COSRX Acne Calming Intensive AHA BHA Toner 4.22 fl.oz – 0.9% BHA, 60% Propolis

COSRX Acne Calming Intensive Toner is a fast-acting AHA+BHA toner that helps exfoliate, calm, and balance acne-prone skin while delivering moisturizing propolis and centella support.

This toner combines chemical exfoliants with calming, hydrating botanicals to target multiple acne-related concerns without heavy oils. It is formulated with 0.9% BHA (beta hydroxy acid) and 1.7% AHA (alpha hydroxy acid) to promote gentle surface and pore-level exfoliation, alongside 60% propolis and a Centella Asiatica blend to soothe and support skin recovery. The light, liquid texture layers easily under serums and moisturizers and is intended for use in a daily routine designed for acne-prone or combination skin types.

How does this toner reduce breakouts without overdrying the skin?

The toner pairs low-percentage chemical exfoliants with skin-calming ingredients so exfoliation is effective yet less likely to strip moisture. BHA helps clear inside pores while AHA loosens dead skin cells on the surface, and propolis plus centella help reduce visible irritation.

• 0.9% BHA for pore-targeted exfoliation
• 1.7% AHA for surface smoothing
• 60% propolis to provide hydration and barrier support
• Centella Asiatica blend to calm redness and sensitivity

When and how should I apply the Acne Calming Intensive Toner?

Use the toner after cleansing and before serums or moisturizer. Dispense onto a cotton pad or your palms and gently pat over the face; avoid the eye area and wait before layering actives like vitamin C or retinoids.

• Apply once daily at first, then increase to morning and/or evening as tolerated
• Pat on skin or sweep with a cotton pad for targeted areas
• Follow with lightweight moisturizer to maintain balance
• Use sunscreen during the day when using exfoliating acids

Is this toner suitable for sensitive or allergy-prone skin?

The formula emphasizes calming and hypoallergenic standards, but it does include plant-derived alcohol and active acids that may irritate extremely sensitive skin. If you have known sensitivities, patch-test first or consider COSRX’s milder AC Collection alternative mentioned in the product notes.

• Hypoallergenic and dermatologist-tested formulation
• Contains plant-derived alcohol for texture and delivery
• Patch test recommended for reactive skin
• Alternate milder option: AC Collection Mild Liquid

What results can I expect and how quickly?

Visible texture improvements and fewer surface blemishes often appear within a few weeks, while deeper acne can take longer and respond best to a full routine. Results vary by skin type and consistency; pairing the toner with complementary acne-focused products supports faster improvement.

• Gentler smoothing and clearer pores within weeks
• Reduced surface congestion with consistent use
• Works best combined with spot treatments and a non-comedogenic moisturizer
• Not a replacement for prescription care for severe acne

Who is this for: The COSRX Acne Calming Intensive Toner suits people with acne-prone, combination, or oily skin who want a balanced, multi-action liquid toner. It’s aimed at those seeking gentle chemical exfoliation plus soothing and hydrating support from propolis and Centella blends. If you are managing sensitive or allergy-prone skin, start with a patch test or try COSRX’s milder AC Collection product first. This toner is not intended to replace professional medical advice for severe or cystic acne but can be a useful component in a thoughtfully staged skincare routine.

Ingredients

Propolis Extract, Alcohol, Butylene Glycol, Sodium lactate, Dimethyl Sulfone, Betaine, Lactic Acid,1,2-Hexanediol, Glycolic Acid, Water, Betaine Salicylate, Cassia Obtusifolia Seed Extract, Panthenol, Allantoin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Polysorbate 60, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Zinc PCA, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Ethyl Hexanediol, Asiaticoside, Asiatic acid, Madecassic acid