Collage: Jemeria Davison; Source images: Courtesy of Allure editors and brandsSave this storySave this story
What stands out most about the best Medicube products is how they make K-beauty skin care feel simple, effective, and genuinely approachable—both in routine and in price. Many fans have streamlined their routines down to a handful of hero products that deliver that same glass-skin glow you’d expect from a full 10-step lineup (a major win for anyone short on time). For those with dry or sensitive skin, the brand’s formulas are especially appealing—they multitask without overwhelming the skin barrier.
Medicube relies on ingredients practically synonymous with Korean skin care. You’ll find polydeoxyribonucleotides (PDRN), derived from salmon DNA, to help support skin renewal and improve the appearance of uneven tone. Many formulas also feature Centella asiatica (a.k.a. cica), a go-to for soothing. “Sensitive skin is a very common skin type in Korea due to high pollution levels," says Charlotte Cho, cofounder of K-beauty retailer Soko Glam based in New York City. “As a result, sensitive-skin friendly ingredients, such as cica, are frequently seen in Korean beauty products to calm inflammation, redness, and irritated skin.”
Our Top Medicube Products
- No Ghosting: No Cast Just Glow Collagen Sunscreen, $22 $15
- Pretty in Pink: Pink Peptide Serum, $22 $15
- Set the Tone: Collagen Milk Toning Wrapping Mask, $22 $15
- Pore Over This: Zero Pore Pads, $31 $15
- R You Glowing Yet?: Age-R Booster Pro, $228 $132
- Bursting Bounce: PDRN Pink Collagen Capsule Cream, $22 $16
Beyond ingredients, Medicube’s textures are part of the appeal: Think foam serums that feel like whipped bubbles and collagen creams that burst on contact, releasing pockets of hydration that melt right into skin. You'll find a routine that feels as enjoyable as it is effective.
R You Glowing Yet?: Age-R Booster Pro
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Medicube
Age-R Booster Pro
Amazon
Allure editor in chief Jessica Cruel using the Medicube Age-R Booster Pro
Jessica Cruel
Why it's worth it: Most microcurrent devices make big promises, but then lose you somewhere between all the extra attachments and the hunt for the right conductive gel. It’s why so many end up buried in a drawer, forgotten after just a few uses. Medicube’s Age-R Booster Pro stands out by keeping this streamlined (just the device and your go-to serum). But don’t confuse simple for basic. It delivers on versatility with four built-in modes: Booster Mode (electroporation) to enhance product absorption, MC Mode (microcurrent) to target fine lines, Derma Shot Mode (EMS) to firm and contour, and Air Shot Mode to support pore elasticity.
Tester feedback from editor in chief Jessica Cruel
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"I must say: This is the most powerful device I have ever used. Setting three out of five had my muscles twitching (in a good way). I also like that it has a screen that tracks the time, so I don't have to keep track of beeps. I find the user experience is better than many microcurrent devices I've used in the past.” —Jessica Cruel, editor in chief
Jessica has normal skin and has been using the Medicube Age-R Booster Pro once a month for six months.
Product highlights
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- Four modes (Booster Mode: Electroporation, MC Mode: Microcurrent, Derma Shot Mode, and Air Shot Mode: Electric Needles)
- Five intensity levels each
- Medicube AGE-R App compatibility
- USB-C charging cable
How the brand tested this product's efficacy
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Medicube conducted clinical studies for all four modes used in combination with skin-care products and lists these statistics on its Singaporean site:
- Forehead volume: improved by 35.9% after 2 weeks of use
- Smile lines: improved by 24.2% after 2 weeks of use
- Between the brows (11s): Improved by 16.1% after 2 weeks of use
- Crow's feet: improved by 12.6% after 2 weeks of use
- Neck lines: improved by 11.8% after 2 weeks of use
- Skin density: improved by 5.46% after 2 weeks of use
Burst of Radiance: Collagen Glow Bubble Serum
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Medicube
Collagen Glow Bubble Serum
Amazon
Why it's worth it: Korean skin-care brands are known for their sensorial textures, and the Collagen Glow Bubble Serum has to be one of the most fun we’ve ever tried. The airy mousse has a fluffy, cloud-like texture—almost reminiscent of a light shaving foam—as it melts into the skin. Beyond the playful application, it delivers real benefits for all skin types, especially mature skin: Collagen and elastin help support firmness and bounce while hyaluronic acid draws in hydration to keep skin looking plump and dewy. True to its name, this “bubble serum” is featherlight yet deeply hydrating, though our tester notes you might notice a slight tackiness for a minute or two as it settles in.
Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying the Medicube Collagen Glow Bubble Serum
Christa Joanna Lee
Lee after applying the Medicube Collagen Glow Bubble Serum
Christa Joanna Lee
Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee
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“This serum has a light, foamy texture that sits somewhere between a gel and a mousse—it’s a little unusual at first, but easy to get used to. Once it settles, it leaves an ever-so-slight tacky finish that works well during the day, giving makeup something to grip onto so it applies more evenly.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer
More to know
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- Key ingredients: collagen, elastin, hyaluronic acid
- Fragrance-free: no
No Ghosting: No Cast Just Glow Collagen Sunscreen
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Medicube
No Cast Just Glow Collagen Sunscreen
Amazon
Why it's worth it: K-beauty sunscreens are always trying to outdo themselves—who can make the most lightweight, zero-white cast, skin-care-packed formula yet? So when Allure’s resident K-beauty expert said she found the “glowiest sunscreen ever,” our ears perked up. If dull, tired-looking skin is the concern, Medicube’s No Cast Just Glow Collagen Sunscreen SPF 50 makes a strong case for itself. The chemical formula layers protection with a nourishing, skin-care-forward lineup: Niacinamide helps visibly brighten and even tone, while hyaluronic acid pulls in hydration so skin looks plumper and fresher, never greasy. Collagen and peptides add that softly cushioned, lit-from-within finish, and soothing Centella asiatica keeps skin calm and comfortable.
Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying the Medicube No Cast Just Glow Collagen Sunscreen
Sarah Han
Han after applying the Medicube No Cast Just Glow Collagen Sunscreen
Sarah Han
Allure managing editor Alessandra Foresto applying the Medicube No Cast Just Glow Collagen Sunscreen
Foresto after applying the Medicube No Cast Just Glow Collagen Sunscreen
Alessandra Foresto
Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han
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“Medicube was not lying about the 'No Cast, Just Glow' name. This is one of the glowest, most brightening sunscreens I've ever tried, and boy, does my dried-out winter skin appreciate it. (Full disclosure: I don't think my combo skin could handle this during the warmer months, lest I want to venture straight into greasy, not glowy, territory.) It does take a beat to fully rub in—granted, I go a little heavy on application, but better to overdo it than…underdo it—but once you do, there's nary a trace! The ingredients are quite familiar to the average skin-care lover, but something about this lineup—niacinamide, cica, peptides, and collagen—ups the dewy ante by a lot, and I'm glad for it. I can easily skip my a.m. moisturizer and it also doubles as a hydrating primer. Win, win, and win." —Sarah Han, commerce editor
Tester feedback from managing editor Alessandra Foresto
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“Like a good beauty editor, sunscreen is not a step I skip even on the darkest, rainiest days. I like this Medicube SPF because it's light and absorbs quickly but still feels moisturizing, plus it has a very subtle radiant finish. Unlike other sunscreens, it doesn't leave a white cast behind and it also doesn't feel thick and sticky on my face. But, most importantly for me, it does not make my makeup pill. I use it as the last step in my moisturizing routine every morning, after a hyaluronic acid serum and a moisturizing cream, and before concealer and foundation.” —Alessandra Foresto, managing editor
More to know
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- Sunscreen type: chemical
- Key ingredients: 13.6% homosalate, 9% octocrylene, 4.5% octisalate, 2.7% avobenzone, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, ceramides, collagen, peptides, Centella asiatica
- Fragrance-free: yes
Very A-peel-ing: Collagen Wrapping Mask
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Medicube
Collagen Wrapping Mask
Amazon
Allure features director Dianna Mazzone Singh peeling off the Medicube Collagen Night Wrapping Mask
Dianna Singh
Why it's worth it: No wonder Medicube’s Collagen Wrapping Mask has gone viral—there aren’t many skin-care products that deliver that kind of instant gratification. Still, the appeal goes beyond the peel. Unlike traditional peel-off masks that focus on quick, surface-level results, this one acts more like an overnight cocoon, sealing in hydration while you sleep before lifting away in the morning. The thick, elastic texture sets into a flexible film that feels cushioning rather than tight.
Inside, it’s packed with familiar favorites: collagen, hyaluronic acid, and ceramides to help skin look plumper and hydrated, plus niacinamide to boost glow and adenosine to smooth the look of fine lines. A few less-expected additions—like agave stem extract and chlorella (a nutrient-rich algae)—support skin resilience, so you wake up looking refreshed, not just temporarily glazed.
Tester feedback from features director Dianna Singh
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"The way my skin looks with a layer of Medicube Collagen Night Wrapping Mask is exactly how I want my skin to look without it: glassy, glowy, and clear. And with each overnight—yes, overnight—application of its niacinamide- and hyaluronic acid-infused formula, I get a little bit closer to that goal. I've been using it once or twice a week and never cease to be delighted by the satisfaction of peeling it away in the morning." —Dianna Singh, features director
More to know
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- Mask type: peel-off mask
- Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, glycerin, vitamin E, ceramide Np, collagen extract
Set the Tone: Collagen Milk Toning Wrapping Mask
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Medicube
Collagen Milk Toning Wrapping Mask
Amazon
Han applying the Medicube Collagen Milk Toning Wrapping Mask
Sarah Han
Why it’s worth it: Unlike the original Collagen Wrapping Mask, which stays put overnight, the Collagen Milk Toning Wrapping Mask gets to work in just 20 minutes. And if you’ve ever browsed beauty shelves in Seoul, you’ve likely seen the phrase “tone-up” everywhere—no, it doesn’t relate to toner. It’s actually pretty literal, referring to formulas that help visibly brighten, even out, and clarify your overall skin tone.
This particular peel-off mask creates that effect with niacinamide, alpha-arbutin, and glutathione to target dullness and discoloration on the spot, while collagen water and collagen amino acids add a subtle, bouncy plumpness. Milk protein extract gives skin that softly blurred finish, and ceramides, Centella asiatica, and panthenol round things out with barrier support. As it sets, the formula forms a flexible, opaque wrapping layer that seals everything in.
Han before applying the Medicube Collagen Milk Toning Wrapping Mask
Han after applying the Medicube Collagen Milk Toning Wrapping Mask
Tester feedback from Han
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“Nothing against overnight masks, but this tosser-and-turner simply doesn't mesh with that sort of wear time. Medicube's most viral collagen mask may be the overnight formula but I jumped for joy when I heard the K-beauty brand launched a 20-minute milky version. It is a little sticky when applying (to be expected, though), but easy to slather on a thick layer—crucial to a seamless peel-off. (It's ok if said layer isn't super even!) After time is up and I remove the mask, my skin definitely looks a bit brighter (thanks niacinamide), though I'm not sure about the firming claims. I'll leave that task to my heavier-duty, leave-on serums. All in all, it's a solid mask I can see myself using once a week.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor
More to know
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- Key ingredients: niacinamide, alpha-arbutin, glutathione, collagen water, collagen amino acids, ceramides, Centella asiatica, panthenol
- Fragrance-free: yes
Pretty in Pink: Pink Peptide Serum
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Medicube
Pink Peptide Serum
Amazon
Allure video producer Lauren Alberti applying the Medicube Pink Peptide Serum
Lauren Alberti
Why it's worth it: This won’t be the first time you’ll hear about PDRN. It works so well because these topical salmon DNA derivatives are “very similar to human DNA and can help with skin quality, luminosity, and texture,” New York City-based board-certified plastic surgeon Jennifer Levine, MD, told Allure. The supporting players do their part, too: Niacinamide helps brighten and refine, while adenosine and a multi-peptide blend (including copper peptides) lend a firmer, healthier-looking finish. Hydrators like glycerin and sodium hyaluronate keep things comfortably plump, and a mix of botanical extracts—rose, turmeric, holy basil—adds a calming layer.
Tester feedback from video producer Lauren Alberti
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“I've been using this product for the last few months as part of my never-ending battle against dry skin. After a few uses, I could see that this was definitely contributing to more hydrated-looking skin, helping me achieve that dewy glow. I typically use it with the Medicube Booster Pro to really get the product into my pores.” —Lauren Alberti, video producer
More to know
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- Key ingredients: salmon PDRN, niacinamide, adenosine, peptides, glycerin, sodium hyaluronate, rose, turmeric, holy basil
- Fragrance-free: no
Pink Drink: PDRN Pink Vita Coating Sheet Mask
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Medicube
PDRN Pink Vita Coating Sheet Mask
Amazon
Why it's worth it: In this face mask, PDRN not only helps repair a compromised skin barrier but also works to fade dark spots and hyperpigmentation, revealing a brighter, healthier-looking complexion over time. It’s also infused with collagen and pink vitamin B12 to help soften the look of fine lines, restore elasticity, and refine overall skin texture. The sheet itself hits that ideal middle ground: not so flimsy that it bunches or folds in on itself, but not so thick that it feels stiff or prone to slipping. It hugs the contours of your face, stays in place without constant adjusting, and makes the whole experience feel comfortable, soothing, and—yes—like a true self-care moment.
Lee applying the Medicube PDRN Pink Vita Coating Sheet Mask
Christa Joanna Lee
Lee after applying the Medicube PDRN Pink Vita Coating Sheet Mask
Christa Joanna Lee
Tester feedback from Lee
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“I’ve tried enough sheet masks to know that if it won’t stay put, I’m already annoyed. This one is so clingy in the best way. I usually mask while I’m WFH, sitting upright at my desk, so that alone is a huge win. It also has this consistently cool, refreshing feel, even in the warmer months. Paired with the formula, it leaves my skin feeling really comforted and calm afterward.” —Christa Lee, contributing commerce writer
More to know
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- Key ingredients: salmon PDRN, collagen, pink vitamin B12
- Fragrance-free: no
Pore Over This: Zero Pore Pads
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Medicube
Zero Pore Pads
Amazon
Allure associate social media manager Katie Gunderman applying the Medicube Zero Pore Pads
Katie Gunderman
Why it’s worth it: No offense to the classic cotton pad you soak yourself with, but it never quite hits the same, especially if you have acne-prone skin, where too much product or extra friction can make things worse. Pre-soaked toner pads take the guesswork out, giving you a consistent amount of formula every time and a gentler, more controlled swipe.
Medicube’s Zero Pore Pads are saturated with a clarifying blend that exfoliates dead skin, absorbs excess oil, and helps keep pores looking clear without overdoing it. Salicylic acid works deep in the pores to help prevent breakouts by breaking down buildup, while lactic acid smooths uneven texture. And with calming ingredients like Centella asiatica, panthenol, and allantoin, skin stays balanced.
Tester feedback from associate social media manager Katie Gunderman
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“The Medicube Zero Pore Toner Pads are always the first step. They refresh my face and prep it for the rest of my skin-care or makeup routine. They always leave my skin feeling clean and hydrated and I love how easy they are to pop on.” —Katie Gunderman, associate social media manager
More to know
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- Key ingredients: lactic acid, salicylic acid, Centella asiatica, panthenol, allantoin
- Fragrance-free: yes
- Number of pads: 70
Bursting Bounce: PDRN Pink Collagen Capsule Cream
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Medicube
PDRN Pink Collagen Capsule Cream
Amazon
Why it's worth it: The tiny pink capsules in the PDRN Pink Collagen Capsule Cream resemble popping boba—firm at first, then melting seamlessly into skin upon contact. Each capsule is filled with PDRN, helping keep it stable and potent until it hits your skin. Once released, it blends into the surrounding gel-like formula, which features collagen to support firmer-looking skin, hyaluronic acid for deep hydration, and niacinamide to help brighten uneven tone.
How you mix the capsules with the gel depends on your skin type: Oilier skin types can lean more on the lightweight gel (about a 2:1 ratio), while normal or combination skin does well with an even split. If your skin is dry or sensitive, dial up the number of capsules (1:2) to add extra nourishment and bounce.
Lee applying the Medicube PDRN Pink Collagen Capsule Cream
Christa Joanna Lee
Lee after applying the Medicube PDRN Pink Collagen Capsule Cream
Christa Joanna Lee
Tester feedback from Lee
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“The texture is the main event here. There’s something oddly satisfying about watching the capsules break down and mix with the gel-cream, like you’re creating a fresh batch of skin care every time you apply it. And beyond the sensorial appeal, my skin always looks plumper and glowier.” —Christa Lee, contributing commerce writer
More to know
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- Key ingredients: salmon PDRN, collagen, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide
- Fragrance-free: no
No Rough Patches: PDRN Caffeine Collagen Eye Patch
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Medicube
PDRN Caffeine Collagen Eye Patch
Amazon
Why it’s worth it: It’s kind of hard to believe Medicube didn’t have undereye patches until recently, but these feel well worth the wait. The brand recommends layering them over its PDRN Pink Peptide Eye Cream to seal everything in and enhance absorption, though the patches are juicy and hydrating enough to hold their own. In just 10 minutes, salmon-derived PDRN supports collagen production and boosts hydration, softening the look of fine lines and dark circles.
There’s also a blend of seven types of collagen, which (while too large to penetrate deeply) is excellent at locking in moisture and creating a smoother, plumper look. Caffeine steps in to de-puff and revive tired eyes. Also worth noting: Despite the name, these aren’t limited to undereyes—you can even use them on forehead lines, smile lines, or anywhere that could use a little smoothing.
More to know
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- Key ingredients: salmon PDRN, collagen, caffeine
- Fragrance-free: yes
Triple Threat: 3-Step Facial Device
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Medicube
3-Step Facial Device
Amazon
Why it's worth it: By the time you’ve made it to the end of this list, you’re basically a Medicube expert, so wouldn’t it only feel right to have the tools to match? The brand’s 3-Step Facial Device is the kind of upgrade that makes your routine feel a little more legit, powered by the Mini Booster Pro Plus—a lighter, smaller, more streamlined version of the Age-R Booster Pro with fewer modes—that works on its own or clicks into interchangeable heads depending on what your skin needs that day.
The V-Roller Head is where things get especially good. It’s designed at a 62-degree angle, which sounds technical but really just means it glides along your cheekbones and jawline with even pressure and coverage. The modes let you shift gears depending on your mood: Red Mode for a firmer, bouncier look over time, Blue Mode for mornings when your face is holding onto last night (it helps de-puff and refine), and Purple Mode shifts into body care territory, which is surprisingly nice for tension in the neck and shoulders.
Then there’s the cleansing attachment, which goes beyond your hands to really get into pores, helping clear buildup, blackheads, and all those tricky little areas around the nose. You can go all in and use everything together in the same skin-care routine, or just pick your lane on any given day.
More to know
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- What’s included: Mini Booster Pro Plus, V-Roller Head, Cleansing Device
Frequently Asked Questions
Meet the experts
- Charlotte Cho, an esthetician and co-founder of Soko Glam based in New York City
- Jennifer Levine, MD, a board-certified plastic surgeon based in New York City
How we test and review products
When Allure tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle in an effort to best serve you. We review ingredients, scrutinize brand claims, and, when necessary, examine peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies. In addition to testing each and every product that's included in each and every review, we rely on experts who shape their fields, including dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine, to help us vet the ingredients and formulas.
For our list of the best clay masks, we considered each product's performance across five primary categories: product ingredients and efficacy, packaging, fragrance, texture, and product wear. Every product was determined to have excelled in each category by our editorial team, which is composed of in-house writers and editors as well as contributors—along with special consideration from dermatologists. To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our complete reviews process and methodology page.
Our staff and testers
A beauty product is a personal purchase. You might be searching for a face cream to address persistent dryness or a new nail product to add to your Sunday self-care routine; you may simply be browsing around for the latest launches to hit the hair market. No matter what you seek or your individual needs and concerns, Allure wants to ensure that you love anything we recommend in our stories. We believe that having a diverse team of writers and editors—in addition to the wide range of outside testers and industry experts we regularly call upon—is essential to reaching that goal.
After all, can we really say a skin-care product is the "best" for people over 50 if the only testers we've solicited opinions from folks who have yet to hit 30? Can we honestly deem a high-end diffuser worthy of your hard-earned cash if it's never been tested on curls? We're proud that our staff spans a wide range of ages, skin tones, hair textures, genders, and backgrounds, which means that we are able to fairly assess any beauty product that comes into the beauty closet.
