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Pore 2-in-1 Peeling & Toner

Pore 2-in-1 Peeling & Toner

Product Description

Product overview

Made in Various INTERNATIONAL

A dual-action liquid exfoliant combining 3% Mandelic Acid (AHA) and 1% Salicylic Acid (BHA) at an optimal pH of 4 to gently dissolve dead skin cells, unclog pores, and reveal a smoother, more radiant complexion. Soothing white tea (Camellia Sinensis) and allantoin calm the skin while you exfoliate.

Vegan Cruelty-Free (PETA) Fragrance-Free Oil-Free Alcohol-Free Paraben-Free Silicone-Free Microplastic-Free Nanoparticle-Free
Pregnancy
Caution
Fungal Acne
Yes
Comedogenic
0/5
Size
100 ml
pH Level
4.0
AHA
3% Mandelic
BHA
1% Salicylic
Formula
Vegan
Why it's different

Dual Acid Exfoliation (AHA + BHA)

Mandelic acid gently exfoliates the skin surface while salicylic acid penetrates deep into pores to clear congestion and prevent breakouts.

01

Texture & feel

SENSORY
Consistency
Watery Liquid
Scent
Fragrance-Free
Absorption
Instant
Finish
Natural, Non-Sticky

Dual Acid Exfoliation (AHA + BHA)

Mandelic acid gently exfoliates the skin surface while salicylic acid penetrates deep into pores to clear congestion and prevent breakouts.

Pore-Refining Action

Visibly minimizes pores after just 3 weeks of consistent use, thanks to the combined exfoliating power of AHA and BHA at an effective pH of 4.

Soothing White Tea Extract

Camellia Sinensis leaf extract provides potent antioxidant protection and calms the skin during the exfoliation process, reducing irritation risk.

Barrier-Friendly Formula

Allantoin and glycerin work together to soothe, moisturize, and support the skin barrier while acids do their work. No harsh alcohols or fragrances.

02

Safety & compatibility

SAFE
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Contains 1% salicylic acid (BHA). While low-concentration topical salicylic acid is generally considered low-risk, many dermatologists recommend avoiding BHA during pregnancy. Consult your healthcare provider before use.

Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Safe

Formula contains no ferments, fatty acids, esters, polysorbates, or oils that feed malassezia yeast. Safe for fungal acne-prone skin.

Non-Comedogenic (0/5)

Zero comedogenic ingredients. Oil-free, silicone-free, and fragrance-free formula will not clog pores or contribute to breakouts.

Sun Sensitivity

AHA and BHA increase photosensitivity. Always apply sunscreen the morning after use and limit direct sun exposure for up to a week after application.

Clean Formula

Free from alcohol, fragrance, parabens, silicones, sulfates, mineral oils, gluten, microplastics, and nanoparticles. Vegan and cruelty-free certified by PETA.

Low Irritation Potential

Mandelic acid is one of the gentlest AHAs due to its larger molecular size, making it less likely to irritate compared to glycolic acid. Start 2-3 times per week and increase gradually.

03

Ingredient breakdown

INGREDIENTS

Mandelic Acid 3%Proven

A gentle alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from bitter almonds. Its larger molecular size means slower, more even penetration into the skin, making it ideal for sensitive and darker skin tones that may be prone to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

  • Function: Exfoliates the skin surface, removes dead cells, and improves skin radiance and texture
  • Benefit: Gentler than glycolic acid with anti-bacterial properties helpful for acne-prone skin
  • Evidence: Studies show mandelic acid can improve hyperpigmentation, fine lines, and skin texture with less irritation than other AHAs
At 3%, this provides noticeable exfoliation without overwhelming sensitive skin. Effective for brightening and anti-blemish results over time.

Salicylic Acid 1%Proven

The gold-standard beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) for treating acne and clogged pores. Unlike AHAs, salicylic acid is oil-soluble, allowing it to penetrate into the pore lining to dissolve sebum plugs and clear congestion from the inside out.

  • Function: Exfoliates inside pores, dissolves sebum, and provides anti-inflammatory action
  • FDA-Recognized: 0.5-2% concentrations are recognized by the U.S. FDA as an over-the-counter acne treatment
  • Evidence: Extensively studied for reducing blackheads, whiteheads, and inflammatory acne lesions
Increases sun sensitivity. Always use SPF the morning after application. Not recommended during pregnancy without medical advice.

Glycerin ~5%Proven

One of the most effective and well-studied humectants in skincare. Glycerin draws water into the skin and helps maintain optimal hydration levels, counterbalancing the potential drying effects of exfoliating acids.

  • Function: Humectant that attracts and retains moisture in the upper skin layers
  • Evidence: A 2016 study found glycerin to be more effective as a humectant than hyaluronic acid and other AHAs
  • Benefit: Also helps strengthen the skin barrier and has antimicrobial properties

Camellia Sinensis Leaf ExtractPromising

White tea extract rich in catechins (EGCG), powerful polyphenol antioxidants that help protect the skin from free radical damage and soothe inflammation during the exfoliation process.

  • Function: Antioxidant protection, anti-inflammatory, and skin-soothing
  • Benefit: Helps calm redness and irritation that can occur with chemical exfoliation
  • Evidence: Catechins in green/white tea have demonstrated photoprotective and anti-inflammatory properties in multiple studies

Allantoin ~1%Proven

A well-known soothing and skin-conditioning agent that promotes wound healing and helps restore the skin barrier. Works synergistically with the exfoliating acids to minimize irritation.

  • Function: Soothes irritation, promotes cell regeneration, and supports barrier repair
  • Evidence: Clinically shown to accelerate wound healing and reduce inflammation in compromised skin

Enantia Chlorantha Bark ExtractPromising

A botanical extract from the African yellowwood tree known for its sebum-regulating properties. Helps control oil production and mattify the skin without stripping moisture.

  • Function: Sebum regulation, pore-refining, and anti-bacterial
  • Benefit: Helps reduce shine and minimize the appearance of enlarged pores over time

Tocopherol (Vitamin E)Proven

Pure form of vitamin E, a potent antioxidant that provides photoprotection against UVB rays and helps stabilize other ingredients in the formula.

  • Function: Antioxidant protection, skin conditioning, and formula stabilizer
  • Evidence: Proven to reduce oxidative stress on the skin and enhance the efficacy of sunscreens when used in conjunction

16 ingredients

Aqua (Water), Glycerin, Mandelic Acid, Butylene Glycol, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Salicylic Acid, Enantia Chlorantha Bark Extract, Tocopherol, Allantoin, Ethylhexylglycerin, Oleanolic Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Citric Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate

FREE FROM: Alcohol, Fragrance/Perfume, Parabens, Silicones, Sulfates, Mineral Oils, Essential Oils, Gluten, Microplastics, Nanoparticles, Dyes, Harsh Alcohols, Common Allergens
04

Where it fits in your routine

ROUTINE
1
Cleanser
2
Peeling & Toner
3
Serum
4
Moisturizer
5
Sunscreen (AM)

Use in the evening, 2-3 times per week. Apply after cleansing, before serums and moisturizer. Always follow with sunscreen the next morning.

05

How to use

HOW TO USE
1

Shake Well

Shake the bottle well before each use to ensure the active ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the formula.

2

Apply to Cotton Pad

In the evening, after cleansing, lightly soak a cotton pad with the peeling toner solution.

3

Sweep Over Skin

Gently sweep the soaked cotton pad across your face, avoiding the eye area. Do not rinse off — leave on as a treatment.

4

Follow with Serum & Moisturizer

After the toner has absorbed, apply your serum and moisturizer. The next morning, apply sunscreen (SPF 30+) to protect your skin.

06

Who is it for?

WHO

Perfect for you if:

  • You have oily, combination, or acne-prone skin
  • You struggle with blackheads, enlarged pores, or congested skin
  • You want a gentle chemical exfoliant for beginners
  • You prefer a clean, fragrance-free, vegan formula
  • You're looking for a budget-friendly alternative to Paula's Choice BHA
  • You have fungal acne and need a safe exfoliating toner

Consider alternatives if:

  • You are pregnant or breastfeeding (contains salicylic acid)
  • You have very dry or severely dehydrated skin
  • You already use prescription retinoids or strong AHA peels
  • You need a higher concentration of exfoliating acids
  • Your skin barrier is currently compromised or irritated
07

Skin type compatibility

SKIN TYPES
Oily Skin
Excellent

Ideal match. BHA penetrates oily pores, mandelic acid controls sebum, and the oil-free formula leaves no residue or shine.

Combination Skin
Excellent

Works beautifully across different face zones. Clears T-zone congestion without over-drying cheeks thanks to glycerin and allantoin.

Acne-Prone Skin
Excellent

Non-comedogenic, fungal-acne safe, oil-free formula. Salicylic acid targets breakouts at the source while mandelic acid prevents new blemishes.

Sensitive Skin
Good

Mandelic acid is one of the gentlest AHAs. Fragrance-free and soothing with allantoin. Start 1-2x per week and patch test first.

Dry Skin
Moderate

Glycerin provides some hydration, but dry skin types may find the exfoliation too stripping. Always follow with a rich moisturizer and limit use to 1-2x weekly.

08

Results timeline

MONTHS 2-3+
Week 1

Initial Smoothing & Possible Purging

Skin feels smoother after the first few applications. Some users may experience mild purging (small breakouts) as the acids clear congested pores. This is normal and temporary.

70% noticed smoother texture
Weeks 2-3

Pore Refinement & Fewer Blackheads

Pores begin to appear visibly smaller and blackheads start to diminish. Skin tone becomes more even and radiant as dead cells are consistently removed. The brand claims visible pore refinement after 3 weeks.

65% noticed reduced blackheads
Weeks 4-8

Clearer, More Radiant Complexion

Breakouts become less frequent and skin texture is noticeably improved. Hyperpigmentation from old blemishes begins to fade. Overall complexion appears brighter and more even-toned.

75% noticed clearer skin overall
Months 2-3+

Long-Term Skin Clarity

With consistent use, skin remains clear and pores stay refined. Mandelic acid's gentle anti-aging properties may improve fine lines over time. Best results maintained with regular 2-3x weekly use.

80% would repurchase
09

Ratings by platform

157+ REVIEWS
Amazon (UK/DE)
4.2
Rating
100+
Reviews
Main complaint: Small 100ml bottle runs out quickly with daily use; availability can be inconsistent
We Are Eves
4.0
Rating
7+
Reviews
Main complaint: Results take longer than the advertised 3 weeks for some users; some needed 2+ months to see full effect
WIMJ (Science Review)
91
Promises Score /100
Low
Irritation Risk
Note: Mandelic acid at 3% is effective for exfoliation but may not show dramatic results for stubborn hyperpigmentation
Kosmetik4Less
4.7
Rating
50+
Reviews
Main complaint: Some users with very sensitive skin experienced mild stinging upon first application
10

Pros & cons

BALANCED

Praised

  • Excellent budget-friendly dupe for Paula's Choice BHA exfoliant
  • Combines AHA + BHA in one product for dual exfoliation
  • Gentle enough for sensitive skin with mandelic acid
  • Truly fragrance-free, oil-free, alcohol-free formula
  • Fungal acne safe with only 16 clean ingredients
  • Noticeably smoother skin texture after consistent use
  • Vegan and cruelty-free certified by PETA
  • Non-sticky, watery texture absorbs instantly

Criticized

  • Small 100ml size depletes quickly with regular use
  • Results can take longer than the claimed 3 weeks
  • Not widely available outside Europe — limited US distribution
  • Lower acid concentrations may not satisfy experienced acid users
  • Contains salicylic acid — not suitable during pregnancy
  • Bottle design could be improved (no pump or dropper)
11

Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)

DUPES
85% Match
Salicylic Acid 2% Anhydrous Solution
$6.50
Budget Pick

Higher BHA concentration (2% vs 1%) but no AHA component. Anhydrous (waterless) formula is different in texture. Great for targeted spot treatment but less versatile as a full-face toner.

70% Match
2% Salicylic Acid Tonic
$8.00
Budget Pick

BHA-only toner with 2% salicylic acid in a larger 200ml bottle. Lacks the mandelic acid (AHA) component and soothing botanical extracts. Better value per ml but a one-dimensional formula.

75% Match
BHA Blackhead Power Liquid
$17.00
Similar Price

Uses 4% betaine salicylate (a gentler BHA derivative) instead of pure salicylic acid. K-beauty formulation with niacinamide. No AHA, but excellent for blackhead-prone skin. Larger 100ml bottle.

12

Comparison with competitors

SIDE-BY-SIDE
Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
Key Actives 2% Salicylic Acid (BHA only)
Size 118ml
pH 3.2-3.8
Fragrance-Free Yes
Fungal Acne Safe Yes
Price per ml $0.29/ml
Salicylic Acid 2% Solution
Key Actives 7% Glycolic Acid (AHA only)
Size 240ml
pH ~3.6
Fragrance-Free No (contains fragrance)
Fungal Acne Safe No
Price per ml $0.04/ml
BHA Blackhead Power Liquid
Key Actives 4% Betaine Salicylate (BHA derivative)
Size 100ml
pH ~4.0
Fragrance-Free Yes
Fungal Acne Safe Yes
Price per ml $0.17/ml
13

Storage & shelf life

12 MONTHS
Period After Opening (PAO)

12 months after opening

Storage

Store at room temperature in a cool, dry place. Keep away from direct sunlight. Shake well before each use.

Packaging

Transparent plastic bottle with screw cap

Travel Friendly

Yes, 100ml meets carry-on liquid restrictions

13

Frequently asked questions

FAQ

Caution is advised. This product contains 1% salicylic acid (BHA), which many dermatologists recommend avoiding during pregnancy and breastfeeding. While low-concentration topical salicylic acid is generally considered low-risk by some medical professionals, it is best to consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist before use. The mandelic acid (AHA) component is generally considered safer during pregnancy, but the presence of salicylic acid warrants professional guidance.

Yes, this product is fungal acne safe. The formula contains no fermented ingredients, fatty acids, esters, polysorbates, or oils that are known to feed malassezia yeast. With only 16 clean ingredients and an oil-free, fragrance-free formulation, it is an excellent choice for those prone to fungal acne. The salicylic acid may even help by keeping pores clear and reducing the environment where yeast thrives.

Use caution when combining with other active ingredients. Avoid using this product on the same night as retinol, vitamin C serums (L-ascorbic acid), or additional AHA/BHA products, as layering too many actives can lead to over-exfoliation and irritation. A good routine: use this peeling toner 2-3 evenings per week, and use retinol or vitamin C on alternate evenings. If you must use vitamin C, apply it in the morning and use this toner at night.

This product is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. The BHA component targets oily pores and breakouts, while the AHA provides surface exfoliation for improved radiance. Sensitive skin types can also use it with caution (start 1-2x per week). Dry skin types may find it too stripping without a rich moisturizer follow-up, and should limit use to once weekly.

The brand claims visible pore refinement after 3 weeks of consistent use. In practice, many users report smoother skin texture within the first week, reduced blackheads by weeks 2-3, and noticeably clearer skin by weeks 4-8. Some reviewers noted it took up to 2 months to see the full benefits. Results vary depending on skin type, severity of concerns, and consistency of use.

Apply immediately after cleansing in your evening routine, before serums and moisturizer. Use it as a leave-on treatment — do not rinse off. Soak a cotton pad and sweep across the face, avoiding the eye area. Follow with your regular serum and moisturizer. The next morning, always apply sunscreen (SPF 30+) as AHA and BHA increase sun sensitivity.

No, this product has a comedogenic rating of 0 out of 5. It contains zero comedogenic ingredients — no oils, no silicones, no fatty acids, and no waxes. The formula is specifically designed to unclog pores, not cause congestion. Both salicylic acid and mandelic acid actively work to keep pores clear and prevent blackheads and breakouts.

The product has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal efficacy and safety. Store at room temperature away from direct sunlight. Shake well before each use. At the recommended 2-3x weekly usage with a cotton pad, the 100ml bottle typically lasts approximately 2-3 months.

— Skincarisma verdict
4.3 / 5 ★★★★☆

Verdict: The Catrice Pore 2-in-1 Peeling & Toner is an outstanding budget-friendly exfoliating toner that delivers real results for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin. With a scientifically sound combination of 3% mandelic acid and 1% salicylic acid at an effective pH of 4, plus a minimalist 16-ingredient formula free from fragrance, oils, and parabens, it punches well above its price point. It earns frequent comparison to the iconic Paula's Choice BHA Liquid Exfoliant at a fraction of the cost. The only drawbacks are the small 100ml size and limited availability outside Europe. If you can get your hands on it, this German gem is one of the best value-for-money chemical exfoliants on the market.

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.

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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

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Notable Effects & Ingredients

anti-aging Anti-Aging from 4 ingredient(s):
Mandelic Acid Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract Tocopherol Citric Acid
brightening Brightening from 4 ingredient(s):
Glycerin Mandelic Acid Salicylic Acid Citric Acid
wound Promotes Wound Healing from 4 ingredient(s):
Glycerin Tocopherol Allantoin Citric Acid
ache Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
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!

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Ingredients Related to Skin Types

Click on icons for more information
dry-skin Dry Skin
3
oily-skin Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
3 1
sensitive-skin Sensitive Skin
1
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.

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Ingredient Safety Breakdown

EWG Health Ratings
Low risk
Medium risk
High risk
Unknown risk
50% 31% 18%

Product ingredient list

Showing first 5 of 16 ingredients
EWG CIR Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions Notes
1 Unknown
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
2 A
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
brightening Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
1 Unknown
Mandelic Acid
Antimicrobial
brightening Brightening
anti-aging Anti-Aging
1 A
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
Hydrating
0 Unknown
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
Antimicrobial, Astringent, Emollient, Humectant, Masking, Skin Conditioning, Antioxidant, Skin Protecting, Tonic
anti-aging Anti-Aging
Hydrating
Redness
Irritation
Pores
VIEW ALL INGREDIENTS