Zero Pore Toner
Zero Pore Toner
Product Description
MediCube Zero Pore Toner is a lightweight, alcohol-free blue water toner that pairs gentle AHA, BHA and PHA exfoliation with low-molecular hyaluronic acid, niacinamide and panthenol. Used as the first treatment step after cleansing, it sweeps away dead skin, controls excess sebum and visibly refines enlarged pores for a smooth, glass-skin glow.
β¨ Texture & Feel
Pore_Laserβ’ Complex
A patented blend of jasmine, willow bark and eggplant extracts that targets excess sebum and visibly minimizes the look of enlarged pores.
Triple-Acid Exfoliation
AHA (citric acid), BHA (betaine salicylate) and PHA (gluconolactone) gently dissolve dead skin and unclog pores without harsh scrubbing.
Glass-Skin Hydration
Low-molecular hyaluronic acid, panthenol and allantoin deliver deep moisture, so skin stays plump and comfortable rather than stripped.
Cooling Sebum Control
Menthyl lactate and niacinamide leave a refreshing, cooling finish while helping to balance oil across the T-zone.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
Contains betaine salicylate, a BHA. Low-dose topical salicylates are generally considered low risk, but salicylic-acid derivatives are commonly flagged during pregnancy β check with your doctor first.
Independently verified as free from the fatty acids, esters, polysorbates and ferments that typically feed malassezia yeast.
Plays well with hydrating serums and niacinamide. Avoid stacking with strong AHAs, retinol or vitamin C in the same routine to limit irritation.
Exfoliating acids can increase sun sensitivity. Always follow with a broad-spectrum SPF in the morning.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
π Niacinamide ~2% Proven
A multitasking form of vitamin B3 and one of the headline actives, sitting third on the ingredient list. It brightens dullness, supports the skin barrier and helps regulate oil, making it a natural fit for pore-prone skin.
- Source: Dermatology research widely shows that 2β5% niacinamide can strengthen the barrier and reduce the appearance of sebum and pores.
- Bonus: Pairs safely with the acids in this formula and rarely causes irritation.
𧴠Betaine Salicylate BHA Proven
A gentle, plant-derived salicylic-acid alternative. Being oil-soluble, it penetrates inside pores to dissolve sebum and loosen blackheads and whiteheads β the key to the toner's pore-clearing action.
- Source: Salicylic-acid derivatives are well established for keratolytic (dead-skin-dissolving) and pore-decongesting benefits.
𫧠Gluconolactone PHA Proven
A polyhydroxy acid that exfoliates the very surface of the skin while also acting as a humectant. Its larger molecule makes it gentler and more hydrating than traditional AHAs β ideal for daily use and sensitive skin.
- Source: PHAs are documented to exfoliate with less stinging and irritation than glycolic or lactic acid.
π Citric Acid AHA Promising
An alpha-hydroxy acid that provides light surface exfoliation and helps keep the formula at a skin-friendly pH so the other acids work effectively.
- Source: AHAs help loosen dead surface cells, supporting smoother texture and a brighter look over time.
π§ Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid <1% Proven
A low-molecular-weight form of hyaluronic acid able to settle into the upper layers of skin, where it binds water to counterbalance the exfoliating acids and keep skin plump.
- Source: Smaller HA fragments are shown to hydrate beyond the very surface for a longer-lasting moisture cushion.
πΏ Panthenol ~1% Proven
Pro-vitamin B5, a soothing humectant that helps reduce water loss and calm any tightness that exfoliation might cause.
- Source: Panthenol is well documented to support barrier repair and reduce trans-epidermal water loss.
πΌ Allantoin ~0.3% Proven
A classic calming and skin-conditioning agent that softens and soothes β a helpful buffer alongside the acid trio.
- Source: Allantoin is recognized for its soothing, keratolytic and skin-protective properties.
π± Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract Plant Promising
A natural source of salicin that complements the BHA, reinforcing the formula's gentle pore-clearing and soothing profile. It is also part of the brand's Pore_Laserβ’ complex.
- Source: Willow bark has a long traditional and cosmetic history for blemish-prone and congested skin.
26 ingredients
Water, Xylitol, Niacinamide, Methylpropanediol, Butylene Glycol, Diethoxyethyl Succinate, C12-14 Alketh-12, Chlorphenesin, Sodium Citrate, Citric Acid, Ethylhexylglycerin, Menthyl Lactate, Adenosine, Disodium EDTA, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Oil, 1,2-Hexanediol, Gluconolactone, Panthenol, Allantoin, Betaine Salicylate, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Jasminum Sambac (Jasmine) Flower Extract, Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract, Solanum Melongena (Eggplant) Fruit Extract, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Oil, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Leaf Extract.
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
Use as your first treatment step right after cleansing, AM and/or PM. Because it contains gentle acids, always finish your morning routine with SPF.
π How to Use
Cleanse
Start with clean skin after your usual cleanser, then gently pat dry.
Apply
Dispense a few drops onto a cotton pad or your palms and gently sweep or press over the face, avoiding the eye area.
Pat In
Lightly pat to help the toner absorb. No rinsing needed.
Follow Up
Continue with serum and moisturizer. In the morning, always finish with sunscreen.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You have oily or combination skin with visible pores
- You want gentle daily exfoliation without scrubbing
- You're chasing a smooth, "glass-skin" finish
- You prefer alcohol-free, lightweight formulas
- You deal with blackheads, whiteheads or rough texture
β Consider alternatives if:
- Your skin is very dry and needs rich hydration first
- You already use strong AHAs, retinol or BHA daily
- You're reactive to menthol or cooling agents
- You want a 100% fragrance-free formula (contains plant oils)
π― Skin Type Compatibility
Controls sebum and refines pores without adding shine β its strongest use case.
Balances an oily T-zone while the humectants keep drier cheeks comfortable.
BHA helps clear congestion and it's fungal-acne safe; introduce slowly to gauge tolerance.
Smooths texture and maintains a fresh, healthy glow with regular use.
Hydrating humectants help, but layer a richer moisturizer on top and limit frequency.
Gentle acids, but the cooling menthol and plant oils may tingle β patch test first.
π Results Timeline
Instant smoothness & cooling
Skin feels smoother and refreshed straight away. The brand's testing reported dead-skin reduction up to 70% and a moisture jump of around 45% after a single use.
70% smoother (brand test)Less oil, cleaner-looking pores
T-zone shine becomes more controlled and congestion in pores starts to loosen as exfoliation builds up.
Sebum trending downVisible pore refinement
In clinical testing, pore volume dropped 30.6%, skin hydration rose 21.7%, and blackheads/whiteheads were reduced by around 43%.
30.6% smaller pore volumeGlass-skin glow
Consistent use builds smoother texture and a more even, luminous complexion. Maintain with daily SPF for best results.
Most users notice glowβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- Genuinely refines pores and smooths texture (clinically backed)
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing and never greasy
- Gentle enough for near-daily exfoliation
- Alcohol-free with hydrating HA, panthenol and allantoin
- Generous 250ml bottle for the price
- Fungal-acne safe, reef safe and cruelty-free
β Criticized
- Cooling menthol sensation isn't for everyone
- Contains natural plant oils, so not truly fragrance-free
- Can be drying if over-used or stacked with other acids
- Exfoliating acids require diligent daily SPF
- Very dry skin needs a richer moisturizer layered on top
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Also a triple-acid toner (150ml) but with added tea tree and willow bark for a more aggressive, blemish-focused approach. Tends to be more drying and less hydrating than the Zero Pore Toner.
Very gentle low-dose AHA/BHA in a 150ml spray, great for sensitive skin and daily prep. Less pore-targeting, no niacinamide or cooling effect, and lighter on actives.
A 210ml centella-forward pore toner with a 4-HA complex and pink salt. More soothing and fragrance-free, but slightly less focused on deep hydration.
π Comparison with Competitors
MediCube Zero Pore Toner (Featured)
$22.00Some By Mi 30 Days Miracle Toner
$18.00COSRX AHA/BHA Clarifying Toner
$17.00SKIN1004 Poremizing Clear Toner
$18.99π¦ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening
Keep away from direct sunlight in a cool, dry place and close the cap after use.
Blue plastic bottle with a screw cap
The 250ml bottle exceeds the 100ml carry-on limit β decant into a smaller container for flights.
β Frequently Asked Questions
Use with caution. The toner contains betaine salicylate, a BHA (salicylic-acid derivative). Low-concentration topical salicylates in leave-on products are generally considered low risk, but BHAs are commonly flagged during pregnancy, so we recommend checking with your OB/GYN or doctor before adding it to your routine.
Yes. It has been independently verified as fungal-acne (malassezia) safe, meaning it doesn't contain the fatty acids, problematic esters, polysorbates or fermented ingredients that typically feed malassezia yeast. As always, individual reactions vary, so patch testing is wise if you're prone to flare-ups.
This toner already contains mild AHA, BHA and PHA. You can comfortably pair it with hydrating serums, niacinamide and moisturizers. To avoid over-exfoliation and irritation, don't layer it with strong retinol, vitamin C or extra acid treatments in the same routine β alternate them across AM/PM or different days instead.
It shines on oily, combination and pore-conscious skin, and normal skin benefits too. Dry and sensitive skin can still use it, but should patch test, start a few times a week, and always follow with a richer moisturizer.
Skin typically feels smoother and refreshed after the first use. Oil control tends to improve within a week, and the brand's clinical testing reported visible pore and blackhead improvement at around the 2-week mark, with the glass-skin glow building over 4+ weeks of consistent use.
It's a first treatment step. Apply it straight after cleansing and before essences, serums and moisturizer. In the morning, always finish with sunscreen since the acids can increase sun sensitivity.
No. It's a lightweight, water-based, non-comedogenic formula (rating about 1/5) designed to clear and refine pores rather than clog them. The tiny amounts of plant oils sit very low on the ingredient list.
It has a 12-month PAO (Period After Opening). For best results and freshness, use it up within 12 months of opening and store it away from heat and direct sunlight.
Verdict: The MediCube Zero Pore Toner is a standout daily exfoliating toner that delivers on its core promise β smoother texture, less visible oil and refined pores β backed by solid clinical data and a generous 250ml size at an accessible price. The triple AHAΒ·BHAΒ·PHA blend is gentle enough for frequent use yet effective, and the hyaluronic acid, panthenol and niacinamide keep skin hydrated rather than stripped. The cooling menthol finish and subtle plant-oil scent won't suit everyone, and very dry or highly sensitive skin should ease in slowly with diligent SPF. For oily, combination and pore-conscious skin, it's an easy, high-value addition to a K-beauty routine.
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 skinβs 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 Β«promisesΒ» 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 5 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 3 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 6 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 2 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 |
Xylitol
Flavoring Agent, Humectant, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Methylpropanediol
Solvent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Diethoxyethyl Succinate
Solvent
|
|
|
| 0 |
C12-14 Alketh-12
Emulsifying
|
|