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Pore Cleansing Pads

Pore Cleansing Pads

Product Description

Product overview

Made in Various INTERNATIONAL

A gentle, vitamin-packed Korean toner pad that removes 98.59% of sebum and impurities in one swipe. Infused with 10% Sea Buckthorn Fruit Extract, PHA exfoliant (Gluconolactone), and a full-spectrum vitamin complex (C, E, B1, B2, B3, B5, B7, B9) for brighter, smoother, and cleaner pores. Dual-sided design: embossed for exfoliation, smooth for hydrating. pH 3.7 subacidic formula. Vegan, EWG Green Grade, and PETA certified.

Vegan & Cruelty-Free PETA Certified EWG Green Grade Dermatologically Tested Fragrance-Free Alcohol-Free pH 3.7 Subacidic 98.59% Sebum Removal
Pregnancy
Yes
Fungal Acne
Caution
Comedogenic
1/5
Size
60 Pads / 160g
pH Level
3.7 (Subacidic)
Key Active
Sea Buckthorn 10%
Exfoliant
PHA (Gluconolactone)
Formulation
Vegan · Clean
Real reviews · YouTube Shorts
Why it's different

98.59% Sebum & Impurity Removal

Clinically tested to remove nearly all sebum and impurities from pores with just a single pad, leaving skin deeply clean and refreshed.

01

Texture & feel

SENSORY
Consistency
Watery Essence
Scent
Fragrance-Free
Absorption
Instant (~10 sec)
Finish
Fresh & Dewy

98.59% Sebum & Impurity Removal

Clinically tested to remove nearly all sebum and impurities from pores with just a single pad, leaving skin deeply clean and refreshed.

Full-Spectrum Vitamin Complex

Contains 8 vitamins (C, E, B1, B2, B3, B5, B7, B9) that work synergistically to brighten, nourish, and revitalize dull, tired skin.

Dual-Sided Pad Design

Embossed side gently exfoliates dead skin and lifts impurities. Smooth side hydrates and can be used as a sheet mask for targeted care.

Plant-Derived Pore Complex

A blend of Pine, Elm Root, Evening Primrose, and Kudzu Root extracts helps restore skin balance and minimize the appearance of pores.

02

Safety & compatibility

SAFE
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe

No retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. Uses gentle PHA (Gluconolactone) instead of BHA, making it safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Fungal Acne (Malassezia) — Caution

Contains Polyglyceryl-6 Caprylate and Polyglyceryl-4 Caprate (emulsifiers) and Glyceryl Caprylate, which are fatty acid esters that may potentially feed malassezia yeast. Patch test recommended if you are FA-prone.

Low Comedogenic Rating (1/5)

Water-based formula free from heavy oils, mineral oil, and pore-clogging silicones. Very unlikely to clog pores or trigger breakouts.

Sensitive Skin Friendly

Dermatologically tested, fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and formulated at a low pH (3.7). PHA is the gentlest chemical exfoliant available, with larger molecule size than AHA/BHA.

Contains Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C)

Pure L-Ascorbic Acid is present but at a low concentration (listed near the middle of the INCI list). Unlikely to cause irritation for most skin types at this level.

Vegan & Cruelty-Free Certified

PETA-certified vegan and cruelty-free. EWG Green Grade verified. Free from animal-derived ingredients and animal testing.

03

Ingredient breakdown

INGREDIENTS

Sea Buckthorn Fruit Extract 10% (100,000 ppm)Proven

Hippophae Rhamnoides Fruit Extract is the star ingredient, listed second in the INCI (after water). Rich in vitamins C, E, K, and omega fatty acids, it provides powerful antioxidant protection while brightening and soothing the skin.

  • Antioxidant Power: Contains over 190 bioactive compounds including carotenoids, flavonoids, and phenolic acids
  • Brightening: High natural vitamin C content helps even skin tone and fade post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
  • Skin Barrier Support: Rich in omega-7 (palmitoleic acid) which supports skin repair and regeneration
At 10% concentration, this is a therapeutic dose that delivers meaningful antioxidant and brightening benefits with each use.

Gluconolactone (PHA) ~1-2%Proven

A polyhydroxy acid (PHA) — the gentlest class of chemical exfoliants. Its larger molecular structure means it works on the skin surface without penetrating deeply, making it ideal for sensitive skin. Also functions as a humectant.

  • Gentle Exfoliation: Dissolves the bonds between dead skin cells without the irritation of AHA/BHA
  • Humectant Properties: Attracts water to the skin, providing hydration while exfoliating
  • Antioxidant: Acts as a chelating agent that neutralizes free radicals and protects against environmental damage
PHA is pregnancy-safe, gentle enough for daily use, and does not increase sun sensitivity as much as AHA or BHA.

Vitamin Complex (8 Vitamins) Multi-vitamin blendProven

A comprehensive vitamin cocktail including Ascorbic Acid (C), Tocopherol (E), Thiamine HCl (B1), Riboflavin (B2), Niacin (B3), Pantothenic Acid + Panthenol (B5), Biotin (B7), and Folic Acid (B9). Together these support skin cell renewal, barrier function, and radiance.

  • Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid): Brightens, boosts collagen, and provides antioxidant protection
  • Vitamin E (Tocopherol): Lipid-soluble antioxidant that strengthens the skin barrier
  • Niacin (B3): Improves skin texture, minimizes pore appearance, and evens skin tone
  • Panthenol (B5): Deep hydration, barrier repair, and anti-inflammatory benefits

Plant-Derived Pore Complex Botanical blendPromising

A proprietary blend of four botanical extracts: Pinus Palustris (Longleaf Pine) Leaf Extract, Ulmus Davidiana (Elm) Root Extract, Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Flower Extract, and Pueraria Lobata (Kudzu) Root Extract. These work to tighten pores and balance skin after environmental stress.

  • Pine Leaf Extract: Contains tannins with astringent properties that help minimize pore appearance
  • Evening Primrose: Rich in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), supports skin barrier and soothes irritation
  • Kudzu Root: Contains isoflavones with antioxidant and skin-firming properties

Sodium Cocoyl Apple Amino Acids Gentle surfactantProven

A coconut and apple-derived amino acid surfactant that provides mild cleansing without stripping the skin. Much gentler than traditional sulfate-based cleansers, maintaining the skin's natural moisture barrier.

  • pH Compatible: Works effectively at the product's low pH of 3.7
  • Non-Stripping: Cleanses without disrupting the acid mantle or causing dryness

27 ingredients

Water/Aqua, Hippophae Rhamnoides Fruit Extract, Dipropylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Polyglyceryl-6 Caprylate, Glycerin, Polyglyceryl-4 Caprate, Thiamine HCl, Riboflavin, Niacin, Carnitine HCl, Pantothenic Acid, Biotin, Folic Acid, Ascorbic Acid, Tocopherol, Pinus Palustris Leaf Extract, Ulmus Davidiana Root Extract, Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Flower Extract, Pueraria Lobata Root Extract, Sodium Cocoyl Apple Amino Acids, Panthenol, Citric Acid, Gluconolactone, Sodium Citrate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Glyceryl Caprylate

FREE FROM: Fragrance/Parfum, Alcohol/Ethanol, Mineral Oil, Parabens, Sulfates (SLS/SLES), Silicones, Essential Oils, Artificial Colorants, PEGs, Formaldehyde Releasers, Phthalates, Triclosan
04

Where it fits in your routine

ROUTINE
1
Oil Cleanser
2
Water Cleanser
3
Pore Cleansing Pad
4
Toner / Essence
5
Serum
6
Moisturizer

Use after cleansing as an exfoliating toner step (AM & PM). Can also be used as a quick one-step cleanser for makeup-free days or as a portable cleansing solution while traveling.

05

How to use

HOW TO USE
1

Swipe with Embossed Side

After cleansing, take one pad and gently wipe across your face using the textured (embossed) side. Focus on areas with enlarged pores like the forehead, nose, and cheeks. Wipe from the center of the face outward, following your skin texture.

2

Smooth & Hydrate

Flip to the smooth side and gently pat across the face to deliver hydrating essence and soothe the skin. This step helps calm any exfoliation and infuse vitamins into the skin.

3

Optional: Use as a Targeted Mask

For intensive care, place the pad on areas with stubborn pores or dullness (nose, cheeks, T-zone) and leave for 10–20 minutes as a mini sheet mask. Pat remaining essence into the skin.

4

Seal the Lid

Always close the lid tightly after use to prevent the remaining pads from drying out. The pads come with tweezers for hygienic retrieval.

06

Who is it for?

WHO

Perfect for you if:

  • You have enlarged or clogged pores that need daily maintenance
  • You want a gentle exfoliant that won't irritate sensitive skin
  • You prefer a quick, convenient cleansing step with minimal effort
  • You are pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe exfoliating option
  • You have dull, uneven skin tone that needs brightening
  • You want a travel-friendly skincare product for cleansing on the go
  • You follow a vegan, clean beauty routine

Consider alternatives if:

  • You need strong chemical exfoliation (AHA/BHA) for stubborn acne or texture
  • You have confirmed fungal acne and need a strictly FA-safe formula
  • You prefer a completely oil-free or zero-emulsifier formula
  • You need a waterproof makeup remover (this is best for light makeup and sunscreen)
  • You have extremely dry skin that requires richer hydration from a toner step
07

Skin type compatibility

SKIN TYPES
Oily Skin
Excellent

Removes 98.59% of excess sebum without over-drying. Water-based essence leaves no greasy residue. pH 3.7 helps control oil production throughout the day.

Combination Skin
Excellent

Targets oily T-zone pores while the hydrating smooth side nourishes drier cheeks. Balances well across different facial zones without stripping.

Sensitive Skin
Good

PHA is the gentlest exfoliant available with minimal irritation risk. Fragrance-free and dermatologically tested. Patch test recommended for very reactive skin.

Acne-Prone Skin
Good

Low comedogenic rating and effective pore cleansing. PHA gently unclogs pores. However, those with severe inflammatory acne may need stronger BHA treatments.

Dry Skin
Moderate

PHA provides some humectant benefits, but the watery essence may not deliver enough hydration for very dry skin. Follow up with a rich toner and moisturizer.

08

Results timeline

MONTH 2+
Immediately

Cleaner, Refreshed Skin

Visible sebum and surface impurities removed after a single use. Skin feels fresh, smooth, and lightly hydrated without a tight or stripped feeling.

95% noticed after first use
Week 1–2

Smoother Texture & Reduced Dullness

Daily PHA exfoliation starts to smooth rough texture. Dead skin cell buildup decreases, revealing brighter and more even-toned skin underneath.

80% noticed by week 2
Week 3–4

Minimized Pore Appearance

Consistent use helps keep pores clean and reduce their visible size. Blackhead and whitehead formation slows as the plant-derived pore complex takes effect.

70% noticed by week 4
Month 2+

Brighter, More Radiant Complexion

Cumulative vitamin C and Sea Buckthorn benefits lead to a visibly brighter, more luminous skin tone. Post-acne marks begin to fade with consistent daily use.

65% noticed by month 2
09

Ratings by platform

903+ REVIEWS
Amazon
4.3
Rating
750+
Reviews
Main complaint: Some users find the pads too wet/drippy and prefer a more saturated but less runny texture
YesStyle
4.4
Rating
3+
Reviews
Main complaint: Limited reviews available; some note the pads dry out if lid isn't sealed properly
Brand Website
4.8
Rating
50+
Reviews
Main complaint: Goes through the jar quickly if using 2 pads per day (AM & PM)
K-Beauty Retailers
4.5
Rating
100+
Reviews
Main complaint: Price per pad is higher compared to some competing toner pads with more pads per jar
10

Pros & cons

BALANCED

Praised

  • Clinically proven 98.59% sebum removal in a single use
  • Gentle PHA exfoliation suitable for sensitive and pregnant skin
  • Clean, short ingredient list (only 27 ingredients) with EWG Green Grade
  • Dual-sided pad offers both exfoliation and hydration in one step
  • Leaves skin feeling fresh, smooth, and glowy without tightness
  • Fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and 100% vegan formulation
  • Convenient one-step cleansing and toning for busy routines
  • Includes tweezers for hygienic pad retrieval

Criticized

  • Only 60 pads — runs out quickly if used twice daily (~1 month supply)
  • Not strong enough for stubborn blackheads or severe acne (PHA is mild)
  • Pads can dry out if the lid isn't sealed tightly after every use
  • Price per pad is higher than some competitors (COSRX, Anua have 70 pads)
  • Some users find the pads overly wet and drippy
  • Not the best option for waterproof/heavy makeup removal
11

Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)

DUPES
82% Match
One Step Original Clear Pad
$22.00
Budget Pick

Uses Betaine Salicylate (BHA derivative) instead of PHA, which is slightly stronger for acne-prone skin. Contains Tea Tree and Orange Peel Oil, so not fragrance-free. More pads per jar but not pregnancy-safe due to BHA.

85% Match
Heartleaf 77% Clear Pad
$20.00
Similar Pick

Also uses PHA (Gluconolactone) for gentle exfoliation with 77% Heartleaf Extract for soothing. More focused on calming redness vs. brightening. 70 pads per jar offers better value per pad. Very similar concept and gentleness level.

68% Match
Neogen Bio-Peel Gauze Peeling Wine (30 pads)
$27.00

Uses AHA (Lactic Acid + Glycolic Acid) from wine extract for stronger exfoliation. Multi-layered gauze pad texture is unique. More expensive per pad and stronger, so not recommended for sensitive or pregnant skin.

12

Comparison with competitors

SIDE-BY-SIDE
One Step Original Clear Pad
Key Active Willow Bark Water + BHA
Exfoliant Type BHA (Betaine Salicylate)
Pad Count 70 pads
Pregnancy Safe No (BHA)
Fragrance-Free No (Essential Oils)
Vegan Yes
Best For Acne + Blackhead Control
Heartleaf 77% Clear Pad
Key Active Heartleaf 77% + PHA
Exfoliant Type PHA (Gluconolactone)
Pad Count 70 pads
Pregnancy Safe Yes
Fragrance-Free Yes
Vegan Not certified
Best For Soothing Redness + Gentle Exfoliation

Neogen Bio-Peel Gauze Peeling Wine

Key Active Resveratrol + AHA
Exfoliant Type AHA (Lactic + Glycolic)
Pad Count 30 pads
Pregnancy Safe No (AHA)
Fragrance-Free No (Fragrance)
Vegan Not certified
Best For Intensive Exfoliation + Anti-Aging
13

Storage & shelf life

12 MONTHS
Period After Opening (PAO)

12 months after opening

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Always seal the lid tightly after each use to prevent pads from drying out. Avoid storing in humid bathrooms.

Packaging

Screw-top jar with inner seal. Includes hygienic tweezers for pad retrieval. Recyclable packaging in line with Ongredients' eco-friendly commitment.

Travel Friendly

Yes — compact jar with secure lid. Under 160g total weight. Individual pads pre-soaked so no liquid spillage risk. Ideal for on-the-go cleansing.

13

Frequently asked questions

FAQ

Yes. This product is considered safe for pregnancy and breastfeeding. It does not contain any retinoids, salicylic acid (BHA), hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreen filters. The exfoliant used is PHA (Gluconolactone), which is the gentlest type of chemical exfoliant and is widely considered safe during pregnancy. The Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) present is at a low, non-concerning concentration. Always consult your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.

Caution is advised. While the formula is water-based and free from common FA triggers like fermented ingredients and heavy oils, it does contain Polyglyceryl-6 Caprylate, Polyglyceryl-4 Caprate, and Glyceryl Caprylate. These are fatty acid-based emulsifiers and preservatives that some FA-sensitive individuals may react to. If you have confirmed fungal acne, consider patch testing first or opting for a strictly FA-safe alternative like the COSRX BHA Clear Pad.

Since this product uses PHA (a very gentle exfoliant), it can generally be paired with other actives. However, to avoid over-exfoliation, avoid using it in the same routine as strong AHAs (glycolic, lactic) or BHAs (salicylic acid). You can alternate — use the pads in the morning and your AHA/BHA at night. Vitamin C and retinol can be used in the same routine, but introduce them gradually. If your skin is sensitive, start by using the pads every other day when combining with other actives.

This product works best for oily, combination, and normal skin types. It excels at removing excess sebum and keeping pores clean without stripping moisture. Sensitive skin types will appreciate the gentle PHA and fragrance-free formula. Dry skin types can still use it but should follow up with a hydrating toner and richer moisturizer to compensate for the low-pH, exfoliating nature of the pads.

You will feel cleaner, fresher skin immediately after the first use. Smoother texture and improved radiance typically become noticeable within 1–2 weeks of daily use. Visible pore refinement and reduced blackhead formation usually take 3–4 weeks. For full brightening and skin tone evening benefits from the vitamin complex and Sea Buckthorn extract, allow 6–8 weeks of consistent daily use.

Use it after your cleanser (or double cleanse), as the exfoliating toner step — before your regular toner, essence, serum, and moisturizer. It replaces your toner in the routine on days you use it. You can use it both morning and evening. It can also function as a standalone one-step cleanser on makeup-free days or lazy skincare nights.

No, this product has a comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5, meaning it is very unlikely to clog pores. The formula is entirely water-based with no heavy oils, mineral oil, or pore-clogging silicones. In fact, the PHA exfoliant and cleansing surfactant actively work to unclog pores and remove sebum. It is formulated to minimize pore congestion, not contribute to it.

The recommended Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. However, the biggest concern is the pads drying out — always close the lid tightly after each use. If used once daily, a jar of 60 pads will last approximately 2 months. If used twice daily (AM and PM), it will last about 1 month. Store in a cool, dry place and use the included tweezers for hygienic retrieval to maximize product lifespan.

— Skincarisma verdict
4.3 / 5 ★★★★☆

Verdict: The Ongredients Pore Cleansing Pads are a standout choice in the K-beauty toner pad category for anyone who wants effective pore care without harsh ingredients. The combination of 10% Sea Buckthorn extract with a full-spectrum 8-vitamin complex and gentle PHA exfoliation delivers real brightening and cleansing results, backed by clinical testing. It's especially impressive for its pregnancy-safe, vegan, and fragrance-free credentials. The main drawbacks are the slightly higher price per pad compared to the 70-pad competitors (COSRX, Anua) and the mild PHA exfoliation that may not satisfy those needing aggressive acne treatment. For daily maintenance of clean, bright, healthy-looking pores — particularly for sensitive or expecting skin — these pads punch well above their weight.

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

anti-aging Anti-Aging from 5 ingredient(s):
Niacinamide Ascorbic Acid Tocopherol Citric Acid Gluconolactone
brightening Brightening from 4 ingredient(s):
Glycerin Niacinamide Ascorbic Acid Citric Acid
wound Promotes Wound Healing from 6 ingredient(s):
Glycerin Niacinamide Panthenol Ascorbic Acid Tocopherol Citric Acid
ache Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
Niacinamide
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
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
69% 30%

Product ingredient list

Showing first 5 of 26 ingredients
EWG CIR Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions Notes
1 Unknown
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
1 A
Dipropylene Glycol
Fragrance, Solvent, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Masking, Viscosity Controlling
1 A
1,2-Hexanediol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
Hydrating
0 Unknown
Polyglyceryl-10 Caprylate/Caprate
Emulsifying, Solvent, Stabilising
2 A
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
brightening Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
VIEW ALL INGREDIENTS