Product Spotlight: Medicube Zero Pore Pad 2.0

K-beauty innovator Medicube is everywhere right now. Best known for its cutting-edge devices and results-driven formulas, the brand is firmly on the rise. Much of the online buzz has been around Zero Pore Pad 2.0, a pot of pre-soaked acid pads promising clearer, smoother skin. But what sets them apart? 

“Medicube embodies some of the biggest trends in Korean skincare: optimised ingredient potency, penetration and innovative delivery systems,” explains Grace Vernon, head of global foresight, trends & Boots Ignite at Boots & No7 Beauty Company. 

“Toner pads are already a hugely popular format in South Korea and the trend is now gaining momentum in the UK. Like a cheat code for achieving glass skin, the Zero Pore Pad 2.0 is proving popular with shoppers and earning numerous five-star reviews with users commenting on how fresh, clear and plump their skin feels after use. Since launch, it has become the bestselling product in the Medicube range at Boots*.”

The reason lies in the formula. Powered by AHAs and BHAs, it gives you the best of both – refined pores and an all-over glow. Skin experts agree that harsh, physical exfoliation is best avoided as it can cause microtears and disrupt your skin barrier, and so most favour chemical versions. These pads combine brightening AHAs with pore-penetrating BHAs for maximum benefits. Each individual pad has a dual-sided design, one is embossed for deep but gentle physical exfoliation, whereas the other side is smooth to deliver calming, smoothing ingredients into the skin.

On the Zero Pore Pad 2.0 ingredient list you’ll notice a mix of acids, notably lactic and salicylic. The former is a type of AHA, loved by those prone to dryness and dullness for its ability to shift dead skin cells and speed up cell turnover, resulting in a brighter, renewed complexion. Whereas the latter is best known for addressing oil-related texture concerns like spots and large pores by unclogging blockages and balancing sebum levels. With regular use, you can expect your pores to appear less visible and an overall smoother, more even feel.

Enhanced by a cocktail of skin-soothing ingredients to combat any potential irritation, the formula contains glycerin, allantoin and panthenol (commonly referred to as pro–vitamin B5). This combination works to calm and replenish moisture. Panthenol in particular works by holding and binding to water, giving you that all-important feeling of lasting hydration.

Medicube’s pore pads are designed to fit into your routine at the toner stage, meaning they’re best applied after cleansing. Swipe the pre-soaked pad in a gentle, upwards sweeping motion over your skin’s surface, starting at the centre of the face and taking care around the delicate eye area. They’re suitable for both morning and evening, but if you’ve never tried a liquid exfoliant before, it’s best to introduce them slowly into your routine, building up the frequency of use gradually.

“I was recommended these by a friend. They’re fantastic for reducing pores and tightening the skin. I was so surprised to see an overnight difference.” 

“These are easy to use and don’t break me out. I use them twice a week morning and evening – afterwards my skin is glowing and really smooth.” 

“So glad I found these. I actually use them on my chest rather than my face. I had bad skin when young which left me with scars and open pores but these pads are a game-changer.” 

“I cannot recommend this exfoliator enough. You notice a difference from the very first use, it leaves your skin super soft and bright.”**

*Boots sales data by volume, 01/03/2025-12/09/2025

**Reviews taken from BOOTS.COM & LOOKFANTASTIC.COM

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Available to buy at BOOTS.COM & LOOKFANTASTIC.COM