Swimming Pool Toner Pads
Swimming Pool Toner Pads
Product Description
Product overview
A dual-textured K-beauty toner pad that gently exfoliates with natural Galactoarabinan, tightens pores with patented Anti-Sebum P complex, and deeply hydrates skin with 8 types of Hyaluronic Acid — all in one daily-use step. No AHAs, no BHAs, no fragrance. Just clinically proven results, safe for even the most sensitive skin.
Dual-Textured Pad Design
Embossed side gently exfoliates dead skin cells and sweeps away impurities; smooth side delivers soothing hydration and refines texture. Two steps in one pad.
Texture & feel
SENSORYDual-Textured Pad Design
Embossed side gently exfoliates dead skin cells and sweeps away impurities; smooth side delivers soothing hydration and refines texture. Two steps in one pad.
Hyal 8 Complex™ — 8 Types of Hyaluronic Acid
From high to low molecular weight, this multi-layered HA complex hydrates from the deepest dermal layers to the surface, creating a lasting, plump moisture barrier.
Anti-Sebum P — Patented Pore Control
A proprietary four-plant botanical complex clinically proven to reduce visible pore size by 45.22% after a single use and control excess sebum throughout the day.
CICA Centella Solution (Jeju-Sourced)
Jeju Centella Asiatica extract paired with Madecassoside, Asiaticoside, Madecassic Acid and Asiatic Acid — four active CICA molecules to rapidly calm redness and repair barrier damage.
5-Berry Antioxidant Complex
Blueberry, Cranberry, Raspberry, Blackberry and Elderberry extracts deliver a polyphenol-rich shield against free radicals, UV-induced stress and environmental pollution.
No Harsh Chemical Exfoliants
Galactoarabinan, a plant-derived polysaccharide, replaces AHAs and BHAs to deliver daily exfoliation without irritation, photosensitivity, or barrier disruption.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. All ingredients are considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Patch test recommended as always.
Free from ferments, fatty acid esters, polysorbates, and traditional malassezia-feeding ingredients. Confirmed safe for fungal acne-prone skin by the community and ingredient analysis.
The formula is water-based and oil-free. Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin, Centella, and Galactoarabinan all carry comedogenic ratings of 0–1. Safe for acne-prone skin.
Formulated exclusively with EWG Green-rated ingredients. No alcohol, no parabens, no benzene, no synthetic fragrance. Suitable for daily use even on reactive and compromised skin barriers.
Because this product relies on enzyme-based exfoliation rather than acids, it can be safely layered with most actives. Use after this pad before applying acid serums if skin can tolerate it.
Gentle, enzyme-based formula without harsh acids makes it an ideal first exfoliating toner for teenagers and skincare beginners managing oiliness and mild texture concerns.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSGalactoarabinan ~1–3%Proven
A natural, plant-derived polysaccharide extracted from larch trees. Unlike AHAs or BHAs, Galactoarabinan exfoliates by dissolving the protein bonds holding dead skin cells together without disrupting the acid mantle. It also acts as a film-forming humectant that improves surface moisture retention.
- Function: Enzyme-based exfoliation + moisture retention
- Clinical benefit: Reduces dead skin cell count by 12.67% after 2 weeks of use (Human Skin Clinical Institution, 2021)
- Advantage over AHA/BHA: No photosensitivity, no irritation at standard concentrations, daily-use safe
- Source: Larix occidentalis (Western Larch tree) extract
Anti-Sebum P Complex (Patented) ProprietaryProven
A proprietary four-plant botanical blend (including Paeonia Suffruticosa Root Extract and Ulmus Davidiana Root Extract) specifically developed to inhibit 5α-reductase activity — the enzyme driving excess sebum production — while simultaneously tightening pore walls and replenishing hydration in cleansed pores.
- Function: Sebum control, pore-tightening, barrier reinforcement
- Clinical data: Pore size reduced by 45.22% after a single use (brand clinical study)
- Pore count: Visible pore count decreased by 28.45% after 2 weeks of daily use
- Mechanism: Multi-pathway: oil control + physical pore minimising + moisture replenishment
Hyal 8 Complex™ — 8 Forms of Hyaluronic Acid 0.05–0.5% eachProven
Eight molecular weights of Hyaluronic Acid work synergistically to deliver hydration at every skin layer. High-MW HA creates a surface film preventing TEWL; low-MW forms penetrate deeper to plump from within; cross-linked Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer forms a sustained-release moisture reservoir.
- Included forms: Sodium Hyaluronate, Hyaluronic Acid, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hyaluronate, Potassium Hyaluronate, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer
- Clinical benefit: Skin moisture barrier increased by 25.56% after 2 weeks of use
- Sodium Hyaluronate (WIMJ est.): ~0.05–0.25% — effective humectant concentration
Centella Asiatica Quad-CICA Complex ConcentratedProven
Jeju-sourced Centella Asiatica extract combined with all four active CICA molecules: Madecassoside, Madecassic Acid, Asiaticoside, and Asiatic Acid. This comprehensive CICA approach targets inflammation, collagen stimulation, and wound healing simultaneously for faster barrier recovery and redness reduction.
- Madecassoside: Potent anti-inflammatory, speeds skin repair and reduces post-acne redness
- Asiaticoside: Stimulates collagen Type I synthesis; supports barrier integrity
- Madecassic Acid + Asiatic Acid: Anti-bacterial, anti-melanogenic, and wound-healing properties
- Source: Jeju Island, South Korea (known for concentrated active compounds)
5-Berry Antioxidant Complex BlendPromising
A comprehensive blend of Blueberry, Cranberry, Raspberry, Blackberry, and Elderberry (Sambucus Nigra) fruit extracts. Rich in polyphenols, anthocyanins, and flavonoids that neutralise free radicals generated by UV exposure and environmental pollutants, helping prevent premature ageing.
- Vaccinium Angustifolium (Blueberry): High anthocyanin content — potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory
- Vaccinium Macrocarpon (Cranberry): Proanthocyanidins with anti-adhesion and antibacterial properties
- Sambucus Nigra (Elderberry): UV-photoprotective flavonoids (research: Skin Health Promotion, 2019)
- Rubus Idaeus (Raspberry): Ellagic acid content shown to inhibit collagen-degrading enzymes
Allantoin + Fructan (Barrier Duo) ~0.5% / ~0.5%Proven
Allantoin is a classic skin-soothing agent that promotes cell regeneration and reduces sensitivity. Fructan — a prebiotic polysaccharide — acts as both a humectant and barrier-strengthening agent, reinforcing the skin's natural microbiome balance and protective film.
- Allantoin function: Keratolytic at higher concentrations; anti-irritant and healing at typical cosmetic use (0.1–2%)
- Fructan function: Prebiotic humectant with film-forming properties; reduces TEWL and supports barrier recovery
- Synergy: Together they calm freshly exfoliated skin while rebuilding its protective film
35 ingredients
Water, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Galactoarabinan, Propanediol, Centella Asiatica Extract, Paeonia Suffruticosa Root Extract, Hydroxyacetophenone, Sodium Hyaluronate, Allantoin, Fructan, Ethylhexylglycerin, 1,2-Hexanediol, Styrene/VP Copolymer, Xanthan Gum, Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Flower Extract, Ulmus Davidiana Root Extract, Pinus Palustris Leaf Extract, Pueraria Lobata Root Extract, Rubus Idaeus (Raspberry) Fruit Extract, Vaccinium Angustifolium (Blueberry) Fruit Extract, Rubus Fruticosus (Blackberry) Fruit Extract, Sambucus Nigra Fruit Extract, Vaccinium Macrocarpon (Cranberry) Fruit Extract, Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hyaluronate, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Hyaluronic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Potassium Hyaluronate, Madecassoside, Madecassic Acid, Asiaticoside, Asiatic Acid
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse morning and/or evening after cleansing on dry skin. The embossed side goes first to exfoliate; follow immediately with the smooth side. No rinsing needed. Because exfoliation is enzyme-based (not acid-based), sunscreen is still recommended during the day as best practice.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Pat Dry
Wash your face with your usual cleanser. Pat skin completely dry — the toner solution on the pad works best on a clean, dry surface without dilution from water.
Embossed Side — Exfoliate & Purify Pores
Take one pad and use the embossed (textured) side to gently swipe across forehead, nose, cheeks, and chin in outward circular motions. Focus on areas with visible pores and congestion. Do not rub aggressively.
Smooth Side — Hydrate & Refine
Immediately flip to the smooth side of the same pad and sweep lightly across the face. This step delivers the Hyal 8 Complex and CICA solution, locks in moisture, and removes any remaining surface residue.
Optional: Sheet Mask Mode
For extra hydration or on dry/stressed skin days, place individual pads directly on cheeks, forehead, and chin as mini sheet masks. Leave for 10–15 minutes, remove, and continue your routine without rinsing.
Continue Your Routine
Follow with serum, moisturizer, and SPF (AM). No rinsing required. The residue from the pad acts as a preparatory layer to enhance absorption of subsequent products.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have visible enlarged or congested pores
- Your skin looks dull, rough, or uneven in texture
- You want daily exfoliation without irritation or acids
- You have sensitive, reactive, or compromised barrier skin
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and want a safe exfoliant
- You struggle with fungal acne or malassezia-related bumps
- You prefer fragrance-free, minimal-irritant formulas
- You're a skincare beginner looking for an all-in-one prep step
- You love K-beauty routines and layering lightweight textures
Consider alternatives if:
- You need aggressive exfoliation for severe hyperpigmentation (AHA/BHA may be more effective)
- You prefer liquid toners dispensed from a bottle rather than pre-soaked pads
- Your skin needs active retinol-level anti-ageing intervention
- You're treating active cystic acne requiring salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide
- You travel frequently and prefer compact packaging (tub is not TSA-friendly)
- You're looking for a product that addresses deep wrinkles or significant volume loss
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESAnti-Sebum P controls excess oil and minimises enlarged pores — the primary concerns of oily skin. Lightweight, water-based formula leaves zero greasiness.
The 8-type HA complex delivers deep hydration and removes dry, flaky patches. Follow with a richer moisturizer to seal in the moisture layer for best results.
Controls oil in the T-zone while hydrating drier cheek areas simultaneously. The dual-pad action adapts well to mixed zones across the face.
100% EWG Green-rated ingredients, no fragrance, no harsh actives. The CICA quad-complex actively calms irritation while Allantoin soothes. Patch test first.
Fungal acne safe, non-comedogenic (rating 1/5), and free of pore-clogging oils. Galactoarabinan gently unclogs congestion without drying or triggering reactive breakouts.
A great maintenance product for normal skin — keeps texture smooth, pores clean, and skin plump with daily low-effort use.
Results timeline
WEEK 4+ (MONTH 1 ONWARD)Immediate Pore Minimising & Smoother Surface
The Anti-Sebum P complex begins working instantly to tighten pore walls. Skin feels softer and cleaner immediately after use, with a visible reduction in pore appearance.
45% pore reduction (clinical data)Brighter Complexion & Refined Texture
Initial accumulation of dead skin cells is cleared progressively. Skin tone begins to even out, complexion looks fresher, and closed comedones start to loosen with consistent daily use.
~70% of users notice brighter skinMoisture Barrier Strengthened, Pores Visibly Reduced
Clinical data confirms a 12.67% reduction in dead skin cells, 25.56% improvement in moisture barrier function, and 28.45% reduction in visible pore count after two weeks of daily use.
Clinical study — Human Skin Clinical Institution 2021Long-Term Texture Refinement & Sebum Balance
With sustained use, skin's natural oil production stabilizes, post-acne marks fade more quickly due to improved cell turnover, and overall skin texture becomes consistently smoother. Users report needing less makeup.
~85% report long-term repurchase intentRatings by platform
4K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Visible pore reduction from the very first use
- Gentle enough for daily use — no irritation or redness
- Deeply hydrating — skin feels plump and bouncy
- Fungal acne safe and fully fragrance-free
- Dual-sided pad = two steps in one product
- EWG Green grade — transparent, clean ingredient list
- Suitable for pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Clinically proven results backed by published data
- Great value — 70 pads last approximately 5–10 weeks
- Viral community favourite across TikTok and Reddit
Criticized
- Tub format is not travel-friendly (no travel/mini size available)
- Pads at the bottom of the tub may feel slightly drier
- Exfoliation is gentler than AHAs — not ideal for severe textural damage or deep hyperpigmentation
- Higher price point than single-function toner pads
- International availability is growing but still limited compared to major K-beauty brands
- Some users with very oily skin find they need additional targeted sebum control
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESShares the centella-based soothing approach and dual-textured pad format. Strong on calming and hydration, but lacks the patented Anti-Sebum P complex and Galactoarabinan exfoliation. Better for barrier repair than pore control.
Excellent hydration with multiple HA forms and antioxidant Black Rice extract. Fungal acne safe and fragrance-free. Lacks pore-tightening actives and the CICA quad-complex; gentler exfoliation with PHA instead of enzyme.
More aggressive acid-based exfoliation (AHA/BHA/PHA) for faster texture improvement. Not suitable for sensitive skin, not pregnancy safe, and can cause initial purging. A stronger but harsher alternative for those who need more active exfoliation.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStorage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Look for the open-jar symbol on the tub with the 12M mark. Use tongs or clean hands to remove pads to avoid contamination.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep the tub tightly sealed after each use to prevent the solution from evaporating and the pads from drying out.
Round sealed tub containing 70 pre-soaked dual-textured cotton pads (220ml total solution). Lid seals airtight. Pads are stacked and soaked within the tub. Renewed packaging — same formula.
Not ideal for carry-on travel (tub exceeds 100ml limit and is bulky). Best for checked luggage or home use. A travel-size version is not currently available — consider decanting a few pads into a small zip-lock bag.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes — the Eqqualberry Swimming Pool Toner Pad is considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains no retinoids, no salicylic acid (BHA), no hydroquinone, and no chemical UV filters — the four ingredient categories most commonly flagged as unsafe during pregnancy. Exfoliation is provided by Galactoarabinan, a plant-derived polysaccharide with an excellent safety profile. All ingredients carry EWG Green ratings. As always, consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist if you have specific concerns, and perform a patch test before regular use.
Yes — the Swimming Pool Toner Pad is fungal acne safe. The formula is free from fermented ingredients, polysorbates, esters (such as isopropyl myristate), and traditional fatty acid sources that feed the Malassezia yeast responsible for fungal acne. Fructan, the prebiotic polysaccharide included in the formula, is a plant-derived carbohydrate — not a fatty acid or ester — and is considered safe for fungal acne-prone skin. This product is frequently recommended in fungal acne communities and has been confirmed safe by community-reviewed ingredient analysis.
Yes, with some care. Because this product uses enzyme-based (Galactoarabinan) rather than acid-based exfoliation, it does not significantly alter your skin's pH the way AHAs and BHAs do, making it more compatible with other actives. You can use the pad before your Vitamin C serum in the morning or before retinol in the evening. If you're already using a dedicated AHA or BHA exfoliant in your routine, be mindful of cumulative exfoliation — you may not need both on the same day. Start by alternating days to assess your skin's tolerance. Always follow with SPF during the day.
The Swimming Pool Toner Pad is formulated for all skin types and performs especially well for oily and combination skin due to the patented Anti-Sebum P complex that controls sebum and minimises pores. Sensitive skin types benefit from the CICA quad-complex and fragrance-free EWG Green formula. Acne-prone skin benefits from the fungal acne safe, non-comedogenic (1/5) formulation. Dry skin types see improvements with the Hyal 8 Complex, though they may want to layer a richer moisturizer afterward. In clinical testing, it was found effective across all skin categories.
Many users notice an immediate improvement in pore appearance and skin texture after the very first use — clinical data supports a 45.22% reduction in pore size after one application. After 2 weeks of daily use, a clinical study conducted by the Human Skin Clinical Institution found a 12.67% reduction in dead skin cell count, a 25.56% increase in moisture barrier function, and a 28.45% reduction in visible pore count. For improvements in skin tone evenness, post-acne marks, and long-term sebum balance, expect to see meaningful changes between weeks 3–6 of consistent daily use.
Use it as your second step, immediately after cleansing and before all other products. Apply to dry skin — not wet — for best results. Start with the embossed side to exfoliate and purify pores, then flip to the smooth side to tone and hydrate. You can then layer your essence, serum, eye cream, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM) on top. No rinsing is needed. It can be used both in the morning and evening. The residue left on skin by the pad also acts as a priming layer that enhances absorption of subsequent products.
No — the Swimming Pool Toner Pad is non-comedogenic with an overall comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5 (very low). The formula is water-based and oil-free. Its key actives — Hyaluronic Acid (0), Glycerin (0), Centella Asiatica (0), Galactoarabinan (0), and Allantoin (0) — all carry comedogenic ratings of 0 or 1. There are no heavy occlusives, waxes, or high-rated pore-clogging oils in the formula. In fact, the Anti-Sebum P complex actively works to keep pores clean and minimised. It is widely used and recommended for acne-prone skin.
The tub has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months, indicated by the open-jar symbol with "12M" on the packaging. With daily use of one pad per day, the 70-pad tub will last approximately 10 weeks (~2.5 months). If you use it morning and evening, expect it to last around 5 weeks. Always keep the lid tightly closed between uses to prevent the solution from evaporating and the pads from drying out. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat to maintain efficacy throughout the PAO period.
Verdict: The Eqqualberry Swimming Pool Toner Pad is one of the most thoughtfully formulated K-beauty toner pads on the market. By replacing harsh AHAs and BHAs with Galactoarabinan enzyme exfoliation, it delivers daily skin renewal without the irritation, photosensitivity, or pregnancy safety concerns associated with acid exfoliants. The patented Anti-Sebum P complex is a genuine innovation — clinically proven to reduce pore size by over 45% after just one use — and the Hyal 8 Complex provides deep, multi-layered hydration rarely seen in the toner pad category. Add the quad-CICA soothing system and a five-berry antioxidant blend, and you have a product that effectively covers exfoliation, pore care, hydration, soothing, and antioxidant protection in a single daily step. Suitable for all skin types, pregnancy safe, fungal acne safe, and EWG Green certified — this pad earns its viral reputation.
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 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 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 |
Centella Asiatica Extract
Cleansing, Skin Conditioning, Smoothing, Soothing, Tonic
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
|
|
| 1 |
Madecassoside
Skin Conditioning, Antioxidant
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
|







