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5% Mandelic Acid Clarifying Toner

5% Mandelic Acid Clarifying Toner

Product Description

Product overview

Made in Various INTERNATIONAL

A gentle yet effective AHA exfoliating toner with 5% Mandelic Acid, Hyaluronic Acid, and Centella Asiatica. Formulated with only 13 clean ingredients to brighten uneven skin tone, refine pores, and fade dark spots — without causing redness or irritation. Ideal for sensitive, acne-prone, and beginner skin.

Fragrance-Free Alcohol-Free Oil-Free Paraben-Free Silicone-Free Sulfate-Free Cruelty-Free Fungal Acne Safe Reef Safe Minimal Formula (13 Ingredients)
Pregnancy
Caution
Fungal Acne
Yes
Comedogenic
0/5
Size
100ml
Type
AHA Toner
Key Active
5% Mandelic Acid
pH Level
~3.5–4.0
Ingredients
13 Total
Real reviews · YouTube Shorts
Why it's different

Gentle AHA Exfoliation

5% Mandelic Acid has a larger molecular size than glycolic acid, penetrating skin more slowly and evenly for effective exfoliation with minimal irritation.

01

Texture & feel

SENSORY
Consistency
Watery
Scent
Fragrance-Free
Absorption
Instant
Finish
Natural

Gentle AHA Exfoliation

5% Mandelic Acid has a larger molecular size than glycolic acid, penetrating skin more slowly and evenly for effective exfoliation with minimal irritation.

Brightens Dark Spots

Targets uneven skin tone, melasma, and post-acne hyperpigmentation with mandelic acid and licorice root extract working in synergy.

Hydrating Formula

Sodium Hyaluronate attracts and holds up to 1,000x its weight in water, keeping skin plump and moisturized after exfoliation.

Soothing Botanicals

Centella Asiatica, Aloe Vera, Licorice Root, and Allantoin calm and soothe skin, reducing redness and irritation from exfoliation.

Antibacterial Action

Mandelic acid has inherent antibacterial properties that help reduce acne-causing bacteria, making it especially effective for breakout-prone skin.

Ultra-Clean Formula

Only 13 ingredients — no fragrance, alcohol, oils, parabens, silicones, or sulfates. Free from common allergens and irritants.

02

Safety & compatibility

SAFE
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

The brand does not recommend this product during pregnancy or breastfeeding. While mandelic acid is generally considered a milder AHA, consult your doctor before use as AHAs can increase skin sensitivity.

Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Safe

Contains no ferments, fatty acids, esters, or polysorbates that feed malassezia yeast. Confirmed fungal acne safe by ingredient analysis databases.

Non-Comedogenic

Comedogenic rating of 0/5. Contains no oils, waxes, or pore-clogging ingredients. All 13 ingredients have a comedogenicity score of 0.

Sensitive Skin Friendly

Mandelic acid is the gentlest AHA due to its larger molecular size. Formula includes four soothing agents: centella, aloe, licorice root, and allantoin.

Sun Sensitivity

AHAs increase photosensitivity. Always apply sunscreen (SPF 30+) during the day when using this product. Preferably use at night.

Age Recommendation

The brand recommends this product only for ages 13 and above. Not suitable for children under 12.

03

Ingredient breakdown

INGREDIENTS

Mandelic Acid 5%Proven

An alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from bitter almonds. Its larger molecular size compared to glycolic acid allows slower, more even penetration — making it the gentlest AHA option. Provides exfoliation, brightening, and antibacterial benefits.

  • Exfoliation: Dissolves bonds between dead skin cells to reveal smoother, brighter skin
  • Antibacterial: Unique among AHAs — has inherent antibacterial and antioxidant properties
  • Studies: Research shows mandelic acid significantly reduces pimples and hyperpigmentation with fewer side effects than stronger acids
  • Effective Range: 5% or higher is the recommended concentration with an ideal pH of 3–4
Mandelic acid is light-sensitive. Store in opaque packaging away from direct sunlight. Always wear sunscreen during the day.

Sodium Hyaluronate ~1.5%Proven

The sodium salt form of hyaluronic acid — a powerful humectant naturally found in skin. Acts as a moisture sponge, holding up to 1,000x its weight in water to keep skin hydrated and plump.

  • Hydration: Binds up to 1,000 times its own weight in water
  • Stability: More stable and easier to formulate than pure hyaluronic acid
  • Skin Barrier: Helps maintain skin's moisture levels post-exfoliation
Comedogenicity: 0 | Irritancy: 0 — Extremely well-tolerated by all skin types.

Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract ~1%Proven

Also known as Cica or Tiger Grass. A powerhouse soothing ingredient renowned for its anti-inflammatory properties, wound healing, and ability to help skin retain moisture.

  • Soothing: Well-documented anti-inflammatory and calming properties
  • Barrier Repair: Supports skin barrier recovery after exfoliation
  • Wound Healing: Promotes tissue repair and regeneration

Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract (Licorice) <1%Proven

Licorice root extract is a multi-functional ingredient with skin-brightening, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant benefits. Contains glabridin, which helps block pigmentation from UV exposure.

  • Brightening: Glabridin blocks pigmentation pathways, helping to fade dark spots
  • Anti-Inflammatory: Soothes and calms irritated skin
  • Antioxidant: Protects against free radical damage

Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice ~1.3%Promising

Aloe vera is a well-known moisturizer with anti-inflammatory properties. Contains salicylates, polysaccharides, and other compounds that soothe skin and aid wound healing.

  • Moisturizing: Provides hydration and helps skin retain moisture
  • Anti-Inflammatory: Contains multiple anti-inflammatory components
  • Wound Healing: Supports skin regeneration

Allantoin <1%Proven

A powerful soothing and skin-protecting ingredient often added alongside strong actives. Moisturizes, calms irritation, and can promote wound healing at higher concentrations.

  • Soothing: Reduces irritation from active ingredients
  • Protective: Creates a protective layer on the skin surface
  • Wound Healing: Studies show it promotes tissue repair

13 ingredients

Aqua, Propylene Glycol, Propanediol, Mandelic Acid, Glycerin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice, Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Allantoin, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Tetrasodium EDTA

FREE FROM: Fragrance, Alcohol, Parabens, Silicones, Sulfates, Oils, Common Allergens, Harsh Alcohols, Dyes, Mineral Oil, Essential Oils, Phthalates
04

Where it fits in your routine

ROUTINE
1
Cleanser
2
This Toner
3
Serum
4
Moisturizer
5
Sunscreen (AM)

Use at night, up to 3x per week. Apply after cleansing and before serums. Always follow with sunscreen in the morning. Do not combine with other exfoliants (AHA/BHA) or retinol in the same routine.

05

How to use

HOW TO USE
1

Cleanse Your Face

Start with a gentle cleanser to remove makeup, dirt, and excess oil. Pat dry with a clean towel.

2

Apply with Cotton Pad

Soak a cotton pad with the toner and gently sweep across your face and neck, avoiding the eye and mouth area.

3

Wait & Absorb

Allow the toner to fully absorb into the skin for 1–2 minutes before applying your next skincare step.

4

Follow with Serum & Moisturizer

Layer your serum and moisturizer on top to lock in hydration. In the morning, always finish with SPF 30+ sunscreen.

5

Patch Test First

For first-time users: apply a small amount on your inner arm and wait 24 hours. If no redness, itchiness, or burning occurs, proceed to use on face.

06

Who is it for?

WHO

Perfect for you if:

  • You have uneven skin tone or dark spots you want to fade
  • You're a beginner looking for your first chemical exfoliant
  • You have sensitive skin that reacts to glycolic acid
  • You struggle with acne, blackheads, or clogged pores
  • You want a minimalist, clean formula with no fragrance
  • You have fungal acne and need a safe exfoliating toner
  • You're looking for an affordable yet effective AHA toner

Consider alternatives if:

  • You need a stronger exfoliant (glycolic acid 7%+ may be better)
  • You are pregnant or breastfeeding (brand advises against use)
  • You want an all-in-one moisturizing toner (this is purely humectant, no occlusives)
  • You already use multiple exfoliants and don't need another AHA
  • You have severely damaged or overexfoliated skin barrier
  • You are looking for anti-wrinkle benefits specifically
07

Skin type compatibility

SKIN TYPES
Oily Skin
Excellent

Lightweight, watery formula with zero occlusives. Purely humectant-rich — ideal for oily skin without adding shine or greasiness.

Dry Skin
Good

Provides humectant hydration via hyaluronic acid and glycerin, but must be paired with an occlusive moisturizer to lock in moisture.

Combination Skin
Excellent

Balances well across different face zones. Light enough for the T-zone while providing hydration to drier areas.

Sensitive Skin
Excellent

Mandelic acid is the gentlest AHA available. Four soothing agents (centella, aloe, licorice, allantoin) buffer irritation. Fragrance-free and allergen-free.

Acne-Prone Skin
Excellent

Non-comedogenic (0/5), fungal acne safe, antibacterial mandelic acid targets breakouts. Oil-free formula won't clog pores.

08

Results timeline

MONTH 4–6
Week 1–2

Smoother Texture & Cleaner Feel

Skin feels softer and cleaner after each use. Dead skin cells begin to shed more efficiently. Some users may experience mild tingling, which is normal.

70% noticed smoother skin
Week 3–4

Visible Pore Refinement

Pores appear less congested and more refined. Skin tone starts to look more even. Breakouts may decrease as bacteria are reduced.

60% noticed clearer pores
Month 2–3

Dark Spot Fading & Brightening

Post-acne marks and hyperpigmentation begin to lighten noticeably. Overall complexion looks brighter and more radiant. Skin texture is significantly improved.

75% noticed brighter skin tone
Month 4–6

Cumulative Clarity & Glow

Consistent use yields cumulative results: more even skin tone, reduced scarring, fewer breakouts, and a healthy glow. Skin barrier remains intact when used as directed (max 3x/week).

80% saw overall improvement
09

Ratings by platform

50+ REVIEWS
Klued Official Website
5.0
Rating
500K+ Users
Brand Community
Main complaint: Product not widely available outside the Philippines
Picky (GoPicky)
4.5
Rating
50+
Reviews
Main complaint: Slight unusual scent that some describe as off-putting
SkinSort
Top Rated
Community Score
34
Routines
Main complaint: Limited availability and smaller 100ml bottle size
TikTok (@klued_)
Viral
Community Love
67K+
Views
Main complaint: Users want a larger bottle and wish for wider international shipping
10

Pros & cons

BALANCED

Praised

  • Extremely gentle — many users call it the gentlest exfoliant they've ever tried
  • Only 13 clean ingredients — no fragrance, alcohol, oils, parabens, or silicones
  • Fungal acne safe and non-comedogenic (rated 0/5)
  • Noticeably brightens skin and fades dark spots with consistent use
  • Excellent value for money at ₱229 (~$4 USD) for 100ml
  • Watery, lightweight texture absorbs instantly without residue
  • Suitable for sensitive skin beginners who have never used chemical exfoliants
  • Filipino brand with science-backed formulations

Criticized

  • Slight unusual scent that some users describe as off-putting
  • Only 100ml bottle — runs out quickly for regular users
  • Limited international availability outside the Philippines
  • No anti-wrinkle or anti-aging benefits (zero occlusive ingredients)
  • Must be paired with a moisturizer — too lightweight on its own for dry skin
  • 5% concentration may be too mild for experienced AHA users seeking stronger results
11

Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)

DUPES
82% Match
Mandelic Acid 5% Skin Prep Water
$14.00
Similar Pick

Same 5% mandelic acid concentration with additional panthenol and beta-glucan for soothing. 120ml bottle is 20% larger. K-beauty alternative with a more complex 22-ingredient formula.

68% Match
AHA 7 Whitehead Power Liquid
$21.00

Uses 7% glycolic acid instead of mandelic acid — stronger exfoliation but more irritating. Better for experienced users. 100ml. Includes niacinamide for extra brightening.

65% Match
Salicylic Acid 2% Solution
$9.90
Budget Pick

Uses glycolic acid instead of mandelic — more potent but can irritate sensitive skin. Significantly larger 240ml bottle offers great value. Contains aloe vera and ginseng root.

12

Comparison with competitors

SIDE-BY-SIDE
Mandelic Acid
Key Active 5% Mandelic Acid
Size 120ml
Ingredients Count 22
Gentleness Very Gentle
Fungal Acne Safe No (PEG-60)
Fragrance-Free Yes
Origin South Korea
AHA 7 Whitehead Power Liquid
Key Active 7% Glycolic Acid
Size 100ml
Ingredients Count 10 (Minimal)
Gentleness Moderate (Stronger)
Fungal Acne Safe Yes
Fragrance-Free Yes
Origin South Korea
Glycolic Acid 7%
Key Active 7% Glycolic Acid
Size 240ml
Ingredients Count 18
Gentleness Moderate (Stronger)
Fungal Acne Safe No
Fragrance-Free Yes
Origin Canada
13

Storage & shelf life

12 MONTHS
Period After Opening (PAO)

12 months after opening

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Mandelic acid is light-sensitive — keep in opaque packaging.

Packaging

Opaque plastic bottle with screw cap

Travel Friendly

Yes, 100ml — meets carry-on liquid requirements

13

Frequently asked questions

FAQ

The brand explicitly states: "We do not recommend this product if pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your doctor before use." While mandelic acid is generally considered a milder AHA and does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone, it is still an exfoliating acid that increases skin sensitivity. Always consult your healthcare provider before using any AHA product during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Yes! This toner is confirmed fungal acne safe by multiple ingredient analysis databases including SkinSort. It contains no ferments, fatty acids (like oleic or lauric acid), esters, polysorbates, or oils that feed the malassezia yeast responsible for fungal acne. With only 13 clean ingredients and zero oils or silicones, it's one of the safest exfoliating toners for malassezia-prone skin.

Do not use this toner at the same time as other exfoliants (AHA, BHA), retinol, or vitamin C serums to avoid over-exfoliation and irritation. You can alternate days: use the mandelic acid toner on one night and retinol or vitamin C on another. If you want to combine, use vitamin C in the morning and this toner at night. Never layer multiple acids in one session.

This toner is excellent for oily, combination, sensitive, and acne-prone skin. Mandelic acid's larger molecular size makes it the gentlest AHA, ideal for sensitive or beginner skin. The oil-free, purely humectant formula is perfect for oily skin. Dry skin types can use it too but should follow with an occlusive moisturizer. It's rated Excellent (5/5) for oily, combination, sensitive, and acne-prone skin.

Most users report smoother skin texture within 1–2 weeks. Pore refinement and reduced breakouts typically appear by weeks 3–4. Noticeable fading of dark spots and hyperpigmentation usually takes 2–3 months of consistent use (2–3x per week). Full results with cumulative brightening and improved skin tone are seen around months 4–6. Consistency is key — the brand recommends consistency over intensity.

Apply this toner immediately after cleansing, as the second step in your routine. Use it at night, up to 3 times per week. After the toner absorbs (1–2 minutes), follow with serum, then moisturizer. In the morning, always apply sunscreen as AHAs increase sun sensitivity. Do not use alongside other exfoliants in the same session.

No, this toner has a comedogenic rating of 0 out of 5. It contains no oils, waxes, silicones, or any ingredient known to clog pores. All 13 ingredients have an irritancy and comedogenicity score of 0. It's also oil-free and silicone-free, making it one of the safest options for pore-clogging concerns. It will actually help unclog pores through gentle exfoliation.

The product has a Period After Opening (PAO) of approximately 12 months. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, as mandelic acid is light-sensitive. The 100ml bottle typically lasts 2–3 months when used 2–3 times per week with a cotton pad. Keep the cap tightly sealed after each use to maintain product integrity.

— Skincarisma verdict
4.3 / 5 ★★★★☆

Verdict: The Klued 5% Mandelic Acid Clarifying Toner is an outstanding gentle exfoliant, especially remarkable for its ultra-clean 13-ingredient formula and incredibly affordable price point. It delivers effective brightening and pore-refining results without irritation, making it ideal for sensitive, acne-prone, and fungal acne-prone skin. The mandelic acid is the gentlest AHA available, and the inclusion of four soothing botanicals shows thoughtful formulation. While it won't satisfy users seeking aggressive exfoliation or anti-aging benefits, it excels as a beginner-friendly, safe, and budget-friendly AHA toner. Limited international availability is its main drawback. A best-in-class option for those who value clean, minimal ingredients at a price that's hard to beat.

Product Overview

question
lightbulb What are Quick Product Notes?

Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.

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Quick Product Notes

Click on icons for more information
question
lightbulb What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?

Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.

We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.

Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you

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Notable Effects & Ingredients

anti-aging Anti-Aging from 2 ingredient(s):
Mandelic Acid Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract
brightening Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Mandelic Acid Glycerin
wound Promotes Wound Healing from 4 ingredient(s):
Glycerin Sodium Hyaluronate Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract Allantoin
question
lightbulb What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?

Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.

We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.

One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!

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Ingredients Related to Skin Types

Click on icons for more information
dry-skin Dry Skin
2 1
oily-skin Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
2
sensitive-skin Sensitive Skin
1
question
lightbulb What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?

Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.

muscle Pro Tip Alert!

EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.

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Ingredient Safety Breakdown

EWG Health Ratings
Low risk
Medium risk
High risk
Unknown risk
69% 15% 15%

Product ingredient list

Showing first 5 of 13 ingredients
EWG CIR Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions Notes
1 Unknown
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
3 B
Propylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Skin-Conditioningagent - Miscellaneous
Hydrating
1 Unknown
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
1 Unknown
Mandelic Acid
Antimicrobial
brightening Brightening
anti-aging Anti-Aging
2 A
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
brightening Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
VIEW ALL INGREDIENTS