# Biossance Squalane + BHA Pore-Minimizing 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/uk/p/biossance/squalane-bha-pore-minimizing-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 United Kingdom.

Brand: [Biossance](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/brands/biossance)
Category: [Toners](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/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

- This toner offers excellent pore minimization and pigmentation benefits for your normal skin, as betaine salicylate and microcitrus australasica fruit extract effectively exfoliate and decongest pores. Willow bark extract and glycerin provide additional keratolytic and humectant actions, supporting skin renewal and hydration. The formula is safe for your skin due to the absence of harsh ingredients and the inclusion of soothing lavender flower water and willow bark extract.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/biossance/squalane-bha-pore-minimizing-toner/for/oily-skin): Superior
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/biossance/squalane-bha-pore-minimizing-toner/for/dry-skin): Low
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/biossance/squalane-bha-pore-minimizing-toner/for/combination-skin): Superior
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/biossance/squalane-bha-pore-minimizing-toner/for/sensitive-skin): High
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/biossance/squalane-bha-pore-minimizing-toner/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/biossance/squalane-bha-pore-minimizing-toner/for/dark-spots): High (this page)
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/biossance/squalane-bha-pore-minimizing-toner/for/mature-skin): Superior
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/biossance/squalane-bha-pore-minimizing-toner/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Low
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/biossance/squalane-bha-pore-minimizing-toner/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): High

## Key ingredients

Squalane, Bha Beta Hydroxy Acid, Willow Bark Extract, Cucumis Sativus Fruit Water, Glycerin

## 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/))
- 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/))
- Squalane at 0.005-0.015% counteracts UVA-induced oxidative stress, inflammation, and collagen metabolism inhibition while stimulating fibroblast migration in human dermal fibroblasts. ([Molecules, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40363772/))
- Plant-derived squalane protected human dermal fibroblasts against UVA-induced damage by counteracting ROS formation, suppressing apoptosis-related proteins p53, caspase-3, caspase-9, and PARP, and restoring the pro-survival p-Akt/mTOR pathway. ([Antioxidants, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40722956/))
- 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/))
- 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/))
- 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 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/))
- Transgenic cucumber expressing poly-γ-glutamic acid synthesis genes increased water content by 6-14%, reduced water loss by 11-12%, decreased facial wrinkles and roughness by 19.58% and 24.97%, decreased skin melanin by 5.27%, and improved facial elasticity in human skin and zebrafish compared to controls. ([International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38336313/))
- Copper Oxide nanoparticles synthesized using cucumber extract exhibited antibacterial, antifungal, UV protection, and reactive-oxygen species inhibition properties with low cellular toxicity and skin-rejuvenating effects when incorporated into skin cream. ([Endocrine, Metabolic & Immune Disorders Drug Targets, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32628604/))
- Topical treatment with Holothuria parva extract gel showed significant wound contraction compared to the negative control in full-thickness wounded rats. ([The International Journal of Lower Extremity Wounds, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34791922/))
- 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/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, this toner is highly regarded for its gentle exfoliation and pore-minimizing effects, with many users appreciating its hydrating formula that avoids the dryness often associated with BHA products. Most users with oily and combination skin report smoother texture and clearer pores. A small number of users experienced breakouts or found the fragrance irritating, and some noted issues with the packaging or a sticky residue.

- Liked: Gentle exfoliation (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Hydrating formula (often mentioned)
- Liked: Improves texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Pleasant scent (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Refines pores (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Expensive price (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Packaging issues (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Caused breakouts (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Fragrance irritation (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Sticky residue (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 Biossance Squalane + BHA Pore-Minimizing Toner a great fit for skin with dark spots?

This toner is a great fit because it helps fade dark spots and keeps pores clear using gentle exfoliating ingredients like betaine salicylate and fruit extract. It also includes willow bark extract and glycerin to support skin renewal and keep your skin feeling hydrated.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

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

This toner is a good fit for skin with dark spots because betaine salicylate and microcitrus australasica fruit extract effectively exfoliate the skin. Willow bark extract and glycerin support skin renewal and keep the skin hydrated.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20883292/)

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

Squalane helps keep skin soft and smooth, but it is unlikely to directly fade dark spots on its own. For hyperpigmentation, this type of product needs added brightening ingredients like vitamin C or antioxidants to help even out skin tone.

### 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/)

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

This toner goes in your evening routine as a cleansing toner after your cleanser and before your treatment. Start using it once a week, and if your skin tolerates it well and sees good results, you can carefully use it more often.

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

This exfoliating toner is a great fit for skin with dark spots because it helps clear pores and brighten tone, but using it with retinol may cause dryness or irritation. To safely combine them, use your retinol at night and apply this toner on alternate days or in the morning, always following with a good moisturizer.

### How often should I use this toner?

Start by using this exfoliating toner once a week to see how your skin responds. If your skin tolerates it well and you see good results, you can carefully use it more often.

### 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 helps clear out dead skin and is safe for your skin, though a small number of reviewers have mentioned breakouts. The exfoliating ingredients support skin renewal, and soothing plant waters help keep skin calm.

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

It has no drying alcohol and contains fragrance (citronellol).

## Alternatives for skin with dark spots

- [Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow PHA + BHA Pore-Tight Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/glow-recipe/watermelon-glow-pha-bha-pore-tight-toner/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — £17.95 at Amazon
- [First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Pads](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/first-aid-beauty/facial-radiance-pads/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — £20.00 at Amazon
- [SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Tone Brightening Boosting Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/skin1004/madagascar-centella-tone-brightening-boosting-toner/for/dark-spots) — High fit — £7.99 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — £8.29 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Some By Mi Yuja Niacin Brightening Moisture Gel Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/some-by-mi/yuja-niacin-brightening-moisture-gel-cream/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — £11.90 at Amazon
- SPF: [Torriden DIVE-IN Mild Sunscreen](https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/torriden/dive-in-mild-sunscreen/for/dark-spots) — Superior fit — £22.00 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.co.uk: £18.75 (https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B097CDXDCD?tag=lovi-care-web-product-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
- Lookfantastic: £18.75 (https://www.lookfantastic.com/p/biossance-squalane-and-bha-pore-minimising-toner-120ml/13297863/)
Prices checked 18 Oct – 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Willow Bark Extract, Glycerin, Cucumis Sativus Fruit Water, Squalane, Sorbitan Oleate Decylglucoside Crosspolymer, Betaine Salicylate, Microcitrus Australasica Fruit Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Water Rosemary Leaf Water, Lavandula Angustifolia Flower Water Lavender Flower Water, Sodium Hyaluronate, Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, Melissa Officinalis Oil Leaf, Curcuma Longa Root Extract, Coccinia Indica Fruit Extract, Melia Azadirachta Flower Extract, Solanum Melongena Fruit Extract, Ocimum Basilicum Leaf Extract Flower, Amber Powder, Corallina Officinalis Extract, Sodium Chloride, Citric Acid, Sodium Gluconate, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate, Pelargonium Graveolens Oil, Citronellol
## 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/biossance/squalane-bha-pore-minimizing-toner/for/dark-spots
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/biossance/squalane-bha-pore-minimizing-toner/for/dark-spots (this page)
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/biossance/squalane-bha-pore-minimizing-toner/for/dark-spots
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