The dual-sided biodegradable pad design — one side embedded with actual cica leaf material for physical + chemical soothing, the other smooth bamboo for hydration delivery — is a genuinely innovative format. Combined with 89% plant extract concentration (centella, heartleaf, licorice) and clinical data showing measurable reductions in oil, blackheads, and whiteheads, these pads bridge the gap between toner, exfoliant, and calming treatment in a single step.
Numbuzin's Centella Re-Leaf Toner Pads are the Swiss Army knife of K-beauty — a soothing toner, gentle exfoliant, and calming mini-mask in a single dual-sided pad. With 89% plant extract content and clinical data showing real reductions in oil and blackheads, these pads earn their Olive Young Awards hype for oily and acne-prone skin types.
Note: Numbuzin launched in 2019 and this product gained popularity around 2022. While review volume is growing rapidly and the key ingredients are well-studied, the brand's specific formulations have a limited independent research track record. Clinical claims are brand-sponsored. A firmer judgment waits on a deeper pool of long-term user reports.
The case for it
What would change this: Removing the trigger named above would let the actives be judged on their own.
Same rule for everyone. “Avoid” is the verdict on 1,909 of 45,024 concern verdicts across the catalog; rule F1 decided 605 of them. Unchanged since September 5, 2026, engine 5.1.1.
Brand or formulator? Disclose a concentration or correct a fact →
The studies behind the evidence row
Also listed for Acne, Excess Oiliness, Blackheads and Large Pores — the actives here (Centella Asiatica, Houttuynia Cordata (Heartleaf) are in our research queue for those concerns; there is no verdict until their evidence rows are written. That is a gap in our table, not a mark against the product.
Does the jobDoes what a toner is for: adds something real, not alcohol-driven. Not measured from the label: restores skin pH, plays well with what follows.
A verdict is DermApproved’s assessment of how well a product’s ingredients fit a concern — never a claim about what the product treats. Evidence dots and collected reviews sit beside it and are never blended in. Rules 0.5.1 · evidence table ev-2026.09-r228 · how we decide
When Numbuzin swept the 2022 Olive Young Awards, it wasn't the brand's marketing that won voters over — it was these toner pads. In a K-beauty market saturated with centella products, the Centella Re-Leaf Green Toner Pads stood out because they weren't just another cica-infused liquid. They were something genuinely different: a dual-sided pad where one surface is literally embedded with cica leaf material, turning the act of toning into a soothing, exfoliating ritual that feels like it belongs in a Korean dermatology clinic.
The formula is built on an 89% plant extract base. Centella asiatica extract leads the INCI list — not water, as in most skincare products, but the actual botanical extract. Licorice root extract sits second, and houttuynia cordata (heartleaf) third. This is an unusual and impressive formulation choice. Most K-beauty toner pads use water as their base and add extracts further down the ingredient list at much lower concentrations. Having three potent soothing botanicals as the formula's foundation means the essence saturating each pad is essentially a concentrated botanical treatment.
Centella asiatica is the anchor of K-beauty's soothing category for good reason. Its key actives — madecassoside, asiaticoside, madecassic acid, and asiatic acid — have robust clinical evidence for anti-inflammatory activity, wound healing acceleration, and barrier repair. Licorice root brings its own anti-inflammatory punch via glabridin and glycyrrhizin, plus meaningful brightening properties that help fade post-inflammatory marks. Heartleaf, the third botanical pillar, adds antibacterial and antioxidant activity that's particularly relevant for acne-prone skin. Deeper in the list, allantoin, panthenol, betaine, and water lily and hyacinth extracts round out the soothing-and-hydrating supporting cast so the daily swiping calms rather than strips.
The dual-sided pad is where the product really differentiates itself, and it's the answer to the assumption that toner pads are just gimmicky liquid-toner-on-cotton. The textured side is made with actual cica leaf material — not just a patterned cotton pad. When you swipe it across your face, it provides a gentle physical exfoliation that feels satisfying without being abrasive. Flip the pad, and the smooth bamboo side delivers a soothing, hydrating pass that seals in the botanical essence. Using both sides in sequence creates a two-step toning experience: exfoliate, then calm. It takes maybe thirty seconds and feels like you've done something genuinely beneficial for your skin — a physical function a liquid toner simply can't replicate.
The pads come saturated — almost oversaturated, honestly. When you pull one from the jar, it drips (a small pair of tongs is included for hygienic removal). Some users find this generous; others wish for slightly less essence per pad. The liquid itself is lightweight and watery, absorbing quickly without stickiness. After both sides are used, skin feels immediately calmer, slightly dewy, and noticeably less red. For users who deal with daily irritation from heat, pollution, or mask-wearing, the instant soothing effect is addictive — and it's the single most repeated point across the roughly 2,000 reviews, which average 4.5 stars.
Clinical testing (brand-sponsored) reports impressive numbers: a 28.6% reduction in excess oil, a 28% reduction in blackheads, and a 26.9% reduction in whiteheads after four weeks of use. While these are brand claims rather than independent studies, the combination of gentle daily exfoliation, antibacterial botanicals, and oil-regulating heartleaf makes these results plausible and consistent with what the formula composition would predict.
The formula does include essential oils — tea tree, rosemary, grapefruit peel, and geranium — at the bottom of the INCI list. This is where a second myth is worth correcting: that any essential oil disqualifies a product from being soothing. At these bottom-of-the-list concentrations, the tea tree actually contributes to the antibacterial profile, and most people won't react. But for individuals with essential oil sensitivities or very reactive skin, these are worth noting, and it's the reason the pads aren't a confident fungal-acne-safe pick. The scent that results is a mild, herbal-green aroma that fades in minutes — pleasant if you enjoy botanical scents, potentially off-putting if you don't. Reassuringly, the formula is vegan and pregnancy-safe.
At $18 for 70 pads, the per-use cost works out to roughly $0.26 per pad — reasonable for a multi-functional product that replaces a toner, light exfoliant, and calming treatment. If you use one pad daily, the jar lasts about two and a half months. The biodegradable pad material is an eco-conscious touch that doesn't compromise functionality.
These toner pads have earned their cult following. They deliver genuine multi-step skincare in a grab-and-go format that respects both your time and your skin. The 89% plant extract concentration isn't marketing fluff — you can see it in the INCI list, where three potent botanicals lead before any humectants or solvents. For oily, combination, and acne-prone skin that needs daily calming without heaviness, this is one of the best products to come out of K-beauty in recent years. The dual-sided pad could easily have been a gimmick — a texture printed on cotton and marketed as innovation — but the embedded cica-leaf material genuinely changes how the product works, giving you a real exfoliate-then-soothe sequence in a single thirty-second step. That, plus a botanical base concentrated enough to justify the '89%' on the front of the jar, is why the format spread as fast as it did. Award wins fade; the reason people keep repurchasing is that the pads actually earn their place in a routine.
The hero actives that drive this product's performance.
| Ingredient | Function | Evidence |
|---|---|---|
| Centella Asiatica Extract | Listed first on the INCI list, centella asiatica is the formula's primary active — providing its signature anti-inflammatory and barrier-repairing properties. At this dominant position, it delivers a concentrated dose of madecassoside and asiaticoside that calm redness, support wound healing, and help soothe irritated skin. The dual-sided pad design allows the textured cica side to deliver the extract directly while providing gentle physical exfoliation. | Not applicable for Sensitivity |
| Licorice Root Extract | The second ingredient in this formula, providing potent anti-inflammatory and brightening benefits through glabridin. Works synergistically with centella to calm irritation while also helping to even out post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation — a common concern for acne-prone skin types that these pads target. | Not yet assessed |
| Houttuynia Cordata Extract (Heartleaf) | A traditional Korean medicinal herb with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, positioned third on the ingredient list. In this formula, heartleaf extract adds antibacterial activity that complements the centella and licorice soothing effects, particularly beneficial for acne-prone and oily skin types. | Not yet assessed |
| Panthenol (Vitamin B5) | Provides moisture-binding and skin-soothing support lower in the formula, helping to repair the barrier disruption that can come from daily pad exfoliation. Works with glycerin and allantoin to ensure the pads calm rather than strip the skin. | Not yet assessed |
| Tea Tree Leaf Oil | Adds targeted antibacterial and antiseptic action at a low concentration — enough to contribute to the pads' blemish-fighting profile without the irritation that higher concentrations of tea tree can cause. Works alongside the heartleaf extract for a multi-pronged antimicrobial effect. | Not yet assessed |
Ingredient standings describe the active at treatment-level doses and vehicles; this product's own condition grades weigh its actual formula.
Centella Asiatica Extract, Glycyrrhiza Uralensis (Licorice) Root Extract, Houttuynia Cordata Extract, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Dipropylene Glycol, Propanediol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Hyacinthus Orientalis (Hyacinth) Extract, Polygonum Multiflorum Extract, Carbomer, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, Polyglyceryl-10 Myristate, Arginine, Allantoin, Disodium EDTA, Nymphaea Alba Flower Extract, Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil, Betaine, Panthenol, Citrus Paradisi (Grapefruit) Peel Oil, Pelargonium Graveolens Flower Oil, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Oil
toner
AM & PM
Use after cleansing as your toning step. Swipe the textured side gently across the face for light exfoliation, then flip to the smooth side for a soothing finish. Follow with serum and moisturizer. Can also be used as a quick 5-10 minute calming mask by leaving the pad on irritated areas.
Immediate soothing and calming effect from the first use. Within 2-4 weeks of daily use, clinical data shows reduced excess oil (28.6%), fewer blackheads (28%), and fewer whiteheads (26.9%). Skin tone and clarity improve over 4-8 weeks of consistent use.
Centella asiatica, the formula's primary active, has extensive evidence supporting its wound-healing and anti-inflammatory properties. A comprehensive review published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology documented that centella's four key triterpenoids — madecassoside, asiaticoside, madecassic acid, and asiatic acid — stimulate collagen synthesis, inhibit inflammatory cytokines, and accelerate wound closure. These mechanisms directly support the product's soothing and barrier-repair claims.
Glycyrrhiza uralensis (licorice root), the second ingredient, contains glabridin, which inhibits tyrosinase activity and has demonstrated skin-brightening effects in clinical studies. A study in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry showed that licorice root extract significantly reduced UV-induced pigmentation and inflammation, making it particularly relevant for post-acne marks.
Houttuynia cordata (heartleaf), widely used in traditional Korean medicine, has demonstrated antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties in modern research. A paper published in Phytomedicine showed that houttuynia cordata extract inhibited the growth of Propionibacterium acnes, the primary bacterial driver of acne, supporting its inclusion in this blemish-targeting formula.
The dual-sided pad design leverages principles of gentle physical exfoliation to enhance ingredient penetration. Research has shown that mild physical exfoliation — particularly using textured pads rather than abrasive scrubs — can improve transdermal delivery of active compounds while causing minimal barrier disruption.
Dermatologists generally recommend centella asiatica-based products for patients with inflammatory skin conditions, post-procedure irritation, and acne-related redness. The high concentration of botanical soothing agents in this formula aligns with dermatological approaches to calming reactive skin. As a matter of routine clinical guidance, the dual-sided pad format provides a convenient way to deliver gentle exfoliation and soothing treatment simultaneously — a practical solution for patients who struggle with multi-step routines. The essential oil content, while low, is typically flagged as a caution for patients with contact dermatitis or fragrance allergies.
After cleansing, use the included tongs to remove one pad from the jar. Swipe the textured cica-leaf side across your entire face using gentle, outward strokes — this provides light exfoliation and deposits the botanical essence. Flip to the smooth bamboo side and swipe again for a soothing, hydrating finish. Follow with serum and moisturizer. For extra calming, leave the smooth side on irritated patches for 5-10 minutes as a mini mask. Can be used morning, evening, or both.
At $18 for 70 pads ($0.26 per use), these offer strong value for a multi-functional K-beauty product. The 89% plant extract concentration — with centella, licorice, and heartleaf leading the formula — delivers premium-level active content at an accessible price point. Compared to buying a separate toner, exfoliant, and calming treatment, the per-routine cost is notably lower. The jar lasts about 10 weeks with daily use, making this one of the more economical ways to incorporate centella-based soothing into a daily regimen.
People with oily, combination, or acne-prone skin looking for a convenient, soothing toner that also provides gentle exfoliation and oil control. K-beauty enthusiasts who appreciate innovative product formats. Anyone dealing with daily skin irritation from environmental factors who wants a quick calming step.
Those with very sensitive skin or essential oil allergies should approach with caution due to the tea tree, rosemary, grapefruit, and geranium oils. People with dry skin will find these pads insufficiently moisturizing without a heavier cream or oil on top.
Ready to try Numbuzin No. 1 Centella Re-Leaf Green Toner Pads?
Buy at Amazon ♥Generously saturated dual-sided pads. The textured cica-leaf side provides gentle physical exfoliation, while the smooth bamboo side delivers a soothing, hydrating finish. The essence is lightweight and watery, not sticky or viscous.
Mild herbal-green scent from the natural essential oils (tea tree, rosemary, grapefruit). Not overwhelming but noticeable — fades within a few minutes of application.
Round jar with twist-off lid containing 70 pads submerged in essence. Includes a small pair of tongs for hygienic removal. The biodegradable pads are an eco-conscious touch.
The pads are generously soaked in essence and feel refreshing on application. The cica-leaf textured side provides a satisfying light exfoliation, and the smooth side leaves skin feeling instantly calmer. Redness visibly reduces within minutes for many users. No stinging or tightness — just immediate comfort.
5-10 weeks with once-daily use (70 pads)
spring summer
These toner pads helped put Numbuzin on the international K-beauty map. After winning the 2022 Olive Young Awards, the Centella Re-Leaf pads became one of the most sought-after K-beauty products globally, frequently selling out on platforms like YesStyle and Olive Young Global. The product exemplifies Numbuzin's 'What's Your Number?' philosophy — the No. 1 line focuses specifically on soothing and calming irritated, acne-prone skin.
Numbuzin was founded in 2019 by Korean beauty startup Benow and quickly rose to prominence after winning the 2022 Olive Young Awards for top skin and toner products. The brand is now sold in 16+ countries. While it uses well-studied ingredients, its track record is still relatively short and independent clinical validation of its specific formulations is limited.
Toner pads are just gimmicky versions of liquid toner on a cotton pad.
These pads serve a dual function that liquid toner can't replicate: the textured side provides gentle physical exfoliation while delivering the essence, and the pad format ensures even distribution and consistent contact time. The biodegradable pad material is specifically chosen to enhance the delivery of the 89% plant extract formula.
Products with essential oils can't be soothing for irritated skin.
While essential oils can be irritating at high concentrations, the tea tree, rosemary, and grapefruit oils in this formula are at the bottom of the INCI list — indicating very low concentrations. At these levels, they contribute gentle antimicrobial and aromatic properties without significant irritation risk for most skin types.
After cleansing, remove one pad with the included tongs. Swipe the textured cica-leaf side across your face for gentle exfoliation, then flip to the smooth bamboo side for a soothing, hydrating pass. Follow with your serum and moisturizer. For extra calming, leave the smooth side on irritated areas for 5-10 minutes as a mini mask.
These pads are formulated with 89% soothing plant extracts including centella asiatica and licorice root, which are excellent for calming irritation. However, the formula contains essential oils (tea tree, rosemary, grapefruit, geranium) at low concentrations that may irritate very sensitive or eczema-prone skin. If you have highly reactive skin, patch test first.
Yes, clinical testing reported a 28% reduction in blackheads and a 26.9% reduction in whiteheads after 4 weeks of use. The dual-sided pad's textured surface provides gentle physical exfoliation that helps loosen debris, while the centella and heartleaf extracts help regulate oil production and soothe inflammation.
Yes, these pads are designed for daily use — morning or evening, or both. The exfoliation is gentle enough for daily application on most oily and combination skin types. If you experience any tightness or irritation, reduce to every other day until your skin adjusts.
Yes, the pads are made from biodegradable materials. One side features embedded cica leaf material for soothing and exfoliation, while the other is a smooth bamboo-based material for hydration delivery — both designed with environmental consciousness in mind.
Recurring themes our editors read across retailer reviews of this product — summaries in our words, not quotations, and not a substitute for your own patch test.
Remarkably soothing — calms redness and irritation almost immediately
Dual-sided pad design is practical and effective
89% plant extract content feels genuinely hydrating
Reduces visible oil and blackheads with consistent use
Can double as a quick calming mask when left on for 10 minutes
Contains essential oils that may irritate very sensitive skin
Pads can feel too wet, dripping when removed from the container
Tea tree oil scent may be too herbal for some preferences
Not suitable for very dry skin types
Limited availability outside of K-beauty retailers
Verified answers from our questions library — the nuance a product page cannot carry.
