Black Tea Deep Infusion Toner
Black Tea Deep Infusion Toner
Product Description
Product overview
A luxurious anti-aging gel-toner infused with fermented black tea (kombucha), 5 types of hyaluronic acid, 3 ceramides, niacinamide, and peptides to deeply hydrate, firm, and brighten tired, dull skin while reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Fermented Black Tea (Kombucha)
7-30 day fermented kombucha rich in polyphenols and catechins to boost skin elasticity and provide antioxidant protection against premature aging.
Texture & feel
SENSORYFermented Black Tea (Kombucha)
7-30 day fermented kombucha rich in polyphenols and catechins to boost skin elasticity and provide antioxidant protection against premature aging.
5 Types of Hyaluronic Acid
Multi-molecular weight HA complex attracts moisture up to 1000x its weight for deep, multi-layer hydration from surface to dermis.
Triple Ceramide Complex
Ceramide NP, NS, and EOP work together to repair and strengthen the skin barrier, preventing moisture loss throughout the day.
Niacinamide + Adenosine
Proven brightening and anti-wrinkle ingredients that improve skin tone, reduce fine lines, and boost cellular energy.
Centella Asiatica (Cica)
Contains madecassoside and asiaticoside to soothe irritation, promote wound healing, and support collagen synthesis.
Argireline Peptide
Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 helps relax facial muscles to minimize the appearance of expression lines, often called "Botox in a bottle."
Safety & compatibility
SAFEFree from retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, and chemical sunscreens. All ingredients are considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Contains potential FA triggers: Macadamia Seed Oil, Polyglyceryl-10 Myristate, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Saccharomyces Ferment Filtrate, and Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride.
Contains some esters with moderate comedogenic ratings but overall low risk for clogging pores. Suitable for most skin types.
Zero-irritation certified. Free from alcohol, fragrance, essential oils, and common allergens. Passed clinical irritation testing.
Safe to use with vitamin C, retinol, AHA/BHA, and other actives. Apply before heavier products. Wait 30 seconds before layering.
No animal-derived ingredients. Registered in European CPNP which prohibits animal testing. Certified cruelty-free.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSFermented Black Tea (Kombucha)Star Ingredient
The hero ingredient of this formula. Black tea is fermented for 7-30 days to create kombucha, concentrating polyphenols, catechins, and beneficial acids that improve skin elasticity, firmness, and provide powerful antioxidant protection.
- Antioxidant Power: Rich in polyphenols that neutralize free radicals and protect against environmental damage
- Firming Effect: Catechins help stimulate collagen production and improve skin elasticity
- Fermentation Benefit: Enhanced bioavailability allows deeper penetration and better absorption
Niacinamide 2.2-2.7%Proven
A well-researched vitamin B3 derivative that brightens skin, reduces fine lines, strengthens the skin barrier, and regulates sebum production. At this concentration, it provides visible results without irritation.
- Clinical Evidence: Proven to reduce hyperpigmentation and improve uneven skin tone at 2%+ concentrations
- Barrier Support: Increases ceramide synthesis for stronger, healthier skin barrier
- Anti-Aging: Studies show improvement in fine lines and wrinkles with consistent use
5 Types of Hyaluronic AcidProven
A comprehensive HA complex including Sodium Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hyaluronate, and Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate for multi-layer hydration.
- Multi-Molecular: Different molecular weights penetrate different skin layers for comprehensive hydration
- Super Hyaluronic Acid: Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate has 2x better moisture retention than regular HA
- Crosslinked HA: Forms a moisture reservoir on skin surface for long-lasting hydration
Triple Ceramide Complex 0.25-0.5% eachProven
Ceramide NP, NS, and EOP work synergistically to repair and reinforce the skin's lipid barrier. Ceramides make up about 50% of the skin's natural barrier lipids.
- Barrier Repair: Fills gaps in the skin barrier to reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL)
- Skin-Identical: These ceramides match those naturally found in human skin
- Synergistic Formula: Combined with cholesterol for optimal barrier function
Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 (Argireline) 0.2-0.4%Promising
A peptide that works similarly to Botox by temporarily relaxing facial muscles to reduce the appearance of expression lines, particularly around the eyes and forehead.
- Research: Studies show 10% concentration reduced wrinkle depth by 17% in 15 days
- Mechanism: Inhibits neurotransmitter release to reduce muscle contractions
- Safe Alternative: Non-invasive alternative to injections
Centella Asiatica ExtractProven
A legendary healing herb containing madecassoside, asiaticoside, asiatic acid, and madecassic acid. Provides soothing, wound healing, and collagen-boosting benefits.
- Wound Healing: Promotes skin regeneration and tissue repair
- Anti-Inflammatory: Calms redness, irritation, and sensitivity
- Collagen Support: Stimulates collagen and GAG synthesis for firmer skin
73 ingredients
Water, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Glycereth-26, Niacinamide, Diethoxyethyl Succinate, Trehalose, Pentylene Glycol, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Sodium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate, Panthenol, Dipropylene Glycol, Hydrogenated Polydecene, 1,2-Hexanediol, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Xanthan Gum, Adenosine, Disodium EDTA, Methylpropanediol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Hippophae Rhamnoides Fruit Extract, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter Extract, Biosaccharide Gum-4, Polyglyceryl-10 Myristate, Cnidium Officinale Root Extract, Eclipta Prostrata Extract, Biota Orientalis Leaf Extract, Paeonia Lactiflora Root Extract, Poria Cocos Extract, Panax Ginseng Root Extract, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hyaluronate, Polygonum Multiflorum Root Extract, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Beta-Glucan, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Coptis Japonica Extract, Scrophularia Buergeriana Extract, Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract, Gardenia Florida Fruit Extract, Phellodendron Amurense Bark Extract, Piper Methysticum Root Extract, Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, Glucose, Centella Asiatica Extract, Saccharomyces Ferment Filtrate, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Phytosteryl/Behenyl/Octyldodecyl Lauroyl Glutamate, Cholesterol, Brassica Campestris Sterols, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Artemisia Capillaris Extract, Polyglyceryl-10 Oleate, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Ceramide NP, Asiatic Acid, Madecassoside, Madecassic Acid, Ceramide NS, Ceramide EOP, Carbomer, Caprylyl Glycol, Trideceth-10, Caramel, Fructose, Polysilicone-15, Hydroxyacetophenone, Tromethamine, Ethylhexylglycerin
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after cleansing on damp skin. Can be layered 2-3 times for the "7 skin method." Due to its gel-essence texture, it can also replace your essence step.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Face
Start with a clean face using your double cleansing routine (oil cleanser + water-based cleanser).
Dispense 1-2 Pumps
Pump 1-2 times onto your palm. The gel-essence texture makes it easy to control the amount.
Pat Gently Into Skin
Apply evenly across your face using gentle patting motions. Focus on areas prone to fine lines and dryness.
Allow to Absorb
Wait 30-45 seconds for full absorption before applying next skincare steps. Skin should feel plump and hydrated, not sticky.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have dry, dehydrated, or mature skin seeking deep hydration
- You want to address early signs of aging (fine lines, loss of firmness)
- You prefer fragrance-free, gentle formulas
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need safe anti-aging options
- You enjoy luxurious, serum-like textures in your toner step
- You want to boost your skin's radiance and glow
- You're looking for a multi-functional hydrating toner with anti-aging benefits
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis) - contains triggers
- You prefer lightweight, watery toners
- You have extremely oily skin and want a matte finish
- You're looking for strong active ingredients like retinol or AHA/BHA
- You have severe acne that requires medicated treatment
- You're on a tight budget - there are more affordable options
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESPerfect match! Rich, hydrating formula with 5 types of HA, ceramides, and shea butter delivers intense, long-lasting moisture.
Works well! Niacinamide helps balance oil production. May feel slightly rich in T-zone during humid weather.
Use sparingly. Gel-essence texture may feel slightly heavy. Best for those with dehydrated oily skin. Skip in summer.
Zero-irritation certified! Fragrance-free, alcohol-free formula with Centella and Panthenol to soothe and calm reactive skin.
Ideal choice! Adenosine, peptides, and niacinamide target fine lines while ceramides strengthen aging skin barrier.
Not fungal acne safe. Low comedogenic rating (2/5) but contains some esters. Patch test recommended. Skip if prone to FA.
Results timeline
WEEK 12+Instant Hydration & Plumpness
Skin feels immediately softer, more supple, and visibly plumper. The gel-essence texture provides a dewy, glass-skin glow right away.
95% noticed improved hydrationImproved Skin Texture
Skin begins to feel smoother and more refined. Rough, flaky patches diminish. Morning skin feels less tight and dehydrated.
80% reported smoother textureEnhanced Radiance & Glow
Dull, sallow skin appears brighter and more luminous. Niacinamide begins to even out skin tone and reduce the appearance of dark spots.
75% saw improved radianceVisible Fine Line Reduction
Consistent use shows visible improvement in fine lines, especially around eyes and forehead. Skin feels firmer with improved elasticity.
65% noticed reduced fine linesLong-Term Anti-Aging Benefits
Cumulative benefits of adenosine, peptides, and antioxidants become more pronounced. Skin barrier is strengthened with lasting hydration.
70% reported younger-looking skinRatings by platform
1K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Luxurious gel-essence texture feels premium and absorbs well
- Incredible hydration that lasts all day without feeling heavy
- Visible improvement in skin radiance and glow
- Fragrance-free and gentle enough for sensitive skin
- Beautiful glass packaging with elegant pump dispenser
- Works well under makeup without pilling
- Impressive ingredient list with proven actives
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe
Criticized
- Not fungal acne safe - contains multiple FA triggers
- 130ml size runs out quickly if used twice daily
- Heavy glass bottle not ideal for travel
- Thicker than typical toners - may feel too rich for oily skin
- Premium price point compared to basic hydrating toners
- Some users expected stronger anti-aging results
- Caramel coloring unnecessary for some users
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESSame brand's cult-favorite with only 7 ingredients. Simpler formula focused on hydration without anti-aging actives. Better for sensitive skin and FA-safe. Larger size, much better value.
Different hero ingredient (propolis + honey instead of black tea) but similar hydrating, glowing effect. Contains niacinamide. Slightly thinner texture. Not FA-safe.
Great hydrating toner with similar gel-like texture. Contains Centella but lacks ceramides, peptides, and fermented ingredients. Better for those wanting simpler formula.
Shares ginseng as a key ingredient for anti-aging. Lighter, more watery texture. Contains niacinamide but lacks ceramides and peptide complex. Different approach to hydration.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStorage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Use within one year for optimal efficacy and freshness.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep at room temperature (15-25°C). No refrigeration needed.
Premium dark glass bottle with hygienic pump dispenser. Glass protects light-sensitive ingredients. Pump prevents contamination.
Yes, under 100ml TSA limit. However, glass bottle is heavy - consider decanting into plastic travel container for trips.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, this toner is considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It does not contain any ingredients that are typically contraindicated during pregnancy, such as retinoids (retinol, retinal, retinoic acid), salicylic acid in high concentrations, hydroquinone, chemical sunscreens (oxybenzone, avobenzone), or formaldehyde-releasing preservatives. The formula focuses on gentle, nourishing ingredients like niacinamide, ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and plant extracts that are all considered safe for expecting and nursing mothers.
No, this toner is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains several ingredients that can feed malassezia yeast and potentially trigger or worsen fungal acne. The main FA triggers in this formula include: Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil, Polyglyceryl-10 Myristate, Polyglyceryl-10 Oleate, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Saccharomyces Ferment Filtrate, and Brassica Campestris Sterols. If you're prone to fungal acne, consider the brand's Essence Toner instead, which has a simpler, FA-safe formula.
Yes! This toner plays well with other actives. For vitamin C: Apply vitamin C serum first on bare skin, wait 15-20 minutes, then apply this toner. For retinol: Apply this toner first to create a hydrating buffer, then apply retinol. The ceramides and hydrating ingredients can help reduce retinol irritation. For AHA/BHA: Apply your acid exfoliant first, wait until absorbed (about 20 minutes), then apply this toner. The niacinamide in this toner complements these actives well. However, if you're new to actives, introduce them one at a time to avoid overwhelming your skin.
This toner is excellent for dry, dehydrated, mature, and sensitive skin types. The rich, gel-essence texture and powerhouse moisturizing ingredients (5 types of hyaluronic acid, 3 ceramides, shea butter extract) make it ideal for those seeking intense hydration and anti-aging benefits. It works moderately well for combination skin, especially in drier months. Those with very oily skin might find the texture too rich - they may prefer the lighter Pyunkang Yul Essence Toner. It's NOT recommended for those with fungal acne due to multiple FA triggers in the formula.
Results vary by skin concern. Immediate effects (day 1): You'll notice instant hydration, plumpness, and a dewy glow. Short-term (1-2 weeks): Improved skin texture, reduced dryness, and smoother skin surface. Medium-term (4-6 weeks): Visible brightening from niacinamide, improved radiance, and more even skin tone. Long-term (8-12 weeks): Anti-aging benefits become more apparent - reduced appearance of fine lines, improved firmness, and strengthened skin barrier. For best results, use consistently twice daily (AM and PM) for at least 12 weeks.
Apply this toner immediately after cleansing (or after your actives like vitamin C or AHA/BHA if you use them). The order is: 1) Oil Cleanser, 2) Water-Based Cleanser, 3) This Toner, 4) Essence/Serum, 5) Moisturizer, 6) Sunscreen (AM only). Due to its gel-essence texture, this toner is thicker than typical watery toners and can double as an essence. You can skip your essence step if desired. For extra hydration, try the "7 skin method" - layer 3-7 thin applications of this toner for intensely plump, hydrated skin.
This toner has a low-to-moderate comedogenic rating of 2/5. While it contains some esters like Ethylhexyl Palmitate (comedogenic rating 2-4) and Butylene Glycol (rating 1), the overall formula is unlikely to clog pores for most people. The presence of niacinamide actually helps regulate sebum production. However, if you're highly acne-prone, do a patch test first. Apply to a small area of your jawline for 1-2 weeks before full-face use. Note: This is different from fungal acne safety - the toner is NOT safe for fungal acne despite being relatively low on the comedogenic scale.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal efficacy. The 130ml bottle typically lasts 2-3 months with twice-daily use (1-2 pumps per application). The dark glass bottle helps protect light-sensitive ingredients, and the pump dispenser prevents contamination from fingers. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Signs of expiration include changes in color, texture, or smell - if you notice any of these, discontinue use.
Verdict: The Pyunkang Yul Black Tea Deep Infusion Toner is a premium, luxuriously formulated anti-aging toner that delivers exceptional hydration and visible skin-improving benefits. The combination of fermented black tea, 5 types of hyaluronic acid, triple ceramides, niacinamide, and peptides creates a powerhouse formula that addresses multiple aging concerns. The elegant gel-essence texture feels indulgent without being heavy, and the fragrance-free, zero-irritation formula makes it suitable for sensitive skin. However, the premium price point, smaller bottle size, and the fact that it's NOT fungal acne safe are drawbacks worth considering. Best suited for those with dry, mature, or sensitive skin seeking a high-performance, gentle anti-aging toner with proven ingredients.
Product Overview
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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
|
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Glycereth-26
Solvent, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Niacinamide
Skin Conditioning, Hair Conditioning, Smoothing
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
Dark Spots
Pores
|






