Skip to content

Green Plum Refreshing Toner : AHA + BHA

Green Plum Refreshing Toner : AHA + BHA

Product Description

Product overview

Made in South Korea K-BEAUTY

A gentle daily exfoliating toner with 25% green plum water, 2% glycolic acid (AHA) and 0.5% salicylic acid (BHA) that sweeps away dead skin cells and unclogs pores while soothing and hydrating with mung bean extract and traditional Hanbang botanicals. Leaves skin smoother, brighter, and clearer without stripping the moisture barrier.

Cruelty-Free Vegan Fragrance-Free Essential Oil-Free Alcohol-Free Paraben-Free Sulfate-Free Silicone-Free Gluten-Free Dermatologist Tested
Pregnancy
Caution
Fungal Acne
Caution
Comedogenic
1/5
Size
150ml / 5.07 fl oz
AHA
2% Glycolic Acid
BHA
0.5% Salicylic Acid
Key Extract
25% Green Plum Water
Soothing
2% Mung Bean Extract
Real reviews · YouTube Shorts
Why it's different

25% Green Plum Water

A natural source of fruit acids, green plum water gently exfoliates while delivering vitamins A, B, and C to brighten and renew skin tone.

01

Texture & feel

SENSORY
Consistency
Watery-Liquid
Scent
Fragrance-Free
Absorption
Instant (5-10 sec)
Finish
Fresh, Non-Sticky

25% Green Plum Water

A natural source of fruit acids, green plum water gently exfoliates while delivering vitamins A, B, and C to brighten and renew skin tone.

Dual AHA + BHA Complex

2% glycolic acid resurfaces dead skin cells while 0.5% salicylic acid penetrates pores to dissolve sebum plugs and prevent breakouts.

2% Mung Bean Extract

A traditional Hanbang ingredient that soothes irritation, smooths texture, and delivers moisture to counterbalance the exfoliating acids.

Barrier-Friendly Formula

Low acid concentrations combined with glycerin, panthenol, and purslane extract ensure effective exfoliation without compromising your moisture barrier.

02

Safety & compatibility

SAFE
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Contains 0.5% salicylic acid (BHA). While the concentration is low and topical, most dermatologists recommend caution with BHA during pregnancy. Consult your doctor before use. The brand also advises pregnant users to check with their physician.

Fungal Acne (Malassezia)

The original formulation contains Polyglyceryl-10 Oleate and Hydrogenated Lecithin, which are fatty acid esters that may feed Malassezia yeast. Some retailers list this as FA-safe, but exercise caution and patch test if you are prone to fungal acne.

Comedogenic Rating: 1/5

Very low risk of clogging pores. The formula is oil-free, silicone-free, and contains no heavy occlusive ingredients. The BHA actually helps keep pores clear.

Fragrance & Essential Oil Free

No added fragrance, perfume, or essential oils. Suitable for sensitive and reactive skin types that are easily irritated by scented products.

Alcohol-Free

Does not contain drying alcohols (ethanol, denatured alcohol). The glycols present (dipropylene glycol, butylene glycol) are moisturizing, not drying.

Sun Sensitivity Warning

AHA (glycolic acid) increases photosensitivity. Always apply SPF 30+ sunscreen in the morning when using this toner, even on cloudy days.

Patch Tested

Passed a 24-hour Human Repeated Insult Patch Test conducted by the Korea Dermatology Research Institute on 51 subjects.

Sensitive Skin Note

If you are new to AHA/BHA or have very sensitive skin, start with every other day use and patch test first. A slight tingling is normal but persistent stinging is not.

03

Ingredient breakdown

INGREDIENTS

Green Plum Water (Prunus Mume Fruit Water) 25%Proven

Distilled from the Asian plum blossom, this traditional Hanbang ingredient is rich in vitamins A, B, and C and natural fruit acids. It provides gentle exfoliation while activating the skin renewal cycle for brighter, more radiant skin.

  • Function: Natural AHA source, humectant, antioxidant
  • Source: Prunus Mume (green plum) fruit distillate
  • Benefit: Supports cell turnover and provides cooling, soothing hydration
Featured at 25% concentration — the highest-listed active ingredient after water, delivering meaningful skin benefits.

Glycolic Acid (AHA) 2%Proven

The gold-standard AHA exfoliant. At 2%, it provides gentle but effective removal of dead skin cells, revealing smoother and brighter skin. At lower concentrations, it also acts as a humectant, boosting skin hydration.

  • Research: Proven to stimulate collagen production with long-term use
  • Optimal pH: Works best at pH 3-4, which this toner is formulated to deliver
  • Benefit: Brightens, smooths texture, reduces hyperpigmentation, and promotes cellular renewal
Increases sun sensitivity. Always use SPF 30+ when using glycolic acid products. May cause slight tingling on sensitive skin — this is normal.

Salicylic Acid (BHA) 0.5%Proven

An oil-soluble beta hydroxy acid that can penetrate into pores to dissolve sebum buildup and prevent blackheads. Also has anti-inflammatory properties similar to aspirin, making it soothing for acne-prone skin.

  • Research: FDA-recognized at 0.5-2% as an OTC topical acne treatment
  • Mechanism: Oil-soluble — penetrates pore lining to clear out clogged sebum
  • Benefit: Unclogs pores, reduces blackheads and whiteheads, controls excess oil, calms inflammation
Not recommended during pregnancy without doctor consultation. At 0.5%, concentration is gentle, but caution is advised for those with a compromised moisture barrier.

Mung Bean Extract (Phaseolus Radiatus) 2%Promising

A traditional Korean herbal (Hanbang) ingredient used for centuries to soothe skin. It calms irritation from the exfoliating acids while providing moisture and smoothing texture.

  • Function: Skin-soothing, moisturizing, texture-refining
  • Tradition: Used in Korean traditional medicine for its cooling and calming properties
  • Synergy: Counterbalances potential irritation from AHA/BHA actives

Panax Ginseng Root ExtractPromising

A revered Hanbang ingredient used for over 2,000 years in Korean medicine. Contains ginsenosides — biologically active saponins with potent antioxidant properties that help improve blood circulation and skin metabolism.

  • Research: Ginsenosides demonstrate antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity
  • Benefit: Improves skin nutrition, boosts circulation, and provides antioxidant protection

Portulaca Oleracea (Purslane) ExtractPromising

A succulent plant famous in Korean traditional medicine for treating irritated skin. It is the richest green plant source of omega-3 fatty acids and also contains natural moisturizing factors, beta-carotene, and minerals.

  • Research: Demonstrated skin-soothing, antioxidant, and wound-healing properties
  • Benefit: Reduces redness and irritation, provides antioxidant defense against free radicals

26 ingredients

Water, Prunus Mume Fruit Water, Dipropylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Tromethamine, Glycolic Acid, Phaseolus Radiatus Seed Extract, Panax Ginseng Root Extract, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Water, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Salicylic Acid, Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, Melia Azadirachta Flower Extract, Fructose, Tocopherol, Glucose, Sodium PCA, Triethylhexanoin, Diphenyl Dimethicone, C12-14 Pareth-12, Ethylhexylglycerin, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Polyglyceryl-10 Oleate, Tetrasodium EDTA

FREE FROM: Parabens, Fragrance, Essential Oils, Alcohol (Ethanol), Sulfates (SLS/SLES), Mineral Oil, Hydroquinone, Oxybenzone, Retinyl Palmitate, Phthalates, Formaldehyde, Coal Tar, Triclocarban, Triclosan
04

Where it fits in your routine

ROUTINE
1
Cleanser
2
This Toner
3
Essence
4
Serum
5
Moisturizer
6
Sunscreen (AM)

Use morning and evening after cleansing. Apply before essences, serums, and moisturizers. Always follow with SPF 30+ sunscreen in the morning.

05

How to use

HOW TO USE
1

Cleanse Your Face

Start with a clean face. Use your regular cleanser (double cleanse in the evening if wearing sunscreen or makeup).

2

Soak a Cotton Pad

Saturate a cotton pad with the toner. Alternatively, dispense a few drops into your palms for a more economical application.

3

Gently Wipe or Pat

Sweep the cotton pad gently from the center of your face outward, avoiding the eye and lip area. Or pat the toner into skin with your fingertips.

4

Continue Your Routine

Wait 30 seconds for the toner to absorb, then layer on your essence, serum, and moisturizer. Apply sunscreen as the final AM step.

06

Who is it for?

WHO

Perfect for you if:

  • You have oily, combination, or acne-prone skin
  • You deal with clogged pores, blackheads, or whiteheads
  • Your skin looks dull and you want a brighter, smoother complexion
  • You want gentle daily exfoliation without harsh scrubbing
  • You are new to chemical exfoliants and need a beginner-friendly formula
  • You prefer fragrance-free, clean beauty products
  • You have rough or uneven skin texture
  • You want to address hyperpigmentation and dark spots

Consider alternatives if:

  • You need intensive exfoliation (higher AHA/BHA concentration needed)
  • You are pregnant or breastfeeding (contains BHA — consult doctor)
  • Your skin barrier is severely compromised or extremely irritated
  • You have active rosacea flare-ups (AHA may worsen)
  • You are already using multiple strong actives (retinol + acids)
  • You strictly require a fungal-acne-safe formula (contains esters)
07

Skin type compatibility

SKIN TYPES
Oily Skin
Excellent

Watery, lightweight texture absorbs instantly. BHA controls sebum and unclogs pores without adding shine or greasiness.

Combination Skin
Excellent

Balances oily T-zone while hydrating drier cheeks. The dual acid formula targets both oil and dryness simultaneously.

Acne-Prone Skin
Excellent

AHA + BHA combo tackles surface congestion and deep pore buildup. Anti-inflammatory BHA helps calm active breakouts.

Normal Skin
Excellent

Great maintenance toner to keep skin smooth, bright, and clear. Low acid concentration makes it ideal for everyday use.

Dry Skin
Good

Glycerin and mung bean extract provide hydration, but dry skin types should follow with a rich moisturizer. Start with every-other-day use.

Sensitive Skin
Good

Fragrance-free and low-acid formula is gentler than most exfoliating toners. Patch test first and build tolerance gradually.

08

Results timeline

MONTHS 2-3
Week 1

Smoother Texture & Refreshed Feeling

Skin feels cleaner and smoother after each application. Dead skin buildup is visibly reduced. Pores may appear slightly cleaner. Some users experience mild tingling that subsides as skin adjusts.

75% noticed smoother skin
Weeks 2-3

Brighter Complexion & Fewer Breakouts

Skin tone becomes more even and noticeably brighter. Blackheads and whiteheads start to decrease. Skin texture continues to refine and products absorb better after this exfoliating step.

68% noticed brighter skin
Weeks 4-6

Visible Pore Refinement & Glow

Pores appear visibly smaller and cleaner. Dark spots and post-acne marks begin to fade. The natural 28-day skin renewal cycle has been fully supported. Skin looks healthier and more radiant overall.

80% noticed improved skin clarity
Months 2-3

Long-Term Clarity & Improved Skin Health

Consistent use shows cumulative benefits: smoother texture, fewer breakouts, more even tone, and healthier skin barrier. Hyperpigmentation and acne scars continue fading with continued use.

85% saw lasting improvement
09

Ratings by platform

1K+ REVIEWS
Amazon
4.6
Rating
630+
Reviews
Main complaint: Some sensitive skin users report slight stinging on first use
Sephora
4.5
Rating
150+
Reviews
Main complaint: Wish it came in a larger size for daily twice-a-day use
YesStyle
4.7
Rating
200+
Reviews
Main complaint: Long shipping times depending on region
iHerb
4.6
Rating
100+
Reviews
Main complaint: Effects too mild for experienced acid users seeking stronger exfoliation
10

Pros & cons

BALANCED

Praised

  • Gentle enough for daily use, even for sensitive skin
  • Noticeable improvement in skin texture and brightness
  • Fragrance-free and essential oil-free formula
  • Lightweight, non-sticky, absorbs instantly
  • Helps reduce blackheads and whiteheads with regular use
  • Excellent value for the quality of ingredients
  • Does not dry out or strip the skin
  • Clean ingredient list with Hanbang botanicals

Criticized

  • May be too mild for experienced acid users
  • Slight stinging possible on first use for very sensitive skin
  • 150ml bottle runs out quickly with twice-daily cotton pad use
  • Not suitable during pregnancy without medical guidance
  • Contains esters that may not suit fungal acne sufferers
  • Results are gradual — requires consistent daily use for best effects
11

Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)

DUPES
82% Match
AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner
$12.00
Budget Pick

Contains apple water (natural AHA) and willow bark water (natural BHA) at very low concentrations. Gentler than Beauty of Joseon but less effective for noticeable exfoliation. Better as a pH-adjusting prep toner. 150ml.

72% Match
Chestnut AHA 8% Clear Essence
$15.00
Similar Price

Higher AHA concentration (8% glycolic acid) for more noticeable exfoliation, but lacks the soothing BHA and Hanbang ingredients. Better for experienced acid users. Not as gentle for daily use. 100ml.

68% Match
AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Toner
$14.00
Budget Pick

Triple acid approach (AHA + BHA + PHA) with tea tree water and niacinamide. More complex formula targeting acne specifically. Slightly more irritating for sensitive skin due to multiple acids. 150ml.

12

Comparison with competitors

SIDE-BY-SIDE
AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner
Key Actives Natural AHA/BHA (very low %)
Size 150ml
Fragrance-Free Yes
Best For pH prep toner, acid beginners
Unique Feature Apple water + willow bark, extremely gentle
AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Toner
Key Actives AHA + BHA + PHA + Niacinamide
Size 150ml
Fragrance-Free No (contains fragrance)
Best For Acne-prone, oily skin
Unique Feature Triple acid + tea tree, targets acne specifically
Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
Key Actives 2% Salicylic Acid (BHA only)
Size 118ml
Fragrance-Free Yes
Best For Blackheads, clogged pores, oily skin
Unique Feature Higher BHA concentration, cult favorite for pores
13

Storage & shelf life

12 MONTHS
Period After Opening (PAO)

12 months after opening

Storage

Store at room temperature away from direct sunlight and heat. Avoid freezing. If frozen due to shipping, let it return to room temperature before use — stability is not affected.

Packaging

Translucent plastic bottle with screw-top cap. Lightweight and squeezable for easy dispensing.

Travel Friendly

Yes — 150ml exceeds the 100ml carry-on limit, but can be decanted. No pump or dropper to leak.

13

Frequently asked questions

FAQ

This toner contains 0.5% salicylic acid (BHA), which many dermatologists recommend avoiding during pregnancy and breastfeeding. While the concentration is low and used topically, the brand itself advises pregnant users to consult their primary care doctor before use due to hormonal changes and skin sensitivities during pregnancy. The AHA (glycolic acid) at 2% is generally considered lower-risk, but it is best to get personalized medical advice.

The formula contains Polyglyceryl-10 Oleate and Hydrogenated Lecithin, which are fatty acid esters that may potentially feed Malassezia yeast. While some retailers label this product as fungal acne safe, it is advisable to exercise caution if you are prone to fungal acne. Patch test on a small area first and monitor for any flare-ups before incorporating it into your full routine.

Use with caution when combining with other active ingredients. Avoid layering this toner directly with high-concentration vitamin C serums (L-ascorbic acid), retinol, or other AHA/BHA products in the same routine to prevent over-exfoliation and irritation. A good approach is to alternate: use this toner in the morning and retinol at night, or use this toner on days you skip other actives. If your skin is well-adjusted, you can gradually introduce layering, but always listen to your skin.

This toner is formulated for all skin types, but it is especially well-suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin. The lightweight, watery texture absorbs instantly without adding oiliness. The AHA + BHA combination effectively targets clogged pores, dullness, and uneven texture. Dry and sensitive skin types can also use it, but should start slowly (every other day) and follow with a richer moisturizer.

Most users notice smoother texture and a refreshed feeling within the first week. Brighter, more even skin tone typically becomes visible after 2-3 weeks of consistent use. Significant improvements in pore clarity, dark spots, and overall radiance usually appear after 4-6 weeks, which aligns with one full skin renewal cycle (28 days). For best results, use consistently morning and evening.

Apply this toner as the first step after cleansing, both morning and evening. It goes before essences, serums, ampoules, and moisturizers. In the morning, always finish your routine with SPF 30+ sunscreen since the AHA increases sun sensitivity. The toner preps your skin by removing residual impurities and improving absorption of the products that follow.

No, this toner has a very low comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5. The formula is free from heavy oils, silicones, and pore-clogging occlusive ingredients. In fact, the AHA + BHA combination actively works to unclog pores and prevent future congestion. The lightweight, watery texture does not leave residue that could contribute to breakouts.

The product has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. If unopened, the shelf life is 3 years from the manufacturing date (as indicated on the packaging). For optimal results, Beauty of Joseon recommends using products within 6-12 months once opened. Store at room temperature away from direct sunlight and heat to maintain efficacy.

— Skincarisma verdict
4.5 / 5 ★★★★★

Verdict: The Beauty of Joseon Green Plum Refreshing Toner is an outstanding daily exfoliating toner that strikes the perfect balance between effectiveness and gentleness. With 2% glycolic acid and 0.5% salicylic acid buffered by 25% green plum water and soothing Hanbang botanicals, it delivers noticeable improvements in texture, brightness, and pore clarity without over-stripping or irritating the skin. The fragrance-free, clean formula makes it accessible to nearly all skin types. It earns a slight deduction only because the acid concentrations may feel too mild for experienced chemical exfoliant users, and the caution required for pregnancy and fungal acne limits its universality. For the price point, ingredient quality, and gentle efficacy, this is one of the best value-for-money exfoliating toners in K-beauty.

Browse related

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.

Awesome, I Understand!

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

Awesome, I Understand!

Notable Effects & Ingredients

anti-aging Anti-Aging from 1 ingredient(s):
Glycolic Acid
brightening Brightening from 3 ingredient(s):
Glycerin Glycolic Acid Salicylic Acid
wound Promotes Wound Healing from 2 ingredient(s):
Glycerin Glycolic Acid
ache Ache-fighting from 2 ingredient(s):
Glycolic Acid Salicylic Acid
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!

Awesome, I Understand!

Ingredients Related to Skin Types

Click on icons for more information
dry-skin Dry Skin
2
oily-skin Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
2
sensitive-skin Sensitive Skin
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.

Awesome, I Understand!

Ingredient Safety Breakdown

EWG Health Ratings
Low risk
Medium risk
High risk
Unknown risk
50% 8% 41%

Product ingredient list

Showing first 5 of 24 ingredients
EWG CIR Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions Notes
1 Unknown
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
0 Unknown
Prunus Mume Fruit Water
Humectant
1 A
Dipropylene Glycol
Fragrance, Solvent, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Masking, Viscosity Controlling
2 A
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
brightening Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
4 B
Glycolic Acid
Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Exfoliant, Exfoliating, Buffering
brightening Brightening
ache Ache-fighting
anti-aging Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Dark Spots
Texture
Pores
VIEW ALL INGREDIENTS