No.1 Centella Re-Leaf Green Toner Pad
No.1 Centella Re-Leaf Green Toner Pad
Product Description
Product overview
A dual-sided, biodegradable toner pad packed with 89% soothing herbal extracts — including real ground Centella Asiatica leaves — to instantly calm redness, hydrate irritated skin, and visibly reduce breakouts. Clinically proven to cut excess oil by 28.6%, blackheads by 28%, and whiteheads by 26.9% in just 4 weeks. No fragrance, no sticky residue, just deeply calmed skin every morning and night.
Real Ground Cica Pad
The green side of the pad is made with actual shredded Centella Asiatica leaves — not just extract — delivering concentrated calming benefits directly to the skin's surface on contact.
Texture & feel
SENSORYReal Ground Cica Pad
The green side of the pad is made with actual shredded Centella Asiatica leaves — not just extract — delivering concentrated calming benefits directly to the skin's surface on contact.
Dual-Sided Bamboo Design
Flip to the white bamboo side to gently wipe away residue and lightly exfoliate. Use the green cica side to soothe and calm redness. One pad, two complete functions.
Clinically Proven Results
In a 4-week clinical trial, the formula reduced excess sebum by 28.6%, blackheads by 28%, and whiteheads by 26.9% — measurable improvements for oily and acne-prone skin types.
Eco-Conscious Formula
Pads are biodegradable and vegan-certified. The formula is free from animal-derived ingredients and the brand does not sell in markets that require animal testing.
Mini Sheet Mask Trick
Peel each pad into two thinner layers and place them over red or inflamed areas for 3–5 minutes as a calming mini sheet mask — doubling the value of every single pad.
Barrier-Boosting Humectants
Glycerin, Betaine, and Panthenol work together to draw moisture into the skin and support barrier repair, preventing post-cleanse tightness without heaviness.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENo retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone are present. However, the formula contains essential oils (Tea Tree, Grapefruit Peel, Geranium, Rosemary) which are generally advised to be used cautiously during pregnancy. Consult your healthcare provider before use.
Contains Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate and Polyglyceryl-10 Myristate, which are fatty acid esters that may potentially feed Malassezia yeast. If you are actively treating fungal acne, patch test carefully or consider an alternative formula.
Comedogenic rating of 1/5. No heavy oils likely to block pores. Clinically tested and certified as non-comedogenic — safe for acne-prone and oily skin types.
Free from parabens, sulfates, silicones, and added fragrance compounds. Dermatologically tested and free from the top allergens for sensitive skin. The formula is gentle enough for daily morning and evening use.
No drying or stripping alcohols (ethanol, denatured alcohol, isopropyl alcohol) in the formula. Hydrating glycols used are skin-compatible and non-irritating at typical concentrations.
No exfoliating acids (AHA/BHA) are present, making this pad safe to use in the same routine as retinol, niacinamide, or vitamin C without risk of over-exfoliation or irritation conflicts.
Tea Tree, Grapefruit Peel, Geranium (Pelargonium), and Rosemary oils are listed last on the INCI — indicating low concentrations used for their antimicrobial and antioxidant properties rather than fragrance.
Certified vegan with no animal-derived ingredients. Numbuzin does not sell in countries that require animal testing (including mainland China), making this product compliant with cruelty-free standards.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSCentella Asiatica Extract ~89% blendProven
The star active in this formula and the reason the pad is literally green — real ground cica leaves are embedded in the pad material itself. Centella Asiatica (Gotu Kola / Cica) contains key bioactives: Madecassoside, Asiaticoside, Asiatic Acid, and Madecassic Acid. These centellosides are well-established in peer-reviewed research for anti-inflammatory activity, barrier repair, collagen stimulation, and antioxidant defense.
- Anti-inflammatory: Madecassoside significantly reduces skin inflammation by inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, TNF-α)
- Barrier repair: Asiaticoside stimulates glycosaminoglycan synthesis including hyaluronic acid, improving skin hydration and elasticity
- Antioxidant: Asiaticoside at 0.2% topical application increased antioxidant enzyme levels in study subjects
- Wound healing: Centellosides enhance collagen type I synthesis and accelerate wound closure
Houttuynia Cordata Extract (Heartleaf) HighProven
Known as "heartleaf" or "fishwort," this potent Korean botanical is a hero ingredient for acne and redness control. Rich in quercitrin, hyperoside, and chlorogenic acid — powerful flavonoids with documented antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. Used widely in Korean dermatology for its ability to calm inflamed, breakout-prone skin.
- Antimicrobial: Active against Cutibacterium acnes and Staphylococcus epidermidis
- Antioxidant: Quercitrin and hyperoside neutralize free radicals and reduce UV-induced inflammation
- Soothing: Inhibits histamine release, making it effective for reactive and rosacea-prone skin
Glycyrrhiza Uralensis (Licorice) Root Extract HighProven
Derived from Chinese licorice root, this extract is a multifunctional active widely used in Korean skincare for brightening, soothing, and anti-acne benefits. Its primary active compound, glabridin, is a proven tyrosinase inhibitor (reducing melanin production) and a potent anti-inflammatory agent. Also contains liquiritin, which helps fade existing dark spots and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
- Brightening: Glabridin inhibits UVB-induced pigmentation by blocking tyrosinase activity
- Anti-acne: Glycyrrhizinic acid reduces sebum secretion and has antimicrobial properties
- Soothing: Glycyrrhizin acts as an anti-inflammatory through modulation of prostaglandin E2
Glycerin + Betaine + Panthenol Mid-HighProven
This trio of humectants forms the hydration backbone of the formula. Glycerin (a skin-identical molecule) attracts water from the environment into the stratum corneum. Betaine (derived from sugar beet) adds osmotic protection and a silky slip without heaviness. Panthenol (pro-vitamin B5) penetrates deeply, converts to pantothenic acid in skin, and actively supports barrier repair and wound healing.
- Glycerin: Proven in multiple RCTs to increase stratum corneum water content significantly at 3–20% concentrations
- Betaine: Acts as an osmoprotectant — stabilizes cell membranes under stress and reduces TEWL
- Panthenol: Increases keratinocyte proliferation and accelerates re-epithelialization of the skin barrier
Allantoin Low-MidProven
A classic soothing and skin-conditioning agent derived from the comfrey plant (or synthesized). Well-documented for its ability to reduce irritation, accelerate wound healing, and promote desquamation of dead skin cells, leaving skin smoother and softer. Considered a gold-standard calming ingredient in cosmetic formulation.
- Soothing: Reduces skin irritation and stinging, particularly post-exfoliation or after environmental stress
- Keratolytic: Promotes the gentle removal of dead skin cells at concentrations of 0.1–2%
Tea Tree Leaf Oil + Rosemary Leaf Oil LowPromising
Both essential oils are listed last on the INCI, indicating trace concentrations used primarily for their antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. Tea tree oil (Melaleuca alternifolia) is clinically proven to reduce P. acnes-driven breakouts. Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) contains rosmarinic acid — a potent antioxidant that extends product shelf stability and provides mild anti-inflammatory activity.
- Tea Tree: 5% tea tree gel shown in RCT to be comparable to 5% benzoyl peroxide for acne, with fewer side effects
- Rosemary: Rosmarinic acid inhibits lipid peroxidation and scavenges reactive oxygen species
27 ingredients · As listed on official brand packaging (us.numbuzin.com):
Water, 1,2-Hexanediol, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Dipropylene Glycol, Propanediol, Glycyrrhiza Uralensis (Licorice) Root Extract, Ethylhexylglycerin, Carbomer, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Houttuynia Cordata Extract, Centella Asiatica Extract, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, Polyglyceryl-10 Myristate, Arginine, Allantoin, Disodium EDTA, Polygonum Multiflorum Extract, Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil, Betaine, Hyacinthus Orientalis (Hyacinth) Extract, Panthenol, Nymphaea Alba Flower Extract, Citrus Paradisi (Grapefruit) Peel Oil, Pelargonium Graveolens Flower Oil, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Oil
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply directly after cleansing on damp or dry skin. No liquid toner is needed before — this pad acts as your toner step. Follow with your serums and moisturizer. Safe for both AM and PM routines.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Face
Wash your face with your regular cleanser and gently pat dry (or leave slightly damp for enhanced absorption). Open the container using the included built-in tweezers to remove a single pad without contaminating the others.
Wipe with the White Bamboo Side
Hold the pad with the white, embossed bamboo side facing down. Starting from the center of your face, gently sweep outward along the skin texture — moving from nose to cheeks, and chin upward. Avoid the delicate eye area. This step removes any residual impurities and delivers a light burst of hydration.
Soothe with the Green Cica Side
Flip the pad to the green side — made from real ground Centella Asiatica leaves. Gently press onto areas of redness, irritation, or active breakouts. Leave on for 1–3 minutes to deliver concentrated calming actives directly to inflamed areas.
Optional: Split the Pad as a Mini Mask
For extra soothing on difficult nights, carefully peel the pad into two thinner sheets and lay them over your cheeks, forehead, or chin like mini sheet masks. Leave on for 3–5 minutes, then remove. One pad now serves double duty.
Seal the Container Tightly
Always close the lid firmly after each use to prevent the remaining pads from drying out. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The container holds 70 pads — approximately a 5-week supply at twice-daily use.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily, acne-prone, or combination skin
- Your skin gets red, inflamed, or irritated easily
- You're looking for a gentle, no-fuss toner step
- You want to reduce blackheads and whiteheads naturally
- You have rosacea or post-procedure sensitivity
- You prefer fragrance-free, minimal formulas
- You're interested in eco-friendly, vegan skincare
- You want a product that works as both a toner and a mini mask
Consider alternatives if:
- You are actively treating fungal acne (Malassezia) — fatty acid esters present
- You need heavy-duty anti-aging actives (retinol, AHAs)
- You are pregnant and want to avoid all essential oils
- Your skin is very dry and needs occlusive or rich moisturization
- You prefer liquid toners over pad formats
- You are extremely sensitive to any botanical extract
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESClinically proven to reduce excess sebum by 28.6% in 4 weeks. The watery essence absorbs instantly without adding shine. Ideal for daily use morning and evening to keep oiliness in check.
Non-comedogenic and dermatologically tested for acne-prone skin. Clinically reduces blackheads (−28%) and whiteheads (−26.9%). Tea tree and heartleaf extracts target acne-causing bacteria while cica soothes existing breakouts.
Fragrance-free and free from harsh alcohols. 89% soothing botanical blend is specifically designed to calm reactive, redness-prone, and environmentally stressed skin. Dermatologically tested.
Balances oily T-zone while hydrating dry patches. The dual-sided pad allows targeted use — bamboo side for the oily zone, cica side for calming cheeks or irritated areas.
Provides a solid hydration base thanks to glycerin, betaine, and panthenol. However, dry skin types may need to follow with a richer moisturizer or facial oil for full comfort, especially in winter.
Results timeline
MONTH 2+Immediate Calming & Redness Reduction
Skin feels immediately cooler and less reactive after the first use. Redness and post-breakout inflammation visibly diminish. The watery essence absorbs within seconds, leaving skin refreshed and balanced without stickiness.
~90% noticed calmer skin same dayImproved Hydration & Skin Texture
Consistent use reveals softer, more even-textured skin. Dryness and tight post-cleanse feeling decrease. Breakouts appear less inflamed and heal faster. Skin begins to look more consistently balanced throughout the day.
~75% reported improved texture in week 2Visible Reduction in Breakouts & Pores
Clinical data confirms an average 28.6% reduction in excess sebum, 28% fewer blackheads, and 26.9% fewer whiteheads after 4 weeks. Pores appear smaller and less congested. Skin tone becomes more even with less post-inflammatory redness.
Clinical trial: 4-week measurable resultsLong-Term Barrier Strengthening
Ongoing use supports a strengthened skin barrier, reduced sensitivity to environmental triggers, and maintained oil control. Skin becomes more resilient, less prone to flare-ups, and develops a naturally healthy, dewy complexion.
~80% repurchased within 60 daysRatings by platform
3K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Instantly calms redness and irritation on first use
- Unique dual-sided pad design with real ground cica
- Clinically proven sebum, blackhead, and whitehead reduction
- Completely fragrance-free — no synthetic perfumes
- Vegan, biodegradable, eco-conscious packaging
- Works as a toner and a mini sheet mask in one
- Fast absorption with zero sticky residue
- Great value at 70 pads per jar (~5 weeks supply)
- Safe for daily AM and PM use for most skin types
Criticized
- May not be ideal for very dry skin needing richer hydration
- Contains polyglyceryl esters — caution for fungal acne sufferers
- Essential oils present, not ideal for all pregnant users
- Pads can occasionally feel less saturated toward the bottom of the jar
- No travel-size format available
- Not suitable as a standalone moisturizer for dry climates
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESA liquid toner (not a pad) with Centella Asiatica as a key ingredient. Shares the soothing, redness-calming mission but lacks the dual-sided pad format, the 89% herbal extract concentration, and clinical testing data. Suitable if you prefer a bottle format over pads. No antimicrobial essential oils.
70-pad jar format with Madagascar Centella Asiatica as the lead ingredient, plus hyaluronic acid for added hydration. A very close functional competitor — soothing, lightweight, and non-comedogenic. Does not have the dual-sided design or real ground cica pad material. More hydrating for dry skin types.
Single-ingredient-focused formula with high Centella Asiatica concentration and minimal additives. Excellent for ultra-sensitive skin that may react to multi-extract formulas. Less complex than the Numbuzin version but very clean and gentle. No heartleaf, licorice, or tea tree components.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStorage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Discard if the essence changes color, develops an unusual smell, or the pads appear dry or discolored before the PAO date.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Avoid storing in bathrooms with high humidity fluctuations. For longer freshness, store upright in an interior cabinet. No refrigeration required, though some users prefer to cool it for an extra soothing effect.
Wide-mouth round jar with a secure snap-close lid, built-in tweezers holder, and an inner tweezers accessory for hygienic pad removal. The jar contains 70 pads soaked in 190 ml of essence. Always press the lid closed firmly after each use.
The full jar (190 ml) exceeds airline carry-on liquid limits (100 ml). For travel, transfer a portion of pads into a small resealable container with a few ml of essence, or pack in checked luggage. No individual travel pouch format is currently available.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThis product is generally considered to be used with caution during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The formula does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone — the three ingredients most commonly advised to avoid during pregnancy. However, it does contain essential oils at low concentrations: Tea Tree Leaf Oil, Grapefruit Peel Oil, Pelargonium (Geranium) Flower Oil, and Rosemary Leaf Oil. Many healthcare providers advise limiting or avoiding concentrated essential oil exposure during pregnancy, particularly in the first trimester. Since the concentrations in this formula are very low (listed last on the INCI), they are unlikely to pose significant risk — but we strongly recommend consulting your OB/GYN or midwife before introducing any new skincare product during pregnancy.
Use with caution if you are actively managing Malassezia folliculitis (fungal acne). The formula contains Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate and Polyglyceryl-10 Myristate — these are esters of lauric acid (C12) and myristic acid (C14), respectively. Malassezia yeast can potentially metabolize certain fatty acid esters, which may trigger or worsen fungal breakouts in susceptible individuals. The concentrations are moderate, and many users with fungal acne tolerate this product without issue — but if you are in an active outbreak or have confirmed Malassezia folliculitis, it is safest to patch test carefully first, or choose an alternative formula specifically certified as fungal acne safe.
Yes — this toner pad pairs very well with actives. Because it contains no exfoliating acids (no AHA, BHA, or PHA), it does not increase irritation risk when combined with other actives. In fact, the soothing Centella Asiatica and allantoin can help reduce sensitivity caused by retinol or acid exfoliants. Use the toner pad first, after cleansing, then apply your vitamin C serum or retinol product on top. On nights when you are using a strong AHA/BHA exfoliant (glycolic acid, lactic acid, salicylic acid), skip the active and use just the toner pad — there is no need to layer multiple potent actives in one session.
This toner pad was specifically formulated for oily, acne-prone, combination, and sensitive skin types — and the clinical data backs this up. It is rated Excellent for oily, acne-prone, combination, and sensitive/reactive skin. It reduces excess oil, blackheads, and whiteheads while soothing inflammation. Dry skin types can use it effectively, but may need to follow with a richer moisturizer, as the watery essence alone may not provide sufficient hydration for very dry or dehydrated complexions. It is particularly well-suited for anyone dealing with redness, irritation, heated skin, or frequent breakouts.
Soothing effects — reduced redness, less irritation, and a calmer feeling — are typically noticeable from the very first use. For measurable skin improvements: most users report smoother texture and more balanced skin by week 2. According to the brand's clinical study, statistically significant reductions in excess sebum (−28.6%), blackheads (−28%), and whiteheads (−26.9%) were measured at the 4-week mark. Long-term barrier strengthening and resilience improvements continue beyond 4 weeks with consistent daily use. For best results, use morning and evening as part of your routine after cleansing.
This toner pad acts as your toner step and goes immediately after cleansing — before any essences, serums, ampoules, or moisturizers. You do not need a separate liquid toner before it. Morning routine order: Cleanser → This Toner Pad → Essence/Serum → Moisturizer → Sunscreen. Evening routine order: Double cleanse or cleanser → This Toner Pad → Treatment Serum (vitamin C, retinol, niacinamide, etc.) → Moisturizer. You can also split the pad and use the green side as a calming mini mask for 3–5 minutes before continuing with the rest of your routine.
No — this product has a comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5 and has been clinically certified as non-comedogenic. The formula avoids heavy occlusive oils or waxes that typically block pores. The small amount of Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil present has a comedogenic rating of 1 (very low). The primary actives (Centella, Heartleaf, Licorice, Allantoin, Panthenol) are all non-pore-clogging. In fact, clinically the product reduces blackheads and whiteheads over 4 weeks, demonstrating that it actively helps to keep pores clear rather than blocking them.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months — meaning the product is formulated to remain effective and safe for up to one year after you first open the jar. Each jar contains 70 pads. If used once per day, one jar lasts approximately 10 weeks. If used twice daily (morning and evening), a jar lasts approximately 5 weeks. Always close the lid firmly after each use to prevent the pads from drying out prematurely. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Discard if the essence smells off, changes color, or the pads appear dried out or discolored before the PAO date.
Verdict: The Numbuzin No.1 Centella Re-Leaf Green Toner Pad is one of the most thoughtfully formulated cica toner pads in K-beauty, and among the few with published clinical data to back up its claims. The dual-sided pad design is genuinely innovative — real ground Centella Asiatica leaves embedded in the green pad material is something no competitor currently replicates at this price. The 89% herbal extract concentration, fragrance-free formula, and clinically proven oil and congestion control make it an outstanding daily staple for oily, acne-prone, sensitive, and combination skin. Dry skin types will want to layer a richer moisturizer on top. Those managing active fungal acne should patch test first due to polyglyceryl ester content. Overall: a highly effective, eco-conscious, results-driven toner pad that earns its place as one of the top picks in the K-beauty calming pad category.
Product Overview
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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 |
Centella Asiatica Extract
Cleansing, Skin Conditioning, Smoothing, Soothing, Tonic
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
|
|
| 0 |
Glycyrrhiza Uralensis Root Extract
Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
Redness
Irritation
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Dipropylene Glycol
Fragrance, Solvent, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Masking, Viscosity Controlling
|
|







