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Zero Pore Blackhead Mud Mask

Zero Pore Blackhead Mud Mask

Product Description

Product overview

Made in Various INTERNATIONAL

MediCube Zero Pore Blackhead Mud Mask is a fast-acting Korean wash-off clay mask that targets blackheads, excess sebum, and enlarged pores in just 3 minutes. Powered by 5 types of pore-purifying clays and a multi-acid blend of AHA, BHA, and PHA, it delivers visible decongestion while cooling and soothing the skin with Guaiazulene. Developed over 2 years by MediCube's derma-cosmetic labs and clinically shown to reduce sebum, waste in pores, and visible blackheads after a single use.

3-Minute Mask AHA + BHA + PHA 5 Pore-Purifying Clays Dermatologist Tested Hypoallergenic Alcohol-Free Cruelty-Free Fungal Acne Safe
Pregnancy
Caution
Fungal Acne
Yes
Comedogenic
1/5
Type
Wash-Off Clay Mask
Size
100g / 3.52 oz
Target
Blackheads, Pores, Sebum
Use Time
3-5 Minutes
Frequency
1-2x Weekly
Real reviews · YouTube Shorts
Why it's different

3-Minute Quick-Dry Formula

Years of R&D produced a clay mask that works in just 3 minutes, delivering fast blackhead and sebum clearance without the long wait of traditional clay masks.

01

Texture & feel

SENSORY
Consistency
Creamy Clay Mud
Scent
Light Citrus-Herbal
Dry Time
3-5 Minutes
Finish
Smooth, Cooling

3-Minute Quick-Dry Formula

Years of R&D produced a clay mask that works in just 3 minutes, delivering fast blackhead and sebum clearance without the long wait of traditional clay masks.

5-Clay Pore Suction System

A blend of Bentonite, Kaolin, Canadian Colloidal Clay, Montmorillonite, and Illite with varied particle sizes wraps around over 20,000 pores to extract debris.

Triple-Acid Exfoliation

Salicylic Acid (BHA), Glycolic Acid (AHA), and Gluconolactone (PHA) work together to dissolve dead skin and unclog pores from within.

Instant Cooling & Soothing

Patented cool-calm agents and Guaiazulene deliver an immediate skin-cooling effect — clinical testing showed a drop of roughly 20°F on the skin surface.

Hydration Barrier Support

Sodium Hyaluronate, Allantoin, and Panthenol-like botanicals keep skin hydrated so the mask purifies without leaving that tight, stripped clay-mask feeling.

Clinically Tested Results

Brand self-report data shows a 53.47% reduction in sebum and 98.4% reduction in pore waste after a single 3-minute use, with pore volume down 23.1% over 2 weeks.

02

Safety & compatibility

SAFE
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Contains Salicylic Acid (BHA). Topical BHA in low concentrations is generally considered low risk, but most OB-GYNs advise caution. Speak to your healthcare provider before use.

Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Safe

Free from fatty acids, esters, and polysorbates that typically feed malassezia. Formula is considered fungal-acne safe by independent ingredient databases.

Non-Comedogenic (Rating 1/5)

Clay-based formula is designed to unclog pores, not block them. Safe for acne-prone and congested skin.

Alcohol & Fragrance-Additive Free

No denatured alcohol or added synthetic fragrance. Scent comes only from trace essential oils (citrus peel and bergamot).

Essential Oils Present

Contains low levels of Bergamot, Lemon, and Orange Peel oils plus Limonene. Very sensitive or reactive skin should patch test first.

Active Acid Layering

Avoid pairing same-day with high-strength retinol, other AHA/BHA treatments, or Vitamin C to prevent over-exfoliation.

SPF Essential Next Day

AHA and BHA can temporarily increase photosensitivity. Daily broad-spectrum SPF is required after use.

Cruelty-Free & Dermatologist-Tested

Hypoallergenic tested, metals-free, alcohol-free, and not tested on animals.

03

Ingredient breakdown

INGREDIENTS

Kaolin & Bentonite (Core Clays) 30%+ Clay BlendProven

The two lead clays sitting at the top of the INCI. Kaolin is a gentle absorbent white clay that mops up surface sebum without harshness, while Bentonite is a negatively charged swelling clay that binds to positively charged impurities inside pores.

  • Mechanism: Bentonite's ionic charge attracts toxins, bacteria, and sebum trapped inside pores.
  • Particle sizing: MediCube formulates all 5 clays at particle sizes smaller than the average pore, letting them dive in to extract gunk.
  • Tolerance: Kaolin is rated 0 for both irritation and comedogenicity — one of the gentlest clays available.
Together these clays drive the mask's impressive 53% sebum reduction after one use.

Salicylic Acid (BHA) ~0.5-1%Proven

An oil-soluble beta hydroxy acid that penetrates into the lipid-rich environment of pores, dissolving the "glue" holding dead cells and sebum plugs in place. The gold-standard ingredient for blackheads and whiteheads.

  • FDA recognized: Concentrations of 0.5-2% are recognized by the FDA as over-the-counter acne treatment.
  • Bonus action: Anti-inflammatory properties similar to aspirin help calm irritated, acne-prone skin.
  • Pore penetration: Unlike water-soluble AHAs, BHA works inside the pore where blackheads form.

Glycolic Acid (AHA) Low %Proven

The smallest-molecule alpha hydroxy acid, derived from sugar cane. It works on the skin surface to loosen the bonds between dead cells, smoothing rough texture and brightening dullness around clogged areas.

  • Texture refinement: Improves micro-texture and evens out uneven skin tone around pores.
  • Synergy: Pairs with BHA to treat both surface dullness and deep pore congestion simultaneously.

Gluconolactone (PHA) Low %Promising

A polyhydroxy acid — the gentlest category of exfoliating acid. PHAs have a larger molecular size than AHA/BHA, so they work more slowly on the surface with far less irritation.

  • Sensitive-skin friendly: Often recommended for those who can't tolerate traditional acids.
  • Antioxidant bonus: PHAs also act as mild antioxidants and humectants, supporting hydration.

Guaiazulene TraceProven

A deep-blue crystalline compound derived from chamomile that gives the mask its signature blue-grey tint. Famous for its anti-inflammatory and soothing abilities, it offsets the potential irritation of the acid blend.

  • Calming action: Reduces redness, protects cells from oxidative stress, and fights breakout-causing bacteria.
  • Natural color: The slight color variation between batches is natural and expected from Guaiazulene content.

Sodium Hyaluronate Low %Proven

The sodium salt of hyaluronic acid — a powerhouse humectant that holds up to 1,000 times its weight in water. Counterbalances the drying potential of clay so skin feels smooth rather than stripped after rinsing.

  • Anti-tightness: Helps prevent the classic "clay mask squeak" by keeping the stratum corneum hydrated.
  • Barrier support: Works with Allantoin and Panthenol to rebuild comfort post-exfoliation.

Botanical Soothing Complex BlendPromising

A cocktail of plant extracts — Chlorella Vulgaris, Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea), Ulmus Davidiana, Pinus Pinaster, Rosa Rugosa, Honey Extract, and Chrysanthemum Indicum — layered in for antioxidant and anti-irritation support.

  • Antioxidant load: Green tea and pine extracts provide polyphenol-based free-radical protection.
  • Barrier botanicals: Honey and Ulmus Davidiana are traditional Korean herbal ingredients used to calm reactive skin.

50 ingredients

Water, Kaolin, Bentonite, Methylpropanediol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Chlorella Vulgaris Extract, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia Fruit Oil, Citrus Limon Peel Oil, Orange Roughy Oil, Rosa Rugosa Flower Extract, Honey Extract, Primula Veris Flower Extract, Pinus Pinaster Leaf Extract, Maranta Arundinacea Root Extract, Ulmus Davidiana Root Extract, Diospyros Kaki Leaf Extract, Eel Extract, Hydrolyzed Safflower Flower Extract, Palmitoyl Coffee Bean Extract, Panax Japonicus Root Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Smilax China Bark Extract, Chrysanthemum Indicum Extract, Tetrasodium EDTA, Lauryl Phosphate, Magnesium Aluminum Silicate, Caprylyl Glycol, Cellulose, Glucose, Butylene Glycol, Allantoin, Fructooligosaccharides, Fructose, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Phytate, Tocopherol, Canadian Colloidal Clay, Gluconolactone, Salicylic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Pentylene Glycol, Montmorillonite, Illite, Methyl Diisopropyl Propionamide, Copper Tripeptide-1, Xanthan Gum, Caffeine, Limonene, CI 77510, Guaiazulene.

FREE FROM: Parabens · Sulfates · Silicones · Mineral Oil · Denatured Alcohol · Synthetic Fragrance · Heavy Metals · Gluten · Animal Testing
04

Where it fits in your routine

ROUTINE
1
Cleanser
2
Mud Mask
3
Toner
4
Serum
5
Moisturizer
6
SPF (AM)

Use 1-2x per week after cleansing and before the rest of your routine. Best used in the evening so skin can recover overnight. Always apply SPF the morning after.

05

How to use

HOW TO USE
1

Cleanse & Dry

Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and pat completely dry — the mask performs best on dry skin so the clays can draw impurities upward.

2

Apply an Even Layer

Scoop a moderate amount and spread it evenly across the face, focusing on the T-zone (nose, forehead, chin) where blackheads cluster. Avoid eye and lip areas.

3

Wait 3-5 Minutes

Let the mask dry completely — it will lighten and tighten on the skin. Do not leave longer than 5 minutes to avoid dryness.

4

Rinse with Lukewarm Water

Rinse thoroughly, massaging gently in circular motions to lift loosened blackheads. A silicone pore brush can boost results in hard-to-reach areas.

5

Hydrate Immediately

Follow with toner, serum, and moisturizer to replenish hydration. Skip other acids and retinol on the same night.

06

Who is it for?

WHO

Perfect for you if:

  • You struggle with persistent blackheads on the nose, chin, or forehead
  • You have oily or combination skin with visible enlarged pores
  • You want fast results without committing to long mask sessions
  • Your skin gets congested after wearing heavy makeup or sunscreen
  • You're acne-prone and need a fungal-acne safe pore treatment
  • You want a multi-acid exfoliating mask that also soothes

Consider alternatives if:

  • You have very dry or compromised-barrier skin
  • You're highly reactive to essential oils like bergamot or lemon
  • You are currently using prescription retinoids or chemical peels
  • You are pregnant or breastfeeding (salicylic acid caution)
  • You have rosacea or active inflamed cystic acne
07

Skin type compatibility

SKIN TYPES
Oily Skin
Excellent

Perfect match — 5 clays absorb excess sebum and the triple-acid blend clears congestion without over-drying.

Combination
Excellent

Ideal for T-zone treatment — can be used as a spot mask on the nose and forehead while sparing drier cheeks.

Acne-Prone
Excellent

Non-comedogenic and fungal-acne safe. BHA penetrates clogged pores to prevent future breakouts.

Normal Skin
Good

Great weekly reset to keep pores clear and texture smooth. Use once a week to avoid disruption.

Sensitive
Moderate

Guaiazulene soothes, but citrus oils and multi-acid blend may sting reactive skin. Patch test required.

Dry Skin
Moderate

Can be drying. Limit to T-zone spot treatment and always follow with rich moisturizer. Max once weekly.

08

Results timeline

4-6 WEEKS
Instant (3 Min)

Cooling & Visibly Cleaner Pores

Immediate skin-cooling effect of up to ~20°F drop in skin surface temperature. Pores look clearer and surface feels noticeably smoother upon rinsing.

~41% radiance increase
After 1 Use

Blackhead & Sebum Extraction

Brand clinical testing reports a 53.47% reduction in skin sebum and up to 98.4% reduction in pore waste after a single application. Blackheads appear visibly lifted.

~15-27% blackhead reduction
1 Week

Smoother Texture & Less Oiliness

With twice-weekly use, skin feels less greasy throughout the day. Makeup sits more evenly and the T-zone stays matte longer between washes.

80%+ users report smoother skin
2 Weeks

Visibly Smaller Pore Appearance

Clinical data shows pore volume reduced 23.1%, visible pore count down 19.9%, and pore area down 22.3% after 2 weeks of consistent use.

~23% pore volume reduction
4-6 Weeks

Refined, Clearer Skin

Long-term users report fewer recurring blackheads, softer skin texture, and a notable reduction in congested bumps along the jawline and cheeks.

Recurring congestion down
09

Ratings by platform

8K+ REVIEWS
Amazon
4.3
Rating
2,500+
Reviews
Main complaint: Dries skin out if left on too long or used more than twice weekly.
Ulta
4.4
Rating
400+
Reviews
Main complaint: Slight tingling sensation on very sensitive skin during the 3-minute wait.
YesStyle
4.7
Rating
1,200+
Reviews
Main complaint: Tub packaging means fingers touch product — prefer airless pump.
MediCube Official
4.8
Rating
3,000+
Reviews
Main complaint: Pricey compared to drugstore clay masks, though heavier-weight results justify it for most users.
Olive Young
4.5
Rating
800+
Reviews
Main complaint: Watery consistency on first use before stirring — cosmetic only, performance unaffected.
Stylevana
4.6
Rating
600+
Reviews
Main complaint: 100g jar used up quickly with twice-weekly full-face application.
10

Pros & cons

BALANCED

Praised

  • Fast-acting — noticeable results in just 3 minutes
  • Cooling sensation is refreshing and calming
  • Smart multi-acid blend (AHA + BHA + PHA) covers all exfoliation needs
  • Five clay types target every pore size
  • Smooth creamy consistency, easy to spread
  • Fungal-acne safe and non-comedogenic
  • Backed by published clinical improvement data
  • Doesn't feel overly tight or cracking when dry

Criticized

  • Higher price point than basic clay masks
  • Tub packaging exposes product to fingers and air
  • Mild tingling on sensitive or thin skin
  • Contains citrus essential oils — not ideal for the very reactive
  • Can be drying if over-used or left on too long
  • Salicylic acid requires pregnancy caution
  • Results are less dramatic on deep, old blackheads without a pore brush
11

Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)

DUPES
82% Match
Super Volcanic Pore Clay Mask
$18.00
Budget Pick

Korean clay mask with volcanic clusters + AHA that targets pores and sebum. Closest K-beauty alternative with comparable quick-rinse format, but only uses AHA (no BHA or PHA). Longer 10-minute wait time, less cooling sensation.

68% Match
Salicylic Acid 2% Masque
$13.10
Budget Pick

Higher BHA concentration (2%) with charcoal and kaolin. Much stronger on blackheads but lacks the soothing/cooling complex and the multi-clay suction system. Can be irritating for newer acid users.

65% Match
Indian Healing Clay
$13.50
Budget Pick

100% calcium bentonite clay powder — extremely powerful sebum absorber. Requires mixing with water/ACV, no acids included, no soothing agents, and can be harsh on sensitive skin. Large tub offers great value per use.

72% Match
Some By Mi AHA-BHA-PHA Calming Clay Mask
$17.90
Similar

Also features a triple-acid (AHA-BHA-PHA) system plus kaolin and bentonite in a Korean clay mask format. Very similar concept — gentler actives, less cooling effect, and a smaller clay variety than MediCube.

12

Comparison with competitors

SIDE-BY-SIDE
Super Volcanic Pore Clay Mask
Key Actives AHA + Volcanic Clusters
Wait Time 10 minutes
Size 100ml
Cooling Effect Mild
Fungal Acne Safe Yes
Origin South Korea
Rare Earth Deep Pore Cleansing Masque
Key Actives Amazonian Clay + Aloe
Wait Time 10 minutes
Size 142g
Cooling Effect No
Fungal Acne Safe Partial
Origin USA

Some By Mi AHA-BHA-PHA Calming Clay Mask

Key Actives AHA + BHA + PHA + 2 Clays
Wait Time 10-15 minutes
Size 120g
Cooling Effect No
Fungal Acne Safe Yes
Origin South Korea
13

Storage & shelf life

12 MONTHS
Period After Opening (PAO)

12 months after opening. Use within this window for best efficacy of AHA/BHA actives.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep lid tightly closed after each use to prevent drying and contamination.

Packaging

Wide-mouth tub with screw-top lid. Use a clean spatula to reduce bacterial contact from fingers.

Travel Friendly

Yes — 100g is under the 100ml TSA liquids limit, making it carry-on compatible for international travel.

13

Frequently asked questions

FAQ

The mask contains Salicylic Acid (BHA) at a low wash-off concentration. Topical BHA used briefly in a rinse-off format is generally considered low-risk, but most OB-GYNs advise pregnant and breastfeeding individuals to avoid BHA out of caution. Always consult your healthcare provider before adding any acid-containing product to your routine during pregnancy or nursing. No retinoids, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreen actives are present.

Yes. Independent ingredient databases classify this formula as fungal-acne safe. It contains no fatty acids, problem esters, or polysorbates that typically feed malassezia yeast. The clay-and-acid base makes it particularly useful for those battling fungal acne-triggered congestion on the forehead and chest.

This mask already contains AHA, BHA, and PHA, so avoid layering additional acid products or prescription retinoids on the same night to prevent over-exfoliation, redness, and barrier damage. Vitamin C can be used the following morning. Space out other active treatments by at least 24 hours, and always apply a broad-spectrum SPF during the day.

Oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types will benefit most. The 5-clay system and triple-acid blend clear sebum and congestion without stripping thanks to the hydrating hyaluronic acid and soothing Guaiazulene. Normal skin can use it weekly as a reset. Dry, very sensitive, or barrier-compromised skin should use it sparingly (T-zone only) or choose a gentler alternative.

Many users report smoother, visibly cleaner pores after a single 3-minute session. MediCube's brand clinical data shows a 53% sebum reduction and up to 98% pore-waste reduction after one use. More meaningful pore-tightening and long-term blackhead reduction (including a ~23% reduction in pore volume) typically appears within 2 weeks of consistent 1-2x weekly use.

Use it after cleansing and before toner, serum, and moisturizer. Apply to clean, dry skin, wait 3-5 minutes until dry, then rinse with lukewarm water. Always follow with a hydrating routine and apply broad-spectrum SPF the next morning. Evening application is ideal so your skin can recover overnight.

No — this formula has an extremely low comedogenic rating (1/5). Its entire purpose is to unclog pores, not block them. Kaolin and bentonite both rate 0 for comedogenicity, and the salicylic acid actively prevents pore clogging. This makes it a strong choice for breakout-prone and congested skin.

The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. For best results, finish the jar within a year of opening so the AHA and BHA actives remain fully potent. Store in a cool, dry place with the lid sealed tightly. If color or texture changes dramatically, discontinue use.

— Skincarisma verdict
4.5 / 5 ★★★★★

Verdict: The MediCube Zero Pore Blackhead Mud Mask is one of the most efficient blackhead-targeting clay masks in K-beauty right now. Its unique combination of 5 pore-fitted clays, a full AHA + BHA + PHA exfoliating trio, and a Guaiazulene cooling complex delivers legitimately fast, visible pore decongestion in 3 minutes without the over-drying many clay masks cause. It's not cheap and sensitive skin needs to patch-test due to citrus oils, but for oily, combo, and acne-prone users chasing clearer pores, it earns its price tag — and its top spot in the MediCube Zero Pore line.

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 7 ingredient(s):
Honey Extract Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract Tocopherol Gluconolactone Glycolic Acid Copper Tripeptide-1 Caffeine
brightening Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Salicylic Acid Glycolic Acid
wound Promotes Wound Healing from 5 ingredient(s):
Sodium Hyaluronate Allantoin Tocopherol Glycolic Acid Copper Tripeptide-1
ache Ache-fighting from 3 ingredient(s):
Kaolin Salicylic Acid Glycolic Acid
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
3
oily-skin Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
2 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
46% 6% 48%

Product ingredient list

Showing first 5 of 50 ingredients
EWG CIR Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions Notes
1 Unknown
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
1 A
Kaolin
Abrasive, Absorbent, Anticaking Agent, Bulking Agent, Opacifying, Skin Protecting, Slip Modifier, Cosmetic Colorant
ache Ache-fighting
Pores
2 A
Bentonite
Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emulsion Stabilising, Absorbent, Bulking Agent, Opacifying, Suspending Agent -Nonsurfactant
1 Unknown
Methylpropanediol
Solvent
1 A
1,2-Hexanediol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
Hydrating
VIEW ALL INGREDIENTS