The 7 Best Korean Toner Pads of 2025, Tested & Reviewed
<p>Yes, at the most basic level, toner pads are simply drenched in some kind of solution. “However, their role extends far beyond just being basic toner products,” explains Hyo Hyun Ahn, a dermatology professor at Korea University College of Medicine. “As the first step after cleansing, toner pads hydrate, soothe, and refine the skin while removing impurities and dead skin cells. When used as a <a href=” target=”_blank”>face mask</a> by placing the toner pad on areas like the cheeks, forehead, and chin for about 10 to 15 minutes, they offer convenient and hygienic nourishment.” As a result, many Korean women don’t just apply these handy sheets in the evenings; they’re used before applying makeup to infuse the skin with moisture and slough away any rough patches, ensuring a smooth and even base. </p><p>Keep in mind that toner pads aren’t a one-size-fits-all kind of product. You should carefully choose one that’s calibrated to your skin type and needs, whether you need something super hydrating and calming or prefer a brightening formula. To aid you in your search, we’ve gathered seven of the best, most beloved Korean toner pads on the market that’ll make you a devotee for life. </p>” data-next-head/>
Pros
- Adheres well
- Budget-friendly
- Gentle on the skin
Cons
- May sting eyes if placed too close to the eye area
Mediheal offers an extremely popular lineup of toner pads, and each one in the collection serves a specific purpose. “I recommend this toner pad for anyone looking to firm their skin,” Ahn says. “These collagen-infused toner pads deliver a nourishing, firming treatment infused with micro-collagen, ceramides, and milk protein.” Each container also comes with a pair of tweezers you can attach to the inner part of the lid to keep everything as hygienic as possible, which is a nice touch for any germaphobes out there.
Key ingredients: Collagen, ceramides, milk protein
Count: 100 pads
Amazon rating: 4.5/5 stars
An ELLE editor says: “As much as I love sheet masks, one thing that always annoys me about them is that they never quite fit my face. There are some (especially the ones that come in two pieces) that get close, but some parts of the mask are always wrinkled or flapping or getting in my hair. As an alternative, I’ll stick a bunch of these toner pads all over my face, which allows me to customize the fit a lot easier. Plus, they’re so thin and stick on so well that they barely move, even when I’m talking to my roommates or laughing at whatever sitcom I’m watching. My skin drinks up the formula and instantly looks plumper and glowier.”—Carol Lee, ELLE.com associate beauty e-commerce writer
2
Best-Smelling Toner Pads
Femmue Rose Infused Face Toning Pads
Pros
- Cooling
- Comes with mini tongs
Cons
- Pads are so saturated that toner may drip down face
Tried-and-true ingredients combine to power these toner pads—rose water boosts the moisture barrier, hyaluronic acid provides hydration, and willow bark gently exfoliates your skin. They also have an instant cooling effect that comes in handy in the warmer months.
Key ingredients: Damask rose water, willow bark, panthenol
Count: 60 pads
Amazon rating: 4.4/5 stars
An ELLE editor says: “Anyone who truly knows me is aware that I love rose-scented things. Falling for these rose water-drenched toner pads was an inevitability. My skin feels softer and smoother after having them on my face for a few minutes, and a pleasant floral aroma floats around me the whole time. What’s not to like? I know that some complain about how much excess toner is in the container, but I love it; whenever I use these pads, I use the liquid to quench the skin on my neck and the back of my hands so that they get some special attention, too.”—Carol Lee
3
Best for Rough Skin
Neogen Dermalogy Wine Bio-Peel Gauze Peeling Pads
Pros
- Helps get rid of blackheads
- Easy to use
Cons
- May not be suitable for very sensitive skin
Each of these exfoliating pads contains a little pocket. You can slip your finger in between the two layers to gently rub it all over your face with the gauzy side. Then, flip it over and wipe away any remaining residue or dead skin cells. The formula for Neogen’s wine pads also features resveratrol, an antioxidant that combats premature signs of aging from cropping up.
Key ingredients: Lactic acid, peptides, hyaluronic acid, resveratrol
Count: 60 pads
Amazon rating: 4.6/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “My pores shrank overnight! My skin feels smooth and a bit firmer. Freaking amazing. And this is after only one use. I won’t say yet that this is my holy grail, but it might turn into that! Either way, I freaking love this version, and look forward to seeing the results after I’ve been using it for a month or so!”
4
Best for Irritated Skin
Hanyul Pure Artemisia (Mugwort) Calming Toner Pads
Pros
- Pleasant scent
- Large size
Cons
- Can take a few minutes to fully absorb
Asian skin care companies are huge fans of cica, or centella asiatica, especially when formulating products for sensitive skin. When you use these pads, the ingredient sinks in, reducing irritation and the temperature of the skin within minutes. Also, the material of the pads feels very soft and gentle, which Ahn says is important. “Avoid pads that are rough or prone to shedding, such as cotton pads,” he says. “These can cause irritation and are less effective. Instead, look for pads made from materials like gauze, soft cotton, embossed fabric, or gel.”
Key ingredients: Cica, eupatilin
Count: 60 pads
Amazon rating: 4.7/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “I was so pleasantly surprised by these. The idea of using mugwort (or artemisia, the key botanical in this product) sounded very cool to me. I’ve been using these for about a week. I find the generously sized pads intensely moisturizing before I even get to my moisturizer step. You can double your usage by cutting them in half (they’re thick pads!). When layered properly with other products, I get the coveted glass skin shine, and my redness is greatly reduced. These do have a light scent that I would describe as clean—it isn’t herbal or earthy. It isn’t overly offensive. I usually prefer unscented skin care, but I don’t mind the smell, and it dissipates quickly.”
5
Best for Dull Skin
Numbuzin No.5+ Niacinamide Concentrated Toner Pad
Pros
- Can be used frequently
- Many see overnight results
Cons
- Can leave a bit of a sticky resiude
Glutathione is another esteemed ingredient in Korea, applied topically, injected into the skin, or taken orally as a supplement to reduce the appearance of dark spots and fight dullness. These toner pads include glutathione as well as a host of other brightening ingredients, making them a boon to anyone looking for that lit-from-within glow. In fact, a clinical study found that the pads brightened the skin by about 2.63 percent in less than a month.
Key ingredients: Glutathione, vitamin C, niacinamide, tranexamic acid, PHA, LHA
Count: 70 pads
Amazon rating: 4.5/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “This is only the first time I’ve used them, and it was an impulse purchase just because of the reviews. Wow, what a difference already! I’m not sure what it is, but my boyfriend asked me if I had done something. He couldn’t explain it except to say I looked ‘luminous.’ I didn’t tell him I bought something new (because he’d want to try them too!), so they must be working.”
6
Best for Hyperpigmentation
Innisfree Green Tea Enzyme Vitamin C Brightening + Exfoliating Toner Pads
Pros
- Suitable for sensitive skin
Cons
- Can feel sticky
Monti is a huge fan of these Innisfree toner pads, which are infused with brightening vitamin C. “Not only do they provide skin with balancing hydration, but they also have the ability to address visible dark spots and post-acne marks,” she says. “They are a great way to incorporate hydration and treatment in your post-cleansing step.”
Key ingredients: Vitamin C, green tea enzyme
Count: 60 pads
Sephora rating: 4.9/5 stars
A Sephora reviewer says: “I absolutely love how my skin feels after using this product. It has only been a few days, but my skin looks and feels more hydrated than normal. I struggle with redness and dry, flakey skin. My skin is also quite sensitive, but I have not had an issue with this product at all.”
7
Best for Shrinking Pores
Medicube Zero Pore Pads 2.0
Pros
- Gentle even on sensitive skin
- Reduces texture
Cons
- Can take time to see results
Those dealing with oily skin or acne, come hither—this toner pad is about to save your day. The toner contains BHAs and AHAs that fight excess sebum, blackheads, and breakouts, and it even has allantoin, which helps loosen up dead skin cells and makes them easier to remove. A few uses later, you’re bound to notice clearer pores. Just be sure not to overuse any type of chemical exfoliant, as that can do more harm than good. Everything in moderation!
Key ingredients: AHA, BHA, panthenol, allantoin
Count: 70 pads
Amazon rating: 4.5/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “I love skincare and normally have full science-based routines for AM and PM (including drugstore, Korean, luxury, and prescription products). In the last few months, though, my routine has faltered, and I was down to just cleanser and moisturizer, and not even every day. I’m congestion-prone and ended up with closed comedones on my forehead and jawline. I wanted to try something that I could incorporate easily, so I added these a few times a week. Within two weeks (maybe half a dozen uses) my skin was as clear as it had when I was spending half an hour on my skincare every day. I was very cautious at first as I have suffered the effects of over-exfoliation before, but these are quite gentle. I even got some in my eye at one point (don’t ask—it was 100 percent user error), and walked away with no issues (although I don’t recommend it).”
Meet the Experts
Hyo Hyun Ahn is a professor in Korea University Medicine’s dermatology department.
Julie Monti is the senior director of education for Amorepacific USA and Mexico.
How do toner pads fit into a skin care routine?
According to our experts, people usually use them right after cleansing and before applying any other products. “They are a great way to hydrate and treat the skin, and by applying a toner, you will also improve the absorption of the other skincare to follow,” Monti explains.
Additionally, they can ensure that you’ve gotten every single bit of makeup and any pollutants on your skin. “When used for wiping, they not only refine the skin texture but also remove any remaining impurities and dead skin cells that may be trapped in between the skin,” says Ahn. “Toner pads can also be used as a sheet mask, making them versatile enough to be used at every stage of the skincare routine, from the first step to the last,” he adds.
How often can you use toner pads?
Generally, you can use them morning and night, but it all depends on the formula and the results you want. “For general hydration and gentle texture refinement, toner pads are suitable for daily use,” Ahn says. “However, if you’re using them to exfoliate and roll them over the skin to remove dead skin cells, it is recommended to use them less than two to three times a week to avoid over-exfoliation.”
Why Trust Elle Beauty?
As a leading publisher of fashion, lifestyle, and beauty content, ELLE.com is committed to highlighting the best products in various categories by personally testing the latest and most innovative products, interviewing countless experts, and vetting customer-loved items. For this piece, beauty writer Carol Lee spoke with trusted K-beauty experts about toner pads and how they work. Lee also searched the internet for top-rated options, perused sites for dozens of popular options, tried several of the products, and evaluated each on their features and customer reviews.
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