Jeju Face Toner
Jeju Face Toner
Product Description
Product overview
A lightweight, refreshing spray toner with sodium lactate and Jeju camellia oil that gently cleanses pores, restores natural pH, and deeply moisturizes young and combination skin without over-drying. Formulated with 99% natural-origin ingredients including cistus extract and aspen bark salicylates.
Sodium Lactate Hydration
The first Ziaja toner featuring sodium lactate, a powerful humectant that draws moisture into the skin without heaviness.
Texture & feel
SENSORYSodium Lactate Hydration
The first Ziaja toner featuring sodium lactate, a powerful humectant that draws moisture into the skin without heaviness.
Natural Salicylates
Aspen bark extract provides gentle, natural salicylates that help clear pores and reduce imperfections without harsh chemicals.
Jeju Camellia Oil
Cold-pressed camellia japonica seed oil from Korea's Jeju Island delivers antioxidants and essential fatty acids to soothe and protect.
Cistus Extract
Rock rose (Cistus incanus) extract provides anti-inflammatory and antibacterial benefits, ideal for blemish-prone complexions.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains natural salicylates from aspen bark and added fragrance. Consult your doctor before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Contains Camellia Japonica Seed Oil (fatty acid-rich) and PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, which some databases flag as potential fungal acne triggers. Results vary by source.
Rated 1/5 for comedogenicity. The lightweight watery formula is unlikely to clog pores for most skin types.
No drying alcohol, parabens, sulfates, or silicones. Preserved with sodium benzoate, a gentle alternative.
Certified vegan formula with no animal-derived ingredients. Ziaja does not test on animals.
Scented with mint, pomegranate, and blackcurrant notes. Those with fragrance sensitivities should patch test first.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSodium Lactate ~3-5%Proven
A natural humectant derived from lactic acid fermentation. As the second listed ingredient, it is present at a significant concentration, providing strong moisture-binding benefits to the skin's surface.
- Function: Humectant that attracts and retains water in the epidermis
- Research: Shown to increase skin hydration by up to 50% in clinical studies when used at 2-5% concentrations
- Bonus: Also acts as a mild keratolytic, helping to gently exfoliate dead skin cells
Betaine ~2-4%Proven
A sugar beet-derived amino acid derivative with excellent osmolyte properties. Betaine helps regulate cell water balance and protects skin proteins from denaturation.
- Function: Moisturizer, osmoprotectant, and skin-soothing agent
- Research: Studies show betaine reduces skin irritation caused by surfactants and environmental stressors
- Bonus: Anti-inflammatory properties make it suitable for sensitive and reactive skin
Populus Tremuloides Bark Extract ~1-2%Promising
Aspen bark extract is a natural source of salicin, a precursor to salicylic acid. It provides gentle antibacterial and pore-clarifying benefits without the harshness of synthetic BHA.
- Function: Natural preservative, mild antimicrobial, and pore-refining agent
- Research: Salicin from bark extracts has demonstrated anti-inflammatory activity in dermatological studies
- Bonus: Acts as a natural preservative booster in cosmetic formulations
Cistus Incanus Extract ~0.5-1%Promising
Rock rose extract from the Mediterranean Cistus incanus plant. Rich in polyphenols, it provides potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits, particularly effective for blemish-prone skin.
- Function: Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial agent
- Research: Cistus polyphenols have shown antimicrobial activity against acne-causing bacteria in vitro studies
- Bonus: Helps soothe redness and irritation associated with acne and breakouts
Camellia Japonica Seed Oil ~0.5-1%Proven
Cold-pressed oil from Japanese camellia seeds, sourced from Korea's Jeju Island. Rich in oleic acid and antioxidants, it protects against premature aging and deeply nourishes without feeling heavy.
- Function: Emollient, antioxidant, and skin-barrier support
- Research: Studies show camellia oil provides UV-protective and anti-aging effects due to its high polyphenol content
- Bonus: Lightweight oil that absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue
Citric Acid <0.5%Proven
A naturally occurring AHA from citrus fruits used here primarily as a pH adjuster. At this low concentration, it helps maintain the toner's natural, skin-friendly pH rather than providing exfoliation.
- Function: pH adjuster and mild antioxidant
- Research: At higher concentrations (10-20%), citric acid acts as a chemical exfoliant, but at cosmetic pH-adjusting levels it is non-irritating
13 ingredients
Aqua (Water), Sodium Lactate, Betaine, Populus Tremuloides Bark Extract, Propylene Glycol, Cistus Incanus Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract, Camellia Japonica Seed Oil, PPG-26-Buteth-26, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Benzoate, Parfum (Fragrance), Citric Acid
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse morning and evening after cleansing. Apply before serums and moisturizers. Can also be used as a refreshing mid-day mist.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Face
Start with a clean face. Use your preferred cleanser and rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
Spray or Apply with Cotton Pad
Either spray the toner directly onto your face from 15-20 cm distance, or apply it to a cotton pad and gently swipe across your skin.
Avoid the Eye Area
Keep the product away from your eyes. Focus on the forehead, cheeks, nose, and chin.
Let It Absorb
Allow the toner to fully absorb for about 30 seconds before applying your next skincare step (serum or moisturizer).
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily, combination, or blemish-prone young skin
- You want a lightweight, non-greasy toner with natural ingredients
- You prefer an alcohol-free toner that won't strip your skin
- You're looking for affordable, no-fuss skincare with a short ingredient list
- You enjoy refreshing, fruity-minty scents in your skincare
- You value vegan and cruelty-free products
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry or mature skin that needs richer hydration
- You are sensitive to fragrance (this contains parfum)
- You have confirmed fungal acne and need a strictly FA-safe product
- You want a toner with active exfoliants like glycolic acid or salicylic acid
- You need a completely fragrance-free formula
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESSlightly degreasing formula controls excess sebum without over-drying. Watery texture absorbs instantly with no residue.
Balances oily T-zone while hydrating drier cheek areas. Sodium lactate and betaine provide non-greasy moisture where needed.
Natural salicylates from aspen bark and antibacterial cistus extract help with blemishes. Low comedogenic rating (1/5).
Betaine and camellia oil are soothing, but added fragrance may irritate very reactive skin. Always patch test first.
Sodium lactate provides hydration, but the slightly degreasing formula may not be moisturizing enough alone. Layer with a richer moisturizer.
Results timeline
MONTH 2-3Immediate Freshness & Hydration
Skin feels instantly refreshed and clean after the first application. The minty scent provides a cooling, invigorating sensation. Pores appear visibly cleaner.
90% noticed immediatelyImproved Moisture Balance
Sodium lactate and betaine begin restoring the skin's moisture barrier. Skin feels more hydrated and less tight after cleansing. Oiliness in the T-zone starts to normalize.
75% noticed within 2 weeksClearer, Smoother Complexion
Natural salicylates and cistus extract work to reduce minor blemishes and refine skin texture. Pores appear less congested and skin looks healthier overall.
60% noticed within a monthLong-Term Skin Improvement
With consistent use, skin maintains a better oil-moisture balance. Fewer breakouts, reduced redness, and an overall brighter, more even-toned complexion.
50% noticed sustained improvementRatings by platform
300+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Exceptional value for money — large 200ml bottle at a budget price
- Minimal ingredient list (only 13) reduces irritation risk
- Refreshing, pleasant minty-fruity scent that lingers subtly
- Alcohol-free formula that cleanses without stripping moisture
- Convenient spray format for quick, mess-free application
- 99% natural-origin ingredients with vegan certification
- Effectively balances oily and combination skin
Criticized
- Contains fragrance (parfum) which may irritate sensitive skin
- Some users report a burning sensation upon application
- May not provide enough hydration for very dry skin types
- Contains PEG ingredients that some prefer to avoid
- Not widely available outside of Europe and select online retailers
- Camellia oil may not be suitable for those with fungal acne
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Similar gentle, alcohol-free toner concept with botanical extracts. Uses witch hazel and aloe vera instead of sodium lactate and camellia oil. More widely available but different active profile.
Even more minimal formula focused on soothing and hydrating without irritation. Fragrance-free alternative for sensitive skin. Lacks the botanical actives like cistus and camellia oil.
Korean toner with green tea extract providing antioxidants and sebum control, similar to Ziaja's cistus extract approach. Fungal acne safe. Slightly more hydrating but pricier per ml.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. No refrigeration needed.
Plastic spray bottle with mist nozzle
No — 200 ml exceeds the 100 ml carry-on liquid limit. Decant into a smaller bottle for travel.
Frequently asked questions
FAQUse with caution. This toner contains natural salicylates from Populus Tremuloides (aspen) bark extract and added fragrance (parfum). While the salicylate concentration is very low and cosmetic-grade, pregnant and breastfeeding women are generally advised to avoid salicylates as a precaution. It does not contain retinoids, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. Always consult your healthcare provider before introducing new skincare products during pregnancy.
Results are mixed depending on the database. Folliculitis Scout and SkinSort list it as fungal acne safe with 0 triggers, while SkinCarisma flags Camellia Japonica Seed Oil as a potential fungal acne feeder due to its fatty acid content. PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil is also flagged by some sources. If you have active fungal acne, consider testing on a small area first or opt for a strictly FA-safe alternative like Isntree Green Tea Fresh Toner.
Yes, this toner is compatible with most actives. It does not contain strong acids or exfoliants at active concentrations, so it pairs well with retinol, vitamin C serums, AHAs, and BHAs. Apply the toner first after cleansing, let it absorb, then follow with your active treatment. If using strong acids or retinol, monitor your skin for any signs of over-exfoliation or irritation.
This toner was specifically designed for young skin (ages 12+) and works best for oily, combination, and blemish-prone skin types. Its slightly degreasing formula controls excess sebum while sodium lactate and betaine provide hydration without heaviness. It can also work for normal skin, but may not be moisturizing enough for very dry or mature skin types without additional layers of hydration.
You will feel an immediate refreshing and hydrating effect after the first use. Improved moisture balance and reduced oiliness are typically noticed within 1-2 weeks of consistent morning and evening use. For clearer skin and reduced blemishes, expect 3-4 weeks of regular use as the natural salicylates and cistus extract gradually work to improve skin clarity.
This toner should be applied as Step 2 in your routine, immediately after cleansing and before serums, treatments, and moisturizers. Apply it morning and evening using a cotton pad or spray directly onto your face. Wait about 30 seconds for it to absorb before layering your next product. In the morning, follow with moisturizer and sunscreen. At night, follow with any treatment serums and night cream.
This toner has a low comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5, meaning it is very unlikely to clog pores. The watery, lightweight formula is designed to cleanse and hydrate without leaving a heavy residue. Camellia japonica seed oil has a comedogenic rating of 1-2, but it is present at a low concentration in this formula. The toner actually helps cleanse pores thanks to its natural salicylates from aspen bark extract.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal freshness and efficacy. The product is preserved with sodium benzoate. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. The 200 ml bottle typically lasts 2-3 months with twice-daily use, so you should be able to finish it well within the PAO window.
Verdict: The Ziaja Jeju Face Toner delivers impressive value with its minimalist 13-ingredient formula, generous 200 ml size, and budget-friendly price point. Its standout sodium lactate base provides genuine hydration that rivals more expensive toners, while the combination of Jeju camellia oil and cistus extract offers real botanical benefits for oily and blemish-prone skin. The main drawbacks are the added fragrance (a dealbreaker for fragrance-sensitive users) and the uncertain fungal acne safety due to the camellia oil content. For young, oily, or combination skin on a budget, this is an excellent everyday toner that punches well above its price class.
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 1 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing 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 |
Sodium Lactate
Humectant, Buffering
|
|
|
| 1 |
Betaine
Skin Conditioning, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning
|
Hydrating
Irritation
Dark Spots
|
|
| 1 |
Populus Tremuloides Bark Extract
Skin Conditioning, Antiseborrhoeic
|
|
|
| 3 |
Propylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Skin-Conditioningagent - Miscellaneous
|
Hydrating
|