【Review】Stridex Sensitive Pads
BHA Exfoliating Pads Available at OLIVE YOUNG Korea
【How to Use · Reviews · Price】
Salicylic acid pads loved for pore, acne & exfoliation care
Honest 1-week experience review + price & where to buy
※ This article may contain affiliate links (PR).
※ Popular in Korea, but this is an American brand (Stridex, USA).
Struggling with blackheads, clogged pores, or breakouts?
Bottom line: Unbeatable value for pore and acne care — just make sure to moisturize well if you have dry skin.
I’ve been using the Stridex Sensitive Pads every night for one week, and here’s my honest take. These BHA (salicylic acid) exfoliating pads have been a long-time bestseller at OLIVE YOUNG Korea, and it’s not hard to see why. In this review I’ll cover how to use them, what to expect, and what to watch out for.
#KoreanBeauty
#PoreCare
- What Stridex Sensitive Pads are and how they work
- Differences between the Red, Blue & Green versions
- How to use them correctly + things to be careful about
- My honest 1-week experience
- Stridex vs COSRX — which one should you buy?
- Korean price (KRW) and where to buy
- ① What Are Stridex Sensitive Pads?
- ② My Honest 1-Week Experience
- ③ Red vs. Blue vs. Green — Which One Should You Choose?
- ④ Key Ingredients & What They Do
- ⑤ How to Use Stridex Pads
① What Are Stridex Sensitive Pads?
Exfoliation
📷 Real Product Photos
▲ Inside the container — 90 pads soaked in solution
✨ Before & After Swipe (residue check)
The pad after swiping shows just how much oil and residue stays on your skin even after cleansing. It’s one of those things you have to see to believe.
4.2 / 5.0 ｜ Combined rating from @cosme, LIPS & iHerb
First introduced in the USA in 1959, Stridex is a salicylic acid (BHA) exfoliating pad that wipes away excess sebum, dead skin cells, and pore buildup. With over 7,600 reviews on iHerb and long-running bestseller status at OLIVE YOUNG Korea, it’s become one of the most trusted introductory BHA products around. The Sensitive (green) version contains 0.5% salicylic acid with aloe vera for a gentler, alcohol-free formula — a go-to first step for anyone new to BHA skincare.
Double pack (90×2): ₩26,700
Also available on iHerb & Qoo10
② My Honest 1-Week Experience
I used the Sensitive (green, 0.5%) version every evening after cleansing for one week. Here’s what I noticed, day by day.
Days 1–2
A mild tingling on my nose area at first, but it faded within seconds. What surprised me most was how much gunk ended up on the pad after cleansing — I didn’t expect that. Skin felt clean and slightly tightened after each use.
Days 3–5
The rough texture around my nose started to noticeably smooth out. Running my finger across it felt different — more even. One morning when I skipped moisturizer after using the pad, I woke up with dry, slightly tight skin. Lesson learned: hydration is non-negotiable.
Days 6–7
By the end of the week, my skin texture looked more refined and the tingling was completely gone. Once I got the moisture routine dialed in, dryness wasn’t a concern anymore. For about $10–11 and 90 pads, the value is genuinely hard to beat.
- What I liked: Skin around my nose felt smoother; texture looked more refined
- Watch out for: Skipping moisturizer leads to dry skin the next morning — layer hydration after every use
- Value: 90 pads for ~$10 is genuinely incredible. Lasts about 3 months with daily use
- Would I recommend? Yes — especially for anyone dealing with pores or acne. Dry skin types need a solid moisturizing routine alongside it
③ Red vs. Blue vs. Green — Which One Should You Choose?
Stridex comes in three versions, each with a different salicylic acid concentration and formula. Pick based on your skin type and tolerance.
| Type | Product Name | BHA % | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🟢 Green (Sensitive) | Sensitive Pads | 0.5% | Sensitive & dry skin, BHA beginners. Aloe-infused, low-irritation. Most widely available at OLIVE YOUNG Korea. |
| 🔵 Blue (Essential) | Essential Pads | 1% | Normal to combination skin. Contains Vitamins C & E. A natural step up from Green. |
| 🔴 Red (Maximum) | Maximum Pads | 2% | Oily skin, persistent acne. High concentration — not recommended for sensitive skin. Best purchased via iHerb. |
- First time using BHA / sensitive skin → Start with 🟢 Green (Sensitive)
- Already comfortable with Green and want more → Step up to 🔵 Blue (Essential)
- Oily skin / more persistent breakouts → 🔴 Red (Maximum) — but always moisturize
- Shopping at OLIVE YOUNG Korea → Green is most available; Red & Blue easier to find on iHerb
④ Key Ingredients & What They Do
Here’s a breakdown of what’s doing the work inside the Sensitive Pads formula.
Salicylic Acid (BHA) 0.5%
Oil-soluble, so it can penetrate into pores to help break down excess sebum and keratin buildup. Supports skin cell turnover and helps keep pores clear over time.
Aloe Vera Leaf Extract
Helps counterbalance the potential irritation from salicylic acid. Calms and hydrates the skin, making the Sensitive version more tolerable for reactive skin types.
Alcohol-Free Formula
All Stridex products skip alcohol (ethanol), reducing the risk of dryness or stinging. Makes it easier to incorporate into a daily routine, even for sensitive skin types.
Witch Hazel Extract
Derived from the witch hazel plant, it helps tighten the appearance of pores and control excess sebum. Gives that clean, refreshed feeling after each use.
⑤ How to Use Stridex Pads
To get the most out of these pads while keeping your skin healthy, follow this routine.
Cleanse first, then take out one pad
Start with a clean face — wash away makeup, sunscreen, and excess oil before applying the pad. Use it before your toner or essence step.
Gently swipe across problem areas with the textured side
Focus on the nose, forehead, and chin. Use light pressure — no scrubbing. Avoid the eye area and lips.
Wait 30–60 seconds, then continue your skincare routine
Give the salicylic acid a moment to work before layering on toner and moisturizer. Moisturizing after this step is not optional.
Always wear SPF during the day
Salicylic acid increases photosensitivity. If you’re using this in the morning, sunscreen is a must.
✅ Frequency Guide
- Beginners: 2–3 times per week
- Once adjusted: daily use is fine
- Can be used AM or PM
- Always moisturize after use
⚠️ Precautions
- Avoid eye area and lips
- Patch test on inner arm before first use
- Wear SPF if using in the daytime
- Reduce frequency if dryness or redness appears
⑥ What People Are Saying — Community Reviews
Based on reviews from @cosme, LIPS, iHerb, and OLIVE YOUNG — here’s the general consensus.
👍 Positive Reviews
- Skin around pores feels noticeably smoother
- Fewer breakouts over time
- Fresh, clean feeling after cleansing
- 90 pads = incredible value
- Gentle enough for sensitive skin
- Works on body (back, chest) too
- Great to use before acne patches
👎 Concerns & Complaints
- Some initial dryness in the first few days
- Overuse can cause flakiness
- Stings near the eye area
- Extra moisturizing needed in winter
- Results take weeks — not instant
- 0.5% may feel too mild for some
- “Skin texture improved significantly after 3 months of consistent use” — a common theme among long-term users
- “Using it before acne patches speeds up healing” — a popular tip in the K-beauty community
- “I use it on my back and chest too” — many repurpose it as a body treatment
- A consistent takeaway: dryness largely disappears once moisturizing habits are locked in
⑦ What You Can Expect From Stridex
As a BHA-based exfoliating pad, Stridex can support the following skin concerns with consistent use.
Blackheads & Clogged Pores
The oil-soluble BHA works into pores to loosen sebum and keratin plugs. Many users notice smoother-feeling skin around the nose area with regular use.
Fewer Breakouts
By clearing away excess oil and dead skin, Stridex helps reduce the buildup that leads to clogged pores and breakouts. Best results come with consistent use over several weeks.
Smoother Skin Texture
Removing dead skin cells leaves your complexion looking more even and refined. It may also help subsequent skincare products absorb more easily.
Post-Cleanse Residue Removal
Even after washing, residual oil and impurities often remain. The pad picks up what your cleanser missed — visible on the pad itself after each swipe.
⑧ Stridex vs. COSRX — Which Should You Buy?
Both are popular BHA exfoliating pads in the K-beauty world. Here’s how they compare.
| Feature | Stridex (Green) | COSRX One Step |
|---|---|---|
| BHA Concentration | 0.5% Salicylic Acid | 0.5% Salicylic Acid |
| Irritation Level | Milder | Slightly stronger |
| Speed of Results | Gradual | Relatively faster |
| Pad Count | 90 pads | 70 pads |
| Price (Korea) | ₩13,900 (~$10) | ₩18,000~ (~$13+) |
| Alcohol-Free | ✔ | ✔ |
| Best Skin Type | Sensitive / Dry | Normal / Combination |
- Go with Stridex if: You have sensitive or dry skin, you’re new to BHA, or you want the best value
- Go with COSRX if: You have normal or combination skin and want faster, more noticeable results
- Bottom line: Stridex is gentler and significantly better value. COSRX may deliver quicker results, but Stridex is the smarter starting point for most skin types
⑨ Price & Where to Buy
Stridex is available through several channels. Here’s a breakdown of each option.
| Where to Buy | Approx. Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 🟢 OLIVE YOUNG (Korea in-store) | ₩13,900 ~$10 USD | Sensitive (Green) 90-pack. Best price if shopping in Korea. Even cheaper during sales. |
| 🌐 OLIVE YOUNG Global | ₩13,900~ + shipping | Ships authentic products direct from Korea. No counterfeit risk. Code 【CLIO728】 gives a discount. |
🌿 OLIVE YOUNG Global
Ships genuine products directly from OLIVE YOUNG’s Korean stores. No risk of counterfeits. Ships internationally with a reasonable free shipping threshold.
💡 Enter code 【CLIO728】 at checkout for a discount!
⚠️ The first click may redirect to the homepage. If the product page doesn’t load, please click the link again.
- Visiting Korea? → Pick it up at OLIVE YOUNG in-store for the lowest price
- Shopping from outside Korea? → OLIVE YOUNG Global ships authentic products direct from Korea. Use code 【CLIO728】 for a discount
- Stocking up? → The double pack (90×2) is the best value per pad
※ Prices fluctuate due to exchange rates and promotions. Actual prices may be higher due to recent inflation. Always check each shop for the latest pricing before purchasing.
⑩ Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Can I use Stridex every day?
A. Yes, once your skin has adjusted. Start with 2–3 times a week and gradually increase. If you notice redness or dryness, dial it back.
Q. Should I use it before or after toner?
A. Before toner, right after cleansing. Swipe, wait 30–60 seconds, then layer your toner and moisturizer on top.
Q. Is it safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
A. Stridex contains salicylic acid — please consult your doctor before using it during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
Q. Can I use it with acne patches?
A. Many people do, and it’s a popular combo in the K-beauty community. Use Stridex first, then apply the patch. If you have sensitive skin, start slowly and see how your skin reacts.
Q. Can I use it on my body (back, chest)?
A. Absolutely. Lots of people use it on body acne or rough patches on the back and chest. Just moisturize those areas afterward too.
⑪ Final Verdict — Who Is This For?
- Deal with blackheads, clogged pores, or recurring breakouts
- Want an alcohol-free, low-irritation exfoliating step
- Are new to BHA and want a gentle starting point
- Value affordability and want something that lasts 3+ months
- Are exploring K-beauty and want an easy, effective staple
👍 Pros
- Exceptional value — 90 pads for ~$10
- Alcohol-free and gentle enough for daily use
- BHA addresses pores, acne & texture
- Works on face and body
- Easy to find at OLIVE YOUNG Korea
👎 Cons
- Results take time — not instant
- Must moisturize diligently or skin gets dry
- Only Green widely available in Korea; Red & Blue via iHerb
- SPF required when using in AM
Stridex delivers on both quality and value — which is a rare combination. Whether you’re just starting your K-beauty journey or looking for a reliable BHA step to add to your routine, the Sensitive (Green) pads are a solid, low-risk choice. Start a few times a week, prioritize moisturizing, and give it a few weeks to work. 😊
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※ Prices are subject to change. Always confirm the latest price on each platform before purchasing. Shipping fees and import duties may apply.
