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One Step Original Clear Pad

One Step Original Clear Pad

Product Description

Product overview

Made in South Korea K-BEAUTY

The award-winning COSRX One Step Original Clear Pad is a jar of 70 pre-soaked, dual-textured cotton pads that combine gentle chemical exfoliation with a soothing willow bark essence. Formulated with 1% Betaine Salicylate (a gentler BHA alternative to salicylic acid) and 85.9% Salix Alba Bark Water, these daily pads dissolve excess sebum, clear clogged pores and help prevent breakouts — without the stinging, tightness or irritation typical of traditional BHA toners.

By COSRX Alcohol-Free Paraben-Free Sulfate-Free Cruelty-Free Dermatologist-Tested Hypoallergenic 1% Betaine Salicylate 85.9% Willow Bark
Pregnancy
Caution
Fungal Acne
No
Comedogenic
1/5
Format
70 Pads
Key Active
1% BHA
Willow Bark
85.9%
pH
~5.0
PAO
12 Months
Real reviews · YouTube Shorts
Why it's different

Gentle Daily BHA

1% Betaine Salicylate exfoliates dead skin and clears pore congestion without the sting or dryness of standard salicylic acid.

01

Texture & feel

SENSORY
Consistency
Watery Essence
Scent
Light Tea Tree + Citrus
Absorption
Instant
Finish
Fresh & Matte

Gentle Daily BHA

1% Betaine Salicylate exfoliates dead skin and clears pore congestion without the sting or dryness of standard salicylic acid.

Willow Bark Base

85.9% Salix Alba Bark Water delivers natural salicin, a plant-derived soothing agent that calms redness and supports clearer skin.

Dual-Textured Pad

The embossed side gently lifts dead cells and excess sebum; the smooth side tones and hydrates in one quick swipe.

Hydrating, Not Stripping

Glycerin, Panthenol, Allantoin and Sodium Hyaluronate cushion the BHA to prevent the tight, dry feeling of harsh toners.

Travel & Gym Ready

Individual pre-soaked pads double as a makeup corrector or quick refresh when you can't cleanse properly.

Clean Formulation

Alcohol-free, paraben-free, sulfate-free, phthalate-free and dermatologist-tested — suitable for sensitive, blemish-prone skin.

02

Safety & compatibility

SAFE
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Contains Betaine Salicylate, a salicylic-acid derivative. Most OBs consider leave-on BHA under 2% low risk, but many prefer to pause salicylates during pregnancy. Consult your doctor.

Not Fungal Acne Safe

Contains PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, plus orange and tea tree essential oils, which may feed Malassezia in those with fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis).

Safe with Niacinamide & Hyaluronic Acid

Plays well with hydrators and barrier-support serums. Layer freely with niacinamide, HA, peptides and ceramides.

Caution with Retinol & Strong Acids

Avoid stacking with retinoids, AHAs, or Vitamin C in the same routine — alternate days or use AM/PM to prevent irritation.

Sunscreen Essential

BHAs can temporarily increase sun sensitivity. Daily broad-spectrum SPF 30+ is non-negotiable when using this product.

Contains Essential Oils

Orange Peel Oil and Tea Tree Oil provide the scent and some acne-fighting action but can trigger reactions in very fragrance-sensitive skin.

03

Ingredient breakdown

INGREDIENTS

Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Water 85.9%Proven

The hero base of the formula. White willow bark is a natural source of salicin — the plant precursor to salicylic acid — that delivers anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and mildly exfoliating action, all while soothing redness and irritation.

  • Mechanism: Salicin converts in the skin to mild salicylate, calming inflammation and supporting cell turnover.
  • COSRX data: The brand lists this as 85.9% of the formula, making it the primary carrier instead of standard water.
  • Bonus: Acts as a gentle humectant and antioxidant, adding soothing benefits on top of exfoliation.
Delivers BHA-adjacent benefits with a far gentler profile than pure salicylic acid — ideal for sensitive, reactive skin.

Betaine Salicylate 1%Proven

A gentler, naturally-derived alternative to classic salicylic acid. Created by combining salicylic acid with betaine (from sugar beets), it delivers BHA exfoliation at a higher, more comfortable pH, minimising sting and flake.

  • Study (J Dermatol Treat, 2008): 4% betaine salicylate performed comparably to 2% salicylic acid in reducing acne lesions, with less irritation.
  • Pore action: Oil-soluble, so it penetrates into sebum-filled pores to dissolve blackheads and sebaceous filaments.
  • Dual benefit: The betaine portion acts as a humectant, offsetting the typical dryness of BHAs.
Still a salicylate — introduce gradually (every other day) and always follow with SPF during the day.

Glycerin ~3–5%Proven

One of the most-studied humectants in cosmetic science. It pulls moisture from the environment into the upper layers of the skin and supports barrier function — a critical counterbalance to the exfoliating BHA.

  • Irritancy: 0 / 5 ·Comedogenicity: 0 / 5.
  • Barrier support: Helps maintain skin-lipid structure in a healthy state, reducing TEWL (trans-epidermal water loss).
  • Formula role: The humectant trio of glycerin + panthenol + arginine offsets BHA dryness.

Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) ~1.4–2.1%Proven

Converts in the skin to pantothenic acid (Vitamin B5). A well-documented soothing, hydrating and barrier-repairing ingredient that makes this pad friendlier to reactive, blemish-prone skin than most BHA toners.

  • Function: Humectant + wound-healing support. Reduces redness and calms post-breakout irritation.
  • Irritancy: 0 / 5 ·Comedogenicity: 0 / 5.
  • Use case: Especially valuable alongside any exfoliating acid to protect the barrier.

Allantoin ~0.1–0.5%Proven

A naturally occurring soothing agent (also found in comfrey root) that calms inflammation, supports healing and mildly softens the skin. A staple in "sensitive skin" formulas for good reason.

  • Anti-irritant: Reduces stinging, itching and redness from active ingredients.
  • Keratolytic: Mildly helps shed dead surface cells, complementing the BHA's work.
  • Typical use: 0.1–0.5% is the FDA-recognised effective range.

Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil <0.1%Promising

Derived from the Australian tea tree, this essential oil contributes antibacterial and anti-inflammatory activity — particularly against Cutibacterium acnes, the bacterium linked to acne breakouts.

  • Evidence: A 2007 study found 5% tea tree oil gel comparable in efficacy to 5% benzoyl peroxide for mild-to-moderate acne, with fewer side effects.
  • Concentration here: Very low (bottom of the INCI) — contributes to scent and mild anti-acne benefit, not a primary treatment.
  • Caution: A known contact allergen in highly sensitive individuals.

Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil <0.1%Promising

A natural perfuming ingredient that gives the pads their light citrus-medicinal scent. Contains limonene, which has antioxidant properties but is also a known fragrance allergen.

  • Role: Natural scent + mild antioxidant activity.
  • Flag: Listed among EU-regulated fragrance allergens — patch-test if prone to reacting to citrus oils.
  • Photosensitivity: Sweet orange peel oil is generally considered non-phototoxic (unlike bergamot or bitter orange), but daily SPF is always recommended.

Sodium Hyaluronate <0.5%Proven

The salt form of hyaluronic acid — smaller and more stable. A powerful humectant that attracts water and plumps the upper layers of the skin immediately after use.

  • Hydration: Can hold up to 1,000× its weight in water.
  • Role in formula: Offsets any tightness from exfoliation; leaves the skin feeling dewy, not stripped.
  • Non-comedogenic & fungal-acne safe on its own.

14 ingredients

Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Water, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Betaine Salicylate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Arginine, PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Panthenol, Allantoin, Ethyl Hexanediol, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Sodium Hydroxide, Sodium Hyaluronate.

FREE FROM: Alcohol · Parabens · Sulfates · Phthalates · Silicones · Mineral Oil · Synthetic Dyes · Artificial Fragrance · Animal Testing
04

Where it fits in your routine

ROUTINE
1
Cleanser
2
Clear Pad (BHA)
3
Toner / Essence
4
Serum
5
Moisturizer
6
Sunscreen (AM)

Use immediately after cleansing on clean, dry skin — before your toner, essence and serums. Start 2–3× per week, building up to daily use as tolerated.

05

How to use

HOW TO USE
1

Cleanse First

Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and pat dry. The pads are designed to be applied to clean, dry skin.

2

Swipe with the Embossed Side

Take one pad from the jar. Starting with the textured/embossed side, gently swipe across your face, focusing on the T-zone (forehead, nose, chin). Avoid the eye and lip areas.

3

Finish with the Smooth Side

Flip the pad to the softer, smooth side and swipe again over the entire face to pick up any residue and leave a hydrated finish.

4

Do Not Rinse

Allow the essence to absorb for 1–2 minutes before continuing with toner, serum, moisturizer and (in the AM) sunscreen.

5

Close the Lid Tightly

Seal the jar firmly after each use to prevent the pads from drying out. Begin with 2–3 uses per week and increase to daily as your skin adjusts.

06

Who is it for?

WHO

Perfect for you if:

  • You have oily, combination or acne-prone skin
  • You struggle with blackheads, clogged pores or congestion
  • Regular salicylic acid is too drying or irritating
  • You want a gentle, daily BHA option
  • You want convenience — a toner + light exfoliator in one step
  • You have sensitive skin that still needs pore care

Consider alternatives if:

  • You have fungal acne (contains PEG and essential oils)
  • You are allergic to limonene, citrus oils or tea tree oil
  • You're pregnant and prefer to avoid all salicylates
  • You have very dry, dehydrated or barrier-compromised skin
  • You need a strong 2%+ BHA for stubborn cystic acne
  • You avoid added essential oil fragrance
07

Skin type compatibility

SKIN TYPES
Oily Skin
Excellent

Dissolves excess sebum and clears blackheads. Users report normalized oil production and shine-free T-zone.

Combination
Excellent

Ideal for congestion-prone T-zone while the hydrating base keeps drier cheeks balanced.

Acne-Prone
Excellent

Betaine salicylate + tea tree + willow bark target both active breakouts and clogged pores without over-drying.

Sensitive
Good

Much gentler than standard salicylic acid, but the orange peel and tea tree oils may provoke reactive skin. Patch test first.

Dry Skin
Moderate

Hydrating humectants help, but any BHA can be drying on already-parched skin. Use 1–2× a week and always pair with a rich moisturizer.

Mature Skin
Good

Gentle cell-turnover support helps with dullness and texture. Not an anti-aging powerhouse, but a solid supporting player.

08

Results timeline

WEEKS 8–12+
Immediately

Cleaner, Fresher Feel

The first wipe visibly lifts residue from cleansing and leaves the skin feeling clean but not stripped. No sting, no tight feeling.

92% noticed
Week 1

Smoother Texture

Early mechanical + chemical exfoliation results in a softer, more refined surface. Makeup sits better. Some users see a brief purge.

78% noticed
Weeks 2–4

Blackheads & Pores Shrink

Visible decongestion of the T-zone: blackheads loosen, pores look smaller, and fewer new whiteheads appear.

71% noticed
Weeks 4–8

Fewer Breakouts

Breakouts become less frequent and less severe. Red marks from old pimples begin fading as cell turnover improves.

64% noticed
Weeks 8–12+

Clearer, More Even Skin

Consistent users report an overall smoother, more luminous complexion with lasting pore control and improved skin tone.

58% noticed
09

Ratings by platform

38K+ REVIEWS
Amazon
4.4
Rating
18,000+
Reviews
Main complaint: Some buyers wish the jar contained more than 70 pads and find the medicinal scent polarizing.
Ulta
4.5
Rating
1,200+
Reviews
Main complaint: Pads can dry out if the jar lid isn't sealed tightly after every use.
YesStyle
4.7
Rating
9,500+
Reviews
Main complaint: A few reviewers with very sensitive skin experienced mild stinging or purging in the first week.
Stylevana
4.6
Rating
4,800+
Reviews
Main complaint: Pads on the smaller side — some users need two to cover the whole face and neck.
iHerb
4.6
Rating
3,200+
Reviews
Main complaint: Not fragrance-free — citrus and tea tree scent bothers users who prefer scentless skincare.
COSRX Official
4.8
Rating
2,100+
Reviews
Main complaint: Dry-skin users find it slightly drying when used daily without adequate moisturizer.
10

Pros & cons

BALANCED

Praised

  • Genuinely gentle — rarely stings, even on reactive skin
  • Visible blackhead and pore decongestion within weeks
  • Dual-textured pad saves a step (exfoliates + tones)
  • Alcohol-free, paraben-free, affordable K-beauty staple
  • Travel-friendly and great for post-gym quick refresh
  • 85.9% willow bark base adds soothing benefits

Criticized

  • Not fungal-acne safe (PEG + essential oils)
  • Noticeable tea tree + citrus scent
  • 70 pads can go quickly with daily use
  • Pads are on the small side for full face + neck
  • Not strong enough for severe or cystic acne
  • Contains limonene (EU-listed fragrance allergen)
11

Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)

DUPES
88% Match
Some By Mi AHA-BHA-PHA 30 Days Miracle Toner Pad
$22.00
Similar Pick

Very close dupe in pad format and purpose. Contains AHA + BHA + PHA for a triple-acid exfoliation. Slightly more aggressive and also includes tea tree water for acne control.

82% Match
Calming Toner Pad
$18.50
Budget Pick

A minimalist Korean alternative at a lower price. Uses salicylic acid and centella asiatica. Fewer pads per jar but a cleaner, fragrance-free formula — great if citrus oils bother you.

74% Match
Chestnut BHA 0.9% Clear Toner
$21.00
Similar Pick

Liquid version rather than pre-soaked pads — pour onto a cotton pad. Contains 1% BHA and willow bark extract, mirroring the COSRX philosophy at a similar price point.

68% Match
Salicylic Acid 2% Solution
$8.70
Budget Pick

A significantly cheaper, more potent BHA — but in a liquid serum format. Stronger and more drying, with no soothing willow bark or pad convenience. Use cautiously.

12

Comparison with competitors

SIDE-BY-SIDE
Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
Origin USA
Key Active 2% Salicylic Acid
Count Liquid (118 ml)
Alcohol-Free Yes
Fragrance Fragrance-free
Fungal Acne Safe Yes
Best For Stronger acne & texture

Neogen Bio-Peel Gauze Peeling Green Tea

Origin K-Beauty
Key Active Green Tea + PHA (physical gauze)
Count 30 pads
Alcohol-Free Yes
Fragrance Mild green tea
Fungal Acne Safe Mostly (check version)
Best For Weekly physical exfoliation
Heartleaf 77% Soothing Toner
Origin K-Beauty
Key Active 77% Heartleaf + PHA
Count 60 pads
Alcohol-Free Yes
Fragrance Fragrance-free
Fungal Acne Safe Yes
Best For Soothing, redness, sensitive skin
13

Storage & shelf life

12 MONTHS
Period After Opening (PAO)

12 months after opening. Unopened jars are typically best-by 24–30 months from manufacture date.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Always re-seal the jar tightly immediately after use so pads don't dry out.

Packaging

Twist-top plastic jar with 70 pre-soaked, dual-textured cotton pads. Uses a standard screw lid — not airless.

Travel Friendly

Yes. At under 100 ml of essence, the jar is TSA-compliant for carry-on. Individual pads also work as a single-use makeup remover or refresher on the go.

13

Frequently asked questions

FAQ

It contains 1% Betaine Salicylate — a gentler, naturally-derived relative of salicylic acid. Most dermatologists and OB-GYNs consider topical leave-on BHAs under 2% to be low risk during pregnancy and breastfeeding, but some physicians prefer to avoid all salicylates as a precaution. Tea tree and citrus essential oils are also in the formula. We recommend consulting your healthcare provider before using during pregnancy.

No. The formula contains PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil and Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, all of which may feed Malassezia yeast. If you have confirmed fungal acne / pityrosporum folliculitis, choose a fungal-acne safe BHA instead (e.g. Paula's Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant or Stridex in the red box).

Layer carefully. Since this product is already a BHA, avoid stacking it with another salicylic acid or a strong AHA in the same routine. With retinol or Vitamin C, it's safer to alternate — use the Clear Pad in the morning and retinol at night, for example, or on different days until your skin adjusts. It pairs beautifully with niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, ceramides and peptides.

It is best suited for oily, combination and acne-prone skin dealing with blackheads, clogged pores, or mild-to-moderate breakouts. Sensitive skin can usually tolerate it thanks to the low BHA concentration and soothing willow bark base, but very dry or barrier-compromised skin should use it sparingly or choose a gentler toner. Fungal-acne-prone skin should look elsewhere.

Most users notice smoother texture and a cleaner feel within the first week. Visible blackhead and pore improvements typically appear between weeks 2 and 4 of consistent use. Clearer, more even-toned skin and a reduction in breakouts usually take 6 to 12 weeks, as cell-turnover and pore clearance compound.

Use it right after cleansing on clean, dry skin, before your toner, essence and serums. The typical order is: Cleanser → COSRX Clear Pad → Toner/Essence → Serum → Moisturizer → Sunscreen (AM). Do not rinse afterwards; allow it to absorb for 1–2 minutes before the next step.

No — it is considered non-comedogenic (rating 1/5). The formula is designed specifically to unclog pores, not clog them. Betaine Salicylate is oil-soluble and actively penetrates sebum to dissolve blackheads and sebaceous filaments. That said, it is not fungal-acne safe, so those with malassezia folliculitis may experience worsening bumps.

The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. To keep the pads saturated and the formula stable, always close the twist-top jar tightly right after taking a pad out. Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. If the pads start to dry out or the scent changes noticeably, it's time to replace the jar.

— Skincarisma verdict
4.5 / 5 ★★★★★

Verdict: The COSRX One Step Original Clear Pad is one of the most approachable daily BHA treatments on the market. By pairing 1% betaine salicylate with an 85.9% willow bark base, it delivers measurable results on blackheads, pore congestion and excess sebum — without the sting, flaking or tightness that scares people off salicylic acid. Affordable, travel-friendly and beginner-safe, it's a K-beauty staple that earns its cult status. Knock half a star off for the essential-oil fragrance and lack of fungal-acne safety, but for most oily, combination or acne-prone users, this is a first-purchase, rebuy-forever kind of product.

Product Overview

question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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.

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Quick Product Notes

Click on icons for more information
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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

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Notable Effects & Ingredients

brightening Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Glycerin
wound Promotes Wound Healing from 5 ingredient(s):
Glycerin Arginine Panthenol Allantoin Sodium Hyaluronate
ache Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
Betaine Salicylate
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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!

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Ingredients Related to Skin Types

Click on icons for more information
dry-skin Dry Skin
4
oily-skin Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
2
sensitive-skin Sensitive Skin
1
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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.

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Ingredient Safety Breakdown

EWG Health Ratings
Low risk
Medium risk
High risk
Unknown risk
57% 14% 28%

Product ingredient list

Showing first 5 of 14 ingredients
EWG CIR Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions Notes
0 Unknown
Salix Alba Bark Water
Astringent, Skin Conditioning, Soothing, Tonic
Irritation
Texture
1 A
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
Hydrating
2 A
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
brightening Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
1 Unknown
Betaine Salicylate
Antimicrobial Agent, Exfoliant, Keratolytic
ache Ache-fighting
1 A
1,2-Hexanediol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
Hydrating
VIEW ALL INGREDIENTS