ABP11+ Green Rooibos Gentle Resurfacing Toner
ABP11+ Green Rooibos Gentle Resurfacing Toner
Product Description
Maysama's tea-scented, lightweight resurfacing toner pairs an 11% blend of AHA, BHA and PHA acids with the brand's signature Aspalathin-enriched Green Rooibos Extract. It gently sweeps away dull, dead surface cells while moisturising, brightening and refining texture — formulated at a skin-friendly pH of 3.5–4.0 so it suits all skin types, including sensitive.
✨ Texture & Feel
Triple-Acid Resurfacing
5% Lactic (AHA), 1% Salicylic (BHA) and 5% Gluconolactone (PHA) work across skin's surface and inside pores for smoother texture.
Aspalathin Green Rooibos
A patented extract said to carry up to 70× the antioxidant capacity of standard red rooibos, helping defend against free-radical damage.
Gentle Enough for Sensitive Skin
PHA-forward chemistry and a buffered pH of 3.5–4.0 deliver exfoliation with far less sting than harsher glycolic toners.
Kombucha + Vitamin C Glow
1% Kombucha ferment plus two forms of vitamin C add radiance, even tone and a fermented K-beauty-inspired boost.
🛡️ Safety & Compatibility
Contains 1% salicylic acid (BHA) plus an AHA/PHA blend. Low-percentage leave-on BHA is widely viewed as low-risk, but many clinicians advise caution — check with your doctor first.
The acids themselves are fine, but the Saccharomyces/Xylinum/Black Tea (Kombucha) ferment is a possible trigger for some malassezia-prone users. Patch test if you are sensitive.
AHAs can increase sun sensitivity. Daily broad-spectrum SPF is essential while using this toner, especially with AM application.
Already contains AHA, BHA, PHA and vitamin C. Avoid stacking with strong retinoids or additional acids in the same routine to prevent over-exfoliation.
Fragrance-free, oil-free and alcohol-free (no drying alcohol). The PHA-led, buffered formula is designed for reactive and sensitive skin.
As with any multi-acid product, test on a small area for 24–48 hours and introduce gradually (2–3 times weekly) before daily use.
🔬 Ingredient Breakdown
🧪 Lactic Acid 5% Proven
An alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that dissolves the "glue" holding dead skin cells together, revealing smoother, more even-toned skin. Larger and gentler than glycolic acid, with the bonus of binding water to hydrate.
- Brand spec: 5% is cited as the sweet spot for efficacy with minimal irritation on sensitive skin.
- Mechanism: Improves desquamation and can boost ceramide production to support the barrier.
💧 Gluconolactone 5% Proven
A polyhydroxy acid (PHA) — often called a "next-generation AHA." Its larger molecule exfoliates the surface more gradually, so it's better tolerated by sensitive skin while also acting as a humectant and antioxidant.
- Research: A 2004 study found gluconolactone helped protect against UV damage in skin-cell models without raising sun sensitivity.
- Bonus: Has metal-chelating activity that helps stabilise the formula.
🎯 Salicylic Acid 1% Proven
A beta hydroxy acid (BHA) derived from willow bark. Being oil-soluble, it penetrates into pores to clear buildup, control oil and calm inflammation — making it a favourite for congestion and blackheads.
- FDA: 0.5–2% is recognised as an over-the-counter acne active.
- Note: Structurally related to aspirin, so it also has soothing, anti-inflammatory properties.
🍃 Aspalathin Green Rooibos Extract 1% Promising
Maysama's signature hero. A patented extraction process enriches the aspalathin (the main flavonoid) to create a potent antioxidant active that also brings anti-inflammatory and anti-glycation benefits.
- Brand claim: Up to 70× the antioxidant capacity of standard red rooibos.
- Profile: Naturally rich in polyphenols, zinc, superoxide dismutase and skin-supporting vitamins.
🍊 Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) — Proven
Pure, biologically active vitamin C. It neutralises oxidative stress from UV and pollution and, used consistently, can help improve the look of photodamage and hyperpigmentation.
- Clinical: One study found 5% topical vitamin C over six months improved signs of photodamaged skin.
- Synergy: The low pH (3.5–4.0) of this toner helps keep vitamin C in its absorbable form.
🍵 Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract (Green Tea) — Proven
One of the most researched plant extracts in skincare. Rich in the catechin EGCG, it acts as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory and may help reduce sebum and support photoprotection.
- Research: A 2% green tea lotion was effective for mild-to-moderate acne in a 2009 study.
- Data: Applied before UVB, green tea reduced DNA damage and redness in human skin.
🫧 Saccharomyces/Xylinum/Black Tea Ferment (Kombucha) 1% Promising
A K-beauty-inspired fermented active. Kombucha is associated with boosting radiance, smoothness and skin quality, with anti-glycation activity that supports an anti-aging profile.
- Formulation note: The acids + kombucha combination causes a harmless slight fizz on first opening.
💦 Glycerin — Proven
A powerhouse humectant naturally found in skin that pulls water into the outer layers. It offsets any drying potential of the acids, keeping the formula hydrating and comfortable.
- Compatibility: Non-irritating, works across all skin types and pairs well with virtually every ingredient.
🌱 Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice — Promising
The second ingredient on the list, used here as the soothing, anti-inflammatory base. Aloe hydrates, calms and helps offset irritation from the active acids.
- Profile: Contains moisture-binding sugars plus vitamins A, C and E that act as antioxidants.
20 ingredients
Aqua (Water), Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Gluconolactone, Lactic Acid, Glycerin, Sodium Hydroxide, Ascorbic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Aspalathus Linearis Leaf Extract, Saccharomyces/Xylinum/Black Tea Ferment, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Undaria Pinnatifida Leaf/Stem Extract, Sodium Polyacrylate, Ascorbyl Glucoside, Sodium Phytate, Citric Acid, Sorbic Acid, Sodium Benzoate, Benzyl Alcohol, Potassium Sorbate.
🔄 Where It Fits in Your Routine
Use straight after cleansing, before serums and moisturisers. Can be used AM or PM — always follow with SPF during the day.
📝 How to Use
Cleanse first
Start with clean, dry skin. Open gently on first use — a slight fizz from the acids and kombucha is completely normal.
Apply to a cotton pad
Saturate a cotton pad and swipe over the face and neck, avoiding the eye area.
Start slow
Begin 2–3 times per week, then build to daily use (AM or PM) as your skin adjusts to the acids.
Layer & protect
Let it absorb, then follow with your serum and moisturiser. Apply broad-spectrum SPF every morning.
👤 Who Is It For?
✅ Perfect for you if:
- You want gentle, daily-able chemical exfoliation
- You have dull, uneven or rough-textured skin
- You have sensitive skin that reacts to glycolic acid
- You're targeting brightness, tone and mild congestion
- You prefer fragrance-free, vegan, cruelty-free formulas
❌ Consider alternatives if:
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding (consult your doctor)
- You're strictly avoiding ferments for fungal acne
- You already use strong retinoids or other acids daily
- You have an actively compromised skin barrier
- You want a hydrating-only, non-exfoliating toner
🎯 Skin Type Compatibility
Oil-free, watery formula with pore-clearing BHA — refines texture without adding shine.
Balances oilier zones while the PHA and humectants keep drier areas comfortable.
Lactic acid and glycerin add hydration, but layer a richer moisturiser on top.
PHA-led and fragrance-free — gentler than most acid toners, but patch test and start slowly.
Non-comedogenic with pore-clearing salicylic acid — but the kombucha ferment may not suit fungal-acne sufferers.
Antioxidant rooibos, vitamin C and resurfacing acids target dullness, tone and fine lines.
📈 Results Timeline
Immediate smoothness
Skin feels noticeably softer and smoother as the acids sweep away dead surface cells. No residue or tackiness.
82% noticedBrighter, more even tone
With consistent use most reviewers report a fresher glow and a more refined, less congested complexion.
74% noticedVisible texture & radiance
Around the 5-week mark long-term users describe a clear, lasting improvement in tone, texture and radiance.
68% noticedSustained renewed skin
Ongoing antioxidant protection and gentle resurfacing help maintain smoother, brighter, healthier-looking skin.
64% noticed⭐ Ratings by Platform
⚖️ Pros & Cons
✅ Praised
- Gentle multi-acid blend suits sensitive skin
- Leaves no sticky residue; absorbs cleanly
- Natural sweet rooibos tea scent, no added fragrance
- Visible smoothness and glow with regular use
- Vegan, cruelty-free and eco-lux glass packaging
- Generous 125ml size that lasts a long time
❌ Criticized
- Premium price compared to mass-market toners
- Kombucha ferment may not suit fungal-acne sufferers
- Salicylic acid means a pregnancy caution
- Can irritate eczema/rosacea-prone or very reactive skin
- Glass bottle (125ml) is not carry-on travel friendly
💰 Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Shares the gentle PHA (gluconolactone) exfoliation and adds 3% niacinamide. Lacks the AHA/BHA punch, rooibos antioxidant and vitamin C — simpler and far cheaper.
A strong, brightening AHA toner at a fraction of the price. Uses harsher glycolic acid with no BHA/PHA blend, no rooibos and no kombucha, so it's less gentle and less multitasking.
The closest gentle-AHA alternative, also lactic-acid led with hydrating NMF actives. Missing the salicylic/PHA combination and signature green rooibos extract.
🔄 Comparison with Competitors
Maysama ABP11+ Toner (Featured)
$65.95Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA
$35.00The INKEY List PHA Toner
$14.99The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7%
$13.00📦 Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to protect the vitamin C and acids from oxidation.
Eco-lux silk-screen printed frosted glass bottle with a wooden lid.
No — the 125ml glass bottle exceeds the 100ml carry-on limit and is best packed in checked luggage.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
It carries a caution. The toner contains 1% salicylic acid (a BHA) alongside an AHA/PHA blend. Low-percentage leave-on salicylic acid is widely considered low-risk, but guidance varies and many clinicians prefer extra caution during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Please check with your doctor or midwife before use.
Mostly, with one caveat. The acids, aloe, glycerin and vitamin C are all considered fungal-acne friendly. However, the Saccharomyces/Xylinum/Black Tea (Kombucha) ferment is a fermented ingredient that some malassezia-prone users find triggering. If you are strictly managing fungal acne, patch test first or choose a ferment-free exfoliant.
This product already delivers AHA, BHA, PHA and two forms of vitamin C in one step, so additional acids or vitamin C are usually unnecessary and risk over-exfoliation. If you use retinol, apply it on alternate evenings rather than layering it directly on top to keep your barrier happy. When in doubt, simplify your routine.
It's formulated for all skin types, including sensitive. It performs especially well on oily, combination and mature skin looking for gentle exfoliation, brightness and refined texture. Dry skin should follow with a richer moisturiser, and very reactive, eczema- or rosacea-prone skin should patch test and introduce it slowly.
Many people feel smoother skin after the very first use. A brighter, more even tone typically appears within 2–4 weeks of consistent use, with clearer texture and radiance around the 5-week mark — exactly the timeframe long-term reviewers describe.
Use it right after cleansing and before your serums and moisturiser. Apply it to a cotton pad and swipe over the face and neck, avoiding the eyes. It can be used in the morning or evening — always finish your AM routine with broad-spectrum SPF.
No — it scores a very low 1 out of 5 on the comedogenic scale. The formula is oil-free and water-based, and the salicylic acid actively helps keep pores clear, so it's a non-comedogenic choice for breakout-prone skin.
Around 12 months once opened (PAO). Because it contains vitamin C and active acids, store it in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight to keep it effective. The frosted glass bottle also helps shield the formula from light.
Verdict: Maysama's ABP11+ Green Rooibos Gentle Resurfacing Toner is a thoughtfully formulated, sensitive-skin-friendly exfoliating toner that punches above many K-beauty rivals. The 11% AHA/BHA/PHA blend resurfaces gently while the antioxidant-rich green rooibos, kombucha and dual vitamin C add brightness and glow — all fragrance-free, vegan and beautifully packaged. It's a premium price and the kombucha ferment plus salicylic acid mean fungal-acne sufferers and those who are pregnant should take care. For everyone else seeking a gentle, do-it-all glow toner, it's an easy recommendation.
Product Overview
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.
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.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
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.
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
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 5 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 6 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 3 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
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.
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!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
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.
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.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice
Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
Redness
Irritation
|
|
| 1 |
Gluconolactone
Solvent, Fragrance, Humectant, Skin Conditioning
|
Anti-Aging
|
|
| 0 |
Lactic Acid
|
Brightening
Anti-Aging
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|