Theracne 365 Hydro Active Toner
Theracne 365 Hydro Active Toner
Product Description
Product overview
A lightweight, hydrating toner formulated with Zinc and BHA (Salicylic Acid) to control excess sebum and gently exfoliate dead skin cells for acne-prone skin. Clinically shown to reduce sebum by 51% and improve skin texture with a non-sticky, no-rinse formula backed by Amorepacific dermatological research.
Clinically Proven Sebum Control
Zinc Chloride helps regulate excess oil production with a clinically demonstrated 51% reduction in sebum after 4 weeks of use.
Texture & feel
SENSORYClinically Proven Sebum Control
Zinc Chloride helps regulate excess oil production with a clinically demonstrated 51% reduction in sebum after 4 weeks of use.
Gentle BHA Exfoliation
Low-concentration Salicylic Acid gently dissolves dead skin cells for a smoother, refined texture without irritation or over-drying.
Hydrating & Soothing
Niacinamide, Panthenol, Allantoin, and Betaine work together to hydrate, calm, and strengthen the skin barrier while treating acne.
8-Free Hypoallergenic Formula
Free from mineral oil, sulfates, fragrances, synthetic colorants, silicone, soap, and more. Only 16 carefully selected ingredients.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains Salicylic Acid (BHA) at a low concentration. The brand states their products are safe for pregnant/breastfeeding women, but most dermatologists advise caution with any BHA during pregnancy. Consult your doctor first.
Free from ferments, fatty acids, esters, polysorbates, and oils. All 16 ingredients are considered safe for fungal acne-prone skin.
Clinically tested on 20 adults with acne-prone skin over 4 weeks. Confirmed non-comedogenic by measuring acne lesions and sebum levels.
Dermatologist tested (48-hour patch test at a university hospital), allergy tested on 54 adults, and sensitive skin patch tested. Hypoallergenic formulation.
The BHA concentration is low enough for layering with retinol or vitamin C. However, introduce slowly and monitor for irritation if combining with strong actives.
Officially recommended for ages 14 and up. For younger users, the brand advises patch testing on the inner arm or behind the ears first.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSNiacinamide ~2-3%Proven
A multi-tasking powerhouse vitamin (B3) that brightens skin tone, regulates sebum production, strengthens the skin barrier, and helps reduce acne and clogged pores.
- Sebum Control: Clinical studies show niacinamide at 2%+ significantly reduces sebum excretion rate within 4 weeks.
- Barrier Support: Boosts ceramide synthesis for a healthier, more resilient skin barrier.
- Brightening: Inhibits melanosome transfer to help fade post-acne dark spots and hyperpigmentation.
Salicylic Acid (BHA) <0.5%Proven
An oil-soluble beta hydroxy acid that penetrates deep into pores to dissolve sebum buildup, exfoliate dead skin cells, and reduce inflammation. The backbone of acne treatment.
- Pore Penetration: Unlike AHAs, BHA is oil-soluble so it can work inside clogged pores to clear blackheads and whiteheads.
- Anti-Inflammatory: Structurally similar to aspirin, salicylic acid calms redness and irritation on acne-prone skin.
- Clinical Result: This product showed a 57% decrease in dead skin cells and 44% reduction in pore size in brand clinical trials.
Zinc Chloride TraceProven
A zinc-based active that regulates sebum production and provides antimicrobial benefits. The star ingredient for oil control in this formulation.
- Sebum Regulation: Zinc is clinically shown to help reduce excess oil. This toner demonstrated a 51% reduction in sebum output.
- Research: A 2018 study from the Medical University of Lodz confirmed the efficacy of zinc-containing active ingredients for oily skin care.
- Antimicrobial: Zinc helps inhibit the growth of acne-causing bacteria on the skin surface.
Allantoin ~0.5-1%Proven
A gentle, well-tolerated ingredient known for soothing irritation, promoting wound healing, and softening the skin. Ideal for calming acne-stressed skin.
- Wound Healing: Promotes cell regeneration and helps restore the skin barrier faster after breakouts.
- Keratolytic: Gently softens and removes dead skin cells without causing irritation.
Panthenol (Vitamin B5) ~0.5-1%Proven
A provitamin that deeply hydrates, soothes inflammation, and accelerates skin healing. Naturally present in healthy skin.
- Hydration: Acts as both a humectant and emollient, attracting and locking in moisture.
- Repair: Supports the skin's natural repair process, helping heal acne lesions faster.
Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate TracePromising
Derived from licorice root, this anti-inflammatory ingredient soothes redness and irritation while helping improve skin smoothness and texture.
- Anti-Inflammatory: Helps calm skin irritation and reduce redness associated with acne.
- Texture: Acts on the stratum corneum to improve overall skin smoothness (per Kwansei Gakuin University research).
16 ingredients
Water, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Niacinamide, Isopentyldiol, Betaine, Panthenol, Allantoin, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Xanthan Gum, Disodium EDTA, Ethylhexylglycerin, Cellulose Gum, Salicylic Acid, Zinc Chloride, Tocopherol
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse morning and evening after cleansing. For the full Theracne 365 routine: Cleansing Foam → Hydro Active Toner → Active Serum → Soothing Active Moisturizer.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Face
Start with a gentle cleanser and pat your face dry. The Theracne 365 Cleansing Foam pairs well if using the full line.
Dispense & Apply
Take an appropriate amount of toner into your palms. No cotton pad is needed — this is a no-rinse, direct-application formula.
Gently Spread & Pat
Gently spread the toner across your entire face and lightly pat until absorbed. Focus extra attention on oily T-zone areas.
Let It Absorb
Allow the toner to fully absorb (about 5-10 seconds). No need to wipe off. Follow with your serum and moisturizer.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily or acne-prone skin and need daily sebum control
- You want a gentle BHA toner that won't over-dry or irritate
- You prefer minimal, clean ingredient lists (only 16 ingredients)
- You have fungal acne and need a safe hydrating toner
- You want a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic option for sensitive skin
- You're looking for a lightweight toner that layers well under other products
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry skin and need a rich, deeply hydrating toner
- You need a strong exfoliating toner (BHA concentration here is low)
- You have severe cystic acne requiring prescription-strength treatment
- You prefer toners with anti-aging actives like peptides or retinol
- You want a toner with visible AHA/BHA peeling effects
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThis toner was designed for oily skin. Zinc controls sebum, BHA unclogs pores, and the watery texture absorbs instantly without adding shine.
Non-comedogenic tested on acne-prone participants. BHA, Zinc, and Niacinamide work together to prevent breakouts and calm existing blemishes.
Balances oily T-zone without stripping dry cheeks. The brand recommends adding extra moisturizer on dry areas for combination skin users.
Hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and allergy tested on 54 adults. Low BHA concentration minimizes irritation risk. Patch test recommended for very reactive skin.
Provides light hydration via glycerin, betaine, and panthenol, but the sebum-controlling formula may not provide enough moisture for very dry skin on its own.
Results timeline
WEEK 4+Immediate Hydration & Comfort
Skin feels refreshed, hydrated, and less greasy after each application. Non-sticky finish is noticeable from the very first use.
90% noticed instant freshnessVisible Oil Reduction
Excess shine in the T-zone starts to decrease. Skin texture begins to feel smoother as BHA gently exfoliates the surface layer.
70% noticed reduced oilinessTexture Improvement & Fewer Breakouts
Dead skin cells reduce significantly. Pores appear smaller and new breakouts become less frequent as zinc and BHA continue working together.
65% noticed smoother textureFull Clinical Benefits
Clinical study results kick in: 51% sebum reduction, 57% fewer dead skin cells, and 44% pore size reduction observed in the brand's 31-person study after 4 weeks.
85% satisfied with overall resultsRatings by platform
3K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Lightweight, non-sticky texture that absorbs instantly
- Noticeable oil control within the first week of use
- Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic — great for sensitive skin
- Only 16 clean ingredients — minimal and effective formula
- No cotton pad needed — saves product and reduces waste
- Clinically backed results by Amorepacific R&I Center
- Fungal acne safe — rare for BHA toners
- Generous 200ml bottle size
Criticized
- BHA concentration is too low for severe or cystic acne
- Not hydrating enough for very dry skin as a standalone
- May feel too basic for those wanting multi-acid exfoliation
- Less widely available outside of K-beauty specialty retailers
- Plain packaging — not the most visually exciting product
- Some users report minimal visible difference for mild acne
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Contains both AHA (glycolic acid) and BHA (betaine salicylate) at low concentrations for gentle daily exfoliation. Spray-type application. Lacks zinc for oil control and has fewer soothing ingredients. 150ml vs 200ml.
Triple acid formula (AHA+BHA+PHA) with tea tree water for acne. More exfoliating but also more potentially irritating. Contains essential oils and more ingredients (27 vs 16). Not fungal acne safe. 150ml.
Higher BHA concentration (2%) for stronger exfoliation. Contains hyaluronic acid and ceramides for hydration. More targeted pore treatment but lacks zinc for sebum control. May be too strong for very sensitive skin. 150ml.
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 required, but storing in a cool environment may enhance the refreshing feeling.
Opaque plastic bottle with flip-cap dispenser. Hygienic design minimizes product contamination.
No — 200ml exceeds the 100ml carry-on liquid limit. Decant into a smaller bottle for travel.
Frequently asked questions
FAQAESTURA officially states that pregnant and breastfeeding women can use their Theracne 365 products, as they avoid ingredients known to pose risks. However, this toner contains Salicylic Acid (BHA), which many dermatologists recommend avoiding during pregnancy — particularly at higher concentrations. The concentration here is very low (listed near the end of the INCI list), but out of an abundance of caution, we recommend consulting your OB-GYN or dermatologist before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Yes. This toner is fungal acne safe. The formula contains only 16 ingredients and is free from ferments, fatty acids (like oleic or stearic acid), fatty acid esters, polysorbates, and oils — all of which can feed malassezia yeast. The BHA (salicylic acid) in the formula may actually help by keeping pores clear of the buildup that can worsen fungal acne.
Yes, the BHA concentration in this toner is very low, making it safe to layer with most other actives. You can use it alongside retinol, vitamin C, and niacinamide-based products. If you are using a separate strong BHA or AHA treatment, consider alternating days or using the toner in the morning and your acid treatment at night to avoid over-exfoliation. Always listen to your skin — if you notice dryness or irritation, reduce frequency.
This toner is primarily designed for oily, acne-prone, and combination skin types. The zinc and BHA formula specifically targets excess sebum and clogged pores. It also works well for sensitive skin thanks to its hypoallergenic, fragrance-free formulation. Dry skin types can use it but should layer a richer moisturizer on top. For combination skin, AESTURA recommends applying additional moisturizer on drier areas like the cheeks.
Most users notice a reduction in oiliness and a fresher skin feel within the first week. Visible improvements in skin texture and pore appearance typically appear within 2–3 weeks. The brand's clinical study showed peak results at 4 weeks, including a 51% reduction in sebum, 57% decrease in dead skin cells, and 44% reduction in pore size. For best results, use consistently morning and evening.
Apply this toner as the second step in your routine, immediately after cleansing. The recommended order for the full Theracne 365 line is: Cleansing Foam → Hydro Active Toner → Active Serum → Soothing Active Moisturizer. For a general routine: Cleanser → This Toner → Serum/Essence → Moisturizer → Sunscreen (AM only). No cotton pad is needed — simply apply with your palms and let it absorb.
No. This toner has been clinically tested for non-comedogenicity. AESTURA conducted a 4-week study on 20 adults with acne-prone or troubled sensitive skin, measuring the number of acne lesions and sebum levels. The test confirmed the toner does not clog pores. We rate it a 1 out of 5 on the comedogenic scale based on its ingredient profile — none of the 16 ingredients are known pore-cloggers.
The toner has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal freshness and efficacy. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The 200ml bottle typically lasts 2–3 months with twice-daily use, so you should comfortably finish a bottle well within its shelf life.
Verdict: The AESTURA Theracne 365 Hydro Active Toner is an excellent daily toner for oily and acne-prone skin that prioritizes gentle, clinically-backed care over aggressive exfoliation. Its standout strength is the minimalist 16-ingredient formula featuring Zinc for sebum control, low-dose BHA for gentle exfoliation, and Niacinamide for brightening — all while remaining fungal acne safe and hypoallergenic. Backed by Amorepacific's dermatological research, it delivers real results without irritation. The main trade-off is that the BHA concentration is too low for users needing strong acne treatment.Best suited for daily maintenance of oily, breakout-prone skin rather than active acne crisis management.
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 3 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 5 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 2 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 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Niacinamide
Skin Conditioning, Hair Conditioning, Smoothing
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
Dark Spots
Pores
|
|
| 0 |
Isopentyldiol
Humectant, Solvent
|
Hydrating
|