JIWOOGAE Cica BHA Blemish Toner Pad
JIWOOGAE Cica BHA Blemish Toner Pad
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle yet effective exfoliating toner pad formulated with BHA, PHA, and LHA to remove dead skin cells, control excess sebum, and soothe acne-prone skin. Enriched with Centella Asiatica and a patented Hepta-cne Complex featuring 7 plant extracts for clearer, calmer skin.
Triple Acid Complex (BHA+PHA+LHA)
Gentle multi-acid exfoliation that unclogs pores, removes dead skin cells, and smoothens texture without over-drying.
Texture & feel
SENSORYTriple Acid Complex (BHA+PHA+LHA)
Gentle multi-acid exfoliation that unclogs pores, removes dead skin cells, and smoothens texture without over-drying.
Cica Biome Complex
Centella Asiatica with Madecassoside calms inflammation, soothes breakouts, and supports skin barrier repair.
Hepta-cne Complex (Patented)
7 plant extracts including Camellia Flower work synergistically to control sebum production and tighten pores.
Dual-Textured Pad Design
Embossed side for gentle physical exfoliation, silky side for toning and absorption of remaining essence.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains Salicylic Acid (BHA) at ~0.45%. Low concentration generally considered safe per ACOG, but consult your healthcare provider before use.
Contains Bifida Ferment Lysate (a ferment) and Tea Tree Oil. Those with fungal acne sensitivities should patch test first.
Rated 1/5 for pore-clogging potential. Formulated specifically for acne-prone skin with non-comedogenic ingredients.
Passed hypoallergenic and skin irritation tests. Contains soothing Centella Asiatica and Panthenol.
Listed as 3rd ingredient for quick absorption and anti-bacterial properties. May cause dryness for very dry skin types.
No animal-derived ingredients. Not tested on animals. Celimax is a 100% made-in-Korea brand.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSalicylic Acid (BHA) ~0.45%Proven
Oil-soluble beta hydroxy acid that penetrates deep into pores to dissolve sebum, dead skin cells, and blackheads. Provides anti-inflammatory and antibacterial benefits.
- Source: FDA recognizes 0.5-2% as effective OTC acne treatment
- Mechanism: Unclogs pores from within, unlike water-soluble AHAs
- Benefit: Reduces breakouts, minimizes blackheads, controls oil
Lactobionic Acid (PHA) ~0.5-1%Proven
A next-generation polyhydroxy acid that exfoliates gently while providing humectant and antioxidant benefits. Larger molecule size means less irritation than AHAs.
- Source: Clinical studies show improved hydration and barrier function
- Mechanism: Gently lifts dead skin cells without deep penetration
- Benefit: Anti-aging, hydrating, suitable for sensitive skin
Centella Asiatica Extract Not DisclosedProven
Traditional medicinal plant known as "Cica" or "Tiger Grass." Rich in madecassoside and asiaticoside that accelerate wound healing and reduce inflammation.
- Source: Used in traditional medicine for centuries; modern studies confirm benefits
- Mechanism: Stimulates collagen synthesis and GAG production
- Benefit: Soothes irritation, repairs barrier, reduces redness
Tea Tree Leaf Oil Not DisclosedProven
Australian essential oil with potent antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Clinically shown to be as effective as 5% benzoyl peroxide for acne.
- Source: Clinical Microbiology Reviews confirms antimicrobial activity
- Mechanism: Terpinen-4-ol component kills P. acnes bacteria
- Benefit: Fights acne-causing bacteria, reduces inflammation
Bifida Ferment Lysate Not DisclosedPromising
Probiotic ingredient that supports skin microbiome health. Helps protect against UV damage and strengthens skin barrier function.
- Source: Featured in Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair
- Benefit: DNA repair, barrier strengthening, reduced sensitivity
30 ingredients
Water, Butylene Glycol, Alcohol Denat, Camellia Japonica Flower Extract, 1,2-Hexanediol, Arginine, Salicylic Acid, Hydroxyacetophenone, C12-14 Pareth-12, Lactobionic Acid, Ethylhexylglycerin, Glycerin, Bifida Ferment Lysate, Centella Asiatica Extract, Disodium EDTA, Lactose, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Houttuynia Cordata Extract, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Perilla Ocymoides Seed Extract, Panthenol, Lonicera Caprifolium (Honeysuckle) Extract, Pelargonium Graveolens Extract, Uncaria Tomentosa Extract, Agrimonia Eupatoria Extract, Corydalis Turtschaninovii Root Extract, Cupressus Sempervirens Leaf Extract, Nepeta Cataria Extract, Madecassoside, Capryloyl Salicylic Acid
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse after cleansing as your exfoliating toner step. Can replace your regular toner on days you use this product. Best used in evening routine; always follow with sunscreen in the morning.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Face
Start with clean, dry skin. Double cleanse if wearing makeup or sunscreen.
Use Embossed Side First
Take one pad and gently swipe the textured embossed side across your face from the center outward. Avoid eye area. Focus on T-zone and areas with blackheads.
Flip to Silky Side
Turn the pad over and use the smooth silky side to gently pat and tone the remaining essence into your skin for better absorption.
Continue Your Routine
No need to rinse. Wait 30 seconds for absorption, then follow with your regular essence, serum, and moisturizer.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily or combination skin with excess sebum
- You struggle with blackheads, clogged pores, or rough texture
- You experience frequent breakouts or acne
- You want gentle chemical exfoliation without harsh scrubs
- You prefer convenient pad format over liquid toners
- You're new to chemical exfoliants and want to start gentle
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry or dehydrated skin (contains alcohol)
- You're pregnant and want to avoid salicylic acid completely
- You have severe fungal acne (contains ferment + oils)
- You're already using strong prescription retinoids
- You're extremely sensitive to any form of exfoliation
- You prefer fragrance-free products (has light herbal scent)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESPerfect match. Controls sebum, unclogs pores, and mattifies without stripping. The BHA+LHA combo is ideal for oily skin concerns.
Great for balancing oily T-zone while the PHA provides gentle hydration to drier areas. Use on problem zones as needed.
Specifically formulated for acne-prone skin. Passed clinical testing for anti-inflammatory effect and sebum reduction.
Passed hypoallergenic testing. Contains soothing Cica and Panthenol. Start 1-2x weekly and build tolerance gradually.
Contains alcohol which may be drying. Use sparingly (1-2x weekly) and always follow with rich hydrating layers.
Results timeline
MONTH 2-3Initial Cleansing & Clarifying
Skin feels cleaner and fresher after each use. Visible reduction in surface oil and smoother texture. Some may experience mild purging if prone to clogged pores.
85% noticed cleaner feeling skinPore Refinement Begins
Blackheads become easier to extract or naturally diminish. Pores appear smaller and less congested. Skin texture noticeably smoother.
78% saw visible pore improvementBreakout Reduction
Fewer new breakouts forming. Existing acne heals faster due to anti-inflammatory ingredients. Overall complexion looks more balanced and even.
72% reported fewer breakoutsOptimal Results
Consistent use shows significant improvement in skin clarity, texture, and sebum control. Makeup applies more smoothly. Skin looks healthier overall.
80% achieved clearer skinRatings by platform
917+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Gentle yet effective triple acid exfoliation (BHA+PHA+LHA)
- Clinically tested with 5 scientific studies backing claims
- Large pads with generous essence saturation
- Dual-textured design for physical + chemical exfoliation
- Visibly reduces pores and controls sebum
- Soothes skin with Cica and 7 plant extracts
- Convenient pad format for travel and quick routines
- Free from parabens, sulfates, and common allergens
Criticized
- Contains denatured alcohol (3rd ingredient) - may dry some skin types
- Herbal/medicinal scent may not appeal to everyone
- Can leave slight tackiness that requires layering
- Not ideal for very dry or dehydrated skin
- May cause initial purging for congested skin
- Only 60 pads per jar (lasts about 1-2 months)
- Contains ferment - caution for fungal acne prone individuals
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Uses Betaine Salicylate (gentler BHA derivative) at 1% with Willow Bark Water. No PHA/LHA complex. Larger quantity (70 pads) but less sophisticated formula. Better for BHA beginners.
Similar triple acid approach with AHA/BHA/PHA plus Truecica complex. Contains 70 pads. Uses Tea Tree + Willow Bark like Celimax. More affordable but some find it more drying.
Focuses on Cica soothing with PHA (no BHA). 90 pads with microfiber texture. Better for sensitive skin seeking gentle exfoliation without salicylic acid. Less sebum control.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
SOME BY MI Miracle Truecica Pad
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Use within one year for optimal freshness and efficacy.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep lid tightly closed to prevent pads from drying out.
Screw-top jar with 60 pre-soaked cotton pads. Some versions include tweezers for hygienic removal.
Yes - 170ml total volume. Compact jar format is TSA-friendly and leak-proof for carry-on luggage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThis product contains Salicylic Acid (BHA) at approximately 0.45%. According to ACOG (American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists), topical salicylic acid at concentrations of 2% or less is generally considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding when used on small areas. However, we recommend consulting your healthcare provider before use, especially during pregnancy. If you want to avoid BHA completely, consider switching to a PHA-only exfoliant during this time.
Use with caution if you have fungal acne. This product contains Bifida Ferment Lysate (a ferment ingredient) and Tea Tree Leaf Oil, which some people with fungal acne sensitivities may react to. While some sources list it as fungal acne safe, the presence of ferment means it's not 100% guaranteed safe for all fungal acne sufferers. We recommend patch testing on a small area first and monitoring for any reactions before full-face use.
Be careful when combining with other actives. This product already contains BHA, PHA, and LHA. Using it with additional AHAs/BHAs may over-exfoliate and damage your skin barrier. For retinol, use on alternate nights (not the same night). Vitamin C can be used in the morning while using this pad at night, but don't layer them directly. Always introduce one active at a time and build tolerance gradually.
This toner pad is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. It excels at controlling excess sebum, unclogging pores, and preventing breakouts. Sensitive skin can also use it (the formula passed hypoallergenic testing) but should start slowly with 1-2x weekly use. It's less ideal for very dry or dehydrated skin due to the alcohol content, though it can still be used sparingly with proper hydration follow-up.
Most users notice cleaner-feeling skin immediately after use. Visible improvements in skin texture and pore appearance typically begin around weeks 2-4 with consistent use. Significant reduction in breakouts and sebum control usually becomes noticeable by weeks 4-8. For optimal results, use consistently for at least 2-3 months. Some may experience initial purging (temporary increase in breakouts) in the first 1-2 weeks as clogged pores clear out.
Use this toner pad as Step 3 in your routine, right after cleansing (double cleanse if wearing makeup). The order is: Oil Cleanser → Water Cleanser → Toner Pad → Essence/Serum → Moisturizer → Sunscreen (AM). This pad can replace your regular toner on the days you use it. Best used in your evening routine to avoid sun sensitivity, and always apply sunscreen the following morning.
No, this product has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5 and is specifically formulated for acne-prone skin. The BHA (salicylic acid) actually helps unclog pores rather than clog them. The formula is free from heavy oils, silicones, and common pore-clogging ingredients. It passed clinical testing for acne-prone skin suitability. However, everyone's skin is different, so monitor your skin's response when first introducing the product.
The product has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for best results. The jar contains 60 pads, which typically lasts 1-2 months depending on frequency of use (daily use = ~2 months, every other day = ~4 months). Keep the lid tightly closed after each use to prevent the pads from drying out and maintain product efficacy.
Verdict: The Celimax JIWOOGAE Cica BHA Blemish Toner Pad is an excellent choice for oily and acne-prone skin seeking gentle yet effective exfoliation. The triple acid complex (BHA+PHA+LHA) combined with soothing Cica and the patented Hepta-cne Complex delivers visible results backed by 5 clinical tests. While the alcohol content may concern some and it's not ideal for very dry skin, the convenient pad format, generous essence saturation, and proven efficacy make it a standout K-beauty exfoliating treatment. Perfect for those wanting to control sebum, minimize pores, and maintain clearer skin with minimal fuss.
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 3 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 5 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Alcohol Denat.
|
|
|
| 1 |
Camellia Japonica Flower Extract
Skin Conditioning, Emollient
|
|
|
| 1 |
1,2-Hexanediol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|