How to use medicube Zero Pore Pads
Use the textured side first on clean, dry skin, flip to the smooth side, let it absorb, then moisturize. Start two or three evenings a week and add sunscreen every morning. Most problems come from using pads too often or stacking them with other strong actives.
Step by step
- Cleanse and pat dry. Acids tend to sting more on damp skin, so wait a minute after drying.
- Textured side, light pressure. Swipe outward from the center of the face, avoiding the eyes and lips. Let the liquid and texture do the work; don't scrub.
- Flip to the smooth side. Pass it over the same areas to spread the remaining toner evenly.
- Let it absorb. Give it a minute or two before the next step.
- Moisturize. A simple, fragrance-free moisturizer helps support your skin barrier.
- Sunscreen the next morning. Use broad-spectrum SPF daily while you use any AHA product.
How often should you use them?
Start with two or three non-consecutive evenings a week for the first couple of weeks. If you have no stinging, redness, tightness, or flaking, you can add more days. If you notice any of those, cut back. Our guide to the signs of over-exfoliation shows what to watch for.
Morning or night?
Either works, but night is usually easier. It keeps exfoliation away from makeup and gives you a clean slot to alternate with other actives. If you use them in the morning, sunscreen is not optional.
What not to combine them with
- Retinoids (retinol, adapalene, tretinoin): alternate nights.
- Other exfoliants: other acid toners, peels, or scrubs on the same day.
- Benzoyl peroxide: using both can be drying; separate them by time of day if you use both.
- Broken, sunburned, or freshly waxed skin: skip the pads until it heals.
Patch test first
Swipe a pad on a small area along the jaw or behind the ear for a few days before using it on your whole face. This is especially important if you have sensitive or reactive skin.
Storage tips
Close the lid tightly after each use so the pads don't dry out, and use the tweezers if the jar includes them, to keep fingers out of the liquid.
Still deciding whether to buy? Read the full Zero Pore Pad review.
Frequently asked questions
Which side of the medicube pad do I use first?
The brand's routine is textured side first, to exfoliate, then the smooth side to spread the remaining toner. If the textured side feels too rough, you can use the smooth side only.
Do I rinse after using the pad?
Toner pads like this are generally designed as leave-on steps. Follow the directions on the jar, then continue with moisturizer.
Can I use Zero Pore Pads in the morning?
You can, as long as you wear broad-spectrum sunscreen afterward. Many people prefer night use so the pads don't sit under makeup and so they can keep actives separate.
Can I use them with retinol?
Not on the same night when you are starting out. Alternate nights, and only combine more closely if your skin shows no irritation.