Medicube Zero Pore Pads 2.0 (70 Pads / 100ml) — Korean Exfoliating Toner Pads
A dual-textured exfoliating toner pad from Korean cosmeceutical brand Medicube, formulated with a combination of AHA, BHA, and a blend of botanical extracts to address congested pores, uneven skin texture, and excess sebum. Each pad has two distinct sides that work differently on the skin — making them a two-step treatment in a single pad.
How the Dual-Texture System Works
⚪ Smooth Side — The soft, flat side is used after the embossed side to distribute the remaining toning essence evenly across the skin, supporting hydration and helping to soothe any temporary sensitivity from the exfoliation step.
Key Ingredients & What They Do
- Lactic Acid (AHA, 4.5%) — An alpha-hydroxy acid derived from fermentation. Being water-soluble, it works on the skin's surface to loosen the bonds between dead skin cells, encouraging them to shed more effectively. Lactic acid has a slightly larger molecular size than glycolic acid, which makes it a gentler AHA option well-suited to those with skin sensitivity concerns. Helps improve surface texture, dullness, and uneven tone with regular use.
- Salicylic Acid (BHA, 0.45%) — A beta-hydroxy acid that is oil-soluble, allowing it to penetrate into the pore lining rather than working only on the surface. This makes it particularly effective for clearing out the sebum and debris that contribute to blackheads, whiteheads, and enlarged-looking pores. Also has calming properties that help reduce the appearance of redness around congested areas.
- Betaine Salicylate — A gentler ester form of salicylic acid derived from sugar beet. Provides additional exfoliation within the pores while being less likely to cause irritation than salicylic acid alone — making this a useful supporting ingredient for those with reactive or sensitive skin.
- Anti-Sebum P Complex (Patented — Oenothera Biennis / Evening Primrose, Pueraria Montana Root, Pine Leaf, Panax Ginseng Root) — Medicube's proprietary botanical blend, developed to target the root cause of enlarged-looking pores by helping to regulate sebum secretion. These four extracts work together to reduce the appearance of pores over time and help control shine throughout the day.
- Salix Alba (White Willow) Bark Extract — A natural source of salicin, the compound from which salicylic acid is derived. Contributes additional gentle exfoliation and soothing support to the formula without adding synthetic actives.
- Centella Asiatica Extract — A well-established calming botanical in Korean skincare. Helps soothe post-exfoliation sensitivity, reduce visible irritation, and support the skin's natural barrier recovery.
- Sodium Hyaluronate — A lower molecular weight form of hyaluronic acid that can penetrate the upper layers of the skin to deliver hydration from within. Helps counterbalance the drying potential of exfoliating acids and keeps skin feeling comfortable after use.
- Panthenol (Vitamin B5) — A humectant and skin-conditioning agent that attracts and retains moisture. Widely used in post-exfoliation formulas to support skin comfort and barrier resilience.
- Betaine — An amino acid derivative sourced from sugar beet with dual function: it acts as a gentle osmolyte to help regulate the skin's water balance, and provides mild soothing support to offset the potential irritation of the exfoliating acids in the formula.
- Trehalose — A naturally occurring sugar with strong water-binding properties. Helps maintain skin hydration by drawing moisture from the environment and locking it into the skin's surface.
- Allantoin — A calming and skin-conditioning ingredient that supports the skin's natural renewal process and helps soothe irritation. A common inclusion in exfoliating formulas to counterbalance potential sensitivity.
- Citrus Fruit Extracts (Apple, Orange, Lime, Lemon) — A blend of fruit-derived AHA sources that contribute additional mild exfoliation and brightening support. Also naturally rich in antioxidants that help defend against environmental oxidative stress.
- Essential Oil Blend (Lavender, Eucalyptus, Rosemary, Bergamot, Lemon, Grapefruit, Orange) — A combination of botanical oils included for their calming and antimicrobial properties. Note: this formula contains fragrance components from these essential oils — those with fragrance sensitivity should patch test before use.
- Glycerin — A skin-identical humectant that draws moisture into the skin and helps maintain a healthy, hydrated skin barrier throughout the exfoliation process.
AHA Sunscreen Advisory
Formula Overview
| Format | Dual-textured pre-soaked toner pads |
|---|---|
| Pad Count | 70 pads |
| Total Volume | 100ml |
| Key Actives | 4.5% Lactic Acid (AHA), 0.45% Salicylic Acid (BHA), Betaine Salicylate |
| Skin Type | All skin types; patch test recommended for sensitive skin |
| Primary Concern | Enlarged pores, excess sebum, uneven texture, blackheads |
| Fragrance | Contains essential oils (fragrance present) |
| Free From | Parabens, silicones, sulfates |
| Use Frequency | Once daily (AM or PM); can be used twice daily if tolerated |
| Origin | Made in South Korea |
How to Use
- Use after cleansing, as the first toning step in your routine.
- Take one pad and, using the embossed (textured) side, gently swipe across the face in outward strokes from the centre, avoiding the eye and lip areas.
- Flip to the smooth side and swipe again across the same areas to distribute the remaining essence and help calm the skin.
- Gently pat the skin to encourage absorption. Do not rinse off.
- Follow with the rest of your skincare routine — serum, moisturiser, and SPF in the morning.
- For sensitive skin: begin by using every other day and build up gradually as your skin acclimates to the acids.
Full Ingredients List
Methylpropanediol, Tromethamine, Lactic Acid, Alcohol Denat., 1,2-Hexanediol, Panthenol, Glycereth-26, Salicylic Acid, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Betaine, Trehalose, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Glycerin, Allantoin, Polyglyceryl-10 Myristate, Disodium EDTA, Butylene Glycol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Betaine Salicylate, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Oil, Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Peel Oil, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Oil, Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Fruit Extract, Citrus Aurantifolia (Lime) Fruit Extract, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Fruit Extract, Pyrus Malus (Apple) Fruit Extract, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Fruit Extract, Ethyl Hexanediol, Centella Asiatica Extract, Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract, Origanum Vulgare Leaf Extract, Chamaecyparis Obtusa Wood Oil, Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Flower Extract, Pueraria Montana Root Extract, Panax Ginseng Root Extract
Ingredients are subject to change at the manufacturer's discretion. Always refer to product packaging for the most current and complete list. This product is a cosmetic and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or medical condition. If irritation occurs, discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional. Keep out of reach of children. For external use only.
How often should I use them?Are they suitable for sensitive skin?
The Zero Pore Pads 2.0 contain PHA, which is the gentlest of the exfoliating acids and generally well-tolerated by sensitive skin. However, if your skin is reactive or you're new to acids, we recommend patch testing first and starting with less frequent use.
What's the difference between version 1.0 and 2.0?
The 2.0 formula is an upgraded version with an improved acid complex and enhanced hydrating ingredients, making it more effective while being gentler on the skin barrier compared to the original.
Can I use them in my morning and evening routine?
They can be used in either routine, but if using in the morning always follow with a broad-spectrum SPF. Many people prefer to use them in their evening routine to avoid sun sensitivity.
Do you ship Medicube Zero Pore Pads 2.0 to Ireland?
Yes! We offer fast, reliable shipping across Ireland. Orders are typically delivered within 2–5 business days.
Can I get Medicube products in Irish stores?
Medicube is not widely available in physical stores in Ireland, making us one of the easiest ways to get your hands on authentic K-Beauty products delivered straight to your door.




