Pore Buff vs Calm Fix

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The new No7 Good Intent Pads have landed, and I couldn’t wait to try them out. I love a skincare pad because they’re just so easy to use – no faffing with cotton wool or measuring out product, just a quick swipe and you’re done. The Good Intent range has two different types: Pore Buff Clarifying Acid Pads and Calm Fix Soothing Pads. I’ve been testing both, and here’s how they compare.

What Are the No7 Good Intent Pads?

This duo is all about simplicity. Each comes as a tub of 80 pre-soaked pads, designed either to gently exfoliate or to calm and comfort the skin. They’re a quick, fuss-free way of working in either active acids or soothing hydration, and I love the fact the pads themselves are a really nice size. They are big enough to properly sweep across the face, neck, and even chest if you fancy.

No7 Good Intent Pore Buff Clarifying Acid Pads

These are the treatment step of the two. They contain glycolic, lactic and salicylic acids to exfoliate, clear out pores, and brighten dull skin. If my complexion is feeling a bit lacklustre, these really perk it up. You get that smoother feel straight away and a glow the next morning.

That said, I wouldn’t overdo it. You don’t want to risk over-exfoliating. A couple of times a week is plenty for most, or they’re a great first step in the morning instead of a full cleanse if you just want to refresh your skin quickly, but as I said, only a couple of times a week.

It’s one of those products where less is more, overdoing acids never ends well, and these are punchy enough to work without having to use them loads.

No7 Good Intent Calm Fix Soothing Pads

These are the comfort step. They’re soaked in a soothing, hydrating essence that instantly calms the skin down. They feel cooling, fresh and seriously quenching, which makes them perfect if your skin is feeling a bit tight, stressed or just needs a drink. They’re like a big glass of water for the skin.

I use these as much as I like because they’re super gentle and hydrating. You can easily slot them in daily. They’re brilliant before serums and moisturiser if you want that extra calming boost.

Using Them Together

For me, the magic is in the pairing. I’ll swipe over with the Pore Buff Pads first to exfoliate and clear the way, and then go straight in with a Calm Fix Pad afterwards to soothe and neutralise. You get the brightening kick from the acids, immediately followed by that cushion of hydration.

This layering really makes the most of both formulas: exfoliation without irritation, glow without tightness. If you’ve ever worried that acid pads might be too harsh, following them with something super soothing makes all the difference. Using them together like this, is a bit like mocking up the iconic Dr Dennis Gross Apha Beta Universal Daily Peel.*

Final Thoughts

No7 has really nailed that balance of effective but not intimidating. This duo just makes skincare feel easy. The Pore Buff Pads are fab if your skin is feeling dull or congested, but they do need to be used mindfully so you don’t over-exfoliate. The Calm Fix Pads are a daily staple. I’d happily use them every morning before skincare or as a soothing treat whenever my skin feels a bit reactive.

Together, they’re such a simple, effective duo. Exfoliate, then calm, and you’re left with skin that feels fresh, smooth and comfortable. For me, they slot into my routine so easily, and they’re the kind of product you’ll actually look forward to using.

Don’t forget that if you are using acids to exfoliate, it is extra important to be diligent with your SPF. If you are looking for a new sunscreen, the following posts may be helpful:

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