1025 Dokdo Pad
1025 Dokdo Pad
Product Description
Product overview
Gentle exfoliating toner pads infused with mineral-rich Ulleungdo deep sea water that remove dead skin cells while delivering 24-hour hydration. Features PHA (Gluconolactone) and HATCHING EX-07 enzyme technology for smooth, refined skin texture without irritation.
72 Types of Minerals
Deep sea water from 5,000 feet below Ulleungdo delivers magnesium, calcium, zinc and 70+ other minerals for optimal skin balance.
Texture & feel
SENSORY72 Types of Minerals
Deep sea water from 5,000 feet below Ulleungdo delivers magnesium, calcium, zinc and 70+ other minerals for optimal skin balance.
HATCHING EX-07 Technology
Patented enzyme complex (Protease) gently dissolves dead skin cells and excess sebum without harsh physical scrubbing.
Dual-Sided Design
Embossed side for gentle exfoliation on congested areas; smooth side for hydrating and soothing application.
Multi-Use Versatility
Use as toner, mini sheet mask (5-10 min), or body exfoliation for ears, neck, elbows, and rough patches.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains gentle PHA (Gluconolactone) instead of harsh AHAs/BHAs. No retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone. Consult your doctor for personalized advice.
Free from fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates, and fermented ingredients that feed malassezia yeast.
Low pH formula (5.0-6.0), alcohol-free, fragrance-free. Completed skin irritation testing with excellent results.
Gentle enough to use alongside retinol. Apply on alternate nights or wait 30 minutes between applications to minimize irritation.
Safe to layer with Vitamin C serums. PHA has a different mechanism than AHAs and does not destabilize L-ascorbic acid.
While gentler than AHAs, any exfoliation can increase sun sensitivity. Always follow with SPF 30+ during the day.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSUlleungdo Deep Sea Water HighProven
Sourced from 5,000 feet below the East Sea near Dokdo Islands. Contains 72 types of naturally occurring minerals that help maintain optimal skin moisture balance.
- Clinical Study: 24-hour lasting moisturizing hydration confirmed in clinical testing
- Minerals: Rich in magnesium, calcium, zinc, and copper for skin barrier support
- Purity: Water stays at 2°C year-round, ensuring extreme freshness and purity
Gluconolactone (PHA) ActiveProven
A gentle polyhydroxy acid that exfoliates without the irritation of traditional AHAs. Larger molecular size means slower penetration and less sensitivity.
- Mechanism: Gently dissolves bonds between dead skin cells for smoother texture
- Clinical: 92.4% decrease in dead skin cell levels after use
- Benefit: Also acts as a humectant, drawing moisture to the skin while exfoliating
Protease (HATCHING EX-07) ProprietaryPatented
Round Lab's patented enzyme complex that breaks down keratin proteins in dead skin cells for gentle, non-abrasive exfoliation.
- Function: Enzymatic exfoliation targets only dead cells, not living tissue
- Benefit: Controls excess sebum while smoothing skin texture
- Safety: Works at skin-friendly pH levels without disrupting moisture barrier
Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) 0.1-6%Proven
A powerful humectant and skin-protectant that improves hydration, elasticity, and helps repair the skin barrier.
- Research: Proven to enhance skin barrier function and reduce transepidermal water loss
- Benefit: Soothes irritated skin and promotes wound healing
Allantoin 0.1-0.5%Proven
A soothing compound derived from plants that increases moisture absorption and calms irritated skin.
- Function: Promotes cell regeneration and helps with skin barrier repair
- Benefit: Anti-inflammatory properties help reduce redness and sensitivity
Betaine 0.15-7.5%Proven
A natural amino acid derivative that provides deep hydration and helps maintain the skin's natural moisture balance.
- Source: Naturally derived from sugar beets
- Benefit: Osmolyte that protects cells from environmental stress
22 ingredients
Water, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Propanediol, Sea Water, Chondrus Crispus Extract, Saccharum Officinarum (Sugarcane) Extract, 1,2-Hexanediol, Panthenol, Gluconolactone, Hydroxyacetophenone, Sodium Citrate, Glyceryl Glucoside, Protease, Betaine, Tromethamine, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Allantoin, Tocopherol, Xanthan Gum, Disodium EDTA
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse immediately after cleansing as your first treatment step. Can replace your regular toner or use as an additional exfoliating step 2-3x weekly.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Face
Start with clean, dry skin. Use your favorite cleanser and pat dry before application.
Use Textured Side First
Gently swipe the embossed/rough side across congested areas (nose, chin, forehead) using circular motions for light exfoliation.
Flip to Smooth Side
Turn the pad over and use the soft gauze side to sweep across your entire face for hydration and soothing benefits.
Pat In Remaining Essence
Gently pat your skin to help absorb any remaining essence. No need to rinse. Continue with your routine.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want gentle daily exfoliation without irritation
- Your skin feels rough, dull, or congested
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need safe exfoliation
- You have fungal acne and need malassezia-safe products
- You prefer fragrance-free, minimal ingredient formulas
- You want a quick, convenient toner step
- Your skin is sensitive to traditional AHA/BHA acids
Consider alternatives if:
- You need intensive deep hydration (this is lightweight)
- You want strong visible peeling effects
- You prefer traditional liquid toner application
- You need high-percentage active ingredients
- You're looking for anti-aging focused exfoliation
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESControls sebum with HATCHING EX-07 enzyme. Lightweight formula absorbs quickly without adding shine or greasiness.
Provides hydration through panthenol and glycerin. May need a richer moisturizer on top for very dry skin types.
Perfect balance of exfoliation and hydration. Use textured side on T-zone, smooth side on dry areas.
Fragrance-free, alcohol-free with gentle PHA. Passed skin irritation testing. Ideal for reactive skin types.
Non-comedogenic (0/5 rating), fungal acne safe. Helps clear congestion and dead skin buildup without triggering breakouts.
Results timeline
WEEK 4+Smoother Skin Texture
Skin feels softer and more refined right after the first use. Dead skin cells are visibly removed on the pad.
95% noticedImproved Hydration
Skin feels more balanced and hydrated throughout the day. Less flakiness and dry patches.
88% noticedClearer, Brighter Complexion
Reduction in dullness and uneven texture. Skincare products absorb better. Pores appear less congested.
82% noticedSustained Skin Health
Long-term improvement in skin texture and clarity. Reduced buildup of dead skin cells maintains smoother appearance.
78% noticedRatings by platform
2K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Extremely gentle - no stinging or irritation
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe
- Fungal acne safe formula
- Fragrance-free and alcohol-free
- Dual-sided pad design is practical
- Can see dead skin on pad after use
- Doesn't leave sticky residue
- Multi-use (face mask, body exfoliation)
- Minimal, clean ingredient list
Criticized
- Hydration is lightweight, not deeply moisturizing
- Exfoliation is subtle - no dramatic peeling
- 70 pads may not last long with daily use
- Some prefer the liquid toner version
- May not satisfy those wanting visible exfoliation
- Price per pad is higher than some competitors
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Same gentle, sensitive skin-friendly approach with heartleaf extract instead of sea water. Slightly more soothing focus but similar hydrating exfoliation concept. Also pregnancy and FA safe.
Green tea-based calming pads with PHA for gentle exfoliation. More focus on soothing inflammation. Good for sensitive and acne-prone skin but contains green tea extract.
Focuses more on hydration with 5-types of hyaluronic acid. Less exfoliation focus but excellent for hydration-seekers who want a gentle pad format.
Same PHA active ingredient at a lower price point. Features birch juice instead of sea water. Simpler formula but effective gentle exfoliation.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Neogen Bio-Peel Gauze Wine
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Use within one year once the seal is broken.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep lid tightly closed to prevent pads from drying out.
Twist-off jar with 70 pre-soaked cotton pads in 180ml of essence. Tweezers/spatula recommended for hygiene.
Yes, TSA-approved size (180ml/6.08oz). Secure lid tightly to prevent leakage during travel.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, the Dokdo Pad is considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It uses PHA (Gluconolactone) which is the gentlest form of chemical exfoliant and does not carry the same risks as retinoids or high-concentration salicylic acid. The formula contains no retinoids, hydroquinone, or concerning ingredients. However, always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice, as they know your specific situation best.
Yes, the Dokdo Pad is fungal acne safe. The formula does not contain any known malassezia-feeding ingredients such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates, or fermented ingredients. The clean, minimal ingredient list makes it a safe choice for those prone to pityrosporum folliculitis. It's one of the few exfoliating pads specifically noted as FA-safe by skincare databases.
Yes, but with caution. The gentle PHA in Dokdo Pad is compatible with most actives. For retinol: use on alternate nights or wait 30 minutes between applications. For vitamin C: safe to layer - apply Dokdo Pad first, then vitamin C serum. For other AHA/BHA: not recommended to layer on the same routine to avoid over-exfoliation. Start slowly and monitor your skin's response.
The Dokdo Pad is excellent for ALL skin types, especially: sensitive skin (fragrance-free, gentle PHA), oily/combination skin (sebum control with HATCHING EX-07), acne-prone skin (non-comedogenic, FA-safe), and those new to chemical exfoliation. It may be less ideal for very dry skin seeking intense hydration or those wanting dramatic peeling results.
Immediate results include smoother texture right after use. Within 1-2 weeks, expect improved hydration and less flakiness. By weeks 2-4, you should notice a brighter, clearer complexion with refined pores. The clinical study showed 92.4% reduction in dead skin cells. For best results, use consistently 1-2 times daily.
Use immediately after cleansing as your first treatment step. The routine order is: Cleanser → Dokdo Pad → Toner (optional) → Essence/Serum → Moisturizer → Sunscreen (AM). The pad can replace your regular toner step or be used as an additional exfoliating treatment 2-3 times per week.
No, the Dokdo Pad has a comedogenic rating of 0/5, meaning it is completely non-comedogenic. The lightweight, oil-free formula contains no pore-clogging ingredients. In fact, the gentle exfoliation helps keep pores clear by removing dead skin buildup. It's safe for acne-prone skin and won't trigger breakouts.
The product has a 12-month PAO (Period After Opening). Once opened, use within one year. With 70 pads per container, if used once daily, it lasts about 2.5 months. If used twice daily or on body areas too, it may last 1-1.5 months. Always close the lid tightly after each use to prevent the pads from drying out.
Verdict: The Round Lab 1025 Dokdo Pad is an excellent choice for those seeking gentle, effective exfoliation without irritation. Its standout features include pregnancy/breastfeeding safety, fungal acne compatibility, and a clean fragrance-free formula. The mineral-rich deep sea water and PHA provide subtle but consistent results over time. While not the most dramatically exfoliating option on the market, it excels at what it promises: mild daily exfoliation that keeps skin smooth and hydrated. Best for sensitive skin types, K-beauty beginners, and anyone prioritizing ingredient safety over intensive peeling effects.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 3 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 4 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 0 |
Sea Water
Humectant, Solvent
|
|
|
| 0 |
Chondrus Crispus Extract
Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|