Acne Toner
Acne Toner
Product Description
A lightweight, alcohol-free toner formulated with White Willow Bark Extract and Niacinamide to gently exfoliate, control sebum, and soothe acne-prone skin. Rooted in 50+ years of Korean traditional medicine expertise from Pyunkang Oriental Medicine Clinic.
โจ Texture & Feel
Gentle BHA Exfoliation
White Willow Bark Extract provides natural salicin for mild exfoliation without irritation, promoting cell turnover and unclogging pores.
Sebum Control
Regulates excessive oil production to prevent breakouts while maintaining skin's natural moisture balance.
Peptide Technology
Copper Tripeptide-1 supports skin regeneration and strengthens the skin barrier damaged by acne.
Botanical Soothing Complex
Centella Asiatica, Green Tea, and Licorice Root work together to calm inflammation and reduce redness.
๐ก๏ธ Safety & Compatibility
Contains Willow Bark Extract (natural salicin). While topical absorption is minimal, consult your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy. Niacinamide and other ingredients are pregnancy-safe.
Formula contains no ferments, fatty acids, esters, or polysorbates that feed Malassezia yeast. Safe for pityrosporum folliculitis.
Rating 0/5 - Oil-free, lightweight formula will not clog pores. All ingredients have low comedogenic potential.
All ingredients rated EWG 1-3 (low hazard). No artificial fragrances, dyes, or harsh alcohols. Dermatologically tested.
Can be used with most actives. Use caution when combining with other BHA/AHA products or strong retinoids - may increase sensitivity.
Formula is vegan and cruelty-free. No animal-derived ingredients or animal testing.
๐ฌ Ingredient Breakdown
๐ฟ Salix Alba (White Willow) Bark Extract ~1-2% Proven
Natural source of salicin, which metabolizes similarly to salicylic acid. Provides gentle exfoliation, unclogs pores, and has anti-inflammatory properties without the harshness of synthetic BHA.
- Mechanism: Contains salicin that converts to salicylic acid, dissolving dead skin cells and sebum within pores
- Benefit: Gentler than pure salicylic acid, suitable for sensitive acne-prone skin
- Research: Traditional use in Eastern medicine for over 2,000 years for skin conditions
โจ Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) 1.6-2.5% Proven
Multi-functional powerhouse that regulates sebum, strengthens skin barrier, fades dark spots, and reduces inflammation. One of the most well-researched skincare actives.
- Study: 2% niacinamide shown to significantly reduce sebum production in 4 weeks (Draelos, 2006)
- Benefit: Increases ceramide synthesis, improving skin barrier function by up to 24%
- Additional: Helps fade post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) from acne
๐งฌ Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu) 0.15-0.65% Proven
Advanced peptide complex that promotes wound healing, stimulates collagen production, and helps repair acne-damaged skin tissue.
- Research: Proven to increase collagen synthesis and accelerate wound healing
- Benefit: Helps repair acne scars and strengthen compromised skin barrier
- Note: One of few peptides with substantial clinical evidence for skin regeneration
๐ฑ Centella Asiatica Extract Proven
The legendary "Cica" ingredient rich in madecassoside and asiaticoside. Renowned for calming irritation, accelerating healing, and strengthening skin barrier.
- Active compounds: Madecassic acid, asiatic acid, madecassoside, asiaticoside
- Benefit: Anti-inflammatory, promotes collagen synthesis, speeds wound healing
- Traditional use: Used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries for skin healing
๐ต Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract Proven
Potent antioxidant rich in EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate). Provides UV protection, anti-inflammatory effects, and antimicrobial action against acne-causing bacteria.
- Study: EGCG shown to reduce sebum production and have antibacterial effect against P. acnes
- Antioxidant: One of the most powerful natural antioxidants for skin protection
- Quality note: Best extracts contain 50-90% catechins for maximum efficacy
๐ผ Scutellaria Baicalensis (Skullcap) Root Extract Promising
Traditional Chinese medicine herb loaded with baicalin, baicalein, and wogonin - powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory flavonoids.
- Research: Antimicrobial activity against P. acnes and Malassezia furfur
- Benefit: Skin-brightening, anti-inflammatory, and pore-refining properties
- Note: Also known as Chinese Skullcap, a key ingredient in traditional hanbang skincare
21 ingredients
Water, Butylene Glycol, Dimethyl Sulfone, Pyridoxine HCl, Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract, Niacinamide, Forsythia Suspensa Fruit Extract, Centella Asiatica Extract, Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract, Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Glycyrrhiza Uralensis (Licorice) Root Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Copper Tripeptide-1, Glycerin, Hydroxyacetophenone, Myrtus Communis Extract, Tropaeolum Majus Extract, Ethylhexylglycerin, Disodium EDTA
๐ Where It Fits in Your Routine
Use morning and evening after cleansing. Wait 1-2 minutes before applying next products. Can be used daily.
๐ How to Use
Cleanse First
Start with clean skin. Use your regular cleanser to remove makeup, sunscreen, and impurities.
Cotton Pad Method
Soak a cotton pad with toner and gently wipe across your face following skin texture direction. This provides mild physical exfoliation.
Hands Method (Alternative)
Pour a small amount into palms and press gently into skin. This method is less exfoliating but more hydrating.
Pat & Absorb
Gently pat remaining product until fully absorbed. Wait 1-2 minutes before applying your next skincare step.
๐ค Who Is It For?
โ Perfect for you if:
- You have acne-prone or oily skin seeking gentle daily care
- You experience hormonal breakouts and need sebum control
- You have fungal acne (malassezia/pityrosporum folliculitis)
- You want a fragrance-free, minimal ingredient toner
- You prefer gentle BHA alternatives over harsh salicylic acid
- You have sensitive, reactive skin prone to irritation
- You want to minimize pores and improve skin texture
โ Consider alternatives if:
- You need aggressive chemical exfoliation (try Paula's Choice 2% BHA)
- You're pregnant and want to avoid all salicin/salicylate sources
- You have very dry skin and need intensive hydration
- You prefer toners with hyaluronic acid for plumping effect
- You want immediate, dramatic results (this is gentle/gradual)
๐ฏ Skin Type Compatibility
Perfect match. Controls excess sebum, minimizes pores, and absorbs instantly without adding shine or greasiness.
Balances oily T-zone while remaining gentle on drier cheeks. Lightweight formula works well across different zones.
Specifically formulated for acne. Non-comedogenic, fungal acne safe, with anti-inflammatory botanicals to calm active breakouts.
Fragrance-free and gentle, but willow bark may cause mild sensitivity in very reactive skin. Patch test recommended.
May not provide enough hydration on its own. Layer with hydrating toner or essence, and follow with rich moisturizer.
Works well for maintenance and prevention. May be unnecessary if you don't have specific acne concerns.
๐ Results Timeline
Initial Adjustment
Skin feels cleaner and more refreshed after use. Some users notice immediate soothing of red, irritated acne. Mild tingling possible as skin adjusts.
85% noticed cleaner-feeling skinReduced Oiliness & Clearer Pores
Visible reduction in excess sebum production. Pores appear smaller and less congested. New breakouts may decrease in frequency.
70% noticed less oilinessClearer Complexion
Significant reduction in active acne and inflammation. Skin texture feels smoother. Post-inflammatory marks begin to fade.
65% reported fewer breakoutsLong-Term Results
Balanced, healthier-looking skin with maintained sebum control. Best results when used consistently as part of complete acne routine.
80% saw overall improvementโญ Ratings by Platform
โ๏ธ Pros & Cons
โ Praised
- Gentle yet effective for sensitive acne-prone skin
- Fragrance-free, alcohol-free, minimal irritation
- Fungal acne safe formula
- Controls sebum without over-drying
- Clean, minimal ingredient list (21 ingredients)
- Low EWG hazard rating (all ingredients rated 1-3)
- Good value for K-beauty quality
- Soothes inflammation and redness quickly
โ Criticized
- May be too gentle for severe or cystic acne
- Not suitable during pregnancy (contains willow bark)
- Results are gradual, not instant
- 150ml bottle may not last long with daily use
- Not very hydrating for dry skin types
- Some prefer stronger BHA concentrations
๐ฐ Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Similar gentle exfoliation approach using natural AHA/BHA from apple water and willow bark. Larger 150ml size at similar price point. Also fungal acne safe.
Contains 0.9% BHA (betaine salicylate) for slightly stronger exfoliation. More hydrating formula with AHA blend. Good for those wanting more exfoliating power.
Triple acid formula (AHA + BHA + PHA) with tea tree. More exfoliating but NOT fungal acne safe. Better for those needing stronger treatment.
Different approach using AHA instead of BHA. Much stronger exfoliation (7% glycolic). Better for texture/scarring but may be too harsh for sensitive acne skin.
๐ Comparison with Competitors
Pyunkang Yul Acne Toner (This Product)
~$13Paula's Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
~$34COSRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid
~$25Some By Mi Miracle Toner
~$16๐ฆ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening. Check for the 12M symbol on packaging.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Room temperature is fine; refrigeration optional for extra soothing effect.
Dark glass bottle protects formula from light degradation. Standard screw-top cap. No pump dispenser.
Yes - 150ml exceeds 100ml TSA limit for carry-on. Pack in checked luggage or decant into smaller container.
โ Frequently Asked Questions
Use with caution during pregnancy. This toner contains Willow Bark Extract, which is a natural source of salicin (converts to salicylic acid). While topical absorption is minimal and many ingredients like niacinamide are pregnancy-safe, most dermatologists recommend avoiding salicylate-containing products during pregnancy. Consult your healthcare provider before use. The toner may be safe during breastfeeding as very little transfers to breast milk, but confirm with your doctor.
Yes, this toner is 100% fungal acne safe. The formula contains no fatty acids, oils, esters, ferments, or polysorbates that feed Malassezia yeast. It's specifically verified by ingredient checkers like SkinSort and Folliculitis Scout as safe for pityrosporum folliculitis. Many users with fungal acne report excellent results without flare-ups.
Yes, but with care. This toner is gentle enough to use with most actives. With retinol: use toner in AM, retinol in PM, or alternate nights if sensitive. With Vitamin C: generally fine to layer, apply vitamin C first. With other AHA/BHA: may cause over-exfoliation - start by alternating days or use this toner in AM and stronger acids in PM. Always introduce new combinations gradually and watch for irritation.
This toner is ideal for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. It excels at controlling sebum and calming inflammation. Also great for sensitive skin that can't tolerate harsh acids. May not provide enough hydration for dry skin - layer with hydrating products. Perfect for those with fungal acne due to its malassezia-safe formula.
Most users notice cleaner-feeling skin within 1-2 weeks. Reduced oiliness and fewer new breakouts typically appear by week 2-4. Significant improvement in overall skin clarity and texture usually occurs around week 4-6 with consistent use. For best results, use twice daily as part of a complete skincare routine. This is a gentle formula, so results are gradual rather than dramatic.
Apply immediately after cleansing, as the first step in your routine. Order: Cleanser โ Acne Toner โ Essence/Serum โ Moisturizer โ Sunscreen (AM). Use morning and evening. Apply to clean, dry skin using cotton pad (for mild exfoliation) or hands (gentler application). Wait 1-2 minutes before applying next products.
No, this toner is non-comedogenic with a rating of 0/5. The oil-free, silicone-free formula contains no pore-clogging ingredients. All ingredients have low comedogenic potential. In fact, the willow bark and niacinamide actively help unclog existing pores and prevent new comedones from forming.
The toner has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain potency. The dark glass bottle helps protect the formula from light degradation. With twice-daily use on face, a 150ml bottle typically lasts 2-3 months depending on application method (cotton pads use more product than hands).
Verdict: Pyunkang Yul Acne Toner is an excellent choice for those seeking a gentle, fungal acne-safe solution rooted in traditional Korean medicine. The minimal ingredient list, fragrance-free formula, and proven actives like niacinamide and copper peptide make it standout for sensitive, acne-prone skin. While it won't deliver the aggressive exfoliation of pure salicylic acid products, its gradual approach is perfect for daily use without irritation. The pregnancy caution (due to willow bark) is the main limitation. Best suited for oily/combination skin seeking prevention and maintenance rather than treatment of severe cystic acne. Excellent value for K-beauty quality.
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 skinโs 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 ยซpromisesยป 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
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.