# COSRX One Step Original Clear Pad for dry sensitive skin

**Lovi Fit: Caution fit for dry sensitive skin.**
Dry Skin Fit: Caution · Effectiveness: High · Safety: Concerning.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cosrx/one-step-original-clear-pad/for/dry-sensitive-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for the United Kingdom.

Brand: [COSRX](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/brands/cosrx)
Category: [Exfoliants](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/best/exfoliators)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with dry sensitive skin: flakiness, tightness, redness, fine lines, and wrinkles. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

A poor match for dry sensitive skin; the products alongside fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate exfoliation for your dry and sensitive skin due to betaine salicylate, which helps smooth texture and reduce blemishes, but lacks sufficient hydrating ingredients to counteract potential dryness.
- Melaleuca Alternifolia Tree Oil Leaf can also contribute to dryness, making it less ideal for your specific skin type.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cosrx/one-step-original-clear-pad/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cosrx/one-step-original-clear-pad/for/dry-skin): Caution
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cosrx/one-step-original-clear-pad/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cosrx/one-step-original-clear-pad/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cosrx/one-step-original-clear-pad/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cosrx/one-step-original-clear-pad/for/dark-spots): Average
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cosrx/one-step-original-clear-pad/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cosrx/one-step-original-clear-pad/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Caution (this page)
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cosrx/one-step-original-clear-pad/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Superior

## Key ingredients

Willow Bark Water Bark, Betaine Salicylate, Glycerin, Panthenol, Melaleuca Alternifolia Tree Oil Leaf

## What the research says

- A botanical face cleanser with hops and willow bark extract continuously reduced skin sebum levels without reactive seborrhea after treatment in 21 healthy volunteers compared to a sodium laureth sulfate cleanser, with neither cleanser causing skin irritation. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30022595/))
- Bioactive lipid nanocarriers co-loaded with willow bark or ivy leaf extracts and UV-filters provided pronounced UVA photoprotection up to an SPF-equivalent value of 13 and a maximum in vivo skin hydration effect of 97% when prepared with pomegranate oil. ([Nanomaterials, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35889587/))
- A topical serum containing 0.5% salicin applied twice daily reduced visible signs of skin aging, including wrinkles and tactile roughness, in 30 female subjects over 12 weeks compared to baseline. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20883292/))
- A single application of a moisturizing fluid containing hyaluronic acid 1%, glycerin 5%, and Centella asiatica stem cells extract significantly increased skin hydration by 29% and reduced transepidermal water loss at 24 hours compared to baseline and an untreated control site in twenty healthy women. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/))
- The emollient V0034CR significantly reduced TEWL compared to vehicle and vehicle plus glycerol, and significantly increased corneometry scores compared to vehicle and vehicle plus petrolatum in healthy volunteers with dry skin, demonstrating combined barrier function improvement from petrolatum and hydration improvement from glycerol. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31532576/))
- Ten days of treatment with a cream containing 20% glycerin significantly increased skin hydration measured by corneometer values in 17 healthy volunteers compared to a placebo cream, but showed no influence on transepidermal water loss or skin sensitivity to an irritating surfactant. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18498456/))
- Topical dexpanthenol acts as a moisturizer, improves stratum corneum hydration, accelerates wound healing and epidermal regeneration, reduces erythema, and improves symptoms of skin irritation compared to vehicle or no pretreatment. ([American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/))
- Moisturizer containing 5% panthenol, madecassoside, and copper-zinc-manganese decreased adverse reactions and downtime after ablative fractional carbon dioxide laser resurfacing with comparable efficacy to 0.02% triamcinolone acetonide cream in 20 subjects. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30945430/))
- Topical dexpanthenol formulated in lipophilic vehicles improved stratum corneum hydration and reduced transepidermal water loss compared to vehicle control in humans. ([Arzneimittel-Forschung, 2000](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10965426/))
- A cream combining propolis, tea tree oil, and Aloe vera reduced erythema scars, acne severity index, and total lesion count better than erythromycin cream in sixty patients with mild to moderate acne vulgaris compared to placebo. ([Clinical Pharmacology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30588129/))
- Tea tree oil nanoemulsion containing adapalene gel demonstrated significantly greater reductions in total, inflammatory, and non-inflammatory acne lesions as well as acne severity index compared to adapalene marketed gel in 100 patients with acne vulgaris over 12 weeks. ([Archives of Dermatological Research, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34251536/))
- Topical 5% tea tree oil gel significantly improved total acne lesions and acne severity index compared to placebo in 60 patients with mild to moderate acne vulgaris, showing 3.55 times and 5.75 times greater efficacy respectively. ([Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology, 2007](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17314442/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, users with oily and acne-prone skin frequently praise these pads for effectively reducing active breakouts and regulating sebum without being overly harsh. While many find them to be a "holy grail" for smoothing skin texture and clearing pores, a minority of users with sensitive or dry skin experienced irritation and dryness.

- Liked: Convenient application (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle exfoliation (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Effective acne control (often mentioned)
- Liked: Pore & sebum care (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Drying or stripping (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Medicinal scent (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Packaging issues (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Sticky residue (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your exfoliant PM once a week to help with dryness. Start ⏳3 times a week only if your sensitive skin tolerates it well.
- Apply the exfoliant after cleansing and toning, but always before your favorite moisturizer .
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the exfoliant into your skin and avoid any rubbing. Let it absorb ⏱ for a minute before layering.
- Since your skin is reactive and sensitive, apply the exfoliant on completely dry skin for better tolerance.
- Always do a patch test before your first use and avoid the delicate eye area .
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/028e5e793422a3b665c02ff502cf5a68.mp4

## Questions and answers

### Why does Lovi advise caution with COSRX One Step Original Clear Pad for dry sensitive skin?

This exfoliant treatment offers moderate exfoliation that helps smooth texture, but it lacks enough hydrating ingredients to counteract potential dryness. Tea tree oil can also contribute to dryness, making it less ideal for your dry sensitive skin. A product of this type needs effective hydrating and soothing ingredients that provide relevant skincare benefits and support the skin barrier without any risk of irritation.

### Which ingredients make this exfoliant a poor fit for dry sensitive skin?

Betaine salicylate and tea tree oil make this exfoliant a poor fit because they can cause dryness and irritation, which dry sensitive skin is prone to. A product of this type needs rich hydrating and soothing ingredients that support the skin barrier and provide moisture.

### What does Willow Bark Water do for dry sensitive skin?

Willow Bark Water is typically too harsh for dry sensitive skin because it acts like salicylic acid to clear pores, which can strip away needed moisture and cause irritation. Skin like this needs gentle, soothing ingredients and rich hydrators that lock in water to keep the surface soft and calm without stinging.

### What does Betaine Salicylate do for dry sensitive skin?

Betaine Salicylate is often too harsh for dry sensitive skin because it exfoliates deeply and may cause extra dryness or irritation. A product for this skin type needs gentle, hydrating ingredients that calm redness and keep the skin soft without stripping its natural moisture.

### Where does this exfoliant go in a skincare routine for dry sensitive skin?

This product calls for caution on dry sensitive skin because it may cause dryness and lacks enough hydrating ingredients to balance out the exfoliation. A routine for this skin type needs soothing, hydrating ingredients and rich moisturizers to keep skin soft and comfortable.

### Can I use this exfoliant with retinol, and in what order?

Using this exfoliant with retinol is not recommended because the combination may cause excessive dryness and irritation on your skin. To safely care for dry and sensitive skin, an exfoliant of this type needs plenty of hydrating ingredients and soothing agents to protect your skin barrier.

### How often should I use this exfoliant?

This exfoliant is a poor match for dry sensitive skin, so use it just once a week in the evening to test your skin's tolerance. If your skin feels comfortable and you see good results, you may carefully use it more often. A product of this type needs extra soothing and hydrating ingredients, like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and gentle plant oils, to keep dry skin calm and comfortable.

### Can this exfoliant clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for dry sensitive skin?

This exfoliant is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts on dry sensitive skin, but it may cause purging as it clears away dead skin cells. Because it can also dry out your skin, a product of this type needs extra soothing and hydrating ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, or squalane to keep skin calm and smooth.

### Is this exfoliant fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for dry sensitive skin

- [SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Tone Brightening Boosting Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/skin1004/madagascar-centella-tone-brightening-boosting-toner/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — High fit — £7.99 at Amazon
- [PCA Skin Smoothing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/pca-skin/smoothing-toner/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — High fit — £57.43 at Amazon
- [Aesop B & Tea Balancing Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/aesop/b-and-tea-balancing-toner/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — High fit — £39.00 at Lookfantastic

## Routine for dry sensitive skin

### AM

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £8.29 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [Clarins Toning Lotion with Camomile](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/clarins/soothing-toning-lotion/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £17.91 at Amazon
- Moisturizer with Sun Protection: [Real Barrier Mild Sun Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/real-barrier/mild-sun-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £19.01 at Amazon

### PM

- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £13.58 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £8.29 at Amazon
- Soothing Toner: [Clarins Toning Lotion with Camomile](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/clarins/soothing-toning-lotion/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £17.91 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Peach & Lily Glass Skin Refining Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/peach-and-lily/glass-skin-refining-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £59.74 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Lift and Firm Night Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/elizabeth-arden/advanced-ceramide-lift-and-firm-night-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £38.50 at Amazon

### Weekly

- Pre-Cleanser: [MISSHA Ultra Hyalon Cleansing Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/missha/ultra-hyalon-cleansing-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £13.58 at Amazon
- Cleanser: [CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cerave/hydrating-facial-cleanser/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £8.29 at Amazon
- Enzyme Powder: [Fancl Facial Washing Powder](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/fancl/facial-washing-powder/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £22.24 at Amazon
- Nourishing Mask: [MEDIHEAL Vita Essential Mask](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/mediheal/vita-essential-mask/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £17.00 at Amazon
- Serum or Treatment: [Peach & Lily Glass Skin Refining Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/peach-and-lily/glass-skin-refining-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £59.74 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Lift and Firm Night Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/elizabeth-arden/advanced-ceramide-lift-and-firm-night-cream/for/dry-sensitive-skin) — Superior fit — £38.50 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.co.uk: £19.99 (https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01LZJ3LN7?tag=lovi-care-web-product-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Notino: £21.50 (https://www.notino.co.uk/cosrx/one-step-original-tone-clarifying-moisture-pad-toner-pads-with-moisturising-effect/p-16389681/)
Prices checked 10 Oct – 5 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Willow Bark Water Bark, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Betaine Salicylate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Panthenol, Allantoin, Arginine, Peg-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Sodium Hyaluronate, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Peel Oil, Melaleuca Alternifolia Tree Oil Leaf, Ethyl Hexanediol, Sodium Hydroxide
## About the Lovi Fit

Lovi: Unbiased, science-based skincare AI trained on real user outcomes.

Lovi calculates every fit score from the full ingredient list with brand-independent rules its dermatologists and cosmetic chemists build and review, and personalizes every pick with AI trained on the real results of millions of users. Lovi trains its fit score models on a proprietary dataset built from more than 10,000 expert-labeled products and more than 100,000 simulated examples, following an internally consistent methodology presented at Cosmoprof, AMWC, and Skin of Color Update. Levels from best to worst: Superior, High, Average, Low, Caution, Warning.

Behind this fit score: Nadia Kapleva, MS (Co-founder, Medical Director); Alexey Shagraev, PhD (Co-founder, CEO and CTO); Dr. Sofía Perea Pérez, MD, MSc (Medical Board); Aishani Shah, MD (Medical Board); Asya Zubkova, MS (Medical Board); Hanna Kurets, MD (Medical Board, Medical Advisor); Elina Nazarenko, MD (Medical Board); Victoria Derkova, MS (Medical Board).

Page built Nov 8, 2026.

More from Lovi: https://lovi.care/skincare/llms.txt

## This page in other countries

- United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cosrx/one-step-original-clear-pad/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cosrx/one-step-original-clear-pad/for/dry-sensitive-skin (this page)
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cosrx/one-step-original-clear-pad/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/cosrx/one-step-original-clear-pad/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/cosrx/one-step-original-clear-pad/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/cosrx/one-step-original-clear-pad/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/cosrx/one-step-original-clear-pad/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/cosrx/one-step-original-clear-pad/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cosrx/one-step-original-clear-pad/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/cosrx/one-step-original-clear-pad/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/cosrx/one-step-original-clear-pad/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/cosrx/one-step-original-clear-pad/for/dry-sensitive-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/cosrx/one-step-original-clear-pad/for/dry-sensitive-skin