When there’s a skincare brand that has gone viral, I’m on it.

It seems like every week there’s a new “holy grail”; a new must-have serum, some life-changing SPF or some influencer swearing this one product changed their skin and life.

But in the middle of all the chaos, there’s one brand that keeps quietly (and sometimes not-so-quietly) climbing the charts — medicube. If you’ve spent any time scrolling through TikTok’s #skincare side or wandered into the K-beauty rabbit hole on YouTube, you’ve probably already seen it and have wondered if products clad with collagen and turmeric are worth it.

Originally born out of South Korea’s hyper-clinical, no-nonsense beauty scene, medicube has carved out a name for itself as the dermatologist-approved solution for anyone tired of playing skincare roulette. Unlike a lot of K-beauty brands that lean whimsical (think: fruit-shaped packaging or 10-step routines), medicube is all business.

It’s more on the vibe of lab coats, medical charts and results that supposedly show up in days. It’s one of the big reasons why people can’t stop talking about it, and why I had to snag its best-sellers and put them to the test.

Thanks to viral TikToks, glowing Reddit threads and a flurry of “wait, what is that device?” Instagram reels, the brand has found itself on bathroom shelves around the world. Products like the Zero Pore Pad, Red Line Acne Set and high-tech AGE-R skin devices are everywhere right now, racking up millions of views and thousands of fans who claim it’s the first brand that actually fixed their skin.

Here’s what makes medicube different: it doesn’t care about being cute. It’s not trying to give you spa vibes or make your face smell like peaches. It wants to get in, solve the problem (be it acne, texture or giant pores), and get out. This stripped-down, results-first philosophy makes it feel a little more like a doctor’s recommendation than your average beauty brand — and honestly, that’s kind of refreshing.

In this review, I’m going all in, as I usually do (read: my e.l.f. Cosmetics and Drunk Elephant reviews). Here, I’m testing the most talked-about products, digging into what works (and what doesn’t), and figuring out whether medicube deserves a spot in your skincare routine.

Let’s dive into medicube’s greatest hits — and a few underrated gems — because this lineup is pretty amazing.

You know when a product claims it’s going to transform your skin in a day and you roll your eyes? That was me — until I tried the medicube One Day Exosome Shot 2000. This stuff is like a power serum, packed with 2000 ppm of Lactobacillus exosomes (don’t worry, I had to Google it too), which are basically little delivery systems that tell your skin to start acting younger. They help boost collagen, calm irritation, and smooth out texture. It’s especially great if you’re dealing with pores, dullness or that “my skin’s just… blah” feeling.

What I really love is that it doesn’t stop there. It’s also got a trio of exfoliating acids — AHA, BHA and PHA — that gently resurface your skin without making it angry. Niacinamide helps brighten and smooth, while panthenol keeps everything nice and calm, so my skin doesn’t feel tight or dry afterward. It somehow manages to be super effective without being harsh, which is honestly rare. I use it when I want my skin to behave before a big day, or when it’s been acting up and needs a little reset.

Here’s how I use it: After cleansing at night, I pump out about one or two drops and press it into my skin (avoid your eyes and lips; it tingles a bit). I only use it once or twice a week, because it’s potent, and then I always follow up with a good moisturizer. The next morning, my skin looks fresher, smoother and weirdly more alive. This one has become my go-to whenever I need results fast without a lot of fuss.

Size: 1.01 ounces | Key ingredients: Exosome, AHA, BHA, PHA

This one is your Sunday spa-night essential with a spicy twist — literally. With kojic acid and turmeric, it tackles hyperpigmentation and dullness like it’s on a mission. But don’t worry, it’s not one of those aggressive peel-your-face-off situations; it’s a cooling gel that feels as soothing as it is effective, and it gives you that lit-from-within glow without any redness drama. If radiance were a mood, this mask is wearing it like highlighter on the cheekbones.

The medicube Kojic Acid Turmeric Brightening Gel Mask’s ingredients are what really sold me. It’s got kojic acid, which is great for fading dark spots and hyperpigmentation, plus turmeric extract, which helps calm the skin while giving you a natural glow. There’s also niacinamide in there (aka vitamin B3, aka skin’s best friend) for brightening and barrier repair, and a mix of collagen, ceramides and even probiotics to keep your skin hydrated and happy. When I use it, I know my skin is being pampered but also seriously cared for.

Here’s how I use it: I cleanse my face, maybe swipe on some toner, then apply the gel mask and let it sit for at least an hour (or longer if you want; it won’t dry out). The mask starts to turn clear when it’s done doing its thing. I usually use it a couple of times a week, especially when my skin looks uneven or tired, and honestly, the glow the next morning is real. If you’re dealing with post-acne marks or just want to look more fresh and even-toned, this is 100% worth a try.

Size: 4 face masks per pack | Key ingredients: Kojic Acid, Turmeric, Niacinamide

If you’re looking to elevate your skincare routine with a touch of luxury, the Medicube Salmon DNA PDRN Pink Collagen Gel Mask is truly a game-changer. It’s a jelly-textured, color-changing experience that transforms from pink to clear as it absorbs, signaling your skin’s optimal hydration. It’s infused with Salmon DNA PDRN and low-molecular hydrolyzed collagen, promising to boost elasticity, smooth fine lines and deliver a radiant, plump complexion. Bonus: Its cooling effect instantly refreshes and soothes skin, making it perfect for evening use or as a relaxing weekend ritual.

Compared to the medicube Kojic Acid Turmeric Brightening Gel Mask, the Salmon DNA PDRN Pink Collagen Gel Mask leans more towards deep hydration and skin rejuvenation, so I’d say it’s more ideal for those seeking a plump, youthful glow. On the other hand, the Kojic Acid Turmeric Brightening Gel Mask focuses on evening out skin tone and brightening, targeting concerns like hyperpigmentation and dullness.

Both masks are excellent additions to your skincare arsenal, but your choice should depend on your specific skin needs. If you’re after hydration and elasticity, the Salmon DNA PDRN Pink Collagen Gel Mask is your go-to; if brightening is your priority, the Kojic Acid Turmeric Brightening Gel Mask has got you covered.

Here’s how I use it: In terms of application, it’s straightforward yet indulgent. After cleansing, apply the mask and leave it on for 1 to 3 hours, or overnight if you prefer. As it dries, the mask becomes transparent, indicating that your skin is fully absorbing the nourishing ingredients. Once removed, I gently pat any remaining essence into my skin to ensure full absorption.

For best results, incorporate this mask into your routine two to three times a week. Consistent use can lead to noticeable improvements in skin texture, elasticity and overall hydration, giving you that coveted “glass skin” effect, but you’ll surely reap the benefits if you use it every once in a while.

Size: 4 face masks per pack | Key ingredients: Salmon DNA, Niacinamide, Collagen

Ah, yes, the one that started it all. These toner pads are legendary for a reason. They gently exfoliate with AHA and BHA, swipe away gunk you didn’t even know was there, and somehow shrink your pores like magic. One pad equals being one step closer to glass skin. It’s the product you recommend to your friends, your partner, your mail carrier — because everyone benefits from having cleaner, tighter, happier skin.

The medicube Zero Pore Pad is like your skin’s reset button, especially on those days when my pores are having an identity crisis. Each pad is soaked in a mild AHA and BHA formula that gently exfoliates dead skin while helping to unclog pores and smooth texture. What makes it even better is the dual-sided design: one side is slightly textured for a light polish, and the other is smooth to swipe away any residue. You just glide it across your face after cleansing — morning or night — and it leaves my skin feeling impossibly clean without that tight, stripped sensation.

Ingredient-wise, I consider it a thoughtful mix: salicylic acid (hello, blackhead control), lactic acid for gentle exfoliation, and a blend of plant extracts like tea tree leaf and witch hazel to calm things down. I like that it’s fragrance-free too (aka, no unnecessary fluff). If you’re someone who’s overwhelmed by a 10-step skincare routine but still craves that polished, glass-skin look, this is a great little staple to have in your arsenal. It’s not a miracle worker, but it’s incredibly reliable.

Here’s how I use it: I use it about three to four times a week, depending on how my skin’s behaving. If I’m wearing more makeup than usual or my T-zone is acting up, I’ll use it daily for a few days to bring things back into balance. It’s especially good before applying makeup, because it creates this smooth canvas that helps foundation apply more evenly. Just follow it up with your serum and moisturizer, and you’re good. It’s quick, easy, and doesn’t feel like a commitment, which is what I want from my skincare on busy weekdays.

Size: 5.46 ounces (70 pads) | Key ingredients: Salicylic Acid, Lactic Acid, Tea Tree Leaf, Witch Hazel

This is your skin’s version of tucking itself into a silk blanket with a collagen cocktail in hand. It’s a rich, leave-on overnight mask that works while you sleep to boost elasticity and lock in moisture. The next morning, you’ll wake up looking like you’ve been stress-free and living on green juice, even if you fell asleep bingeing reality TV. No judgment, just great skin.

As one of the brand’s most viral and most-shopped-for products, the Collagen Night Wrapping Mask —aka the skincare equivalent of a full night’s sleep in a jar. This isn’t your average “slap it on and hope for the best” overnight mask. Instead, it’s a lightweight, bouncy gel-cream that melts into your skin and wraps it in this invisible film, sealing in hydration like a dream.

The texture is worth talking about: it’s got this cool, almost memory-foam-like consistency that feels soothing as soon as you apply it. It doesn’t feel sticky or heavy, which is a huge win for an overnight product. The collagen complex is the star here, obviously, but it also packs in peptides, panthenol and ceramides, all of which are skin-repairing MVPs. There’s also niacinamide for brightening and adenosine to help with fine lines, so while it’s super hydrating, it’s also doing that behind-the-scenes firming and plumping work while you sleep.

Here’s how I use it: I use it as the very last step of my nighttime routine, usually two to three times a week (or whenever my skin looks like it’s been through it — dry patches, dullness, you name it). You don’t wash it off. Simply sleep in it and let it work its magic.

The real “wow” moment is in the morning. I wake up with skin that feels smoother, looks bouncier and has that subtle glow that makes people compliment whatever I’m putting on my face. It’s especially great after travel, a stressful week or a few too many late nights. If you’re someone who wants results without doing the most, this mask is your low-effort, high-reward secret weapon. Just smooth on a layer before bed, let it cocoon your skin, and enjoy looking in the mirror (a little too much) the next day.

Size: 2.53 ounces | Key ingredients: Collagen, Niacinamide, Ceramides

The bold cousin of the collagen version, this one is here to fight pigmentation and uneven tone while you dream of being on a beach somewhere. Kojic acid + turmeric equals melanin moderation with zero harshness. It’s especially great if you have post-acne marks or dull spots that won’t go away. Also, who knew a night mask could smell this good while doing this much?

Now let’s talk ingredients, because this one means business. Kojic acid is the hero: a gentle yet effective brightener that targets dark spots and hyperpigmentation without being harsh. Paired with turmeric (an anti-inflammatory antioxidant powerhouse), it really helps calm down my skin’s redness while evening out its tone. There’s also niacinamide in the mix, which feels like a familiar friend at this point, plus soothing elements like allantoin and panthenol so your barrier doesn’t get mad. It’s basically a brightening treatment dressed up as a hydrating night mask, which I love.

Here’s how I use it: Similar to the Collagen Night Wrapping Mask, this one is all about brightening and evening out skin tone, and it’s been a quiet game-changer in my routine. The texture is similar — cool, cushiony and gel-like — but the formula leans more active. You still apply it as the very last step of your nighttime skincare, but instead of just waking up looking rested, you wake up looking like your skin has been subtly airbrushed. I use it about two to three times a week, especially when my skin is feeling a bit uneven or lackluster.

I find this mask to be more results-driven, compared to the best-selling Collagen version, which surprised me. The Collagen Mask is all about hydration, plumping and that dewy bounce; it’s your skin’s comfort blanket. The Kojic Acid Turmeric version is your skin’s personal trainer: it’s still nurturing, but it’s focused, correcting and slightly more assertive. Honestly, I like having both on hand. Think of the Collagen Mask as your Sunday self-care staple, and the Kojic Acid Turmeric one as your midweek glow-up treatment.

Size: 2.53 ounces | Key ingredients: Kojic Acid, Vitamin C, Retinol, Turmeric, Collagen

Bouncy, light and oddly fun to scoop, this cream has the texture of dessert and the results of a high-end treatment. It gives my skin a plump, youthful bounce without going overboard. It’s the cream equivalent of a really good filter you didn’t need to swipe on.

Honestly, it’s kind of become my skincare BFF lately. The texture is what caught me first: it’s this lightweight, bouncy jelly that feels super refreshing on the skin, not heavy or greasy at all. I like to use it right after my serum, usually in the morning and at night. Just scoop out a small amount, gently pat it onto your face, and let it absorb. It’s quick, no sticky residue and perfect if you want something hydrating but not overwhelming.

What’s cool about this cream is its ingredient lineup. Collagen is the star here, obviously, which is amazing for boosting elasticity and giving your skin that plump, youthful vibe. It’s also packed with squalene and niacinamide to help skin feel more balanced. If you’re into anti-aging but don’t want something heavy, this jelly cream strikes a nice balance. Plus, it’s formulated without harsh irritants, so even if you have sensitive skin, it’s pretty gentle.

If you’re someone who gets bored with thick creams or feels like moisturizers weigh you down, this one is a nice switch-up. Use it consistently, morning and night, and you’ll start to notice your skin looking a little more bouncy and fresh — like it just drank a glass of water. It’s one of those underrated gems that feels luxurious but is actually practical for daily use. Totally recommend giving it a go if you want a simple, effective way to keep your skin happy without any hassle.

Size: 1.69 ounces | Key ingredients: Collagen, Squalene, Niacinamide

Now this one’s a little fancy. Inside the jar of medicube PDRN Salmon DNA Pink Collagen Capsule Cream: Tiny pink capsules suspended in a cream that melts on contact. Each capsule contains PDRN goodness for repairing and rejuvenating tired skin. It feels luxe and performs like a dream, giving my skin that firm, lifted look that’s certainly noticeable in the best way.

When I apply it, I love how the pink capsules burst into a lightweight gel, delivering a rush of hydration and a subtle glow to my skin.

Here’s how I use it: Incorporating this into your routine is a breeze. After cleansing and toning, scoop a moderate amount and blend the pink capsules with the gel base in your palm. Apply it evenly to your face and neck, massaging gently until fully absorbed. You can use it both morning and night. The customizable texture allows you to adjust the capsule-to-gel ratio based on your skin’s needs; more capsules for extra hydration and elasticity, more gel for a lighter feel.

What’s truly remarkable is the ingredient synergy. Niacinamide brightens and evens out skin tone, while collagen and hyaluronic acid provide deep hydration and plumpness. Together, they work to improve skin texture, firmness, and brightness, keeping your skin soft and dewy all day. It’s ideal for that snatched, youthful skin.

Size: 1.94 ounces | Key ingredients: Salmon DNA, Niacinamide, Collagen, Hyaluronic Acid

Vitamin C, but make it encapsulated and extra! This brightening powerhouse is like skincare armor against dullness, pollution and general life stress. It’s great for anyone battling uneven skin tone, dark spots or just looking to glow harder than their LED mask.

Bonus: it doesn’t have that metallic C smell some vitamin creams do. Instead, it smells like your skin’s about to have a great day. My jaw actually dropped when I saw the encapsulated vitamin C — it’s like a glow bath in a tub.

These tiny vitamin C capsules literally burst when you apply it — so you’re getting super fresh, stabilized vitamin C right where you need it. What does that mean for your skin? Brighter tone, faded dark spots and an overall more even, radiant look. The texture is this silky-smooth dream that sinks in fast and has the most unbelievable texture. It boasts a really luxe finish that makes my skin feel instantly more hydrated and awake.

You’ll want to use it twice a day — morning and night — after cleansing and toning, and right before you seal everything in with sunscreen (during the day) or a heavier moisturizer (at night, if you’re feeling dry). It layers really well, so you don’t have to worry about pilling or product overload. In the morning, the vitamin C gives you an extra layer of protection against pollution and sun damage (don’t skip the SPF!). At night, it works with your skin’s natural repair process to help you wake up looking brighter and more refreshed.

What makes this cream different is how the vitamin C is stored in those little capsules — it stays potent until the second you apply it, which is a big deal since vitamin C usually breaks down fast. Additionally, it’s loaded with skin-soothers like niacinamide and panthenol, so even if your skin tends to be a little reactive, it’s pretty gentle. If you’re just starting out with vitamin C, try using it once a day for the first few days just to make sure your skin is cool with it. But honestly? It’s one of those products that feels fancy, works hard and delivers — which is rare.

Size: 1.94 ounces | Key ingredients: Vitamin C, Niacinamide

This foamy dream is gentle but effective, like a polite bouncer kicking out every last trace of makeup, oil and dirt. It pairs perfectly with the Zero Pore Pad and leaves your skin feeling clean but not squeaky. If you’ve been burned by foaming cleansers before (tightness! flakes!), this one will redeem the entire category for you.

The medicube Zero Foam Cleanser is a game-changer if you’re after a gentle yet effective cleanser. It’s formulated specifically for sensitive skin, so it’s perfect if you’re prone to irritation or have a more reactive complexion (aka, me). The texture is a soft, creamy foam that lathers up beautifully without stripping your skin. It contains natural ingredients like Chlorogalum leaf and root extract, Wintergreen leaf extract and Quince, which work together to control sebum, maintain moisture balance, and minimize pores. These components also provide gentle exfoliation, leaving my skin feeling clean and refreshed without any tightness.

Using it is straightforward: just wet your face with warm water, apply a small amount of the cleanser to your palm and lather it up. Gently massage it onto your face, avoiding the eye area, and then rinse off thoroughly with water. For best results, use it twice daily — morning and night. It’s a staple in my skincare routine that preps your skin perfectly for the next steps and I find it absorbs rather quickly for holding a thicker consistency.

Now, I also reviewed (and adore) Biodance Collagen Mask To Foam Cleanser, and there are some notable differences. The Biodance cleanser doubles as a mask, offering a more intensive treatment. It contains ingredients like low molecular collagen, niacinamide and galactomyces ferment filtrate, which aim to hydrate, brighten and firm the skin. However, the medicube cleanser is designed with gentle ingredients that find serve sensitive skin a bit better.

Size: 4.23 ounces | Key ingredients: Chlorogalum Leaf and Root Extract, Wintergreen Leaf Extract, Quince

Alright, let me tell you about the medicube Salmon DNA PDRN Pink Cica Soothing Toner. This formulation has been a total game changer in my routine lately.

The standout here is the Salmon DNA PDRN ingredient; it’s known for promoting skin regeneration and healing, which makes this toner feel like a mini reset button for your complexion. Plus, the addition of Pink Cica really amps up the calming, anti-redness effect.

Here’s the intel: if I had to pick a holy grail for sensitive or irritated skin days, I’d reach for this toner every time. The ingredient list is thoughtful — you’ve got that regenerative power from Salmon DNA PDRN, anti-inflammatory Pink Cica and plenty of hydrating agents to keep everything balanced.

It’s a subtle but powerful product that really helps maintain my skin’s health, unlike some cleansers that can sometimes over-strip or feel too heavy for everyday use. So if you’re looking for that gentle, soothing boost after cleansing or just want to keep your skin calm and happy, give this toner a shot. It’s like a breath of fresh air for your face and a hidden gem in medicube’s catalog.

Here’s how I use it: First off, the texture is super lightweight and hydrating, like a gentle splash of moisture that instantly calms your skin. I usually apply it right after cleansing with a cotton pad or just my hands, patting it in softly to avoid any irritation. You can totally use it twice a day, morning and night, and it feels so soothing, especially if your skin’s feeling stressed or sensitive.

Size: 8.45 ounces | Key ingredients: Salmon DNA, Cica

Welcome to the future of skincare. This sleek little device is part facialist, part miracle-worker. It uses radio-frequency tech (yes, the kind you’d normally pay big $$$ for at a clinic) to firm, lift and tighten skin at home. The name may sound like a spaceship, but the results? Firm jawlines, fewer fine lines and skin that legit looks snatched when used consistently. It’s the closest thing to having a med-spa in your nightstand drawer.

I still can’t get over how it’s like a mini spa day in your hand. This sleek, white device uses high-frequency waves (40.68 MHz, to be exact) and microcurrent technology to stimulate collagen production and tighten skin. What’s cool is that you don’t need any special gels; just make sure your skincare products have fully absorbed before using it. You can use it daily for five to 10 minutes, and it even has an app to customize settings and track your progress. It’s a game-changer for sagging areas like the jawline, under-eyes and nasolabial folds.

Here’s how I use it: For use, be sure to move continuously and do not stop at one area while using the device. For highly reactive skin, I’d recommend using it at the lowest level (Level 1) and adjusting accordingly. As noted on the product’s description, do not use on these areas: Adam’s apple and eye areas (eyelids and directly below the eyes).

When you use it, the six tips need to be in full contact with your skin. If they’re not, the device won’t deliver maximum energy. So, keep it moving slowly and steadily. A little warmth is normal, and some users report a slight redness afterward, which is just the heat working its magic. But, if you have sensitive skin or conditions like high blood pressure, it’s best to consult with a dermatologist before using it.

In terms of results, I’ve noticed my skin becoming a bit firmer and more lifted skin after consistent use. It’s not a miracle worker, but it’s a solid addition to your skincare routine. Plus, it’s more affordable than regular spa treatments. If you’re looking to enhance your skincare game, the Medicube Age-R Ultra Tune 40.68 is worth considering.

Size: 5 interchangeable heads | Key features: RF technology to help firm the skin and make it look more youthful; MC technology to help add volume to facial contours with its micro-current technology

If you’re wading through the wild world of Korean skincare (or skincare in general), medicube comes across like that underrated friend who quietly knows their stuff, sans flashy promises; just solid, science-backed skincare that works.

Medicube rides the K-beauty wave by blending clinical skincare with sleek, minimal packaging that screams modern apothecary vibes. Unlike the playful charm of Biodance, which leans into whimsical, artful formulations, Medicube feels more like the serious student of skincare, focusing on dermatologist-tested ingredients designed for real skin problems like acne and sensitivity. If you’re looking for straightforward, no-nonsense products that pack a more clinical punch, medicube has that it-factor.

Now, how does Medicube stack up against other Korean giants like belif, Dr. Jart+ and COSRX? Well, belif is the poetic herbalist: luxurious, plant-powered and with a soothing, almost old-school apothecary appeal. Dr. Jart+ is the trendsetter with its innovative formulations and cult-favorite Cicapair line that’s part science, part art, and a total skincare mood.

COSRX — one I’ve reviewed in its near-entirety — is the holy grail for acne-prone skin lovers who want simple, effective and budget-friendly solutions.

Medicube slots neatly between these brands: it’s more clinical and targeted than belif’s botanical romance, less experimental than Dr. Jart+, but still more polished and potent than the pared-down basics of COSRX.

So, are Medicube products worth it? If you crave a blend of clinical credibility with the accessible cool factor of K-beauty, medicube is a solid bet. If results matter more to you than the razzle-dazzle (which they should!), medicube definitely deserves a spot on your shelf.

Here’s the detailed testing criteria I kept in mind while reviewing each of medicube’s formulas for at least 3 weeks:

Yes, medicube is a popular brand in Korea, as well as in the United States, and has become one of the most mentioned in discussions about facial contouring and elasticity, especially with its Age-R Ultra Tune 40.68 device.

The brand’s focus on clinical efficacy, combined with strategic marketing and celebrity endorsements, positions it as one to watch in the evolving K-beauty landscape.

Yes, you can generally use medicube products every day, but it depends on the specific product and your skin type.

Its assortment of cleansers, toners, moisturizers and acne treatments is typically formulated for daily use to improve the user’s skin. For example, its Zero Pore line for pore care is designed to be gentle enough for everyday routines.

However, take more caution with skincare devices, especially if your skin is reactive. Some devices are safe for daily use, especially if they are gentle, like the Age-R Ultra Tune 40.68, but everyone’s skin is different. Consult with your dermatologist for any personal skincare concerns before use.

This article was written by Victoria Giardina, New York Post Commerce Journalist & Content Strategist, who has spent countless hours researching, testing hundreds of products and comparing the latest makeup, skincare, hair and beauty items and trends to determine what’s truly worth your hard-earned cash. She evaluates formulas, textures, ingredients and more, in addition to consulting medical and industry experts. Some of Victoria’s latest conquests include testing the best vitamin C serums on the market, and a rinse-and-repeat review of the best shampoos of 2025. Victoria, who received a beauty industry essentials certification from the Fashion Institute of Technology, has been creating shopping guides for the New York Post since 2021 and previously held positions at Insider Reviews and CNN Underscored.