How to Use the Medicube Booster Pro X2: Best Serums for Every Mode
The Medicube AGE-R Booster Pro X2, launched in June 2026, is the latest evolution of one of Korea's most popular at-home skincare devices. With stronger treatment modes, three new features, and customizable intensity levels, it promises professional-inspired results from home—but only if you know how to use it correctly. In this practical guide, you'll learn how each mode works, which serums and ingredients pair best with it, and how to get the most from the device without spending more than you need to.
Key Takeaways
✓ Keep your face completely dry for Air Shot Mode
Wet skin blocks the pore-tightening sparks, causing the device to misfire and snap painfully. Use it on a bone-dry face first, and apply your soothing serums only after the timer turns off.
✓ Stick to oil-free, water-based serums for Booster Mode
Face oils act like rubber insulation. They block the device from opening up the temporary surface pathways your skin needs to drink up the ingredients and achieve a glass-skin glow.
✓ Apply your Retinol and active acids with your hands afterward
Forcing strong peeling acids or pure Vitamin A deep into your face with electrical currents will completely overwhelm your skin barrier, leading to chemical irritation and heavy redness.
✓ Lather on a thick, cushiony gel for Derma Shot Mode
Lightweight serums sink in too quickly, leaving your face dry. Without a slippery liquid bridge sitting on top of your skin, the deep muscle-lifting current will violently sting your surface nerves.
✓ You do not need Medicube's own products to achieve excellent results
Your face responds directly to the thickness and wetness of the fluid, not the logo on the bottle. Any affordable, oil-free K-Beauty water gel will give you the exact same professional results.
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The Big Upgrades: What Actually Changed in the Booster Pro X2?
At first glance, the Booster Pro X2 looks very similar to the original. It keeps the same four core modes—Air Shot, Booster, Microcurrent, and Derma Shot—but the real changes are happening internally.
Medicube upgraded the hardware to increase power across all modes and added three new features, aiming to make treatments faster and more customizable.
Here are the key upgrades.
More Powerful Treatments
The original four modes now deliver up to twice the output, with significantly improved skincare absorption in Booster Mode.
This doesn’t mean you should always use the highest setting. The added power simply gives you more flexibility to adjust intensity based on your comfort and experience level.
A Larger Treatment Head
The treatment head is about 1.3 times larger.
This helps cover more surface area, making full-face treatments quicker and more efficient.
Six Intensity Levels
The X2 increases intensity options from five to six levels.
This allows for more gradual adjustments, which is especially helpful if you're new to beauty devices.
Three New Treatment Modes
The Booster Pro X2 also introduces three new features:
Dual Mode combines two compatible technologies at once to save time
Mask Mode enhances absorption when using sheet masks
AI Mode connects to the app for personalized treatment recommendations
While these additions are useful, the biggest difference comes from using each mode correctly with the right skincare. That’s where you’ll see the most noticeable results.
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Keep reading. The biggest difference in your results won't come from choosing a higher intensity—it'll come from pairing each mode with the right skincare.
Mode-by-Mode Guide: The Best Serums for Every Booster Pro X2 Mode
One of the biggest misconceptions I see about electric skincare devices, especially on social media where they are often used with the wrong types of products, is that every mode works with the same skincare products.
They do not.
Each treatment uses a different technology, targets a different layer of the skin, and has its own requirements for conductivity, texture, and ingredients. A serum that works beautifully with one mode can actually reduce the effectiveness of another or even increase the risk of irritation.
From my experience, Medicube’s own serums are a very safe and reliable choice because they are designed to work seamlessly with each mode. But once you understand how each mode works and what your skin actually needs, you will be able to choose the perfect serum for maximum results on your own.
That is exactly what I will help you do here.
In the sections below, I will walk you through how each mode works, what type of products I recommend pairing with it, and which ingredients are worth looking for.
1. Air Shot Mode (For Large Pores & Rough Texture)
If you have seen Air Shot described as "needle free microneedling," the comparison is not entirely wrong, but it can also be misleading.
Unlike traditional microneedling, Air Shot does not use physical needles. Instead, it creates tiny electrical sparks that briefly jump from the device to the surface of dry skin. These microscopic electrical pulses remove small amounts of dead skin cells while creating temporary micro channels in the outermost layer of the skin.
As your skin begins repairing these tiny channels, it also starts a natural renewal process that can gradually improve rough texture and reduce the appearance of enlarged pores.
Target Skin Type & Concern: Open or enlarged pores, rough skin texture, and bumpy skin. It works for all skin types, including highly sensitive skin.
The Air Shot Rule: Always Start With Completely Dry Skin
This is the only mode that should never be used over skincare.
The treatment relies on electricity passing through a tiny air gap before reaching your skin. If your face is damp or covered with serum, water changes the way electricity travels. Instead of forming controlled micro sparks, the current spreads across the surface, making the treatment less effective and potentially much more uncomfortable.
For that reason, Air Shot should always be the very first step after cleansing, once your skin is completely dry.
You may also notice a faint burning smell during treatment. Although it can seem surprising the first time, this is completely normal. The electrical pulses are heating tiny amounts of dead skin cells and fine facial hair, creating a brief singed smell that disappears as soon as the treatment is finished.
What to Apply Afterwards
Once your five minute session is complete, this is the ideal time to reach for calming, barrier supporting skincare.
Because the temporary micro channels are still open, soothing ingredients can penetrate more efficiently than they normally would.
Look for lightweight, fragrance free serums containing ingredients such as:
Centella Asiatica also known as Cica
Panthenol
Allantoin
Ceramides
These ingredients help calm temporary redness while supporting the skin barrier as it recovers.
SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Ampoule
Where to buy
A minimalist soothing ampoule centered around a high concentration of Centella Asiatica extract sourced from Madagascar. It focuses on calming inflammation and strengthening the skin barrier without adding fragrance or unnecessary ingredients. Its watery texture absorbs quickly, making it especially suitable right after Air Shot when the skin needs gentle hydration without heaviness.
Torriden Balanceful Cica Control Serum
Where to buy
A calming serum that combines Centella with panthenol and additional soothing ingredients to help reduce redness and irritation. It also includes barrier supporting components that help the skin recover more comfortably after treatment. The texture is lightweight but slightly more cushioning than a pure ampoule, which can feel reassuring if your skin tends to feel sensitive after device use.
Purito Seoul Wonder Releaf Centella Serum Unscented
Where to buy
A gentle fragrance free Centella serum designed to soothe and strengthen the skin barrier. It contains multiple forms of Centella derivatives along with hydrating ingredients that help maintain moisture while calming sensitivity. Its balanced texture makes it easy to layer, making it a reliable option for post treatment care when your skin needs both soothing and hydration.
2. Booster Mode (For a Deep Glass Skin Glow)
If Air Shot prepares the skin, Booster Mode is where you actively enhance how well your skincare performs.
This mode uses electroporation technology, which temporarily creates microscopic pathways in the skin barrier. These brief openings allow water-based ingredients to penetrate more effectively before the skin naturally reseals itself.
The result is noticeably improved absorption, making this mode ideal for boosting hydration, brightening the complexion, and achieving that smooth, glass-like glow.
Target Skin Type & Concern: Dullness, dehydration, uneven tone, post-inflammatory pigmentation, and anyone looking to get more out of their serums.
The Booster Rule: Water-Based Formulas Work Best
A common mistake is using thick or oil-heavy serums before Booster Mode.
Oils form a barrier on the skin that repels water and can interfere with how effectively the device works. While they are great for sealing in moisture, they can limit the interaction between the electrical pulses and the skin.
For best results, stick to lightweight, water-based serums or gel ampoules that glide easily across the skin.
Look for ingredients such as:
Tranexamic Acid
Hyaluronic Acid
Glutathione
These ingredients pair especially well with Booster Mode because they benefit from deeper penetration while targeting hydration, brightness, and pigmentation.
Anua Niacinamide 10 TXA 4 Serum
Where to buy
A strong option for tackling discoloration and acne marks, this formula combines a high percentage of niacinamide with tranexamic acid and arbutin. It targets pigmentation from multiple angles while maintaining a lightweight texture that spreads easily during treatment.
Rovectin Vita Brightening Dark Spot Serum
Where to buy
Ideal for overall radiance, this serum blends several brightening ingredients rather than relying on just one. With vitamin C derivatives, niacinamide, and ferulic acid, it supports a more even tone while fitting seamlessly into a Booster-focused routine.
Isntree Ultra-Low Molecular Hyaluronic Acid Serum
Where to buy
If your goal is immediate hydration and plumpness, this is a standout. It uses multiple molecular weights of hyaluronic acid in a watery texture that absorbs quickly, leaving skin feeling refreshed and smooth without any heaviness.
MEDI-PEEL Hyaluron Layer Mooltox Ampoule
Where to buy
This ampoule is designed for deep, layered hydration. It combines multiple forms of hyaluronic acid with peptides to support both moisture retention and skin elasticity. The slightly richer texture still remains compatible with Booster Mode, making it a great choice when your skin needs both hydration and a subtle firming effect.
3. Microcurrent Mode (For Fine Lines & Skin Firmness)
Unlike Booster Mode, Microcurrent is not designed to improve skincare absorption.
Its primary goal is to stimulate the skin itself.
Microcurrent delivers extremely low electrical currents that closely mimic the body's own natural bioelectrical signals. These gentle currents encourage skin cells to produce more cellular energy, known as ATP, which plays an essential role in collagen production and tissue repair.
Because of this, Microcurrent Mode is best thought of as a long term treatment. Rather than creating an immediate glow, it gradually supports firmer, smoother looking skin with consistent use.
Target Skin Type & Concern: Fine lines, early loss of firmness, mature skin, and anyone looking to improve elasticity and overall skin quality.
The Microcurrent Rule: Choose Serums That Support Firmness
Unlike Air Shot or Booster Mode, the focus here is not on pushing ingredients deeper into the skin. Instead, think of your serum as supplying the skin with the building blocks it needs while cellular activity is being stimulated.
The ideal formula should remain slightly slippery throughout the treatment while delivering ingredients associated with skin repair and collagen support.
Look for ingredients such as:
Dear, Klairs EGF Blue Youth Activating Drop
Where to buy
This serum is centered around EGF, making it a natural match for Microcurrent Mode. It focuses on supporting skin regeneration and improving elasticity over time, while its lightweight, slightly viscous texture allows for smooth device movement throughout the session.
Sungboon Editor Green Tomato NMN Pore Lifting Ampoule
Where to buy
Few serums fit this mode as naturally as this one. It combines NMN, ATP, collagen, and additional firming ingredients in a formula designed to support skin elasticity. The texture stays comfortably slippery throughout treatment, while the ingredient profile complements the goal of improving firmness over time.
Derma Factory EGF Ampoule
Where to buy
A straightforward, ingredient-focused option built around EGF, this ampoule is ideal if you want to keep your routine simple while still targeting firmness. Its clean formula supports skin repair and elasticity, and the texture remains comfortable enough for consistent microcurrent use.
4. Derma Shot Mode (For Facial Contouring & Depuffing)
If Microcurrent works at the cellular level, Derma Shot works one layer deeper by stimulating the facial muscles themselves.
It uses Electrical Muscle Stimulation, commonly known as EMS, to create gentle muscle contractions. As these muscles repeatedly contract and relax, they receive a workout similar to the rest of the muscles in your body.
This is why Derma Shot is primarily used to improve facial definition, reduce puffiness, and create a temporarily more lifted appearance.
Target Skin Type & Concern: Loss of facial definition, mild sagging, puffiness, soft jawline, and anyone looking for a more sculpted appearance.
The Derma Shot Rule: Conductivity Matters
Unlike Booster Mode, where almost any water based serum can work well, Derma Shot requires a product that remains slippery for the entire treatment.
As the electrical current travels deeper into the muscles, it needs a continuous conductive layer between the device and your skin. If your serum absorbs too quickly, the device can begin to drag, and the treatment may become noticeably less comfortable.
For that reason, thicker gel textures are usually the best choice.
Look for ingredients such as:
Aloe Vera
Electrolytes
Glycerin
Hydrolyzed Collagen
Medicube AGE-R PDRN Booster Gel
Where to buy
Not surprisingly, Medicube's own gel performs exceptionally well here because it was specifically formulated for this device. It stays comfortably wet throughout the session, provides excellent glide, and combines conductive ingredients with PDRN, peptides, and hydrating ingredients that can simply be patted into the skin afterwards.
Rejuran Recover Healer Boosting Gel
Where to buy
This is a strong alternative if you want a more treatment-focused formula. Its gel texture maintains good slip during use while delivering skin-repairing ingredients like c-PDRN, making it ideal for those who want both muscle stimulation and barrier recovery in one step.
Bringgreen Aloe 97% Soothing Gel
Where to buy
A simple, budget-friendly option that works surprisingly well. The high aloe content provides excellent glide and conductivity, making it perfect for comfortable EMS sessions. It’s especially suitable for sensitive or easily irritated skin, and you can layer your regular serums afterwards once the session is complete.
5. Mask Mode (X2 Exclusive: Sheet Mask Infusion)
Mask Mode was designed specifically for sheet masks, making it one of the most unique additions to the Booster Pro X2.
Instead of simply pressing a sheet mask against the skin, this mode uses millions of microscopic vibrations together with electroporation technology to help the essence spread more evenly and absorb more efficiently.
An interesting detail is that the device doesn't change the ingredients themselves. Rather, it temporarily changes how the essence behaves.
Many sheet masks contain thick gelling agents that help the essence stay inside the pouch and cling to the fabric instead of dripping everywhere. During treatment, the high frequency vibrations temporarily make this gel structure more fluid. As a result, the essence spreads more easily across the skin and can move into the tiny pathways created by electroporation.
Target Skin Type & Concern: Anyone who regularly uses sheet masks, especially those with dehydrated, dull, or compromised skin that benefits from intensive hydration.
The Mask Mode Rule: Not Every Sheet Mask Is Created Equal
The best results come from sheet masks soaked in clear, water rich essences.
These formulas remain highly conductive while allowing the vibrations to move the essence freely throughout the treatment.
On the other hand, creamy or milky sheet masks are generally less suitable. Their higher oil content can interfere with conductivity, reducing the efficiency of the treatment. Clay masks, wash off masks, and peel off masks should never be used with this mode.
Numbuzin No.1 Pantothenic B5 Hyaluronic Active Clear Mask
Where to buy
This mask is an excellent match for Mask Mode thanks to its lightweight, water-rich essence. With panthenol and hyaluronic acid at its core, it delivers deep hydration while helping to soothe and support the skin barrier. The fluid texture allows the vibrations to distribute the essence evenly, making it especially effective for dehydrated or stressed skin.
Goodal Heartleaf Hyaluron Soothing Jelly Mask Sheet
Where to buy
This mask combines heartleaf extract with hyaluronic acid in a refreshing, jelly-like essence that responds well to Mask Mode. As the vibrations soften the texture during treatment, the soothing ingredients spread more evenly across the skin, helping to calm redness and irritation while maintaining strong hydration.
Mastering Dual Mode: How to Combine Your Settings
Dual Mode is one of the biggest advantages of the Booster Pro X2. Instead of running two separate five minute sessions back to back, it lets two compatible technologies work simultaneously, so you can achieve the same benefits in a single five minute session.
Not every mode can be paired. Air Shot always works on its own because it requires completely dry skin, but the remaining modes can be combined in three different ways depending on your skin goals.
Booster + Derma Shot
If your skin is beginning to lose firmness but you also want maximum skincare absorption, this is the combination I would choose.
While Derma Shot stimulates the facial muscles, Booster Mode helps deliver hydrating and anti aging ingredients more effectively into the skin. The result is a routine that targets both facial definition and overall skin quality in a single session.
Because both technologies require good conductivity, choose a thicker water based gel that stays slippery throughout treatment, such as the Medicube AGE-R PDRN Booster Gel mentioned earlier.
Microcurrent + Derma Shot
This is the most intensive firming combination available on the Booster Pro X2.
Microcurrent focuses on stimulating cellular activity and collagen production, while Derma Shot works directly on the facial muscles. Together, they address two different aspects of skin aging, making this pairing particularly appealing for mature skin or anyone concerned about loss of firmness.
To keep the treatment comfortable and effective, use a conductive gel like the Rejuran Recover Healer Boosting Gel to maintain glide while supporting skin recovery.
Microcurrent + Booster
If your priority is smoother, healthier looking skin rather than facial contouring, this is probably the most versatile combination.
Booster Mode enhances the performance of your skincare, while Microcurrent supports collagen production and skin renewal. Together, they create an excellent routine for improving hydration, radiance, and skin texture over time.
A slightly bouncy, hydrating formula like the Sungboon Editor Green Tomato NMN Pore Lifting Ampoule works especially well here, complementing both modes without interrupting the flow of treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I smell something burning when using Air Shot Mode?
It can be surprising the first time, but this is completely normal.
Air Shot creates tiny electrical sparks that remove microscopic amounts of dead skin cells while also singeing fine facial hairs, often called peach fuzz. Both are made largely of keratin, the same protein found in your hair and nails. As the sparks heat this surface layer, they produce a faint burnt smell for a few moments.
As long as you are using the device on completely dry skin and following the instructions, this scent simply means the treatment is working as intended.
Why do my jaw or teeth tingle during Derma Shot Mode?
This is another harmless sensation that many users notice, especially during their first few treatments.
Derma Shot uses electrical muscle stimulation to contract the facial muscles. Some of these muscles sit very close to branches of the trigeminal nerve, the main sensory nerve of the face. Occasionally, the electrical current stimulates this nearby nerve, creating a brief tingling or metallic sensation in the teeth or jaw.
Although it feels unusual, it does not mean anything is wrong with the device or your teeth.
Can I use Retinol or Vitamin C with the Booster Pro X2?
Yes, but they should not be used in the same way.
Vitamin C serums, particularly lightweight water based formulas, pair well with Booster Mode because they benefit from improved penetration.
Retinol is different. It should not be used during electrical treatments such as Booster, Microcurrent, Derma Shot, or Dual Mode. Driving retinoids deeper into the skin may significantly increase irritation, redness, and peeling.
Instead, complete your device session first, then apply your retinol manually as the final step of your evening routine.
How often should I use each mode?
There is no need to use every mode every day. In fact, giving your skin time to respond between treatments usually produces better long term results.
As a general guide:
Booster Mode: Daily, morning or evening
Microcurrent Mode: Three to four times per week
Derma Shot Mode: Three to four times per week
Air Shot Mode: One to two times per week on completely dry skin
Mask Mode: Whenever you use a compatible sheet mask, typically one to three times per week
Rather than trying to use every feature in a single week, choose the modes that match your current skin concerns and build a routine you can maintain consistently.
An Expert's Unbiased Verdict: Do You Really Need the Medicube Booster Pro X2?
Overall, I think the Medicube Booster Pro X2 is an impressive device. The technology behind each mode makes scientific sense, the treatments serve distinct purposes, and the price is reasonable considering everything it offers. That said, it is still an investment, so I would only recommend it if you already have a consistent skincare routine and know you'll use it regularly.
As for Medicube's own gels and serums, they are excellent products, but they are not essential. Once you understand which textures and ingredients work best with each mode, you can confidently use many affordable K Beauty alternatives and achieve very similar results.
If you decide the Booster Pro X2 is the right investment for your routine, you can check today's price here.
I hope this guide helped you better understand how to get the most out of the Booster Pro X2. If you'd like to learn more about skincare ingredients, discover evidence based product recommendations, or build a routine from scratch, explore my other guides here on my blog. And if you're not sure where to begin, take my free Skin Type Quiz or book a personalized skincare consultation for a routine tailored specifically to your skin.
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