COSRX AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner (150ml)

Gentle dual-acid exfoliating toner with AHA (from apple fruit water) and BHA (from willow bark water). Refines texture, improves clarity, and reduces pore congestion and breakouts. Lightweight, hydrating formula ideal for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin—refreshes without stripping or leaving skin tight.

If you check any of these boxes, this is for you:

• Your skin has clogged pores, blackheads, whiteheads, or acne congestion.
• You want gentle exfoliation that won't cause dryness or irritation.
• You're new to chemical exfoliation or prefer dual-acid gentleness.

AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner

Gently exfoliate and refresh your skin with this clarifying toner featuring AHA (from apple fruit water) and BHA (from willow bark water). Designed to refine texture, improve clarity, and support smoother skin, it helps refresh oily and combination skin while delivering balancing hydration.

Key Features

• Dual-acid system combining AHA (glycolic acid + apple fruit water) and BHA (betaine salicylate + willow bark water) for comprehensive exfoliation at multiple skin levels.
• Mineral water base and hydrating humectants such as sodium lactate, panthenol, and allantoin help maintain moisture and soothe skin.
• Lightweight liquid texture that refreshes and preps skin for following skincare steps without disrupting pH balance.
• Fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and formulated without harsh irritants or unnecessary additives.
• Suitable for beginners to chemical exfoliation as well as experienced users seeking gentle, effective results.

Primary Advantages

• Smooths Rough Texture & Reduces Dullness: Dual acids work synergistically to dissolve dead skin cells and reveal brighter, smoother skin underneath.
• Pore-Refining & Clearing: Assists in reducing the appearance of clogged pores, blackheads, whiteheads, and congestion for a clearer complexion.
• Leaves Skin Refreshed, Not Stripped: Balanced acid concentrations combined with hydrating ingredients prevent the dryness and over-stripping associated with harsher exfoliants.
• Flexible Frequency: Suitable for regular use; frequency can be adapted to individual skin sensitivity (daily for resilient skin, every other day or 2-3x weekly for sensitive skin).
• Gentle for All Skin Types: Even beginners to chemical exfoliation tolerate this product well due to its carefully calibrated formula.

Core Ingredients

• Apple Fruit Water (AHA Source): Contains natural glycolic acid providing mild surface exfoliation, enhancing radiance, and smoothing skin texture with enzymatic and chemical exfoliation benefits.
• Willow Bark Water (BHA Source): Natural source of salicylic acid that penetrates pores to clear impurities, dissolve sebum-and-dead-skin buildup, and reduce breakouts with oil-soluble action.
• Glycolic Acid (AHA): Smallest molecular weight AHA that effectively refines skin's surface, reducing dullness, improving tone and texture, and fading post-acne marks.
• Betaine Salicylate (Gentle BHA): A gentler form of salicylic acid derived from naturally-occurring compounds, providing pore-clearing action for exfoliation without excessive dryness or irritation.
• Panthenol & Allantoin: Soothing agents that calm and protect the skin barrier, reducing irritation and supporting skin regeneration after exfoliation.
• Mineral Water: Rich in beneficial minerals that hydrate and refresh skin while supporting overall pH balance and electrolyte equilibrium.

Important Notes

• Skin Type Compatibility: Ideal for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin. Many sensitive skin types also tolerate it well, though patch testing is strongly advised before full use.
• Sun Protection Essential: Always use broad-spectrum sunscreen SPF 30 or higher during daytime—chemical exfoliating acids increase sun sensitivity and UV damage risk.
• Avoid Acid Stacking: Do not combine with other exfoliating acids (AHAs, BHAs), retinol, or vitamin C on the same day to prevent over-exfoliation and irritation.
• If Irritation Occurs: Reduce usage frequency to every other day or 2-3 times weekly, or discontinue temporarily until skin barrier recovers.
• Storage Advice: Store with cap tightly closed in a cool, dry place away from direct light to maintain pH stability and acid effectiveness.
• Not Recommended: Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should consult healthcare provider before using products with chemical exfoliants.

Step 1 - Cleanse: After cleansing and completely drying your face (acids work best on dry skin), spray the toner onto a clean cotton pad.

Step 2 - Apply: Gently wipe the cotton pad across your face in downward motions, focusing on oily and congested areas (T-zone, chin). Avoid the eye, mouth, and sensitive areas. Do not over-massage.

Step 3 - Wait & Absorb: Allow 5-10 minutes for the toner to fully absorb into skin before proceeding to the next step. Timing allows acids to work effectively.

Step 4 - Sunscreen (Daytime Only): Always follow with a broad-spectrum sunscreen rated SPF 30 or higher during the daytime to protect newly exfoliated, sun-sensitive skin.

Frequency: Use once daily or every other day depending on your skin's sensitivity and tolerance. Beginners should start 2-3 times weekly, gradually increasing as skin adjusts.

Evening Tip: In evening routines, follow with hydrating essence, serum, and moisturizer to replenish hydration after exfoliation.