly doing it? "Be gentle."
Gentle Yet Effective Formula
Per Zubritsky, while exfoliating can help your skin, over-exfoliation can lead to a damaged and unhealthy skin barrier, "which can cause dryness, irritation, redness, more acne or eczema breakouts and even worsening of hyperpigmentation and wrinkles." Intended for sensitive skin and softer, but still effective exfoliation, users call the Medicube mild pads "the most gentle toner pad and solution" they've ever used, and "not just a toner pad," but "a calm, controlled, K-beauty mic drop for your skin."
According to the brand, the 70 pre-soaked, double-sided mild pads are physically softer and less harsh than other options. Not only that, the toner the pads are soaked in is specially designed for gentler exfoliation, infused with soothing lavender, hydrating hyaluronic acid, and a variety of plant extracts. The real magic is the "polyhydroxy acid" exfoliant (PHA), which is thought to be less aggravating to the skin than other common chemical exfoliants, according to government studies and previous health reporting.
What Users Are Saying
Whether you have sensitive skin, are new to exfoliating, or just prefer mild products, users say these pads are it. Reviewers with oily skin and redness who are prone to breakouts say the pads "actually help" with reducing the appearance of pores, evening their skin tone and texture — sans irritation. Another with "dull, dry and sensitive skin" credits the pads for giving them a bright, smooth and clear "glass skin" look — something they previously thought was impossible.
"Love how my skin feels after using," Kb wrote. "I feel like I definitely can see the difference in pore size and texture while using this. So effective!" As one user jokes, the mild pads "is what happens when exfoliation grows up, gets polite, and actually listens to sensitive skin."
"One swipe in and you immediately feel it: clean, refreshed, soothed—not stripped, not angry, not screaming for moisturizer," they wrote. "...It's refined, effective, and respectful — basically the skincare equivalent of someone who texts back, shows up on time, and makes your life better."
How to Use the Pads
The brand says to use the pads after cleansing your face, starting with the embossed side to remove dead skin cells, then following with the smooth side, to tone and pat dry. While reviewers debate if there's no scent or a light "clean" scent, everyone seems to agree: the pads leave you with "baby-smooth skin, visibly more refined pores and that glassy, balanced finish that makes serums and makeup sit better instantly."
Additional Skincare Recommendations
Looking for more skin care upgrades? Check out these recommended K-beauty products:
- Snail Mucin Essence: This cult-loved Cosrx serum is powered by 96% snail mucin, known to help hydrate, nourish, plump, and repair the skin. Oil-free for acne-prone skin, it also comes in a richer version for drier skin types.
- Rice Water- and Ceramide-Rich Serum: A personal favorite for winter hydration, featuring redness-calming beta glucan, honey extract, seven types of rice extract, and arbutin to brighten dark spots.
- Hydrating Essence-Toner: Ma:nyo's essence and toner in one provides immediate and long-lasting hydration with patented Panthetoin, a combination of panthenol and ectoin, plus ceramides to protect the skin barrier.
Priced at $14.90 at Amazon (regularly $18.90), these mild toning pads are a steal. Reviewers are hot for them, and you can grab some for yourself while they're 20% off.
