Overall Rating: 5.0/5.0
A pH-balanced Korean beauty toner that combines AHA and BHA to gently exfoliate, clarify, and refine pores without over-drying the skin.
Price
$22.00
Size
150ml / 5.07 fl oz
Brand
COSRX
Testing Period
8 weeks
✓ Pros
✗ Cons
COSRX AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner has become a K-beauty favorite for good reason. After 8 weeks of comprehensive testing, we found it to be an effective, gentle exfoliating toner that delivers visible results without the harshness often associated with acid toners.
Our testing involved daily use (evening) on participants with oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. The toner was tested for exfoliation efficacy, pore refinement, blackhead reduction, and overall skin clarity.
Gentle Exfoliation: The combination of AHA (glycolic acid) and BHA (betaine salicylate) provides dual-action exfoliation. The AHA works on the skin's surface to remove dead skin cells, while the BHA penetrates pores to clear out debris. This dual approach is more effective than using either acid alone.
Pore Refinement: Testers reported visible reduction in pore appearance after 4-6 weeks of consistent use. The BHA component is particularly effective at clearing out pore-clogging debris, making pores appear smaller and less noticeable.
Blackhead Reduction: The toner was particularly effective at reducing blackheads, especially in the T-zone area. The BHA's ability to penetrate oil-clogged pores makes it ideal for this concern.
Skin Clarity: Regular use resulted in brighter, more even-toned skin. The gentle exfoliation helps reveal fresher, smoother skin underneath while improving overall texture.
A water-soluble alpha hydroxy acid derived from sugar cane. Glycolic acid has the smallest molecular size among AHAs, allowing it to penetrate deeply into the skin. It works by breaking down the bonds between dead skin cells, promoting cell turnover and revealing brighter, smoother skin.
Benefits: Exfoliates surface dead skin cells, improves skin texture, reduces hyperpigmentation, and enhances skin radiance.
A gentler derivative of salicylic acid that's oil-soluble, allowing it to penetrate into pores. Betaine salicylate is less irritating than pure salicylic acid while maintaining similar efficacy. It works by dissolving the bonds between dead skin cells and clearing out pore-clogging debris.
Benefits: Penetrates pores to clear blackheads and whiteheads, reduces acne, and helps control sebum production.
Contains natural salicylic acid compounds that provide additional exfoliation and anti-inflammatory benefits. This adds to the BHA effect while providing soothing properties.
The toner is pH-balanced to 4.0, which is optimal for acid exfoliation. At this pH, both AHA and BHA are in their active form and can work effectively. The formula is water-based and lightweight, making it suitable for daily use without feeling heavy or sticky.
Why pH Matters: Acids need to be at the correct pH to be effective. Too high (alkaline) and they won't work; too low (very acidic) and they can cause irritation. pH 4.0 is the sweet spot for gentle yet effective exfoliation.
Saw pore refinement
Reduced blackheads
Improved skin clarity
The toner has a watery, lightweight texture that feels refreshing on the skin. It's not sticky or heavy, and absorbs quickly. The formula is clear and has no noticeable scent, making it pleasant to use.
Application Tips:
Purging vs. Breakouts: It's normal to experience some purging (small breakouts) during the first 2-4 weeks as the acids bring underlying congestion to the surface. This is different from irritation breakouts, which would be accompanied by redness, burning, or excessive dryness.
At $22.00 for 150ml, this toner offers excellent value. The cost per milliliter is approximately $0.15, which is very reasonable for an effective acid toner. A bottle typically lasts 2-3 months with daily use, making it an economical choice for consistent exfoliation.
Cost per ml
$0.15
Typical duration
2-3 months
Value rating
Excellent
5.0 / 5.0
Overall Rating
COSRX AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner is an outstanding product that delivers effective exfoliation at an excellent price point. The combination of AHA and BHA provides comprehensive benefits—surface exfoliation and pore clearing—in a gentle, pH-balanced formula suitable for daily use.
The toner successfully addresses common concerns like blackheads, enlarged pores, and rough texture without the harshness often associated with acid products. The pH balance and formulation quality make it suitable for regular use, and the results are visible within a few weeks of consistent application.
Recommendation: Highly recommended for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types seeking gentle daily exfoliation. Also excellent for those with blackheads and enlarged pores. One of the best acid toners available at this price point, and a standout product in the K-beauty category.