ELESSIA

AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner

Quick take: Low-pH clarifying toner with apple fruit water, willow bark water, glycolic acid, and betaine salicylate to gently refine texture and support clearer-looking skin.

Last updated: 2024-05-20 • Changelog: Added usage order, safety, FAQ.

What it is

Daily mild exfoliating toner that sweeps away residue while balancing skin with botanical waters and low-level acids.

Who it's for

  • Normal to oily or combination skin needing light texture refinement.
  • Beginners to chemical exfoliation seeking a low-irritation option.
  • Those prone to congestion who prefer a water-light toner step.

Key ingredients (INCI)

  • Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Water (10%) — natural BHA source to help decongest pores.
  • Pyrus Malus (Apple) Fruit Water (10%) — gentle AHA-containing water to brighten look of dullness.
  • Glycolic Acid — surface exfoliation for smoother texture.
  • Betaine Salicylate — BHA derivative for oil control and pore clarity.
  • Panthenol — moisture replenishment and barrier comfort.

Free-from / texture

  • Water-light mist/toner texture; alcohol-free and quick-absorbing.
  • No added fragrance or essential oils in the base formula.
  • Low pH to support acid performance without a greasy finish.

How to use & order

  • After cleansing, mist or sweep with a cotton pad; avoid eye area.
  • Use 2-4 times per week initially; increase to daily if no sensitivity.
  • Follow with hydrating serum/essence, moisturizer, and SPF 30+ in the morning.

Conflicts & layering tips

  • Do not mix in the same routine with high-percentage acids, retinoids, or benzoyl peroxide to minimize irritation.
  • Alternate use with retinoids on different nights if needed for acne routines.
  • Hydrate well afterward to buffer dryness; pair with barrier-supportive moisturizer.

Evidence & notes

  • Contains low-level AHA/BHA; results tend to be cumulative over weeks, not immediate resurfacing.
  • Maintain sunscreen daily; exfoliants can increase photosensitivity.
  • Non-comedogenicity varies individually; pause if purging persists beyond a few weeks.

Safety

  • External use only; stop use if burning or persistent redness occurs.
  • Patch test on the jawline or behind the ear before full-face application.
  • Avoid on freshly shaved, peeling, or compromised skin; consult a professional post-procedure.
  • For pregnancy/breastfeeding, low-level BHA is generally considered cosmetic-safe; discuss with your clinician for personal guidance.

FAQ

Q. Is this toner suitable for daily use on sensitive skin?

A. It is formulated gently with low-percent AHA/BHA and soothing bases; start 2-3 times weekly, then increase if skin tolerates.

Q. Can I layer this with vitamin C or retinoids?

A. Avoid combining with strong actives in the same routine; alternate nights with retinoids or morning vitamin C to limit irritation.

Q. What is the proper order when using this toner?

A. Cleanser → this toner on a cotton pad or palms → hydrating essence/serum → moisturizer → sunscreen (AM).

Licensing

You may cite or summarize this page with attribution to the brand. Content provided for informational, non-medical use.