It’s no secret that K-beauty is the driving force behind the best skincare products in the world (hello snail mucin). One item that has been flying under the radar (at least in the States) is Korean toner pads. I’ve been attending brand previews recently and these buzzy items have been at the center of them all. While they’re nothing new in South Korea, it looks like we’re finally playing catch up, and I predict they’re going to be a hot commodity this year. If you’re just as curious as I am, and don’t have access to an Olive Young (aka Korea’s version of Ulta/Sephora), here’s what you need to know about toner pads and the best ones you need to get your hands on.
I'm a Beauty Editor and Korean Toner Pads Are My Ultimate Skincare Must-Have for 2025
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Meet the Experts
- Dr. Dara Spearman is a board-certified dermatologist and the founder of Radiant Dermatology Associates. She is currently the president of the Indiana Academy of Dermatology and has served on committees for the American Academy of Dermatology and the Indiana State Medical Society.
- Dr. Brendan Camp is a board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology in New York City, who specializes in treating conditions such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, moles and skin cancer. He also does cosmetic treatments such as Botox, lasers and the use of rejuvenation devices.
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What Are Toner Pads?
If you’re familiar with a regular toner, these pads make it easier to swipe or place the product on your face. They are pre-soaked cotton rounds or squares drenched in active ingredients (like hyaluronic or salicylic acid). They’re popular in South Korea, where people use them to target any skincare concern.
What Are the Benefits of Toner Pads?
Toner pads can have multiple benefits depending on which tub/brand you reach for. “K-beauty toner pads are so big right now because they are so convenient to use and they are easily accessible, which is the perfect addition to any skincare routine,” says Dr. Spearman. “Additionally, they are suitable for all skin types due to their gentle ingredients. Like most Korean skincare, the ingredients are stellar and natural (usually derived from plants).”
Some toner pads are known for being hydrating, soothing and refreshing on your skin, while others can be great exfoliators, helping to remove dead skin cells and improve skin’s texture. There are even toner pads that add a boost of collagen, minimize breakouts and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Basically, if you have any specific skin woe, there’s *probably* a toner pad for you.
How Should You Use Toner Pads?
First, you should figure out which toner pads work best for your skin type. Brands like Mediheal offer a variety of toner pads that target specific concerns. Once you choose one, it’s pretty easy to use. Just grab the included tweezer, pull one toner pad out and swipe it over your cheeks, forehead and/or chin like how you would with a traditional toner. Or, you can create your own sheet mask and place a bunch on your skin. (FYI: The pads are usually thinner than a regular cotton pad, so you don’t have to worry about them slipping off your face.) A great tip: You can mix and match toner pads depending on what your skin needs, let them sit on the skin for about five to 15 minutes before discarding the toner pad and letting the formula absorb nicely into the skin.
Where Do Toner Pads Fall Into My Skincare Routine?
Once you finish cleansing, you should apply the toner pads to hydrate your face and prep for the rest of your routine. You can also use the toner pads before makeup for a smooth, hydrated base.
How Often Can You Use Toner Pads?
According to the experts, it all depends on what you’re using the toner pads for. If you’re looking for a boost of hydration, you can apply toner pads daily in the morning, at night or even throughout the day. But if you’re looking to use it as an exfoliator, Dr. Camp suggests using them in moderation. “Everything in moderation is a good piece of advice when using skincare products, and this applies to toner pads. Overzealous use of these products could potentially irritate the skin or cause dryness, which may present as redness, flaking, itching or stinging,” he explains.
Which Skin Types Should Use Toner Pads?
According to Dr. Spearman, all skin types can try toner pads, but she highly recommends them for oily and/or acne-prone skin. “Toner pads work to regulate oil production, declog pores and can help excess breakouts that can be caused from oiliness or debris,” she adds. I personally have sensitive, combination skin and I found toner pads to be very soothing and comfortable on my face. Like I mentioned, there are different types of toner pads, so I would look closely at ingredient lists to avoid any formulas that may irritate your skin. Dr. Spearman notes, “I would avoid toner pads or limit use if you have dry skin, as sometimes the toner pads can be more drying if they contain alcohol. Additionally, if you have sensitive skin, it is always good to patch tests because toners could be harsh and irritating if your skin is more prone to sensitivity.”
Now that you’re all caught up with what Korean toner pads are, here are the best ones on the market.
The Best Korean Toner Pads
This viral brand is known for their toner pads, and while they have an extensive collection, these blemish pads are the most popular. The key ingredient, madecassoside, is well known in Korea for promising to improve the appearance of uneven skin tone and dark spots, along with soothing skin and overall improving skin texture. These pads also include centella asiastica to soothe and reduce breakouts. Use them as a treatment mask or swipe them across problem areas to calm your skin.
If you have oily or combination skin, Dr. Spearman recommends these toner pads for exfoliating and clearing up pores. Formulated with salicylic, lactic and citric acid, the pads work to reduce excess oil production, smooth skin and minimize breakouts. The formula also includes lavender oil, which works to calm and relax the skin.
Biodance is loved for their beauty sleep masks and their toner pads are not far behind on the favorites list. The hydrating formula has hyaluronic acid, ceramides and panthenol that’s great for dry and/or sensitive skin. The toner pads also include ten percent glacial water, which locks in moisture and refreshes the skin.
These toner pads feature glutathione, an ingredient that claims to brighten dull, uneven skin. Also infused with niacinamide, vitamin C and tranexamic acid, the gentle exfoliator helps fade hyperpigmentation and reduce the appearance of dark spots and acne scars. The brand recommends leaving it on for 3 to 5 minutes for better results.
Best for Hyperpigmentation
5. Innisfree Green Tea ENzyme Vitamin C Brightening + Exfoliating Toner Pads
Innisfree
Dr. Camp recommends these Innisfree toner pads to tackle hyperpigmentation and dark spots. He shares, “[They’re] made with vitamin C and green tea enzyme, a hydro-soothing complex that can be used as a regular toner to swipe skin clean or as a mini-face mask to brighten and fade dark spots.”
Whether you’re dealing with redness or irritation, these toner pads are made to soothe and calm your skin. They’re infused with artemisia-cica, an ingredient known to soothe and maintain moisture. Use one side to soothe and the other side to lock in that much-needed moisture for just five minutes.
Another derm recommendation is this K-beauty brand ANUA. Their clear pads are great for exfoliating and removing dead skin cells. The gentle formula promises to reduce sebum production, minimize the appearance of pores *and* prevent dryness. Dr. Spearman explains, “I recommend these because they are formulated with natural ingredients like heartleaf, which helps to soothe the skin.”