Toner pads are among the most popular K-beauty products: take a soaked pad from the jar, sweep it over your face – done. Two pads are especially often compared: the Medicube Zero Pore Pad 2.0 and the Anua Heartleaf 77 Clear Pad. Both contain 70 pads with a textured and a smooth side. Yet they're made for very different skin types. Here’s an honest comparison – based on the ingredient lists.
In short
Medicube Zero Pore Pad = pore cleansing with AHA + BHA for oily, resilient skin.
Anua Heartleaf 77 Pad = gentle PHA exfoliation without alcohol or fragrance – for sensitive, reddened skin.
The Comparison at a Glance
| Medicube Zero Pore Pad 2.0 | Anua Heartleaf 77 Clear Pad | |
|---|---|---|
| Exfoliating acids | AHA (lactic acid) + BHA (salicylic acid) | PHA (gluconolactone) – the gentlest acid |
| Key ingredients | Acids for pores & sebum, plus panthenol | 77% heartleaf extract (Houttuynia cordata) + centella |
| Alcohol | Yes (Alcohol Denat.) | No |
| Fragrance / essential oils | Yes – including citrus, lavender and eucalyptus oil | No |
| Ideal for | Oily skin, enlarged pores, blackheads | Sensitive, reddened, stressed skin, combination skin too |
| Contents | 70 pads (155 g) | 70 pads (160 g) |
| Our price | €23.99 | €19.99 |
Medicube Zero Pore Pad 2.0: The Pore Cleanser
The Zero Pore Pad relies on two acids: lactic acid (AHA) loosens dead skin flakes on the surface, while salicylic acid (BHA) is oil-soluble and works inside the pores against sebum and blackheads. Panthenol, allantoin and hyaluronic acid keep the skin supple at the same time.
To be honest: the formula also contains alcohol and several essential oils (including orange, lemon, bergamot, lavender and eucalyptus). That gives a fresh feel, but it can irritate sensitive or dry skin. If you have oily, fairly resilient skin with visible pores, you’ll get a real clarifying effect here.
For oily skin & pores
Medicube Zero Pore Pad 2.0 – 70 Pads
AHA + BHA for clearer-looking pores. For oily and blemish-prone skin – start with 3–4 evenings a week.
Discover from €23.99Anua Heartleaf 77 Clear Pad: The Soother
The Anua pad contains 77% heartleaf extract (Houttuynia cordata), a Korean plant known for its soothing properties. The exfoliant is PHA (gluconolactone). PHA molecules are larger than AHA and BHA, penetrate more slowly and are therefore considered especially gentle. Centella compounds such as madecassoside round it off.
According to the ingredient list, the pad contains no alcohol and no fragrance. That makes it the better choice for sensitive skin, redness, or when your skin is stressed from retinol or sun. For deep pore cleansing, however, it’s too mild.
For sensitive skin
Anua Heartleaf 77 Clear Pad (70 Pads)
Gentle PHA exfoliation with 77% heartleaf – no alcohol, no fragrance. Suitable for morning and evening use.
Discover nowWhich Pad Is Right for You?
- Oily skin, enlarged pores, blackheads: Medicube Zero Pore Pad.
- Sensitive skin, redness, rosacea-prone skin: Anua Heartleaf 77 Pad.
- Combination skin: Anua every day, Medicube targeted on the T-zone 1–2× a week.
- Dry skin: Anua is the better pick – followed by a rich cream.
- You already use retinol or other acids: Anua, so you don’t overwhelm your skin.
You can also combine the two: Anua in the morning, Medicube 2–3× a week in the evening – just not on the same evening as retinol.
How to Use Toner Pads Properly
- Cleanse your face and pat it dry.
- Gently sweep the textured side over your face – don’t rub, and avoid the eye area.
- Follow with the smooth side and pat in the remaining essence.
- Then apply serum and cream – and always sunscreen in the morning.
Acid pads make skin more sensitive to light – so daily sunscreen is a must. If you notice stinging or redness, take a break.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use toner pads every day?
The Anua Heartleaf 77 Pad is mild enough for daily use. With the Medicube Zero Pore Pad, it’s best to start with 3–4 evenings a week and increase gradually.
Does a toner pad replace toner?
Yes. The pad is soaked in toner and takes over that step. You don’t need an additional toner.
Which pad helps with blackheads?
Oil-soluble salicylic acid (BHA) is what really helps with blackheads – and it’s in the Medicube Zero Pore Pad, not the Anua pad.
Which pad is better for sensitive skin?
The Anua Heartleaf 77 Clear Pad: gentle PHA instead of AHA/BHA, no alcohol, no fragrance.
Read more: Anua Heartleaf Toner, Fragrance-free facial care and How to combine active ingredients.
All products are 100% authentic, shipped from Germany within 2–5 business days. Shipping €1.99, free from €29. Not sure what suits your skin? Ask our free AI skin advisor at juveamiel.com.
