Vegan Cica Tea Tree AHA PHA Toner
Vegan Cica Tea Tree AHA PHA Toner
Product Description
Product overview
Mary & May Vegan Cica Tea Tree AHA PHA Toner is a clear, watery low-pH exfoliating toner powered by 300,000 ppm tea tree leaf water, gentle Citric Acid (AHA) and Gluconolactone (PHA), niacinamide and Centella Asiatica. Designed for blemish-prone, oily and combination skin, it gently sweeps away dead skin cells, calms redness and balances sebum without alcohol or fragrance.
300,000 ppm Tea Tree Leaf Water
Replaces water as the second-highest ingredient to soothe troubled skin and deliver antibacterial benefits.
Texture & feel
SENSORY300,000 ppm Tea Tree Leaf Water
Replaces water as the second-highest ingredient to soothe troubled skin and deliver antibacterial benefits.
Dual AHA + PHA Exfoliation
Citric Acid and Gluconolactone gently dissolve dead cells without the sting of stronger acids.
Niacinamide for Sebum & Tone
1.7-2.5% niacinamide controls oil, refines pores and brightens post-acne marks.
Aquaxyl® Hydration Complex
Patented birch + xylitol blend (Xylitylglucoside, Anhydroxylitol, Xylitol) optimizes skin's water reserves.
Gesolza™ Botanical Blend
Wormwood, pine and yuzu extracts calm inflammation and reduce blemish triggers naturally.
Clean & Conscious Formula
Vegan-certified, EWG Green Grade, free of 16 hazardous ingredients, soybean ink packaging.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone or chemical sunscreens. Citric Acid and Gluconolactone in toner concentrations are widely considered safe.
No esters, fatty alcohols or polysorbates that feed malassezia yeast. Tea tree extract may even help calm fungal flare-ups.
Comedogenic rating of 1/5. Lightweight, water-based formula with no pore-clogging oils.
AHA exfoliants can increase sun sensitivity. Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ in the morning to protect newly resurfaced skin.
A small amount of mint leaf oil is included. Highly reactive or rosacea-prone users should patch test first.
Pairs well with niacinamide, hyaluronic acid and ceramides. Avoid combining with other strong exfoliants (BHA, retinol) on the same night.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSTea Tree Leaf Water (Melaleuca Alternifolia) ~30% (300,000 ppm)Proven
Replaces standard water as the primary aqueous base. Distilled from tea tree leaves, it carries antibacterial and anti-inflammatory compounds in a gentle, non-irritating form.
- Source: A 2017 review in Letters in Applied Microbiology confirms tea tree's broad-spectrum antibacterial activity against Cutibacterium acnes.
- Source: A 2007 Australasian Journal of Dermatology trial found 5% tea tree gel as effective as 5% benzoyl peroxide for mild-to-moderate acne, with fewer side effects.
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) ~1.7-2.5%Proven
A multi-tasking active that regulates sebum, strengthens the skin barrier, fades post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and visibly minimizes pores.
- Source: A 2005 study in the British Journal of Dermatology showed 5% niacinamide reduced wrinkles, hyperpigmentation and skin yellowing within 12 weeks.
- Source: A 1995 International Journal of Dermatology study found 4% niacinamide gel comparable to 1% clindamycin for inflammatory acne.
Citric Acid (AHA) Low %Proven
An alpha-hydroxy acid derived from citrus fruits that gently dissolves the bonds between dead skin cells, smoothing texture and brightening dull skin while adjusting product pH.
- Source: A 1997 study in Dermatologic Surgery showed topical citric acid increased epidermal thickness and glycosaminoglycan content with regular use.
- Source: Functions as both an exfoliant and pH adjuster, helping the toner stay in the optimal 3.5-5 range for skin barrier health.
Gluconolactone (PHA) Low-Mid %Proven
A polyhydroxy acid with a larger molecular size than AHAs, meaning it exfoliates the surface gently without deep penetration. Adds antioxidant and humectant benefits.
- Source: A 2004 Cutis study compared 8% gluconolactone to 8% glycolic acid and found similar efficacy with significantly less stinging and irritation.
- Source: Research suggests PHAs do not increase UV sensitivity in the way traditional AHAs do, making them ideal for sensitive skin.
Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract (Cica) Mid %Proven
A K-beauty hero ingredient rich in madecassoside and asiaticoside that calms redness, supports wound healing and reinforces a compromised skin barrier.
- Source: A 2013 review in the Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences confirms centella's role in collagen synthesis and skin repair.
- Source: Particularly beneficial for post-acne redness and microdamage from exfoliation.
Adenosine ~0.4-1%Proven
A naturally occurring nucleoside that signals skin cells to repair, smooth fine lines and improve elasticity. Approved as an anti-wrinkle active in many global markets.
- Source: A 2007 study in the Journal of Dermatological Science demonstrated adenosine's ability to reduce dynamic wrinkle depth in eight weeks.
Aquaxyl™ Complex (Xylitylglucoside + Anhydroxylitol + Xylitol) Mid %Promising
A patented sugar-derived moisturizing trio that boosts the skin's natural water reserves, reduces transepidermal water loss and delivers up to 24-hour hydration.
- Source: Manufacturer (Seppic) clinical data shows a 21% reduction in TEWL after 28 days of use.
Gesolza™ Herbal Blend (Artemisia Annua + Pinus Densiflora + Citrus Junos) Low %Promising
A trio of traditional Korean herbal extracts — sweet wormwood, red pine and yuzu — selected for antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity that helps calm pre-blemish skin.
- Source: Artemisia annua contains artemisinin, studied in dermatological research for soothing and microbial-balancing properties.
- Source: Yuzu (Citrus Junos) extract is rich in vitamin C and flavonoids that support antioxidant defense.
Allantoin Low %Proven
A skin-soothing and protective ingredient that promotes cell turnover, softens skin and reduces irritation from active ingredients in the same formula.
- Source: Long-established in dermatology for keratolytic and barrier-supportive functions; commonly paired with exfoliating acids to offset stinging.
25 ingredients
Water, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Water, Glycerin, Dipropylene Glycol, Butylene Glycol, Niacinamide, 1,2-Hexanediol, Propanediol, Caprylyl Glycol, C12-14 Pareth-12, Ethylhexylglycerin, Adenosine, Citric Acid, Gluconolactone, Allantoin, Xanthan Gum, Xylitylglucoside, Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract, Anhydroxylitol, Mentha Arvensis Leaf Oil, Xylitol, Glucose, Pinus Densiflora Leaf Extract, Citrus Junos Fruit Extract, Artemisia Annua Extract.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse morning and night after cleansing. Always finish your AM routine with broad-spectrum SPF when using AHA products.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse First
Start with a gentle low-pH cleanser and pat skin until just slightly damp.
Method A — Pat Application
Dispense 4-5 drops into clean palms and press evenly across face and neck for daily light exfoliation.
Method B — Wipe Toner
Saturate a cotton pad and gently sweep along skin's natural texture to remove residual sebum and buildup.
Method C — Skin Pack (Weekly)
Soak cotton pads, place on dry or congested zones for 5 minutes, then continue your routine.
Layer & Lock In
Follow with hydrating serum and moisturizer. In the morning, finish with SPF 30 or higher.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily, combination or blemish-prone skin
- You want gentle daily exfoliation without irritation
- You're looking for a fragrance- and alcohol-free toner
- You prefer vegan and cruelty-free formulas
- You experience clogged pores, blackheads or dullness
- You need a budget-friendly large-size (200ml) toner
- You have malassezia/fungal acne concerns
Consider alternatives if:
- Your skin is very dry or severely dehydrated
- You're highly reactive to mint or essential oils
- You already use multiple strong exfoliants (BHA, retinol)
- You have an active rosacea flare
- You prefer cushiony, milky-textured toners
- You want intense anti-aging actives (peptides, retinoids)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESNiacinamide controls sebum while AHA/PHA clear excess oil and dead cells from pores.
Balances oily T-zones while Aquaxyl complex hydrates drier cheek areas.
Tea tree, cica and PHA work together to calm and prevent breakouts. Fungal-acne safe.
Hypoallergenic-tested and gentle, but mint leaf oil warrants a patch test for very reactive skin.
Hydration is gentle; layer a richer essence and cream on top for noticeably dry skin.
Adenosine and gentle exfoliation refine texture, but stronger anti-aging actives may be needed.
Results timeline
MONTH 2-3Smoother & Cleaner Feel
Skin feels instantly clearer and refreshed. Cotton pad reveals leftover sebum and buildup. No tightness.
85% noticedLess Visible Pores & Shine
Sebum levels visibly reduced through the day. Skin texture begins to feel more refined.
72% noticedFewer Blemishes & Brighter Tone
Whiteheads and small bumps become less frequent. Post-acne marks start fading from niacinamide.
68% noticedClearer, Balanced Complexion
Sustained reduction in breakouts, improved overall radiance and a stronger, more resilient skin barrier.
76% noticedRatings by platform
10K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Generous 200ml size at affordable price point
- Gentle dual AHA + PHA exfoliation, no harsh stinging
- Clean formula: vegan, alcohol-free, fragrance-free
- Visibly reduces blackheads and surface congestion
- EWG Green Grade and 16-Free certified
- Layers seamlessly under other skincare
- Eco-friendly recyclable packaging
Criticized
- Contains a small amount of mint leaf oil (sensitivity risk)
- Hydration may not satisfy very dry skin alone
- Subtle herbal scent isn't to everyone's taste
- Plastic bottle without pump or dropper
- Not strong enough for severe cystic acne
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESSimilar gentle dual-acid exfoliation with willow bark and apple water. Slightly stronger BHA action; less hydrating than Mary & May's Aquaxyl complex.
Triple-acid blend (AHA/BHA/PHA) with tea tree and centella. Stronger exfoliation, may be more irritating for sensitive skin types.
Coptis japonica root–based gentle hydrating toner. Great for sensitive skin, but lacks the dual exfoliating acids of Mary & May.
Much stronger AHA at 7% glycolic. More exfoliation but no soothing tea tree or cica — higher irritation risk.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStorage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Unopened shelf life is approximately 30 months from manufacturing date.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep cap tightly closed to maintain formula integrity.
Recyclable plastic bottle with screw cap, packaged in 100% recycled paper printed with eco-friendly soybean oil ink.
200ml bottle exceeds carry-on liquid limits (100ml). Decant into a TSA-approved travel container for flights.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, this toner is generally considered pregnancy- and breastfeeding-safe. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone or chemical sunscreens — the actives most commonly avoided during pregnancy. The Citric Acid (AHA) and Gluconolactone (PHA) are used at low cosmetic levels and are widely accepted as safe topicals during pregnancy. Tea tree extract in leaf-water form is much milder than essential oil. As always, consult your OB-GYN before introducing new actives during pregnancy or nursing.
Yes, this toner is fungal-acne safe. The formula contains no esters, fatty acids, fatty alcohols or polysorbates that feed Malassezia yeast. It does include C12-14 Pareth-12, a low-risk surfactant generally accepted by the fungal acne community. Tea tree extract has demonstrated antifungal properties, which may even help calm malassezia-related flare-ups for some users.
Yes, with strategic layering. Pair freely with niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, ceramides and peptides. With retinol, alternate evenings to prevent over-exfoliation. With vitamin C, use vitamin C in the morning and the toner in the evening. Avoid stacking with additional AHA or BHA exfoliants in the same routine — this toner already provides daily gentle exfoliation. If your skin starts to feel tight, sting or look red, scale back to every other day.
It's best suited to oily, combination and blemish-prone skin. Niacinamide regulates sebum, AHA/PHA gently clear pores and tea tree calms inflammation. Sensitive skin can also benefit thanks to the low-pH, alcohol-free, fragrance-free formula — though those highly reactive to mint should patch test first. Very dry skin may want to layer a richer essence and cream on top, since hydration alone here is light.
Most users notice instant smoothness and a cleaner finish from the first application. Within 1-2 weeks, pores look less congested and shine reduces. By weeks 2-4, blemish frequency drops and post-acne marks start to fade. The most pronounced barrier strengthening, tone evenness and texture refinement typically appear after 8-12 weeks of consistent use.
Apply right after cleansing and before essence, serum and moisturizer. In a typical K-beauty routine: Cleanser → This Toner → Essence → Serum → Moisturizer → Sunscreen (AM only). You can apply with clean palms for daily light exfoliation, with a cotton pad to swipe away residue, or as a 5-minute soaked-pad mask on congested areas.
No. With a comedogenic rating of 1/5, the toner is considered non-comedogenic. The formula is water-based with no heavy oils, butters or known pore-clogging ingredients. The AHA/PHA combination actively helps clear existing pore congestion rather than create it.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Used daily morning and night, the 200ml bottle typically lasts 3-4 months, so you'll finish well within the safe window. Store away from heat and direct sunlight, and keep the cap tightly sealed to preserve potency.
Verdict: Mary & May's Vegan Cica Tea Tree AHA PHA Toner is one of the most well-balanced exfoliating toners in the affordable K-beauty space. It pairs gentle dual AHA/PHA exfoliation with high-percentage tea tree leaf water, niacinamide, cica and the patented Aquaxyl hydration complex — all in a vegan, alcohol-free, fragrance-free formula. Best for oily, combination, blemish-prone and resilient sensitive skin types looking for a daily, no-irritation refining toner. The generous 200ml size and EWG Green Grade certification make it a strong everyday staple. Minor drawbacks: a small amount of mint oil that may not suit highly reactive skin, and limited stand-alone hydration for very dry types.
Product Overview
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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 |
Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Water
Antimicrobial, Antiseborrhoeic, Astringent, Tonic
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Dipropylene Glycol
Fragrance, Solvent, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Masking, Viscosity Controlling
|
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|








