Zero Pore Pad Mild
Zero Pore Pad Mild
Product Description
A gentle, PHA-infused exfoliating toner pad specifically formulated for ultra-sensitive skin. Features dual-textured pads with Gluconolactone, Madecassoside, and 6 types of Hyaluronic Acid to gently exfoliate, soothe, and hydrate while minimizing pore appearance without irritation.
โจ Texture & Feel
Gentle PHA Exfoliation
Gluconolactone (PHA) gently dissolves dead skin cells without irritation, making it ideal for sensitive and reactive skin types.
Dual-Textured Design
Embossed side for gentle physical exfoliation, smooth side for soothing and hydrating - two steps in one pad.
6 Types of Hyaluronic Acid
Multi-molecular weight hyaluronic acid complex delivers hydration at multiple skin depths for plump, bouncy skin.
Madecassoside Soothing
Centella Asiatica-derived madecassoside calms redness and inflammation while supporting skin barrier repair.
๐ก๏ธ Safety & Compatibility
Likely safe. Contains PHA (Gluconolactone) which is considered gentler than AHA/BHA. No retinoids or salicylic acid. Always consult your healthcare provider.
Formula is free from fatty acids, oils, ferments, esters, and polysorbates that feed malassezia yeast.
Rating 1/5 - Oil-free, lightweight formula unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts.
Clinically tested for low irritation. Free from common allergens, fragrances, and harsh alcohols.
PHA is gentler than AHA and doesn't significantly increase sun sensitivity, but always use SPF during the day.
Even with gentle formulas, patch test on a small area first if you have extremely reactive or compromised skin.
๐ฌ Ingredient Breakdown
๐งช Gluconolactone (PHA) Proven
A polyhydroxy acid (PHA) that provides gentle exfoliation by dissolving the bonds between dead skin cells. Unlike AHAs and BHAs, PHAs have larger molecular structures making them less penetrating and significantly gentler on sensitive skin.
- Mechanism: Loosens dead skin cells for gentle surface exfoliation
- Benefit: Improves texture, reduces pore appearance, brightens skin
- Research: Studies show comparable efficacy to benzoyl peroxide for acne with less irritation
๐ฟ Madecassoside Proven
A powerful compound derived from Centella Asiatica (Cica), known for its exceptional soothing and healing properties. Works synergistically with other Centella components to calm irritated skin.
- Source: Centella Asiatica (Tiger Grass)
- Benefit: Reduces inflammation, promotes wound healing, strengthens skin barrier
- Clinical Use: Used in dermatology for sensitive, damaged, and post-procedure skin
๐ง 6-Type Hyaluronic Acid Complex Proven
A comprehensive blend of six different molecular weights of hyaluronic acid including Sodium Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, and more for multi-level hydration.
- High MW: Forms protective film on skin surface
- Medium MW: Penetrates to epidermis for plumping
- Low MW: Reaches deeper for long-lasting hydration
๐ฉน Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) Proven
A humectant and skin-conditioning agent that attracts and retains moisture while supporting skin barrier function and wound healing.
- Function: Humectant, skin conditioner, anti-inflammatory
- Benefit: Soothes irritation, promotes healing, locks in moisture
- Penetration: Converts to pantothenic acid in skin for deeper benefits
๐น Rosa Damascena Flower Water Promising
Rose water provides gentle hydration and soothing properties with natural antioxidant benefits and a subtle, calming effect on sensitive skin.
- Source: Damask Rose petals
- Benefit: Hydrating, soothing, mild antioxidant properties
38 ingredients
Water (Aqua), Propanediol, Methylpropanediol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Glycereth-26, Butylene Glycol, Saccharide Hydrolysate, Tromethamine, Gluconolactone, Panthenol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Disodium EDTA, Pyrus Communis (Pear) Fruit Extract, Madecassoside, Rosa Damascena Flower Water, Iris Florentina Root Extract, Centella Asiatica Extract, Cucumis Melo (Melon) Fruit Extract, Salvia Hispanica Seed Extract, Houttuynia Cordata Extract, Hedera Helix (Ivy) Leaf/Stem Extract, Cynanchum Atratum Extract, Pentylene Glycol, Ulmus Davidiana Root Extract, Pueraria Lobata Root Extract, Pinus Palustris Leaf Extract, Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Flower Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Fruit Extract, Diospyros Kaki Fruit Extract, Castanea Crenata (Chestnut) Shell Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Hyaluronic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hyaluronate
๐ Where It Fits in Your Routine
Use after cleansing as your exfoliating toner step. Can be used AM and PM daily, or start with every other day for very sensitive skin.
๐ How to Use
Cleanse Your Face
Start with a freshly cleansed and dried face. Use tweezers to pick up one pad from the jar.
Exfoliate with Embossed Side
With the textured/embossed side, gently swipe across your face from center outwards. Focus on areas with enlarged pores like nose, forehead, and chin.
Soothe with Smooth Side
Flip the pad over and use the silky smooth side to glide across your face, delivering hydrating and soothing essence.
Pat & Absorb
Lightly pat any remaining essence into your skin for better absorption. Do not rinse. Continue with your regular skincare routine.
๐ค Who Is It For?
โ Perfect for you if:
- You have ultra-sensitive or easily irritated skin
- AHA/BHA products are too harsh for your skin
- You want gentle daily exfoliation without irritation
- Concerned about enlarged pores and rough texture
- Looking for a fungal acne-safe exfoliant
- Want a simplified routine (toner + exfoliant in one)
- Prone to redness, rosacea, or reactive skin
- New to chemical exfoliation
โ Consider alternatives if:
- You need strong exfoliation for severe congestion
- Looking for dramatic anti-aging results quickly
- Prefer liquid toners over pad format
- Want higher concentrations of active acids
- Have very oily skin needing stronger oil control
- Severe cystic acne requiring prescription treatment
๐ฏ Skin Type Compatibility
Specifically formulated for ultra-sensitive skin. PHA is gentler than AHA/BHA with soothing madecassoside to calm irritation.
6 types of hyaluronic acid plus humectant PHA provide excellent hydration. Won't strip or dry out skin.
Helps regulate sebum and minimize pores. May prefer the original Zero Pore Pad 2.0 with AHA/BHA for stronger oil control.
Balances well across different face zones. Gentle enough for dry areas while still addressing oily T-zone pores.
Fungal acne safe and non-comedogenic. For active bacterial acne, may need to combine with targeted acne treatments.
Gentle exfoliation improves texture and product absorption. Hydrating formula supports aging skin needs.
๐ Results Timeline
Immediate Hydration & Smoothness
Skin feels softer and more hydrated after each use. Makeup applies more smoothly. No irritation or stinging for most users.
85% noticed softer skin textureVisible Texture Improvement
Dead skin cell buildup visibly reduced. Skin appears brighter and more refined. Pores begin to look less congested.
75% noticed brighter complexionPore Minimization & Oil Control
Brand claims 47.1% reduction in sebum/oil and 87.3% decrease in pore waste with consistent use. Smoother overall skin texture.
70% noticed smaller-looking poresMaintained Results
Continued daily use maintains clear pores and smooth texture. Gentle enough for long-term everyday use without compromising skin barrier.
80% would repurchaseโญ Ratings by Platform
โ๏ธ Pros & Cons
โ Praised
- Extremely gentle - no stinging or irritation
- Perfect for sensitive and reactive skin
- Leaves skin soft, hydrated, and glowing
- Convenient dual-textured pad design
- Fungal acne and pregnancy-friendly formula
- No alcohol, fragrance, or harsh ingredients
- Generous amount of essence in each pad
- Hygienic jar with included tweezers
โ Criticized
- Milder pore-tightening effect than original version
- May not be strong enough for very oily skin
- 70 pads can run out quickly with daily use
- Higher price point than some drugstore options
- Results take longer to see than AHA/BHA products
- Not ideal for severe acne or deep congestion
๐ฐ Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Contains BHA + PHA with Alaskan glacier water for hydrating exfoliation. 70 pads. Similar gentle approach but slightly different acid blend.
Uses betaine salicylate (gentler BHA derivative) with willow bark. More acne-focused. 70 pads. Good for oily/acne-prone skin.
Liquid toner with PHA (Gluconolactone). More affordable but requires cotton pad application. Similar gentle exfoliation.
Stronger AHA formula in serum format. More potent but may be too strong for very sensitive skin. Different application method.
๐ Comparison with Competitors
Medicube Zero Pore Pad Mild (This Product)
$18-22Medicube Zero Pore Pad 2.0 (Original)
$18-22COSRX One Step Original Clear Pad
$14-18Some By Mi AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Toner
$12-16๐ฆ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep lid tightly closed to prevent pads from drying out.
Jar with screw-top lid and included tweezers for hygienic removal
Yes - 155g is within liquid limits. Compact jar design. Secure lid prevents leakage.
โ Frequently Asked Questions
The Mild version is likely safe for pregnancy and breastfeeding as it uses PHA (Gluconolactone) instead of AHA or BHA. PHAs have larger molecular structures that don't penetrate as deeply and are considered gentler. The formula contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, or other ingredients typically flagged during pregnancy. However, always consult your healthcare provider before using any new skincare products during pregnancy or while nursing.
Yes! According to ingredient analysis from SkinSort, this product is fungal acne (malassezia) safe. The formula is free from fatty acids, oils, ferments, esters, and polysorbates that can feed the malassezia yeast responsible for fungal acne. This makes it an excellent choice for those prone to pityrosporum folliculitis.
Yes, the Mild version with PHA is generally safe to use with other actives because it's much gentler than traditional AHA/BHA. You can use it in the same routine as vitamin C (morning) or retinol (evening). However, if you're new to combining actives, introduce them gradually and monitor your skin for any irritation. If using with strong retinoids, consider alternating days rather than layering.
This product is specifically formulated for ultra-sensitive skin but works well for all skin types. It's particularly excellent for: sensitive/reactive skin, rosacea-prone skin, dry skin that needs gentle exfoliation, those who find AHA/BHA products too harsh, beginners to chemical exfoliation, and those with fungal acne. If you have very oily skin or severe congestion, you might prefer the original Zero Pore Pad 2.0 with AHA/BHA.
Most users notice softer, more hydrated skin immediately after use. Within 1-2 weeks, you should see improved skin texture and brightness. Visible pore minimization and oil control typically become noticeable after 3-4 weeks of consistent use. Medicube's clinical tests showed 47.1% reduction in sebum and 87.3% decrease in pore waste. Because PHA is gentler than AHA/BHA, results may take slightly longer but are sustainable with continued use.
Use it as your toner/exfoliation step after cleansing: 1) Oil cleanser, 2) Water cleanser, 3) Zero Pore Pad Mild, 4) Essence/serum, 5) Moisturizer, 6) Sunscreen (AM only). The pad acts as both an exfoliating toner and hydrating treatment, so you don't need a separate toner. Can be used both morning and evening daily.
No, this product has a comedogenic rating of 1/5, meaning it's very unlikely to clog pores. The formula is oil-free, lightweight, and contains no known pore-clogging ingredients. In fact, the PHA and hydrating ingredients help keep pores clear by gently removing dead skin buildup. It's an excellent choice for acne-prone skin.
The product has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. Each jar contains 70 pads, which lasts approximately 1-2 months with daily use or 2-3 months with every-other-day use. Keep the lid tightly closed after each use to prevent the pads from drying out and maintain product efficacy.
Verdict: The Medicube Zero Pore Pad Mild is an excellent choice for anyone with sensitive, reactive, or easily irritated skin who wants the benefits of chemical exfoliation without the harshness. The PHA-based formula with Madecassoside and 6 types of Hyaluronic Acid delivers gentle yet effective pore care while keeping skin hydrated and calm. It's fungal acne safe, pregnancy-friendly, and fragrance-free - checking all the boxes for a clean, gentle exfoliant. While those with very oily skin may prefer the stronger original version, this Mild variant is perfect for daily use and long-term skin health. A worthy K-beauty staple for the sensitive skin community.
Product Overview
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.
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.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skinโs own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
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 ยซpromisesยป 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.
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
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 6 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 7 ingredient(s):
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.
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!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
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.
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.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Methylpropanediol
Solvent
|
|
|
| 1 |
1,2-Hexanediol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Glycereth-26
Solvent, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|