# Isntree Chestnut BHA 0.9% Clear Toner for skin with dark spots

**Lovi Fit: High fit for skin with dark spots.**
Normal Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: High · Safety: Excellent.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/isntree/chestnut-bha-0-9-clear-toner/for/dark-spots

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

Brand: [Isntree](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/brands/isntree)
Category: [Toners](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/best/toners)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with dark spots: hyperpigmentation, sun spots, and uneven skin tone. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

A great choice for skin with dark spots; a few toners fit it even better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate exfoliation for pigmentation and pores, as betaine salicylate and willow bark extract provide mild chemical exfoliation suitable for your normal skin type.
- The inclusion of glycerin and sodium hyaluronate ensures adequate hydration, complementing the keratolytic action of the key ingredients.
- The product is safe for your normal skin due to the absence of harsh ingredients and the presence of soothing agents like Portulaca Oleracea Extract and Centella Asiatica Extract.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/isntree/chestnut-bha-0-9-clear-toner/for/oily-skin): Superior
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/isntree/chestnut-bha-0-9-clear-toner/for/dry-skin): Caution
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/isntree/chestnut-bha-0-9-clear-toner/for/combination-skin): Superior
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/isntree/chestnut-bha-0-9-clear-toner/for/sensitive-skin): High
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/isntree/chestnut-bha-0-9-clear-toner/for/acne-prone-skin): Superior
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/isntree/chestnut-bha-0-9-clear-toner/for/dark-spots): High (this page)
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/isntree/chestnut-bha-0-9-clear-toner/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/isntree/chestnut-bha-0-9-clear-toner/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Low
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/isntree/chestnut-bha-0-9-clear-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Superior

## Key ingredients

Bha Beta Hydroxy Acid, Chestnut Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Glycerin, Panthenol

## What the research says

- A single application of a moisturizing fluid containing hyaluronic acid 1%, glycerin 5%, and Centella asiatica stem cells extract significantly increased skin hydration by 29% and reduced transepidermal water loss at 24 hours compared to baseline and an untreated control site in twenty healthy women. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/))
- Hyaluronic acid extracts are safe and efficacious products for skin repair when used in tissue regeneration alone or in combination with herbal or Western medicine. ([Journal of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25877441/))
- Cosmetic formulations containing 5% Centella asiatica extract showed the best efficacy in improving skin moisture and decreasing transepidermal water loss, while also exhibiting antiinflammatory properties in 25 volunteers compared to baseline measurements. ([Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27168678/))
- Facial masks containing low-temperature extracted Portulaca oleracea protect sensitive skin from photothermal stimulation and improve skin barrier function during photorejuvenation. ([Cutaneous and Ocular Toxicology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41182319/))
- Cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen achieved a higher cure rate (39%) than salicylic acid (24%) and a wait-and-see approach (16%) for cutaneous warts at 13 weeks in primary care patients. ([CMAJ, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20837684/))
- A moisturizer containing licochalcone A, 1,2-decanediol, L-carnitine, and salicylic acid significantly reduced noninflammatory, inflammatory, and total acne lesion counts compared to a vehicle control in Thai patients during a 12-week maintenance phase. ([BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/))
- Treatment with 2% supramolecular salicylic acid hydrogel resulted in a regression and markedly improvement rate of 51.01% compared to 43.10% for Adapaline gel in patients with mild to moderate facial acne vulgaris, showing no significant difference in efficacy. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38590107/))
- Topical application of a cosmetic cleanser containing Diospyros kaki folium, Polygonum cuspidatum, and Castanea crenata var. dulcis extracts reduced skin oil content by 77.3%, pore number by 24.83%, and pore size by 71.43% in healthy volunteers compared to a control cleanser. ([Biomedical Reports, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26137233/))
- A Castanea sativa spiny burs extract-loaded topical emulsion improved skin hydration, skin elasticity, and reduced periorbital wrinkles in 30 days in healthy human volunteers compared to placebo without altering skin barrier function, sebum, pH, or erythema. ([Pharmaceutics, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34683927/))
- An antioxidant surfactant-free topical formulation containing Castanea sativa leaf extract demonstrated stable physical and microbiological properties, a release rate of 610 ± 70 µgh(-0.5), and a significant in vivo moisturizing effect lasting at least 4 hours. ([Drug Development and Industrial Pharmacy, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24188328/))
- Topical application of 0.1% hyaluronic acid formulations of different molecular weights led to significant improvements in skin hydration and elasticity, with low-molecular-weight formulations also significantly reducing wrinkle depth in seventy-six female subjects compared to a vehicle control. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22052267/))
- Topical application of hyaluronic acid in conjunction with free gingival graft significantly reduced donor site postoperative pain until day 7 compared to normal saline, with no significant differences in graft dimensions or patient satisfaction. ([Clinical Oral Investigations, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34623507/))
- Treatment with a hyaluronic acid-containing mouth rinse or topical gel led to significant lesion reduction, pain relief, and normalization of lesion color in adult patients with minor recurrent aphthous stomatitis, with the gel formulation showing an earlier healing onset at 3 days. ([BMC Oral Health, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31311529/))
- The emollient V0034CR significantly reduced TEWL compared to vehicle and vehicle plus glycerol, and significantly increased corneometry scores compared to vehicle and vehicle plus petrolatum in healthy volunteers with dry skin, demonstrating combined barrier function improvement from petrolatum and hydration improvement from glycerol. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31532576/))
- Ten days of treatment with a cream containing 20% glycerin significantly increased skin hydration measured by corneometer values in 17 healthy volunteers compared to a placebo cream, but showed no influence on transepidermal water loss or skin sensitivity to an irritating surfactant. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2001](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18498456/))
- Niacinamide/glycerin body moisturizers provided better rapid and prolonged improvement of cosmetic xerosis through functional improvement of stratum corneum barrier function compared to no treatment and conventional moisturizers in female subjects. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2012](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22206073/))
- 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

This toner is highly recommended for sensitive, oily, and combination skin, offering gentle exfoliation without irritation. Users frequently report smoother skin texture and reduced oiliness. Some users find it too mild for stubborn blackheads.

- Liked: Controls oil (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Gentle exfoliation (often mentioned)
- Liked: Smoothes texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Hydrating finish (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Too mild / Slow (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Scent (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Tacky residue (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Watery consistency (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your exfoliating toner in your PM routine. Start once a week and slowly increase if your skin likes it.
- Apply after your cleanser, before your moisturizer. This step helps target your pigmentation goals effectively.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the exfoliating toner into your skin. Avoid rubbing to keep your face happy.
- Apply the exfoliating toner on clean and completely dry skin. This ensures the best comfort for normal skin.
- Always avoid the eye area and use SPF daily while using this exfoliating toner.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/020cca37b222f917c1e8d86638215d98.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes Isntree Chestnut BHA 0.9% Clear Toner a great fit for skin with dark spots?

This toner is a great fit because it offers mild chemical exfoliation to help fade dark spots while keeping your skin calm and hydrated. Ingredients like glycerin and sodium hyaluronate draw in moisture, while soothing extracts help keep normal skin safe and comfortable.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27168678/)

### Which ingredients make this toner a good fit for skin with dark spots?

This toner is a great fit for skin with dark spots because betaine salicylate and willow bark extract offer mild chemical exfoliation to help fade pigmentation and clear pores. At the same time, glycerin and sodium hyaluronate keep your skin hydrated, while Centella asiatica extract and Portulaca oleracea extract help soothe it.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27168678/)

### What does Bha do for skin with dark spots?

BHA helps improve dark spots left behind by breakouts and keeps skin smooth and clear. It removes dead surface skin cells and works well on different skin tones, though mild irritation may occasionally happen.
Sources: [Dermatologic Surgery, 2009](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19400885/), [Dermatologic Surgery, 1999](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9935087/)

### What does Chestnut Extract do for skin with dark spots?

Chestnut extract helps fade dark spots by lowering melanin production and stopping the enzymes that cause uneven skin tone. It is rich in antioxidants that protect against sun damage, making it a safe choice for brightening your complexion.
Sources: [Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20699587/), [Molecules, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35956891/)

### Where does this toner go in a skincare routine for skin with dark spots?

This exfoliating toner fits into an evening routine after cleansing as a cleansing toner, or can be used as a weekly exfoliating step when starting out. It helps clear pores and brighten dark spots while keeping skin balanced with hydrating and soothing ingredients.

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

You can use this toner with retinol, but it is best to use them on different nights or times of day to avoid making your skin too dry or sensitive. Using both at once may increase irritation, so try alternating days and always follow up with a good moisturizer.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2016](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27168678/)

### How often should I use this toner?

Start by using this toner once a week, and if your skin feels comfortable and you see good results, you can carefully use it more often. This mild chemical exfoliation helps fade dark spots while keeping your skin calm and hydrated.

### Can this toner clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for skin with dark spots?

This toner is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts because it uses gentle exfoliants and soothing ingredients that help keep skin clear and calm. It may cause mild purging as it gently removes dead skin cells to fade dark spots.

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

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for skin with dark spots

- [REN Clean Skincare Ready Steady Glow Daily AHA Tonic](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/ren-clean-skincare/ready-steady-glow-daily-aha-tonic/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — €50.00 at Amazon
- [ANUA BHA 2% Gentle Exfoliating Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/anua/bha-2-gentle-exfoliating-toner/for/dark-spots) — High fit — €21.00 at Amazon
- [By Wishtrend Mandelic Acid 5% Skin Prep Water](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/by-wishtrend/mandelic-acid-5-skin-prep-water/for/dark-spots) — High fit — €24.98 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — €21.00 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [SKIN1004 Centella Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/skin1004/centella-cream/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — €19.20 at Amazon
- SPF: [d'Alba UVessence Mild Waterfull Sun Cream SPF 50](https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/d-alba/uvessence-mild-waterfull-sun-cream-spf-50/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — €16.75 at Amazon

## Where to buy

No store in Netherlands has a checked price for this product, so the page shows none.

## Ingredients

Water, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Panthenol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Xanthan Gum, Betaine Salicylate, Glycyrrhiza Glabra Extract, Trehalose, Allantoin, Betaine, Hizikia Fusiforme Extract, Borago Officinalis Extract, Willow Bark Extract, Salvia Sclarea Extract, Ethylhexylglycerin, Centaurea Cyanus Flower Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice Powder, Soy Isoflavones, Chestnut, Amt 100, Chamomilla Recutita Flower Extract, 1,2-Hexanediol, Codium Fragile Extract, Hyacinthus Orientalis Extract, Centella Asiatica Extract, Chamomilla Recutita Flower Extract Matricaria Flower Extract, Lavandula Angustifolia Flower Extract Lavender Flower Extract, Disodium Edta, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Sodium Hydroxide, Tromethamine
## 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/isntree/chestnut-bha-0-9-clear-toner/for/dark-spots
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/isntree/chestnut-bha-0-9-clear-toner/for/dark-spots
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/isntree/chestnut-bha-0-9-clear-toner/for/dark-spots
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- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/isntree/chestnut-bha-0-9-clear-toner/for/dark-spots
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/isntree/chestnut-bha-0-9-clear-toner/for/dark-spots (this page)
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/isntree/chestnut-bha-0-9-clear-toner/for/dark-spots
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