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As someone with sensitive, dry skin, it’s rare to find a product with active ingredients that doesn’t strip my moisture or leave me feeling raw. As I’ve aged, I’ve realized that I need more than just a hyaluronic acid serum or a thick night cream. Sometimes, my skin feels rougher than usual and my pores suddenly appear larger. While self-care masks, exfoliating products, and occasional retinol have their place, past experiences with red and reactive results have made me hesitant to keep them in my routine. Thankfully, I discovered the Medicube Zero Exosome Shot ($39) through TikTok. Its innovative “liquid microneedling” serum has completely transformed my skincare routine.
Tiny But Mighty
The serum contains microscopic hydroly sponge spicules that resemble tiny, transparent toothpicks, acting as microneedles to penetrate the skin. The spicules are so small I can barely feel them on my fingertips. But once applied to my face, I can feel them penetrating my skin, providing a sensation that’s not exactly pleasant but not painful either. Think of it as a super gentle microneedling session at home. To combat any dryness, I always follow with a nourishing moisturizer. The results? After consistent use, my clogged pores have significantly diminished, my skin texture is smoother and radiates with a healthy glow the morning after.
Key Ingredients
The Exosome One Shot microneedles are coated with lacto exosome and adenosine, which help sweep away impurities and deliver powerful active ingredients like AHA, BHA, and PHA deep into the dermis. Lacto exosomes, also known as milk-derived exosomes, are small extracellular vesicles found in milk.
How to Use It
Just like the hundreds of TikTok creators have noted, there’s a tingling sensation upon application, as the active ingredients penetrate the pores. The tingling continues long after application, especially when I touched my face throughout the night. This is a leave-on serum, so no rinsing afterward.
According to Medicube, it also helps to enhance the absorption of other skin-care products, so for me, it was a nightly routine of the Exosome One Shot followed by my rich night cream. Because I have sensitive skin, I’ve stuck with the 2000 shot, but if you’re ready for more or can tolerate harsh actives, the 7000 strength might be for you. But I have to say, the TikTok girlies are right—this one is a keeper for my skin-care toolbox.