I will admit it: I am a total sucker for K-beauty marketing. When I saw the medicube Zero Pore Pad 2.0 all over my feed promising to basically vacuum out my pores for $18.90, I did not even hesitate. My nose has always been a bit of a problem child—lots of congestion and those annoying little blackheads that refuse to leave—so I figured, why not? If it saves me a trip to the aesthetician for a painful extraction session, it is already a win in my book.
The Embossed Side is a Total Vibe
The first thing you notice when you crack open this sturdy little tub is that they actually include a pair of tiny tweezers. Finally! No more digging my nails into the stack and accidentally peeling off three pads at once. The pads themselves are super saturated but not dripping, and they have a distinct citrus-meets-lavender scent that feels very spa-like. It does not smell like a harsh chemical peel, which was a relief because my skin can be a bit dramatic when it encounters acids.
The Post-Gym Resuscitation
I decided to really put these to the test after a particularly sweaty hot yoga session. My skin felt like a literal oil slick, and I could practically feel the breakouts forming. I used the embossed side first to really scrub—gently!—at my chin and nose, then flipped it over to the smooth side to calm everything down. I was half-expecting a sting, but it just felt cooling and fresh. Here is the breakdown of how they actually held up:
- Exfoliation: It cleared away that weird grit I get around my jawline almost instantly.
- Sebum Control: My face stayed matte for way longer than usual the next morning, which is a rare feat for me.
- Pore Appearance: They did not disappear (I am a human, not a filter), but they definitely looked tighter and less "congested" under my foundation.
- Texture: The pads are thick enough that they do not shred or pill while you are using them, which is a pet peeve of mine with cheaper brands.
The Final Verdict
Are these a miracle in a jar? Maybe not, but they are a very solid worker in my daily routine. For under twenty dollars, you get 70 pads, which lasts over two months if you are using one a day. It is the kind of product that makes your skin feel "reset" without stripping it dry. My makeup sits so much smoother now because it is not trying to cling to dry patches or congested bumps. If you are struggling with that "sludge" feeling on your nose, these are a total staple find.
Who Should Buy This:
- Anyone dealing with oily T-zones or visible congestion on their nose and chin.
- Minimalists who want an exfoliator and toner in one easy step.
- K-beauty fans who want a gentle way to incorporate AHA Lactic Acid and BHA Salicylic Acid.
Who Should Skip This:
- People with extremely dry, flaky skin who might find daily acids a bit too much.
- If you are sensitive to botanical oils like orange or lemon peel, check the ingredient list first.
Your friendly neighborhood beauty addict,
Lauren