PHA Peeling Toner
PHA Peeling Toner
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle exfoliating toner featuring 3% Lactobionic Acid (third-generation PHA) that removes dead skin cells without irritation. Formulated with cornflower water, hyaluronic acid, and ceramides to hydrate while revealing smoother, brighter skin. Perfect for sensitive skin types who cannot tolerate traditional AHAs or BHAs.
Gentle Exfoliation
Third-generation PHA (Lactobionic Acid) exfoliates without the irritation or photosensitivity caused by traditional AHAs and BHAs.
Texture & feel
SENSORYGentle Exfoliation
Third-generation PHA (Lactobionic Acid) exfoliates without the irritation or photosensitivity caused by traditional AHAs and BHAs.
Hydrating Formula
Contains Sodium PCA, Hyaluronic Acid, and Cornflower Water as Natural Moisturizing Factors to prevent dryness after exfoliation.
Barrier Support
Ceramide NP and Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate strengthen the skin barrier while calming inflammation and sensitivity.
Soothing Botanicals
Chrysanthemum Extract provides antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits while Allantoin soothes and heals irritated skin.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEPHAs including Lactobionic Acid are considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. No retinoids, high-dose salicylic acid, or hydroquinone. Always consult your healthcare provider.
Free from fermented ingredients, fatty acids, and problematic esters that feed malassezia yeast. Contains MCT-based Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride which may actually help combat fungal acne.
Rating 0/5. Lightweight, water-based formula with no pore-clogging oils or heavy emollients. Suitable for acne-prone skin.
Unlike AHAs and BHAs, PHAs do not increase sun sensitivity. However, daily SPF is still recommended as part of any skincare routine.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSLactobionic Acid 3%Proven
A third-generation PHA (polyhydroxy acid) derived from lactose. Larger molecular size than AHAs means gentler exfoliation that works on the skin surface without deep penetration or irritation.
- Exfoliation: Dissolves bonds between dead skin cells for smoother texture
- Antioxidant: Chelates iron ions, reducing free radical formation
- Humectant: Attracts moisture to the skin unlike drying AHAs
- Anti-aging: Studies show improvement in fine lines and elasticity with regular use
Centaurea Cyanus (Cornflower) Water HighSoothing
A floral distillate rich in polysaccharides and natural compounds. Used traditionally for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Soothing: Calms irritation and reduces redness
- Hydrating: Known as "natural moisturizing water" in Korean skincare
- Antioxidant: Contains protective flavonoids
Sodium Hyaluronate 0.9-1.35%Proven
The sodium salt of hyaluronic acid with smaller molecular weight for better penetration. A powerful humectant that can hold up to 1000x its weight in water.
- Hydration: Draws moisture into skin's upper layers
- Plumping: Temporarily reduces appearance of fine lines
- Barrier Support: Helps maintain skin's moisture levels
Ceramide NP 0.3-0.75%Proven
A skin-identical lipid that's a crucial component of the skin barrier. Helps repair and strengthen the protective layer damaged by exfoliation or environmental factors.
- Barrier Repair: Fills gaps in the lipid matrix
- Moisture Retention: Prevents transepidermal water loss
- Smoothing: Improves skin texture and softness
Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate 0.45-1%Proven
Derived from licorice root, this ingredient offers powerful anti-inflammatory and skin-brightening benefits without irritation.
- Anti-inflammatory: Calms redness and irritation
- Brightening: Contains glabridin which inhibits melanin production
- Antioxidant: Protects against environmental damage
19 ingredients
Water, Centaurea Cyanus Flower Water, Pentylene Glycol, Lactobionic Acid, Glycerin, Sodium PCA, Propanediol, Chrysanthemum Sinense Flower Extract, Oleanolic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Gluconate, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Enantia Chlorantha Bark Extract, Ceramide NP, Allantoin, Butylene Glycol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Phytosteryl/Octyldodecyl Lauroyl Glutamate
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse after cleansing on bare skin. Can be used both AM and PM. Start with 1-2x per week and increase frequency as tolerated. Unlike AHAs/BHAs, PHAs can generally be used daily once skin adjusts.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse First
Start with freshly cleansed, dry skin. Complete your double cleanse if wearing makeup or sunscreen.
Apply to Cotton Pad
Dispense an appropriate amount onto a cotton pad. Alternatively, pour directly into palms for a more hydrating application.
Sweep Across Face
Gently swipe the cotton pad across face and neck, avoiding the eye area. If using hands, press into skin for better absorption.
Follow with Skincare
No need to rinse. Continue with the rest of your routine - essence, serum, moisturizer, and SPF in the morning.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have sensitive skin that cannot tolerate AHAs or BHAs
- You experience redness, rosacea, or easily irritated skin
- You want gentle exfoliation without photosensitivity
- You have dry, flaky skin that needs hydrating exfoliation
- You're new to chemical exfoliants and want to start gentle
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need safe exfoliation
- You have fungal acne and need a malassezia-safe toner
- You want to prep skin for better absorption of other products
Consider alternatives if:
- You need strong, fast-acting exfoliation for stubborn texture
- You have severe acne requiring prescription-strength treatments
- You prefer the dramatic results of glycolic acid peels
- You want oil-control benefits (BHA would be better)
- You need deep pore cleansing for blackheads
- You're already using multiple strong actives and need simplicity
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESSpecifically designed for sensitive skin. PHAs are the gentlest form of chemical exfoliation with no stinging or irritation.
Unlike drying AHAs, this hydrating formula with NMFs actually helps dry skin retain moisture while exfoliating.
Lightweight formula balances all areas of the face without over-drying T-zone or neglecting dry patches.
Works well but oily skin may prefer stronger BHA for sebum control. Good option if you find other acids too harsh.
Non-comedogenic and fungal acne safe. Helps with texture but may need to pair with BHA for active breakouts.
Results timeline
WEEK 12+Immediate Smoothness
Skin feels softer and smoother immediately after use. Initial hydration boost visible. Dry patches and flakiness begin to reduce.
85% noticed smoother textureImproved Radiance
Dull skin appears brighter and more radiant. Makeup applies more smoothly. Skin tone begins to even out.
70% reported brighter skinVisible Transformation
Significant improvement in overall texture. Fine lines appear softened. Better absorption of other skincare products noticed.
65% saw reduced fine linesLong-Term Benefits
Skin barrier strengthened. Consistent healthy glow. Reduced sensitivity over time. Optimal anti-aging benefits with continued use.
80% would repurchaseRatings by platform
1K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Extremely gentle - no burning, stinging, or irritation
- Actually hydrating unlike most exfoliating toners
- Perfect for rosacea and reactive skin types
- No photosensitivity - safe for morning use
- Fragrance-free and minimal ingredient list
- Great for dry, flaky skin that needs gentle exfoliation
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe
- Fungal acne safe formula
- Affordable for the quality and size
Criticized
- Pump dispenses too forcefully, wastes product
- Too gentle for those wanting dramatic results
- Not effective for severe acne or deep texture
- Some experience dryness with initial daily use
- Results take longer than stronger AHAs
- Not ideal for oily skin seeking oil control
- May feel like "just a toner" to experienced users
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Contains 3% Gluconolactone (different PHA) plus 3% Niacinamide. Slightly simpler formula but effective gentle exfoliation. 100ml vs 150ml size.
Higher concentration (10%) of Gluconolactone PHA. More potent exfoliation but less hydrating. Better for those wanting stronger results.
Uses AHA (glycolic) and BHA (betaine salicylate) instead of PHA. More effective for oily/acne skin but not as gentle on sensitive skin.
Contains 5.5% Gluconolactone with enzyme activator. More sophisticated formula but significantly higher price point. 200ml size.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Indeed Labs Gluconolactone 10%
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Write the date opened on the bottle for reference.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Room temperature is fine - no refrigeration needed.
Opaque pump bottle protects formula from light degradation. Hygienic dispensing prevents contamination.
Yes, 150ml is over TSA liquid limit (100ml). Decant into smaller container for carry-on or pack in checked luggage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, the Benton PHA Peeling Toner is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. PHAs (polyhydroxy acids) like Lactobionic Acid are the gentlest form of chemical exfoliation and are not on the list of ingredients to avoid during pregnancy. The formula contains no retinoids, high-concentration salicylic acid, or hydroquinone. However, always consult with your healthcare provider before adding new products to your routine during pregnancy or while nursing.
Yes, this toner is fungal acne safe. It's free from fermented ingredients, problematic fatty acids, oils, esters, and polysorbates that feed malassezia yeast. Multiple ingredient analysis databases including Skincarisma and SkinSort confirm it as fungal acne safe. The Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride in the formula is actually a form of MCT that may help combat fungal acne rather than feed it.
PHAs are the most compatible of all chemical exfoliants with other actives. You can generally use this toner with vitamin C (apply vitamin C first, then PHA toner). For retinol, use the PHA toner in the morning and retinol at night, or alternate nights when starting out. Avoid layering with AHA/BHA in the same routine as this may cause over-exfoliation. Once your skin is adjusted, many people successfully use PHAs as a gentle daily prep before other actives. Start slowly and listen to your skin.
This toner is excellent for sensitive, dry, and combination skin types. It's specifically formulated for those who cannot tolerate traditional AHAs (glycolic, lactic) or BHAs (salicylic acid). It's also ideal for those with rosacea, easily irritated skin, or anyone new to chemical exfoliation. While it works for oily and acne-prone skin, those types may prefer stronger BHA products for better oil control and pore cleansing.
You'll notice smoother, softer skin immediately after use. Most users report improved radiance and texture within 2-4 weeks of consistent use. For more significant benefits like reduced fine lines and improved skin tone, expect to use the product consistently for 6-12 weeks. PHAs work more gradually than AHAs, so patience is key. The trade-off is gentler exfoliation with no irritation or downtime.
Apply after cleansing as your first treatment step. Cleanse → PHA Toner → Essence/Serum → Moisturizer → Sunscreen (AM). You can apply with a cotton pad (wipe method) or with your hands (pat method). No need to rinse. Unlike AHA/BHA toners, you don't need to wait before applying the next product - the PHA continues to work gently over time.
No, this toner has a comedogenic rating of 0/5. It's a lightweight, water-based formula free from heavy oils and pore-clogging ingredients. The formula is non-comedogenic and suitable for acne-prone skin. The gentle exfoliation actually helps prevent clogged pores by removing dead skin cells that can contribute to congestion.
The toner has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for best results. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The opaque pump bottle helps protect the formula from light degradation. If you notice any changes in color, smell, or texture, discontinue use even if within the PAO period.
Verdict: The Benton PHA Peeling Toner is an exceptional choice for anyone seeking gentle yet effective exfoliation. Its 3% Lactobionic Acid formula delivers the benefits of chemical exfoliation without the irritation, photosensitivity, or barrier damage associated with traditional AHAs and BHAs. The hydrating ingredients like Sodium PCA, Hyaluronic Acid, and Ceramide NP actually improve skin barrier function while you exfoliate - a rare combination. Perfect for sensitive skin, rosacea sufferers, those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, and anyone struggling with fungal acne. The only drawback is that results are subtle compared to stronger acids, so those wanting dramatic peeling effects should look elsewhere. For everyone else, this is a thoughtfully formulated, affordable K-beauty gem that delivers exactly what it promises: gentle, hydrating exfoliation for healthier, smoother skin.
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 2 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 3 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
|
|
|
| 1 |
Centaurea Cyanus Flower Water
Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Pentylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Lactobionic Acid
Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent
|
Brightening
Anti-Aging
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|