Medicube Zero Pore Pad is the latest product to go viral on TikTok — but do they really work? Here’s what you need to know.
If you’ve spent any time on beauty TikTok this past year, you’ve probably seen countless videos of skincare gurus swiping textured pads across their glowing skin. For those who are avid followers of Molly-Mae Hague, you might have seen her proclaim the benefits of Medicube Zero Pore Pads in a recent YouTube video — noting that she’s seen a difference in the quality of her skin.
View this post on Instagram
What are toner pads?
Toner pads have become a staple in many beauty routines of late. Originating from Korea, the product has been designed to use as a second step in the cleansing routine, or as the step before serum. The pads usually contain an active ingredient like AHA or BHA and are said to minimise the appearance of pores and promote clearer-looking skin. Naturally, we decided to put it to the test to see if it delivers.
“A lot of toner pads hydrate or calm the skin at the same time, so it’s a quick step that does a lot without feeling like extra work,” says Poppy Smith, from Korean beauty retailer PureSeoul.
How to use toner pads
“They’re best used straight after cleansing, when your skin is fresh and ready — helping to wipe away anything left behind, lightly exfoliate, and prep your skin for the rest of your products,” Poppy explains.
Start with clean, cleansed skin and swipe the pad gently over your face, not scrubbing but still firm enough to ensure the product is sticking to your skin.
To start, I’d use the pads two to three times a week, eventually building up to four to five times per week, depending on your skin’s reaction.
Read more: K-beauty products that will transform your skincare routine
Do the Medicube Zero Pore Pads work?
Currently, these Medicube Zero Pore Pads are the hottest on the market and, as we’ve mentioned, Molly-Mae has already raved about the benefits. The pads are available in a regular strength and a slightly milder formulation for sensitive skin.
Poppy explains that, over time, you should notice impurities fading. From my own experience, I’ve certainly seen a difference in my skin’s appearance and — although it’s only been a few weeks — I’ve noticed my dark marks beginning to fade.
But the reality is that — at £24 for a pot of 70 pads — the Medicube pore pads come at a much higher price point than other options on the market. For some cheaper options that deliver similar results, scroll below.
Medicube Zero Pore Pads dupes
Read more: Is this treatment the secret to glass skin?
No7 Good Intent Pore Buff Clarifying Acid Pads
These pads, like the Medicube ones, come with tweezers to pick up the pads — keeping your routine nice and hygienic. However, they have a slightly stronger formula — worth noting if you have sensitive skin.
Boots Skin Clear Salicylic Acid Exfoliating Pads
This is a great stripped-back budget alternative. While it doesn’t have the AHA component of the Medicube pads — which acts as the brightening element — it’s still a great option to penetrate pores and fight acne.
.
Glow Hub Purify & Brighten Pore Rescue Toning Pads
These pads contain salicylic acid, like the Medicube pads. It retails for about half the price of the Medicube pads, so is certainly worth trying if you’re on the fence.
Glow Hub products are marketed towards teens, meaning these are safe to use on younger skin as well as mature skin.
Buy now from Superdrug for £10.99
Feature image: Priya Raj
