Overview

The Centellian 24 PHA Cleansing Pads 60 Count come from Dongkook Pharmaceutical, a South Korean healthcare company with over 50 years of centella asiatica research — the same brand behind Madecasol, a household name in Korean pharmacies. That kind of background matters when a brand enters the skincare space; this isn't a white-label pad with a trendy ingredient slapped on the label. In a typical K-beauty routine, these Korean cleansing pads sit comfortably as a no-rinse second cleanse or a morning refresh step. The PHA and TECA combination is what sets them apart from basic micellar wipes — expect skin that's clean and calmed rather than stripped.

Features & Benefits

The pad itself is double-sided by design — smooth on one face for lifting off makeup and daily grime, embossed with a tiger footprint pattern on the other for light physical exfoliation. PHA, a polyhydroxy acid, is the workhorse here. It exfoliates similarly to glycolic or lactic acid but with much larger molecules, meaning it stays at the skin's surface and causes far less irritation — a real advantage for anyone whose skin has protested AHAs before. TECA, the concentrated centella asiatica extract used in Dongkook's pharmaceutical products, targets redness and supports the skin barrier rather than just acting as a decorative botanical. The no-rinse formula leaves a light, non-sticky finish. One honest note: for full-coverage or waterproof eye makeup, you may still want a dedicated oil-based cleanser first.

Best For

These Korean cleansing pads are an especially good match for people with sensitive or reactive skin who've been burned by stronger acids in the past. The PHA concentration is low enough to use daily without the peeling or tightness that can come with higher-strength exfoliants. If you're already following a K-beauty multi-step routine, this dual-action pad slots in naturally as a combined cleanse-and-tone step, cutting down on the number of products you're layering. It also travels well — a compact jar replaces multiple bottles in a gym or overnight bag. For heavy makeup wearers relying on long-wear or waterproof formulas daily, this pad alone is probably not sufficient for a thorough cleanse; pair it with an oil cleanser or balm for best results.

User Feedback

With a 4.8-star average, the Centellian 24 pads have clearly resonated with buyers — though the review count is still relatively modest, so treat that rating as a promising early signal rather than a definitive verdict. Repeat buyers most often highlight noticeably smoother skin texture after two to four weeks of consistent use, and many mention the pads feel gentler than comparable options from brands like Anua or Some By Mi. The most common criticism centers on the open-jar format: skincare-savvy shoppers flag contamination risk from repeated hand contact. A few reviewers with fragrance sensitivity also note a mild scent. For those expecting full waterproof mascara removal in one swipe, disappointment is possible — an honest limitation worth flagging before purchase.

Pros

  • PHA formula is gentle enough for daily use even on sensitive or barrier-compromised skin.
  • TECA is sourced from a pharmaceutical-grade centella asiatica extract, not a token marketing ingredient.
  • Dual-sided pad design handles both makeup removal and light exfoliation without reaching for extra products.
  • No-rinse formula leaves skin feeling refreshed and calm, not tight or stripped after use.
  • A single jar covers cleansing, toning, and soothing — ideal for streamlined or travel routines.
  • Low PHA concentration makes this a low-risk entry point for acid exfoliation beginners.
  • Consistent users report visibly smoother skin texture within two to four weeks of regular use.
  • Backed by Dongkook Pharmaceutical's 50-plus years of centella asiatica research — not a trend-chasing label.
  • 60 pads per jar delivers solid value relative to comparable K-beauty exfoliating pad formats.
  • Buyers frequently compare these pads favorably to Anua and Some By Mi on gentleness and post-use feel.

Cons

  • Open-jar format creates real contamination risk over time, particularly problematic for acne-prone skin.
  • Waterproof or heavy-coverage makeup will likely still require a separate oil cleanser for thorough removal.
  • The review pool is still relatively small — treat the high star rating as a promising signal, not a settled verdict.
  • No individual wrapping means pads can dry out if the lid is not resealed consistently after each use.
  • Some users with fragrance sensitivity report a noticeable scent that may be off-putting.
  • Pad saturation can be uneven within the jar, with pads near the bottom sometimes drier than those on top.
  • Mild PHA exfoliation takes weeks to show visible results — not suited for buyers wanting fast skin change.
  • Not specifically formulated for oily or acne-prone skin, which may need a more targeted cleansing option.
  • The embossed exfoliating side feels underwhelming for anyone already accustomed to stronger exfoliation methods.
  • No spatula or pump included, so good jar hygiene depends entirely on the user's own habits.

Ratings

The scores below were generated by AI after systematically analyzing verified buyer reviews for the Centellian 24 PHA Cleansing Pads 60 Count from global sources, with spam, bot-generated content, and incentivized feedback actively filtered out before any scoring was applied. Each category reflects the real-world patterns that emerged from what genuine users reported — both the aspects that earned strong loyalty and the friction points that surfaced repeatedly across different skin types and routines. Nothing has been softened or inflated; these Korean cleansing pads are scored on the same scale whether the finding favors the product or not.

Gentle Cleansing Efficacy
86%
Users with normal and mildly dry skin consistently describe their face feeling clean but never tight after use — a balance that is genuinely difficult to find in a pad-format cleanser. Many mention reaching for these pads instead of their regular face wash on low-makeup mornings, appreciating that the no-rinse process feels faster while leaving skin equally refreshed.
For oilier skin types or those who sweat heavily during the day, the cleansing power falls short of what a proper rinse-off cleanser delivers. Several buyers noted the pad alone does not feel sufficient after wearing sunscreen or heavy skincare layering, making a follow-up rinse tempting even when the formula does not technically require one.
Makeup Removal Power
68%
32%
For everyday light foundation, tinted moisturizer, and powder-based products, this dual-action pad does a solid job without requiring much pressure or multiple passes across the face. Buyers frequently praise how easily it lifts BB cream and light blush without tugging, which matters especially for those with thin or sensitive facial skin.
Long-wear and waterproof formulas are where the product consistently hits a ceiling — multiple reviewers confirm that a full face of waterproof mascara or setting-spray-locked foundation still requires an oil cleanser beforehand. Expecting single-step removal for heavy makeup is the most common source of disappointment across the reviewer base.
Exfoliation Performance
77%
23%
The embossed side of the pad provides just enough texture to smooth the skin's surface without feeling scratchy or aggressive — a quality that resonates with users who previously experienced irritation from rougher exfoliating formats. Consistent daily users frequently report a visible reduction in rough patches and dry flakiness within two to three weeks of regular use.
Anyone coming from stronger chemical exfoliants like high-dose glycolic or mandelic acid will likely find the PHA level underwhelming in the early weeks. The exfoliation is cumulative rather than immediate, which can make it feel ineffective to impatient buyers expecting the kind of fast, noticeable resurfacing that more aggressive acids deliver.
Skin Soothing & Calming
91%
This is where the Centellian 24 pads earn their most consistent praise — users with chronically reactive skin, rosacea tendencies, and post-procedure sensitivity frequently describe immediate visible calming after use. Several reviewers mention reaching for these specifically on days when their skin is especially irritated, finding the TECA formula noticeably more effective at reducing redness than standard micellar wipes.
A small subset of users with extreme sensitivity to botanical extracts reported mild tingling on first use, suggesting even pharmaceutical-grade centella is not completely irritant-free for every individual skin type. These cases appear to be the exception rather than the rule, but a brief patch test before committing to daily use remains advisable for highly reactive skin.
Barrier Support
88%
Unlike many exfoliating pads that leave the skin feeling stripped or temporarily vulnerable, these pads appear to actively contribute to barrier health over time — a quality that a notable portion of buyers only recognize after several weeks of consistent use. Users recovering from over-exfoliation or prolonged retinol sensitivity have found the TECA component particularly helpful in rebuilding skin resilience without interrupting their broader routine.
The barrier-supporting effects are slow to emerge and not something most users consciously notice in the first week or two, making it harder to attribute direct causation versus general skincare improvement over time. Users with severely compromised barriers may still need additional dedicated repair products alongside this pad rather than relying on it as a standalone solution.
Value for Money
79%
21%
At a mid-range price point for 60 pads, the cost-per-use is competitive with similarly positioned Korean exfoliating pads that offer less ingredient credibility. Buyers using one pad daily note that a single jar covers nearly two months, making it a reasonable all-in-one replacement for a separate toner and exfoliating step in an otherwise multi-product routine.
Compared to budget-tier wipe formats, the price requires some ingredient-awareness to justify — buyers unfamiliar with the significance of PHA or TECA may not feel they are getting meaningfully more than a standard cleansing wipe. Those who still find themselves reaching for an oil cleanser most evenings may feel the overall value proposition weakens as a result.
Packaging & Hygiene
57%
43%
The compact jar fits neatly into a travel toiletry bag or bathroom shelf without taking up disproportionate space, and the lid seals snugly enough to limit air exposure between uses. Buyers who use a spatula or tweezers to retrieve each pad report no issues with the format over the full lifespan of the jar.
The open-jar format is the most consistently flagged concern among skincare-literate buyers — without a pump, dispensing slot, or individually sealed pads, repeated finger contact introduces contamination risk that grows more significant as the jar nears empty. Users with active breakouts or acne-prone skin in particular should adopt a dedicated retrieval tool as a non-negotiable hygiene habit.
Formula Feel & Finish
83%
The post-use skin feel is a recurring highlight across reviews — skin feels hydrated and calm rather than tacky, filmy, or stripped, which is a frequent complaint with lower-quality pre-soaked pads. Dry to normal skin types especially appreciate that the residual moisture layer removes the need for an immediate separate toner follow-up in their routine.
For oilier skin types, that same residual moisture can feel like one layer too many, and a few buyers describe a faint heaviness that bothers them when skipping the rinse step entirely. The no-rinse design works best on relatively clean skin rather than at the end of a long day with significant product or sebum buildup.
Fragrance & Sensory Experience
74%
26%
The majority of buyers describe the scent as mild and non-offensive — a faint herbal note consistent with centella-based formulas that dissipates quickly after application and does not linger on the skin. For users coming from heavily fragranced toners or floral-scented wipes, the understated sensory profile is frequently cited as a welcome change.
A recurring subset of reviews flags the scent as more noticeable than expected for a product positioned toward sensitive skin, where fragrance-free is generally the safer standard for barrier-compromised users. Buyers with diagnosed fragrance allergies or strong scent sensitivities should review the full INCI list carefully, as isolated reactions to the formula's aromatic components have been reported.
Daily Usability
84%
The no-rinse, pre-soaked format earns consistent praise from buyers who describe integrating these pads into both morning and evening routines with minimal disruption to their existing habits. The dual-sided design also means the pad does more work per step than a standard cotton pad, which buyers in multi-step routines especially appreciate for cutting down on overall routine time.
Users who share a bathroom or have inconsistent routines mention that the open jar requires more intentional hygiene management than a pump or squeeze-bottle format would. The product also rewards consistency heavily — buyers who use it irregularly or skip multiple days at a time tend to report noticeably fewer cumulative skin benefits than daily users.
Travel Convenience
81%
19%
The compact 2.28 x 2.28 x 3.54-inch jar fits easily into a carry-on toiletry bag, and users frequently mention keeping a jar specifically in gym bags or desk drawers because one pad handles cleansing, toning, and exfoliation in a single no-sink-required step. The no-rinse formula is especially practical in situations where access to running water is limited or inconvenient.
The jar format is less leak-resistant than a sealed tube or individually wrapped wipes, requiring some care when packing in checked luggage or exposing it to temperature extremes during transit. There is also no travel-size option currently available, which means committing to the full 60-count jar regardless of how short the trip is.
Ingredient Quality
93%
The formulation stands out in its category because the centella asiatica is delivered as pharmaceutical-grade TECA from Dongkook's 50-year medical research lineage, not a diluted botanical extract listed near the bottom of a competing pad's ingredient deck. Buyers with skincare chemistry knowledge consistently identify this as the brand's most credible and hard-to-replicate differentiator.
The full ingredient list is not always easy to locate on third-party retail listings, leaving less ingredient-savvy buyers unable to independently verify what they are applying to their skin. For anyone managing complex contact sensitivities or known ingredient triggers, tracking down the complete INCI list before purchasing adds a frustrating but necessary extra step to the buying process.
Skin Texture Improvement
76%
24%
Buyers who maintain daily use for four or more weeks frequently describe a meaningful smoothing effect — less visible flakiness, a finer pore appearance, and a more even surface texture overall. This cumulative benefit is the most commonly cited reason repeat buyers reorder, often ranking it higher than the product's cleansing function in terms of personal satisfaction.
The improvement timeline is slow enough that some buyers abandon the product before seeing meaningful results, particularly those who expected visible change within the first week. Users who apply the pads inconsistently or take extended breaks tend to report significantly less texture improvement than those who commit to an uninterrupted daily routine.
Sensitive Skin Compatibility
92%
Sensitive skin buyers represent the most enthusiastic segment of the reviewer base — these pads are repeatedly described as the first exfoliating cleanser users have been able to tolerate daily without triggering redness or barrier disruption. Many specifically mention switching to this format after abandoning AHA toners that proved too aggressive, and finding the transition immediately comfortable.
Despite the strong overall compatibility record, a small number of users with multiple contact sensitivities have reported mild irritation, typically attributed to a non-active formula component rather than the PHA or TECA itself. As with any active-containing product, a brief patch test on the inner arm or jaw before committing to full facial use remains the prudent first step.
Waterproof Makeup Removal
61%
39%
For lighter waterproof products — a single coat of tubing mascara, a waterproof brow pencil, or a light waterproof lip tint — the smooth side of the pad manages removal with a few deliberate passes and minimal friction. Buyers who wear minimal or incidental waterproof products find the pad adequate for their everyday needs without supplemental products.
Heavy-duty waterproof formulas — transfer-proof foundations, full-coverage long-wear concealers, and multi-coat waterproof eye looks — consistently defeat the pad's formula in buyer testing, with users regularly reporting the need for an oil-based cleanser to achieve complete removal. This is a significant enough limitation that buyers who rely heavily on waterproof products should factor a dedicated first-cleanse product into their overall routine.

Suitable for:

The Centellian 24 PHA Cleansing Pads 60 Count are a particularly smart pick for anyone with sensitive or easily-irritated skin who has struggled to find an exfoliating step that doesn't trigger redness or compromise the skin barrier. Because PHA works more superficially than AHAs like glycolic acid, daily use is realistic even for reactive skin types — the kind of product patients with dermatologist-managed skin conditions often gravitate toward when they want gentle exfoliation without the associated risks. People already committed to a K-beauty multi-step routine will find these pads slot in naturally as a combined cleanse-and-tone step, trimming down the number of products they layer each night. They are also a practical choice for travelers or gym-bag regulars, since one jar covers cleansing, mild exfoliation, and soothing in a single no-rinse step. Beginners curious about incorporating acid exfoliants but wary of stronger formulas will find the concentration here forgiving enough to build confidence before moving to higher-strength options.

Not suitable for:

The Centellian 24 PHA Cleansing Pads 60 Count are not the right tool for every routine or skin concern, and it is worth being direct about where they fall short. Heavy makeup wearers — especially those relying daily on waterproof foundation, long-wear setting products, or dense eye makeup — should not expect these pads to fully replace a dedicated oil cleanser or balm; a double cleanse is still the smarter approach for thorough removal. The open-jar format is a legitimate concern for anyone serious about hygiene: repeatedly dipping fingers into a shared jar over several weeks introduces contamination risk, which could become a real problem for acne-prone skin. Buyers with fragrance sensitivity should review the full ingredient list carefully, as a subset of users have flagged a detectable scent. Finally, anyone expecting dramatic anti-aging, brightening, or acne-clearing results should recalibrate expectations — this is primarily a gentle daily cleanser with mild exfoliation, not a treatment-level corrective product.

Specifications

  • Pad Count: Each jar contains 60 pre-soaked cleansing pads.
  • Pad Format: Pads are stored in an open-top jar with no individual wrapping or sealed pouches.
  • Pad Texture: Each pad is dual-textured, with a smooth side for makeup dissolution and an embossed tiger-print side for gentle physical exfoliation.
  • Key Actives: The formula centers on two primary actives: PHA (polyhydroxy acid) for mild surface exfoliation and TECA (titrated extract of centella asiatica) for redness reduction and barrier reinforcement.
  • Acid Type: PHA is used in place of stronger AHAs or BHAs, keeping exfoliation at the skin's surface with significantly reduced irritation risk.
  • Skin Type: Formulated for sensitive and normal skin types.
  • Primary Functions: Designed to handle makeup removal, gentle daily exfoliation, and skin soothing within a single no-rinse step.
  • Application Step: Can function as a standalone no-rinse cleanser or as a post-cleanse treatment pad following a separate first-cleanse product.
  • Rinse Required: No rinsing is required after use; the formula is intended to be left on the skin.
  • Waterproof Claim: The brand states compatibility with waterproof makeup, though heavy or full-coverage products may require a supplementary oil-based cleanser for thorough removal.
  • Brand Origin: Manufactured by Dongkook Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., a South Korean healthcare company established in 1968 with a longstanding pharmaceutical background in centella asiatica research.
  • Package Dimensions: The jar measures 2.28 x 2.28 x 3.54 inches.
  • Net Weight: The packaged product weighs 5.64 oz.
  • Market Tier: Positioned in the mid-range K-beauty segment, priced comparably to similar Korean exfoliating pad formats from brands like Anua and Some By Mi.
  • Launch Date: First made available to consumers in January 2023.

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FAQ

No — the formula is designed to be left on the skin, and that is actually part of how the active ingredients do their job. After wiping, just let your face dry and continue with the rest of your routine. Most users report no noticeable residue; skin typically feels calm and lightly moisturized rather than sticky or greasy.

For light to moderate everyday makeup, yes — these Korean cleansing pads handle that reasonably well. For heavy waterproof products like transfer-proof foundation or dense tubing mascara, you will almost certainly want to use an oil cleanser or balm first. Think of the pads as an excellent second-cleanse or a standalone step on low-makeup days, not a replacement for a dedicated makeup remover when you are wearing a full face.

TECA stands for titrated extract of centella asiatica, which is a standardized, concentrated form of the centella ingredient — quite different from the diluted botanical extracts many brands use as a marketing add-in. Dongkook Pharmaceutical has been producing pharmaceutical-grade centella products since 1968, so the TECA in the Centellian 24 PHA Cleansing Pads 60 Count is drawn from genuine research and manufacturing expertise. In practical terms, TECA works to reduce redness and reinforce the skin barrier, which is why these pads tend to leave skin calmer rather than irritated after use.

PHA is gentler and slower-acting than AHAs like glycolic or lactic acid, so do not expect the same intensity or speed. That said, most consistent users report visibly smoother skin texture after two to four weeks of daily use. The payoff here is cumulative and tolerance-friendly — not the fast, dramatic results a stronger acid might deliver, but without the associated risk of over-exfoliation or barrier damage.

This is a legitimate concern worth taking seriously. The most practical approach is to use a clean pair of tweezers or a small spatula to remove each pad rather than dipping your fingers in repeatedly. Keeping the lid sealed tightly between uses and storing the jar away from bathroom humidity will also help the formula stay stable and uncontaminated over the weeks it takes to work through all 60 pads.

Daily use is the intended routine for these pads, and the PHA concentration is calibrated for that frequency. Most people with normal to sensitive skin tolerate them morning and evening without any irritation. If your skin is currently reactive or you are new to acid exfoliants entirely, starting every other day and monitoring how your skin responds before committing to daily use is a sensible approach.

Possibly, but these pads are primarily formulated for sensitive and normal skin types, so results may vary. For very oily or congestion-prone skin, the no-rinse formula may feel slightly too emollient, and the exfoliation level may not be aggressive enough to address active breakouts. Worth trying with caution, but managing expectations that a more targeted acid treatment may be needed alongside or instead.

They occupy a similar price bracket and format, and buyers frequently draw that comparison. Where this dual-action pad tends to stand out is on the soothing front — the pharmaceutical-grade TECA gives it a more credible calming profile than pads relying on a loosely defined centella extract. On raw exfoliation strength, multi-acid options like Some By Mi's AHA-BHA-PHA range hit harder, which may suit oilier skin types better.

For mornings or low-makeup days, using the Centellian 24 pads as a standalone cleanse is perfectly reasonable. The formula is designed to dissolve surface impurities and does not strictly depend on a prior cleanse to function. In the evening — after sunscreen, foundation, or heavier products — pairing them with an oil-based first cleanse will give you a more thorough result and help the active ingredients work on clean skin.

Yes, and honestly it is one of the more sensible starting points available. PHA is the gentlest member of the acid exfoliant family, and the concentration in these pads is deliberately low. You can expect gradual texture improvement without the purging, peeling, or sun-sensitivity risks that come with stronger AHAs. Start once daily, wear sunscreen during the day as standard practice, and let your skin adjust over two to three weeks before drawing any conclusions.