Squalane + BHA Pore-Minimizing Toner
Squalane + BHA Pore-Minimizing Toner
Product Description
Product overview
Biossance Squalane + BHA Pore-Minimizing Toner is an alcohol-free dynamic toning solution that pairs natural BHAs from white willowbark with sugarcane-derived squalane to visibly tighten pores, gently exfoliate, and hydrate all at once. Clinical results show 100% of users agreed pores looked minimized after just 2 weeks of twice-daily use.
Natural BHA Power
Raw white willowbark extract delivers gentle exfoliation equivalent to 2% salicylic acid—without the irritation.
Texture & feel
SENSORYNatural BHA Power
Raw white willowbark extract delivers gentle exfoliation equivalent to 2% salicylic acid—without the irritation.
Hydration While You Exfoliate
Sugarcane-derived squalane and sodium hyaluronate keep skin soft and balanced—never tight or stripped.
Visible Pore Refinement
100% of users in clinical trials agreed pores looked minimized after just 14 days of twice-daily use.
Sustainable & Vegan
Plant-based squalane saves up to 2 million sharks per year. EWG-Verified, cruelty-free, and recyclable.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENo fatty acids, esters, or polysorbates. Squalane is a saturated hydrocarbon that does not feed malassezia yeast.
Contains betaine salicylate (a salicylic acid derivative) and willow bark. Most OBs advise avoiding BHAs during pregnancy. Consult your doctor.
Comedogenic rating of 1/5. Won't clog pores—actually helps unclog them through gentle exfoliation.
Includes geranium oil, melissa oil, and citronellol. Patch test recommended for very sensitive or reactive skin.
No drying alcohols. Hydrating and balancing—suitable for daily morning and evening use.
BHAs can increase UV sensitivity. Daily SPF 30+ is essential when using exfoliating products.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSalix Alba (White Willow) Bark Extract ~2-5%Proven
The hero ingredient. White willow bark is rich in salicin—a natural precursor to salicylic acid—making it a gentle, plant-derived BHA that exfoliates dead skin cells, unclogs pores, and reduces inflammation.
- Mechanism: Salicin converts into salicylic acid, dissolving the bonds between dead surface cells.
- Benefit: Provides BHA exfoliation with less irritation than synthetic salicylic acid.
- Brand claim: The willowbark concentration in this formula is equivalent to a 2% BHA product.
Betaine Salicylate ~2-4%Proven
A K-beauty favorite that pairs salicylic acid with the moisturizer betaine. Roughly twice as gentle as pure salicylic acid—4% betaine salicylate equates to about 2% salicylic acid in efficacy.
- Function: Mild exfoliant that smooths texture and supports a hydrated barrier.
- Why it's used: Allows higher dosing without the dryness of pure salicylic acid.
- Pairing: Works synergistically with willow bark for layered, gentle exfoliation.
Squalane (Sugarcane-Derived) ~3-5%Proven
Biossance's signature ingredient. A saturated, stable hydrocarbon nearly identical to skin's own sebum—delivering weightless moisture without greasiness. 100% plant-based and shark-free.
- Source: Sustainably fermented from Brazilian sugarcane.
- Skin benefit: Reduces transepidermal water loss (TEWL), boosts barrier function.
- Tolerance: Non-comedogenic and fungal-acne safe even at 100% concentration.
Microcitrus Australasica (Caviar Lime) ~1-2%Promising
Australian rainforest fruit packed with natural alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), polyphenols, and flavonoids. Adds a layer of mild AHA exfoliation that complements the willow bark BHAs.
- Active compounds: Citric acid, malic acid, vitamin C, antioxidants.
- Synergy: AHA + BHA combination targets both surface dullness and clogged pores.
Sodium Hyaluronate ~0.1-0.5%Proven
The low-molecular-weight salt of hyaluronic acid that holds up to 1000x its weight in water. Counterbalances the exfoliating actives by replenishing surface hydration immediately.
- Function: Humectant—pulls water into the upper skin layers.
- Pairs with: Glycerin (3rd ingredient) for layered hydration.
Botanical Soothing Complex ~1-2%Promising
A blend of cucumber water, rosemary water, lavender water, neem (Melia azadirachta), turmeric, basil, and amber powder. Targets redness, supports antioxidant defense, and calms post-exfoliation skin.
- Turmeric & neem: Traditional anti-inflammatory and antibacterial botanicals.
- Cucumber & lavender water: Cooling, soothing, lightly hydrating.
27 ingredients
Water, Salix Alba Bark Extract, Glycerin, Cucumis Sativus Fruit Water, Squalane, Sorbitan Oleate Decylglucoside Crosspolymer, Betaine Salicylate, Microcitrus Australasica Fruit Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Water, Lavandula Angustifolia Flower Water, Sodium Hyaluronate, Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, Melissa Officinalis Leaf Oil, Curcuma Longa Root Extract, Coccinia Indica Fruit Extract, Melia Azadirachta Flower Extract, Solanum Melongena Fruit Extract, Ocimum Basilicum Flower/Leaf Extract, Amber Powder, Corallina Officinalis Extract, Sodium Chloride, Citric Acid, Sodium Gluconate, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate, Pelargonium Graveolens Oil, Citronellol.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply right after cleansing on dry or damp skin. Wait 30–60 seconds before layering hydrating treatments. Always finish AM routines with SPF 30+.
How to use
HOW TO USEStart with a Clean Face
Wash with a gentle cleanser and pat dry. Toner works best on a clean, slightly damp surface.
Apply with Cotton Pad or Hands
Pour a few drops onto a cotton pad and sweep across face, or pour into palms and press into skin.
Focus on Pore-Prone Areas
Pay extra attention to the T-zone, nose, and chin where blackheads and enlarged pores tend to appear.
Layer Your Routine
Wait 30–60 seconds, then continue with eye cream, serum, and moisturizer. Use morning and night.
Apply SPF in the Morning
BHAs increase sun sensitivity. Always finish daytime routines with broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have visible pores, blackheads, or congested skin
- You struggle with excess oil and shine in the T-zone
- You want gentle daily exfoliation without harsh acids
- Your skin tolerated salicylic acid but needs more hydration
- You prefer clean, vegan, sustainable skincare
- You have combination, oily, or acne-prone skin
Consider alternatives if:
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding (avoid salicylates)
- You have a salicylate or aspirin allergy
- Your skin is highly reactive to essential oils or fragrance compounds
- You have severely dry or compromised skin barrier
- You already use prescription-strength retinoids or strong AHAs daily
- You have rosacea with active flares
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESBHA penetrates oil-clogged pores, controls shine, and refines texture without stripping.
Balances the oily T-zone while squalane and hyaluronate hydrate drier cheeks.
Non-comedogenic, fungal-acne safe, and clears congestion without over-drying.
Hydrating components help, but BHA may still feel too active—limit to 3–4 times per week.
Gentler than synthetic BHAs, but contains essential oils. Patch test 24 hrs before regular use.
Smooths texture and improves radiance, but may need a richer moisturizer afterward.
Results timeline
8–12 WEEKSRefreshed, Clarified Feel
Skin feels balanced, hydrated, and smooth right after application. No tight or stripped sensation.
Most users noticeSmoother Texture
Surface roughness softens, skin starts to feel polished, and makeup applies more evenly.
~70% report thisVisibly Refined Pores
Clinical study confirmed pores looked minimized, skin appeared calmer, and blackheads were less visible.
100% noticed pore reductionClearer, More Even Tone
Fewer breakouts, less sebum buildup, and a noticeably brighter, more refined complexion overall.
~80% see clearer skinLong-Term Pore Health
Sustained pore decongestion and balanced oil production. Best results with consistent twice-daily use.
~75% maintain resultsRatings by platform
5K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Visibly refines pores within 2 weeks (clinically proven)
- Genuinely hydrating—no tightness or stripping
- Alcohol-free and EWG Verified clean formula
- Layered AHA + BHA exfoliation
- Fungal-acne safe and non-comedogenic
- Sustainable, vegan, cruelty-free brand ethics
- Beautiful recyclable glass packaging
Criticized
- Premium price point ($30 USD) for the size
- Contains fragrance compounds (geranium oil, citronellol)
- Can trigger initial purging in acne-prone users
- Not suitable during pregnancy due to BHA content
- Strong herbal scent some find polarizing
- Not ideal for very dry or compromised skin
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Same willow bark + betaine salicylate hero combo at higher concentration. More potent exfoliation but less hydrating—no squalane.
K-beauty multi-acid toner with betaine salicylate, niacinamide, and tea tree. Stronger exfoliation, similar pore-clearing benefit at lower cost.
Pure 2% salicylic acid—more direct exfoliation. No squalane or botanicals, so less hydrating and more potential for dryness.
Gold-standard 2% salicylic acid with green tea. Stronger and more clinically validated, but contains synthetic salicylic acid versus willow bark.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep cap tightly closed.
Recyclable green glass bottle with screw cap and FSC-certified sugarcane paper carton.
Yes, 120ml is just over the standard 100ml carry-on limit—travel mini sizes available.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThis toner contains betaine salicylate (a salicylic acid derivative) and white willow bark, which both deliver BHA exfoliation. Most obstetricians recommend avoiding salicylic acid–based products during pregnancy and breastfeeding, as topical BHAs are structurally similar to aspirin. While the absorption from a rinse-off or low-percentage product is minimal, it's safest to pause this toner during pregnancy and breastfeeding and consult your healthcare provider before resuming.
Yes. The formula contains no fatty acids (C11–C24), no esters that feed malassezia, no polysorbates, and no problematic oils for fungal acne. Squalane is a saturated hydrocarbon and is considered fungal-acne safe. The willow bark BHA actually helps reduce malassezia overgrowth. The only minor concern is the inclusion of essential oils (geranium, melissa), which are fungal-acne neutral but may irritate compromised skin barriers.
Use with caution. Pairing this BHA toner with retinol, vitamin C, or additional acids in the same routine can over-exfoliate and damage your skin barrier. Recommended approach: use this toner in the morning and retinol at night, or alternate days. Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) can be layered after the toner has fully absorbed in the morning, but watch for irritation. Avoid stacking with other AHAs (glycolic, lactic) or BHAs (salicylic acid serums) on the same day.
Best for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin with visible pores, blackheads, or congestion. Mature skin benefits from texture refinement. It's moderately suitable for dry skin (use 3–4x weekly) and sensitive skin (patch test first due to essential oils). Skip it if you have rosacea flares, severely compromised barrier, or fragrance sensitivities.
Initial smoothness appears within 3–5 days. Visible pore minimization is documented in Biossance's clinical study at 14 days, where 100% of participants agreed pores looked smaller after twice-daily use. Clearer, more even skin tone develops over 4–6 weeks. Long-term pore health and balanced oil production typically stabilize at 8–12 weeks of consistent use.
Apply right after cleansing on clean, dry, or slightly damp skin—before any serums, essences, or moisturizers. Use morning and night. Wait 30–60 seconds for the BHA to absorb, then layer hydrating treatments and moisturizer. In the morning, always finish with broad-spectrum SPF 30+ since BHAs increase sun sensitivity.
No. The comedogenic rating is 1/5—essentially non-comedogenic. Squalane (the main emollient) has a comedogenic rating of 0–1, and the BHA actively unclogs pores rather than blocking them. Many users report fewer blackheads and clearer pores within 2 weeks. Some experience initial purging (temporary breakouts as clogs surface), which typically subsides within 4 weeks.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months, indicated by the "12M" symbol on packaging. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain potency of the BHA actives and botanical extracts. The product is preserved with sodium benzoate and potassium sorbate, which are gentle but effective preservatives. Discard if you notice color, scent, or texture changes before the 12-month mark.
Verdict: The Biossance Squalane + BHA Pore-Minimizing Toner is one of the most well-balanced exfoliating toners on the market—pairing clinically validated pore refinement (100% of users saw smaller pores at 14 days) with genuine hydration from squalane and sodium hyaluronate. Its willowbark + betaine salicylate combo delivers ≈2% BHA strength with notably less irritation than synthetic salicylic acid. It's a clear winner for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin seeking a clean, vegan, and sustainable formula. Drawbacks: the premium price, naturally occurring fragrance compounds, and unsuitability during pregnancy. If you can tolerate essential oils and want a hydrating BHA toner with brand ethics to match, this is an excellent investment.
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 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 3 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting 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 |
Salix Alba Bark Extract
Astringent, Skin Conditioning, Soothing, Tonic
|
Irritation
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Cucumis Sativus Fruit Water
Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Squalane
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Hair Conditioning, Refatting
|
Hydrating
|