# COSRX AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner for combination skin

**Lovi Fit: High fit for combination skin.**
Combination Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: High · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/cosrx/aha-bha-clarifying-treatment-toner/for/combination-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for the United Arab Emirates.

Brand: [COSRX](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/brands/cosrx)
Category: [Toners](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/best/toners)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with combination skin: an oily T-zone, enlarged pores, and dry cheeks. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

A great choice for combination skin; a few toners fit it even better.

## Why this fit

- Offers high suitability for your combination skin as glycolic acid and betaine salicylate provide keratolytic action to address oily shine, while butylene glycol offers humectant benefits.
- The presence of willow bark water and allantoin further supports gentle exfoliation and soothing effects, complementing the primary actives.
- The formula is safe for your skin, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of prohibited or harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/cosrx/aha-bha-clarifying-treatment-toner/for/oily-skin): Superior
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/cosrx/aha-bha-clarifying-treatment-toner/for/dry-skin): Low
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/cosrx/aha-bha-clarifying-treatment-toner/for/combination-skin): High (this page)
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/cosrx/aha-bha-clarifying-treatment-toner/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/cosrx/aha-bha-clarifying-treatment-toner/for/acne-prone-skin): Superior
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/cosrx/aha-bha-clarifying-treatment-toner/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/cosrx/aha-bha-clarifying-treatment-toner/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/cosrx/aha-bha-clarifying-treatment-toner/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Low
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/cosrx/aha-bha-clarifying-treatment-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Superior

## Key ingredients

Glycolic Acid, Betaine Salicylate, Willow Water Bark, Pyrus Malus Fruit Water, Panthenol

## What the research says

- Glycolic acid, salicylic acid, gluconolactone, and licochalcone A combined with 0.1% adapalene showed no hindrance compared to adapalene monotherapy and provided benefits in reducing complications in 25 subjects with mild-to-moderate acne vulgaris. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30858720/))
- A botanical face cleanser with hops and willow bark extract continuously reduced skin sebum levels without reactive seborrhea after treatment in 21 healthy volunteers compared to a sodium laureth sulfate cleanser, with neither cleanser causing skin irritation. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30022595/))
- A topical gel containing chitosan, chlorhexidine, allantoin, and dexpanthenol significantly reduced postoperative pain, trismus, swelling, and analgesic consumption, while improving wound healing after third molar surgery compared to a placebo. ([Medicina Oral, Patologia Oral Y Cirugia Bucal, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32683390/))
- A cosmetic cream with 6% wild apple fruit water extract showed good stability, antioxidant activity, no skin irritation, increased skin hydration, and a bleaching effect on artificially induced skin hyperpigmentation in human volunteers. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29723433/))
- Repeated short-contact 70% glycolic acid peels provided superior results in atrophic acne scars compared to daily low-strength glycolic acid cream or placebo in 58 women over 24 weeks. ([International Journal of Dermatology, 2000](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11095203/))
- Serial glycolic acid peels combined with a modified Kligman formula significantly reduced facial PIH severity in Indian patients compared to the modified Kligman formula alone. ([Dermatologic Surgery, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28114204/))
- Bioactive lipid nanocarriers co-loaded with willow bark or ivy leaf extracts and UV-filters provided pronounced UVA photoprotection up to an SPF-equivalent value of 13 and a maximum in vivo skin hydration effect of 97% when prepared with pomegranate oil. ([Nanomaterials, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35889587/))
- A topical serum containing 0.5% salicin applied twice daily reduced visible signs of skin aging, including wrinkles and tactile roughness, in 30 female subjects over 12 weeks compared to baseline. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20883292/))
- A novel emulsion containing niacinamide, lens esculenta seed extract, and white willow bark extract effectively improved acne, blackheads, and conspicuous facial pores in 30 subjects with oily skin. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38140770/))
- Topical formulations containing 1.25% Malus sp. extract or 0.75% rutin protected against UVB-induced sunburn cells, caspase-3 activation, cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers, lipid peroxidation, and metalloproteinase formation in ex vivo skin explants and 3D tissue-engineered skin. ([Rejuvenation Research, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32242497/))
- Topical dexpanthenol acts as a moisturizer, improves stratum corneum hydration, accelerates wound healing and epidermal regeneration, reduces erythema, and improves symptoms of skin irritation compared to vehicle or no pretreatment. ([American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/))
- Moisturizer containing 5% panthenol, madecassoside, and copper-zinc-manganese decreased adverse reactions and downtime after ablative fractional carbon dioxide laser resurfacing with comparable efficacy to 0.02% triamcinolone acetonide cream in 20 subjects. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30945430/))
- Topical dexpanthenol formulated in lipophilic vehicles improved stratum corneum hydration and reduced transepidermal water loss compared to vehicle control in humans. ([Arzneimittel-Forschung, 2000](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10965426/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, this toner is widely praised by users with oily, acne-prone, and sensitive skin for its ability to gently exfoliate and balance pH without causing irritation. Users frequently report smoother skin texture, reduced whiteheads, and a "glass skin" glow, though some find it too gentle to produce dramatic or immediate results.

- Liked: Gentle exfoliation (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Acne & pore control (often mentioned)
- Liked: Improves skin texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Convenient packaging (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Non-drying formula (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Slow or no results (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Caused breakouts (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Packaging issues (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Unpleasant scent (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your exfoliating toner during your PM routine. Start once a week and slowly build up if your skin tolerates it well.
- Apply your exfoliating toner right after cleansing and before your favorite moisturizer.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the exfoliating toner into your skin and let it absorb for a minute.
- Apply the exfoliating toner on clean and completely dry skin to get the best results for your combination skin.
- Always avoid the sensitive eye area and wear daily SPF to protect your skin.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/020cca37b222f917c1e8d86638215d98.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes COSRX AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner a great fit for combination skin?

This toner is a great fit because glycolic acid and betaine salicylate help clear away oily shine while keeping skin balanced. Willow bark water and allantoin provide gentle soothing effects, and ingredients like butylene glycol help maintain moisture without irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30022595/), [Medicina Oral, Patologia Oral Y Cirugia Bucal, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32683390/)

### Which ingredients make this toner a good fit for combination skin?

Glycolic acid and betaine salicylate help manage oily shine, while butylene glycol brings in moisture. Willow bark water and allantoin add gentle exfoliation and help keep your skin calm.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30022595/), [Medicina Oral, Patologia Oral Y Cirugia Bucal, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32683390/)

### What does Glycolic Acid do for combination skin?

Glycolic acid helps smooth and brighten combination skin by gently loosening dead surface cells to speed up skin renewal. This ingredient is unlikely to cause irritation when used properly, but it needs a reliable sunscreen during the day since it makes skin more sensitive to the sun.
Sources: [Acta Dermato-venereologica, 1995](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8651024/), [Archives of Dermatological Research, 1997](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9248619/)

### What does Betaine Salicylate do for combination skin?

Betaine Salicylate helps keep combination skin clear and smooth by clearing out pores and calming redness. It is unlikely to cause irritation, making it gentle enough for everyday use on mixed skin types.
Sources: [RSC Medicinal Chemistry, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40027344/)

### Where does this toner go in a skincare routine for combination skin?

This toner goes in the evening routine after cleansing as a treatment step. Lovi routines start exfoliating steps once a week, and people who tolerate them well and see good results may carefully use them more often.

### Can I use this toner with retinol, and in what order?

You can use this toner with retinol by applying the toner first, waiting for it to dry, and then applying your retinol. Because this toner gently exfoliates and helps clear oily shine while soothing the skin, using it alongside retinol is generally safe and unlikely to cause irritation when introduced gradually.

### How often should I use this toner?

Start using this toner once a week, and if your skin handles it well and you see good results, you may carefully use it more often. The glycolic acid and betaine salicylate help clear away dead skin and oily shine, while the safe formula is unlikely to cause irritation.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32356917/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38406974/)

### Can this toner clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for combination skin?

This toner is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts for combination skin, as it contains gentle exfoliating and soothing ingredients with a safe profile. Some reviewers do mention minor breakouts, but the formula helps clear oily shine without harsh effects.
Sources: [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30022595/), [Medicina Oral, Patologia Oral Y Cirugia Bucal, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32683390/)

### Is this toner fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for combination skin

- [Isntree Chestnut BHA 0.9% Clear Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/isntree/chestnut-bha-0-9-clear-toner/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — AED 52.55 at Amazon
- [Pixi Clarity Tonic](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/pixi/clarity-tonic/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — AED 71.49 at Amazon
- [Neogen Real Ferment Micro Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/neogen/real-ferment-micro-toner/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — AED 78.13 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Fresh Soy Face Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/fresh/soy-face-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — AED 84.53 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — AED 33.40 at Amazon
- Pre-Cleanser: [Shu Uemura Ultime8 Sublime Beauty Cleansing Oil](https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/shu-uemura/ultime8-sublime-beauty-cleansing-oil/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — AED 179.45 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.ae: AED 28.00 (https://www.amazon.ae/dp/B073P6BPF5?tag=lovi00-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Willow Bark Water Bark, Pyrus Malus Fruit Water, Butylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Sodium Lactate, Glycolic Acid, Betaine Salicylate, Allantoin, Panthenol, Ethyl Hexanediol
## About the Lovi Fit

Lovi: Unbiased, science-based skincare AI trained on real user outcomes.

Lovi calculates every fit score from the full ingredient list with brand-independent rules its dermatologists and cosmetic chemists build and review, and personalizes every pick with AI trained on the real results of millions of users. Lovi trains its fit score models on a proprietary dataset built from more than 10,000 expert-labeled products and more than 100,000 simulated examples, following an internally consistent methodology presented at Cosmoprof, AMWC, and Skin of Color Update. Levels from best to worst: Superior, High, Average, Low, Caution, Warning.

Behind this fit score: Nadia Kapleva, MS (Co-founder, Medical Director); Alexey Shagraev, PhD (Co-founder, CEO and CTO); Dr. Sofía Perea Pérez, MD, MSc (Medical Board); Aishani Shah, MD (Medical Board); Asya Zubkova, MS (Medical Board); Hanna Kurets, MD (Medical Board, Medical Advisor); Elina Nazarenko, MD (Medical Board); Victoria Derkova, MS (Medical Board).

Page built Nov 8, 2026.

More from Lovi: https://lovi.care/skincare/llms.txt

## This page in other countries

- United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cosrx/aha-bha-clarifying-treatment-toner/for/combination-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cosrx/aha-bha-clarifying-treatment-toner/for/combination-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/cosrx/aha-bha-clarifying-treatment-toner/for/combination-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/cosrx/aha-bha-clarifying-treatment-toner/for/combination-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/cosrx/aha-bha-clarifying-treatment-toner/for/combination-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/cosrx/aha-bha-clarifying-treatment-toner/for/combination-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/cosrx/aha-bha-clarifying-treatment-toner/for/combination-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/cosrx/aha-bha-clarifying-treatment-toner/for/combination-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/cosrx/aha-bha-clarifying-treatment-toner/for/combination-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/cosrx/aha-bha-clarifying-treatment-toner/for/combination-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/cosrx/aha-bha-clarifying-treatment-toner/for/combination-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/cosrx/aha-bha-clarifying-treatment-toner/for/combination-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/cosrx/aha-bha-clarifying-treatment-toner/for/combination-skin (this page)