Medicube Exosome Shot Review: Is It Worth It?

If you have been scrolling through social media lately, you have likely seen the viral “tingling” skincare trend that involves rubbing microscopic needles into your face. It sounds terrifying, but the results promised—glass skin, invisible pores, and a texture so smooth it looks filtered—are enough to make anyone curious. At the forefront of this movement is the Medicube Zero One Day Exosome Shot, a product that claims to deliver professional-grade microneedling results without the clinic price tag.

In this review, I am going to walk you through exactly what this “needle serum” is, how it feels on the skin, and whether the pain is actually worth the gain. I will break down the science of exosomes versus spicules and compare it to its biggest competitor to help you decide if your skin barrier can handle the heat. Whether you are battling stubborn enlarged pores or just want that elusive K-beauty glow, this guide will give you the unfiltered truth before you buy.

My Experience With Medicube Exosome Shot

I have always struggled with what I call “orange peel” texture—visible pores on my cheeks and nose that no amount of primer seems to fully hide. When I heard about the Medicube Exosome Shot, specifically the 2000 PPM version (the “entry-level” strength), I was both intrigued and nervous. The idea of applying something that intentionally stings my face goes against everything I have learned about soothing skincare, but the before-and-after photos were too compelling to ignore.

The packaging is sleek and clinical, looking very much like a high-tech syringe or ampoule.

I started my journey on a Tuesday night, following the instructions to use it on a clean, dry face.

I pumped a small amount onto my fingers and braced myself.

As soon as I began massaging it in, I felt it—a sensation that is hard to describe.

It wasn’t a burn like acid, but rather a prickly, electric feeling, almost like touching fiberglass insulation or having tiny static shocks dancing over my skin.

For the first week, applying it was a mental hurdle. The “tingle” is undeniable, and if you touch your face an hour later, you can still feel those little spicules activating. However, I woke up after the third night and did a double-take in the mirror. My skin looked incredibly plump, almost as if I had slept for twelve hours. The dullness was replaced by a subtle sheen that wasn’t oil, but genuine hydration and smoothness.

By the third week, the results were undeniable. The rough texture on my chin had smoothed out significantly, and the pores around my nose looked tighter—not gone, but “shrunken” and less prone to collecting foundation. I also noticed that my other skincare products seemed to sink in faster. The Exosome Shot acts like a pathway, dragging my expensive moisturizers deeper into the skin.

However, it wasn’t all smooth sailing. I made the mistake of using a Vitamin C serum the morning after a heavy application and experienced some sensitivity and redness. I learned quickly that this product demands respect; you cannot just throw it into a routine with five other actives. It requires a “less is more” approach with other exfoliants.

Overall, my experience has been overwhelmingly positive, but it is not for the faint of heart. It is a product that forces you to be in tune with your skin barrier. If you can tolerate the sensation and commit to the aftercare, the “glass skin” payoff is real. It bridged the gap between my basic home routine and a professional facial, giving me results I usually only see after a dermatologist visit.

Pros Of Medicube Exosome Shot

When evaluating a product that uses such aggressive technology, the benefits need to be substantial to justify the discomfort. After testing and analyzing the formulation, here are the specific advantages that make this serum a standout.

Deep Penetration Technology With Spicules: The defining feature of this product is its use of micro-spicules, which are microscopic needle-like structures derived from sea sponges. These spicules create physical pathways (micro-channels) in the skin that allow active ingredients to bypass the tough outer layer. Unlike traditional serums that sit on top of the dead skin cells, this delivery system ensures that the exosomes and peptides reach the deeper layers where regeneration happens. You are essentially getting a daily, mild version of microneedling that boosts the efficacy of every other product you layer on top of it.
Dual Action Pore And Texture Correction: Most products target either acne or anti-aging, but this serum effectively tackles both by addressing skin texture. The combination of AHA, BHA, and PHA works to chemically exfoliate the surface, clearing out gunk from clogged pores. Simultaneously, the exosomes (messenger particles that facilitate cell communication) signal your skin to repair and tighten. This two-pronged approach results in a visible reduction of pore size and a smoothing of rough patches, making it ideal for those with “mature acne” or aging skin that still gets congested.
Significant Improvement In Skin Density: One of the most surprising benefits was the “bouncy” feeling my skin developed after consistent use. The formula promotes collagen production and improved elasticity, likely due to the deep delivery of nutrients. Users often report that their skin feels firmer and more resilient, losing that lax, tired look that comes with stress and age. It creates a “plumping” effect that makes fine lines appear softer, giving the face a more youthful and rested appearance without the need for fillers.
Customizable Intensity Levels: Medicube has smartly released this product in different strengths, typically denoted as 2000 and 7500 PPM. This allows users to build tolerance gradually rather than jumping into the deep end and wrecking their barrier. You can start with the 2000 version to get used to the sensation and see how your skin reacts. Once your skin acclimates, you can graduate to the 7500 version for a more intense treatment, providing a clear path for progression in your skincare journey.

Cons Of Medicube Exosome Shot

Despite the impressive results, there are valid reasons why this product might not be suitable for everyone. It is an aggressive treatment that comes with inherent risks and annoyances.

Uncomfortable Prickly Sensation: There is no sugarcoating the fact that applying this product hurts, or at the very least, feels very weird. The sensation of millions of microscopic needles entering your pores can range from a mild itch to a sharp stinging feeling depending on your pain tolerance. This sensation can persist even after the product dries, meaning if you rub your face against a pillow or touch your cheek, you will feel the “prick.” For people with sensory processing issues or those who view skincare as a relaxing ritual, this discomfort can be a major dealbreaker that leads to discontinuing use.
High Risk Of Barrier Damage: Because this product effectively punches holes in your skin barrier to deliver ingredients, it leaves you vulnerable to over-exfoliation. If you combine this with other potent actives like high-strength Retinol, Tretinoin, or strong acids, you can easily burn your face. It requires you to completely overhaul your existing routine to accommodate it, often forcing you to drop other favorite products. Users with naturally thin or sensitive skin barriers (like those with Rosacea) may find that it causes more inflammation and redness than it cures.
Potential For “Purging” Phase: As the spicules accelerate cell turnover and the acids clear out deep congestion, many users experience a purge. This means your skin might look worse before it looks better, with sudden breakouts of whiteheads or small bumps. While this is a sign the product is working to bring impurities to the surface, it can be discouraging and socially awkward to deal with a sudden acne flare-up. You need to have the patience to push through this ugly phase, which can last anywhere from two to four weeks.
Pricey For A Daily Consumable: Compared to a standard bottle of Niacinamide or Hyaluronic Acid, the Exosome Shot is a premium investment. The bottle is relatively small, and because you are encouraged to use it regularly for best results, you burn through it quickly. It becomes a recurring monthly expense that is significantly higher than drugstore alternatives. If you are on a budget, maintaining this step in your routine might force you to cut corners elsewhere, which isn’t ideal for a comprehensive regimen.

Maintenance Tips For Medicube Exosome Shot

Using a spicule-based product requires a specific protocol to ensure safety and maximize results. You cannot treat this like a standard lotion; it requires a strategic approach.

Focus On Tapping Instead Of Rubbing: The application technique makes a massive difference in how the product feels and how much it irritates your skin. Instead of dragging your hands across your face, which drags the spicules and causes unnecessary scratching, you should gently press and tap the serum into your skin. This “push” motion helps drive the spicules straight down into the pores where they belong. It also minimizes the friction on the surface, reducing the immediate redness and stinging sensation that comes from lateral movement.
Strict Barrier Care Post-Application: Once you have opened up those micro-channels, your skin is desperate for hydration and soothing ingredients. You must follow the shot with a thick, barrier-repairing moisturizer containing Ceramides, Panthenol, or Cica (Centella Asiatica). Avoid lightweight gels that contain alcohol; go for rich creams that will seal the surface and comfort the skin. Using a sheet mask immediately after the shot is a pro move—the mask’s essence will penetrate deeply through the channels created by the spicules, supercharging your hydration.
Sun Protection Is Non-Negotiable: The exfoliation and micro-injury caused by this product make your skin incredibly sensitive to UV radiation. You must apply a high SPF (50+) broad-spectrum sunscreen every single morning, without fail. Failure to do so can lead to hyperpigmentation, essentially reversing the brightening effects you are trying to achieve. If you are planning a beach day or know you will be in direct sun for hours, skip the Exosome Shot the night before to give your skin a safety buffer.
Cycle Your Actives Wisely: Do not try to be a hero and use this every single night alongside your other strong acids. Adopt a “skin cycling” method: use the Exosome Shot on night one, a soothing hydration focus on night two, and perhaps a mild retinol on night three only after you are fully acclimated. Give your skin “rest days” where you only use cleanser and moisturizer. Listen to your skin; if it feels tight, stinging, or looks overly red, skip the shot for a few days until it recovers.

Comparison with Other Brands

The concept of “liquid microneedling” is gaining traction, and Medicube isn’t the only player in the game. Here is how it stacks up against its main rival and a traditional alternative.

VT Cosmetics Reedle Shot 100/300/700: This is the direct competitor and the product that arguably started the viral craze. Comparison: The VT Reedle Shot focuses heavily on the “Cica” (Centella Asiatica) aspect, making it slightly more soothing and geared towards calming acne while treating texture. Medicube’s Exosome Shot includes a blend of AHAs, BHAs, and PHAs along with the spicules, making it a more aggressive “all-in-one” pore resurfacer. Medicube feels slightly more sophisticated in its “pore tightening” claims due to the addition of Exosomes, whereas VT is marketed more as a booster for general absorption. If you have sensitive, acne-prone skin, VT might be the safer bet; if you want aggressive pore shrinking and glass skin texture, Medicube is the stronger powerhouse.
Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant: This is the industry standard for pore clearing and texture smoothing without needles. Comparison: Paula’s Choice relies purely on chemical exfoliation (Salicylic Acid) to dissolve gunk inside the pore. It is painless, cheaper, and has a decade of safety data behind it. However, it works primarily on the surface and inside the pore lining, whereas Medicube physically penetrates the epidermis to stimulate collagen. Medicube offers faster, more dramatic textural changes (the “glass skin” look) because of this physical stimulation. If you are terrified of the pain or have very reactive skin, stick to Paula’s Choice; it is slower but safer.
The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution: A budget-friendly chemical exfoliant that targets texture. Comparison: The Ordinary offers a surface-level sloughing of dead skin cells for a fraction of the price. It is great for general brightness but lacks the “channeling” technology to drive ingredients deep. Medicube is vastly superior for “pitted” texture and enlarged pores that need collagen stimulation, not just surface polishing. The Ordinary is a maintenance product; Medicube is a treatment product. You are paying the extra money with Medicube for the delivery system (spicules) which The Ordinary simply does not have.

Also Read: My Thoughts On BioCorneum Scar Gel

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How to use Medicube Exosome Shot for best results?

Apply it as the first step after cleansing your face in the evening. Dispense a small amount and gently press or “tap” it into the skin rather than rubbing vigorously. Wait until it is fully absorbed before applying a heavy moisturizer to seal it in. Start by using it 2-3 times a week and gradually increase frequency as your tolerance builds.

What is the difference between Exosome Shot 2000 and 7500?

The numbers refer to the concentration of spicules (micro-needles) in the formula. The 2000 version is the “mild” or entry-level option, suitable for beginners and those with moderate pore concerns. The 7500 version is the “strong” or intense option, containing a much higher density of spicules for experienced users dealing with severe texture or deep acne scars. Always start with 2000 before attempting 7500.

Can I use Retinol or Vitamin C with Medicube Exosome Shot?

It is generally recommended to avoid using high-strength Retinol or Vitamin C in the same routine (at the same time) as the Exosome Shot, especially when you are a beginner. Using them together can cause extreme irritation and barrier damage. You can use Vitamin C in the morning and the Exosome Shot at night, or alternate nights between Retinol and the Exosome Shot.

Is the tingling sensation normal and how long does it last?

Yes, the tingling or prickly sensation is completely normal and indicates the spicules are working. You will feel it during application and likely whenever you touch your face for the next 12 to 24 hours. The sensation typically fades by the next day as the spicules naturally shed from the skin.

Conclusion

The Medicube Exosome Shot is a fascinating, high-tech bridge between home skincare and clinical treatments. It delivers on its promise of smoother, tighter, and more radiant skin, provided you can handle the unique “spicule” sensation. It is not a relaxing spa product; it is a results-driven tool that demands a careful routine and barrier respect.

If you are stuck in a skincare plateau where acids and creams just aren’t doing enough for your texture, this is the logical next step before booking professional microneedling. Start with the 2000 strength, prioritize hydration, and you might just find that this prickly serum is the secret weapon your pores have been waiting for.