Max Complexion Correction Pads

What we tested: Peter Thomas Roth Max Complexion Pads

Cost: $36

Where: Sephora

Product claims: Formulated to cleanse skin, clear up blackheads, refine pores and reduce the appearance of fine lines. Each pad contains alpha hydroxy acid, beta hydroxy acid and alcohol in an advanced botanical formulation … to cleanse the skin, clear up active acne blemishes, minimize pore size, eliminate the formation of new blackheads and blemishes and regulate healthy cell turnover as it delivers anti-aging benefits that help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Liz Balmaseda, 51
The first good thing about these complexion pads is that they don’t smell like rubbing alcohol or any other kind of astringent — they’re peach-scented. But make no mistake: these are not the usual wimpy disks you may find in similarly pre-moistened products.

These are thick, sturdy pads with double-whammy benefits — they both cleanse and exfoliate the skin. And, while they do contain alcohol, alpha hydroxy acid and beta hydroxy acid, they did not irritate my sensitive skin. Instead, they left my skin feeling fresh and, with extended use, my pores seeming refined. Quite peachy, if you ask me.

Amy Royster, 32
A washcloth, a gentle cleanser and a touch of eye makeup remover work well, too, and these are much better for the environment and my budget. Besides, I don’t want to smell like I’ve been drinking peach Bellinis all day!

Katie McBroom, 22
How did I not know there was a product out there scented like my favorite alcoholic beverage? These Bellini-fragranced complexion pads not only smell amazing, but they are incredibly effective. My skin’s condition improved after just days of use. This product lived up to the claims by successfully clearing up acne and refining pores. The complexion pads also provide that squeaky-clean feeling that just plain feels good.

Sally Sevareid From the ‘Mo and Sally’ morning show on 105.5
We have come a long way from the pimple-fighting, skin-clearing pads of the ’80s. These complexion pads fight blemishes and don’t turn your skin into a flaky mess. I am very diligent about washing my face, but even in my 40s I still find myself battling with blackheads around my nose and chin. These complexion pads worked for getting rid of them without drying out my skin. I also think they are a good pore minimizer. As for the anti-aging benefits, I did not realize any difference.

Rhonda Swan, 45
These complexion pads get everything off my face that my cleanser leaves behind. And I was amazed to see just how much dirt that really is! But that perfect clean comes with a price, and I’m not just talking about the $36 that must leave your wallet.

The 46 percent alcohol content is overwhelming. I found myself closing my eyes and holding my breath each time I used the pads because the strong scent irritated my eyes and challenged my breathing. Although they try to mask the alcohol with a hint of peach Bellini, it’s just not enough to give my olfactory senses any relief. This product is too much drama.