Pine Calming Cica Pad
Pine Calming Cica Pad
Product Description
Product overview
A powerful dual-sided toner pad featuring 51% Pine Cica Activer™ that combines Korean Pine Leaf Extract with 5 Centella Asiatica-derived ingredients to instantly calm irritated skin, gently exfoliate with LHA, and deliver deep hydration with triple Hyaluronic Acid. Perfect for sensitive, acne-prone, and troubled skin seeking quick relief from redness and inflammation.
51% Pine Cica Activer™
Proprietary blend of Korean Pine Leaf Extract, Vegetable Glycoprotein, and 5 Centella ingredients for rapid skin calming and restoration.
Texture & feel
SENSORY51% Pine Cica Activer™
Proprietary blend of Korean Pine Leaf Extract, Vegetable Glycoprotein, and 5 Centella ingredients for rapid skin calming and restoration.
Triple Hyaluronic Acid
Three molecular weights of Hyaluronic Acid penetrate different skin layers to provide deep, long-lasting hydration.
Gentle LHA Exfoliation
Capryloyl Salicylic Acid (LHA) gently removes dead skin cells, unclogs pores, and aids in sebum control without irritation.
Dual-Sided Design
Embossed side for gentle exfoliation, smooth side for hydration masking. Use as daily toner or 3-5 minute spot treatment.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains LHA (Capryloyl Salicylic Acid), a salicylic acid derivative. While less penetrating than regular BHA, consult your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Free from ferments, fatty acids, esters, and polysorbates that can trigger fungal acne. Safe for those with pityrosporum folliculitis.
Completed human skin irritation test. Vegan-certified fabric is designed to be extra gentle on reactive and sensitive skin types.
Can be used with retinol on alternate days or at different times. The gentle LHA is less irritating than traditional BHA for combination routines.
For very sensitive or reactive skin, perform a patch test on your inner arm before applying to your entire face.
Not tested on animals. Round Lab is committed to ethical and sustainable skincare practices.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSPinus Densiflora (Pine) Leaf Extract 50.8%Star Ingredient
Korean Pine Leaf Extract sourced from Yangyang's forested slopes. Rich in antioxidants, this extract provides powerful anti-inflammatory and skin-soothing benefits while protecting against environmental stressors.
- Source: Pine bark and needle extracts contain Pycnogenol, proven to treat chronic inflammation
- Benefits: Antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-aging properties
- Research: Traditional use in Korean medicine and modern studies support wound healing efficacy
Centella Asiatica Extract (5-CICA Complex) 1.05%Proven
A comprehensive blend of 5 Centella-derived ingredients: Centella Asiatica Extract, Centella Leaf Extract, Asiaticoside, Asiatic Acid, Madecassoside, and Madecassic Acid for complete skin barrier repair.
- Asiaticoside: Stimulates collagen I synthesis and GAG production
- Madecassic Acid: Reduces inflammation, redness, dryness, helps with acne and rosacea
- Asiatic Acid: Powerful antioxidant with wound-healing properties
- Clinical Evidence: Hundreds of years of traditional use backed by modern studies on wound healing
Capryloyl Salicylic Acid (LHA) <1%Proven
A gentler derivative of salicylic acid (BHA) with larger molecules that stay on skin's surface for less irritation while still providing effective exfoliation and pore-clearing benefits.
- Action: Removes dead skin cells, unclogs pores, controls sebum
- Research: 2009 study found LHA comparable to benzoyl peroxide for acne treatment
- Advantage: Less penetrating than salicylic acid, making it ideal for sensitive skin
Sodium Hyaluronate (Triple HA) Varied MWProven
Three molecular weights of Hyaluronic Acid work at different skin depths: large molecules hydrate the surface, medium molecules plump mid-layers, and small molecules penetrate deeply for lasting hydration.
- Mechanism: Can bind up to 1000x its weight in water
- Benefit: Improved skin elasticity, reduced fine lines, enhanced moisture retention
- Clinical: Multiple studies confirm significant improvement in skin hydration
Gluconolactone (PHA) 6-9%Proven
A gentle polyhydroxy acid that exfoliates while simultaneously hydrating. Larger molecular size means less irritation than AHAs while still providing effective dead skin cell removal.
- Action: Exfoliates, hydrates, and supports healthy skin microbiome
- Benefit: Stimulates production of natural moisturizing factors
- Advantage: Non-photosensitizing, safe for daytime use
31 ingredients
Pinus Densiflora Leaf Extract (508,807ppm), Water, Propanediol, Dipropylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Centella Asiatica Extract (10,520ppm), Betaine, Sodium Hyaluronate, Butylene Glycol, Caprylyl Glycol, Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract (1,000ppm), Cinnamomum Camphora (Camphor) Leaf Extract, Panthenol, Glycoproteins, Ethylhexylglycerin, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, Melia Azadirachta Flower Extract, Madecassoside (0.5200ppm), Asiaticoside (0.5200ppm), Asiatic Acid (0.5200ppm), Madecassic Acid (0.5200ppm), Hydroxyacetophenone, Gluconolactone, Capryloyl Salicylic Acid, C12-14 Pareth-12, Succinic Acid, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Sodium Citrate, Pantolactone, Disodium EDTA
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse after cleansing as your toning step. Can replace traditional liquid toner. For best results, follow with serum and moisturizer.
How to use
HOW TO USEDaily Toning (Embossed Side)
After cleansing, use the textured embossed side to gently wipe across your entire face along the skin texture, avoiding the eye area. This provides gentle exfoliation and removes residual impurities.
Hydration Boost (Smooth Side)
Flip to the smooth side and pat gently to promote absorption. This side delivers concentrated hydrating essence to your skin.
Spot Treatment Mask (Optional)
For intensive care on troubled areas (redness, breakouts), place the pad on the targeted spot for 3-5 minutes. The cooling effect helps calm inflammation instantly.
Storage Tip
Always close the lid tightly after use to prevent the pads from drying out. Use the included tweezers to maintain hygiene.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have sensitive, easily irritated skin
- You struggle with redness and inflammation
- You have acne-prone or troubled skin
- You want gentle exfoliation without harsh acids
- You prefer fragrance-free, minimalist formulas
- You need a quick, convenient toning step
- You have fungal acne (malassezia)
- You want to calm skin after environmental stress
Consider alternatives if:
- You need strong chemical exfoliation (try dedicated AHA/BHA)
- You prefer heavily fragranced products
- You want anti-aging as primary concern (consider retinol)
- You have extremely dry skin (may need richer products)
- You're pregnant/breastfeeding (consult doctor first)
- You're allergic to pine or Centella ingredients
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight, fast-absorbing formula. LHA helps control sebum and unclog pores without over-drying. Perfect for oily, acne-prone complexions.
Triple Hyaluronic Acid provides good hydration. May need to layer with heavier moisturizer on top for very dry skin types.
Ideal balance of hydration and oil control. Addresses both oily T-zone and dry areas effectively without disruption.
Specifically designed for sensitive skin. Vegan-certified fabric, fragrance-free, and dermatologically tested. Cica complex provides instant soothing.
Non-comedogenic, fungal acne safe formula. LHA unclogs pores while Cica calms active breakouts and reduces post-acne redness.
Results timeline
MONTH 2+Instant Cooling & Soothing
Feel immediate cooling sensation and calming effect on irritated skin. Redness appears visibly reduced. Skin feels refreshed and hydrated.
95% noticed instant coolingImproved Texture & Reduced Inflammation
Noticeable improvement in skin texture. Acne inflammation begins to calm. Pores appear cleaner and less congested. Skin feels smoother.
85% saw texture improvementClearer, Calmer Complexion
Significant reduction in breakouts and redness. Skin barrier feels strengthened. Overall complexion appears more balanced and healthy.
78% reported fewer breakoutsLong-Term Skin Health
Maintained clear, calm skin with continued use. Improved resilience against environmental stressors. Reduced sensitivity over time.
82% would repurchaseRatings by platform
743+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Instant cooling and soothing effect on irritated skin
- Large 7cm pads hold generous amount of essence
- Dual-sided design offers versatility
- Effectively calms acne and redness
- Fragrance-free and gentle formula
- Can be used as toner or mini sheet mask
- Vegan-certified fabric is soft and non-irritating
- Fungal acne safe and non-comedogenic
Criticized
- Only 50 pads per container (less than some competitors)
- Price point higher than basic toner pads
- Large pads may need cutting for targeted areas
- Some with extremely sensitive skin report mild tingling
- Contains LHA which may not suit pregnancy
- Packaging is bulky compared to cotton pad alternatives
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESHigher Cica concentration (83.2% CICA-7 Complex) with biodegradable bamboo pads. More pads per container but no pine extract. Cooling effect from mint extract instead.
Uses Heartleaf instead of Pine extract for soothing. Contains PHA (Gluconolactone) for exfoliation. Smaller pad size. Popular K-beauty alternative with similar calming benefits.
Focuses on heartleaf for calming without exfoliating acids. Very gentle for ultra-sensitive skin but less effective for pore-clearing. Good for those who want pure soothing.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStorage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Check expiration date on packaging for unopened shelf life.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep lid tightly closed to prevent pads from drying out.
Round jar container with screw-top lid. Includes tweezers for hygienic pad removal. Sealed inner lid to maintain freshness.
Yes - 195ml is under the 100ml liquid limit for carry-on. However, the jar may be bulky. Consider transferring a few pads to a smaller container for travel.
Frequently asked questions
FAQUse with caution. This product contains Capryloyl Salicylic Acid (LHA), which is a derivative of salicylic acid. While LHA has larger molecules and lower skin penetration than regular BHA, the safety of salicylic acid derivatives during pregnancy hasn't been definitively established. We recommend consulting your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. The product does NOT contain retinoids, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens.
Yes, this product is fungal acne safe. It does not contain ferments, fatty acids (C11-C24), fatty acid esters, polysorbates, or other ingredients known to feed malassezia yeast. The formula is specifically designed to be non-comedogenic and has been verified safe for those with fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis).
Yes, but with proper spacing. Since this product contains gentle exfoliants (LHA, PHA, Succinic Acid), avoid using it simultaneously with strong AHA/BHA treatments to prevent over-exfoliation. For retinol: use the cica pad in the morning and retinol at night, or on alternate nights. For Vitamin C: the cica pad can be used before Vitamin C serum in your routine. Always listen to your skin - if you experience irritation, reduce frequency of use.
This product is excellent for sensitive, oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. It's specifically formulated for those experiencing redness, irritation, breakouts, and skin troubled by environmental stressors. The formula is dermatologically tested and suitable for sensitive skin. Those with very dry skin may need to layer with additional hydrating products. The vegan-certified fabric is gentle enough for reactive skin types.
Results timeline varies by concern: Immediate effects include cooling sensation and temporary redness reduction. Within 1-2 weeks, you should notice improved skin texture and reduced inflammation. By week 3-4, expect clearer skin with fewer breakouts and calmer overall complexion. For optimal results, use consistently once or twice daily for at least 4-8 weeks. Individual results may vary based on skin type and condition.
Use as step 3 in your routine, immediately after cleansing (both oil and water cleanser if double cleansing). This product replaces your traditional toner step. Follow with essence, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM only). You can also use it as a targeted mask by leaving it on troubled areas for 3-5 minutes before continuing your routine.
No, this product is non-comedogenic with a comedogenic rating of 1/5. It contains no pore-clogging oils, silicones, or heavy emollients. In fact, the LHA and Succinic Acid in the formula actively help unclog pores and control sebum. It's safe for acne-prone skin and has been dermatologically tested.
The product has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. With 50 pads per container and daily use (one pad per day), the product will last approximately 50 days or about 1.5 months. If using twice daily, it will last about 25 days. Always keep the lid tightly closed to maintain product freshness and prevent the pads from drying out.
Verdict: The Round Lab Pine Calming Cica Pad is an excellent multi-tasking toner pad that delivers on its promises of instant soothing and gentle exfoliation. The unique Pine Cica Activer™ complex sets it apart from competitors, offering a distinctive calming experience backed by the brand's careful ingredient sourcing from Korean botanical traditions. While the price-per-pad is higher than some alternatives and the 50-pad count means frequent repurchasing for daily users, the extra-large 7cm pads, fragrance-free formula, and fungal acne safe formulation make this a top choice for those with sensitive, acne-prone skin seeking both calming and clarifying benefits in one convenient step.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Pinus Densiflora Leaf Extract
Antimicrobial, Antioxidant
|
|
|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Dipropylene Glycol
Fragrance, Solvent, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Masking, Viscosity Controlling
|
|
|
| 1 |
1,2-Hexanediol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|





