Collage: Paula Balondo; Source images: Courtesy of Allure editors and brandsSave this storySave this story
The best BHA toners have officially redeemed their reputation. Once known for being stingy and skippable, today’s formulas are hardworking must-haves that exfoliate, decongest pores, and smooth skin without stripping it dry. BHA (a.k.a. beta hydroxy acid—most commonly in the form of salicylic acid) is oil-soluble, meaning it can dive deep into pores to clear out gunk and excess oil. That makes it especially helpful for breakout-prone or oily skin types, but even dry or sensitive skin can benefit with the right formula.
Our Top BHA Toners
- Best Overall: CosRx BHA Blackhead Power Liquid Treatment, $25
- Best for Combination Skin: Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant, $37
- Best for Sensitive Skin: Farmacy 2% BHA Pore Cleaning Toner, $34
- Best for Large Pores: Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow PHA + BHA Pore-Tight Toner, $36
Frequently Asked QuestionsLargeChevron
- Is it okay to use a BHA toner every day?
- Which ingredients shouldn’t be combined with BHA?
- Is there an ideal percentage of BHA?
- Meet the experts
- How we test and review products
- Our staff and testers
Over time, these toners can help reduce blackheads, minimize the look of pores, and improve overall tone and texture. Some even go the extra mile with soothing or hydrating ingredients, proving that toners aren’t just a throwaway step anymore—they’re an essential part of your skin-care routine.
Best Overall: CosRx BHA Blackhead Power Liquid Treatment
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Cosrx
BHA Blackhead Power Liquid Treatment
Amazon
Nordstrom
Dermstore
Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying the CosRx BHA Blackhead Power Liquid Treatment
Sarah Han
Why it's worth it: If you’re chasing that glass skin glow (and who isn’t?), CosRx BHA Blackhead Power Liquid Treatment is the one to beat. This K-beauty classic does everything you can ask for in a toner: It exfoliates, clears pores, smooths texture, and calms skin. It uses a gentle duo of BHAs with niacinamide (without a harsh sting) to keep breakouts under control and skin looking radiant and healthy. Even if you’re not following a whole 10-step routine, this toner works hard to brighten dullness, balance oil, and prep your skin to soak in whatever comes next.
Han before applying the CosRx BHA Blackhead Power Liquid Treatment
Sarah Han
Han after applying the CosRx BHA Blackhead Power Liquid Treatment
Sarah Han
Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han
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“This CosRx toner, much like their snail mucin essence, is what I like to call an oldie-but-a-goodie. It’s been around since I got into K-beauty over nine years ago, and whenever my blackheads are looking extra prominent, I reach for this trusty toner and spend some extra time post-double-cleanse to work it into my T-zone and on/around my nose (the biggest culprit!). I switch up the a.m. vs. p.m. application on the days I use a retinol serum at night, so CosRx goes on in the morning after splashing my face with water. I’ve noticed that my nose blackheads are less prominent and, well, dark, and some discoloration from self-inflicted picking (I know, I know!) has faded, which is an unexpected but welcome win!” —Sarah Han, commerce editor
Han has combination skin and her biggest concerns are blackheads and excess oil in her T-zone. She’s been using the CosRx BHA Blackhead Power Liquid every day (either morning or night, but not both) for three weeks.
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- Key ingredients: willow bark extract, niacinamide, sodium hyaluronate
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Combination Skin: Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
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Paula's Choice
Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
Amazon
Dermstore
Sephora
Allure contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai applying Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
Deanna Pai
Why it's worth it: Paula’s Choice built its reputation on no-BS, research-backed formulas, and the 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant is arguably the brand’s most-loved product. The viral toner uses salicylic acid to dive deep into pores, dissolving excess oil and dead skin buildup that can lead to breakouts. “It’s well tolerated by nearly all skin types, easily incorporated into a routine, and quite effective,” says Geeta Yadav, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Toronto, Canada; it’s one of the few viral products that she actually recommends in her practice. It also contains green tea, a natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant that helps calm the redness and irritation often seen in hormonal or inflammatory acne. For those with sensitive or reactive skin, this lightweight mist keeps things simple with just nine ingredients.
Pai before applying Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
Deanna Pai
Pai after applying Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
Deanna Pai
Tester feedback from contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai
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"I haven't used toner in ages, but when faced with pretty rough hormonal acne on my chin and jaw, I reached for this. I alternated it at night with Shani Darden’s Rescue Serum With 10% Azelaic Complex right after cleansing, and just smoothed it into my skin; it absorbed quickly without any need for a cotton pad. I've found that this seems to be my magic combo for controlling breakouts. And when the occasional cystic zit did pop up, it didn't get as red or as big as it typically might have. I'm happy to report that it lives up to the hype." —Deanna Pai, contributing commerce editor
Pai has combination skin and her biggest concerns are hormonal acne and hyperpigmentation. She’s been using the Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant once a day for three weeks.
More to know
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- Key ingredients: salicylic acid, green tea, methylpropanediol
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Sensitive Skin: Farmacy 2% BHA Pore Cleaning Toner
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Farmacy
2% BHA Pore Cleaning Toner
Amazon
Farmacy
Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying the Farmacy 2% BHA Pore Cleaning Toner
Christa Joanna Lee
Why it's worth it: If your skin panics at the mere thought of exfoliation, rest easy: Farmacy’s Deep Sweep 2% BHA Pore Cleaning Toner is gentler than you might expect. The alcohol- and fragrance-free formula uses 2% salicylic acid (the standard amount found in over-the-counter products) to clear out pores and papaya enzymes to brighten, while moringa seed extract and antioxidant-rich chlorella help hydrate and calm. It even includes peony root extract, known for its anti-inflammatory, skin-soothing properties, making it the rare exfoliant that plays well with sensitive, breakout-prone skin. In short, it keeps oil and blackheads in check without leaving your face feeling tight, stripped, or angry.
Lee before applying the Farmacy 2% BHA Pore Cleaning Toner
Christa Joanna Lee
Lee after applying the Farmacy 2% BHA Pore Cleaning Toner
Christa Joanna Lee
Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee
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“You’re catching me at a time when my skin is still recovering from a pretty intense allergic reaction to a different skin-care product (friendly reminder to patch test, people!). Per my dermatologist’s orders, I’ve shelved my retinoids and have taken a break from anything too harsh. So, I’ve been easing into Farmacy’s 2% BHA Pore Cleaning Toner every other day (sometimes every few days) for the past couple of weeks, and it’s been exactly what my skin needed. It gently buffs away dead skin cells and leaves my complexion looking a little brighter, yet doesn’t sting or freak out my skin.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer
Lee has sensitive skin and her biggest concerns are dryness, dullness, and redness. She’s been using the Farmacy 2% BHA Pore Cleaning Toner once every other night for two weeks.
More to know
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- Key ingredients: salicylic acid, moringa seed extract, papaya enzymes, chlorella
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Large Pores: Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow PHA + BHA Pore-Tight Toner
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Glow Recipe
Watermelon Glow PHA + BHA Pore-Tight Toner
Amazon
Sephora
Allure senior staff writer Elizabeth Gulino applying the Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow PHA + BHA Pore-Tight Toner
Elizabeth Gulino
Why it's worth it: Though Glow Recipe’s Watermelon Glow PHA + BHA Pore-Tight Toner won’t replicate the dramatic results of the HydraFacial it’s inspired by, it can still make enlarged pores look noticeably smaller and less prominent over time while delivering a hydrated, glass-skin glow. The formula "combines gentle 3% gluconolactone (a polyhydroxy acid) paired with betaine salicylate (a naturally derived BHA) to clear congested pores," Mamina Turegano, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New Orleans, previously told Allure. Meanwhile, a 62% blend of watermelon extract and cactus water—plus glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and polyglutamic acid—keeps skin every bit as juicy as it sounds, leaving it plump, dewy, and comfortably hydrated.
Gulino before applying the Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow PHA + BHA Pore-Tight Toner
Elizabeth Gulino
Gulino after applying the Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow PHA + BHA Pore-Tight Toner
Elizabeth Gulino
Tester feedback from senior staff writer Elizabeth Gulino
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“This exfoliating toner works magic on my pores—I usually apply it with a cotton pad and am left with smooth and hydrated skin. While the scent of watermelon in this product is definitely noticeable, it's a plus if you're into fruity, summery fragrances.” —Elizabeth Gulino, senior staff writer
Gulino has combination skin and her biggest concerns are redness and hyperpigmentation. She’s been using the Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow PHA + BHA Pore-Tight Toner every other day for two weeks.
More to know
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- Key ingredients: 3% gluconolactone, betaine salicylate, watermelon extract, cactus water, glycerin, hyaluronic acid, polyglutamic acid
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Brightening: SomeByMi AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Toner
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Some by Mi
AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Toner
Amazon
Ulta Beauty
Soko Glam
Why it's worth it: We consider it a miracle, too, when one product multitasks as well as SomeByMi’s AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Toner does. The triple-acid blend tackles dullness from all angles: Citric acid (an AHA) and papaya enzymes sweep away dead skin cells lingering on the surface, while salicylic acid dives into pores to clear excess oil and congestion that can leave your complexion looking lackluster. “Niacinamide further evens out skin tone and dials down excess shine while tea tree extract calms skin,” says Y. Claire Chang, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City.
And because Korean toners rarely sacrifice hydration in the name of exfoliation, lactobionic acid (a PHA) supports the skin barrier and locks in moisture, making the formula gentle enough for sensitive complexions. Although there’s no added fragrance, peppermint oil gives it a light minty scent and wakes up your senses.
More to know
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- Key ingredients: citric acid, papaya enzymes, salicylic acid, niacinamide, tea tree, lactobionic acid
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Acne-Prone Skin: SkinCeuticals LHA Toner
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SkinCeuticals
LHA Toner
SkinCeuticals
Dermstore
Bluemercury
Why it's worth it: SkinCeuticals’ LHA Toner is an exfoliating toner that means business. “This formula combines two forms of salicylic acid—standard and capryloyl salicylic acid, a gentler version—with glycolic acid at a low pH for potent exfoliation both at the skin’s surface and within the pore,” says Yadav. “That makes it effective at addressing all forms of congestion, including whiteheads, blackheads, and deeper blemishes.” The glycolic acid also helps fade post-acne discoloration over time. Because of its low pH and formulation, it’s best suited for those who aren’t dry or sensitive.
Don’t be thrown off by the slightly astringent scent: It contains denatured alcohol to help its exfoliating acids (salicylic and glycolic) penetrate more effectively. The formula dries down quickly and doesn’t leave behind any greasy or sticky residue.
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- Key ingredients: caproloyl salicylic acid, glycolic acid, salicylic acid
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Oily Skin: La Roche-Posay Effaclar Clarifying Solution Face Toner
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La Roche-Posay
Effaclar Clarifying Solution Acne Toner
Amazon
Dermstore
Ulta Beauty
Why it's worth it: Next time you’re at the drugstore, do yourself a favor and grab La Roche-Posay’s Effaclar Clarifying Solution, particularly if excess oil and breakouts are your main skin concerns. “This product is great for acne-prone skin, and I often recommend it with the Effaclar Purifying Foam Gel Cleanser, which also contains purifying properties,” says Heather Woolery-Lloyd, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Miami. Along with exfoliating acids, it’s made with La Roche-Posay’s signature thermal spring water. “Thermal spring water contains minerals, trace elements, and a high concentration of selenium. These are prebiotics that are helpful for the skin’s microbiome,” she says. (Prebiotics, for the uninitiated, are materials that nourish the beneficial bacteria on your skin.) Each swipe gets you closer to more balanced skin.
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- Key ingredients: lip-hydroxy acid, glycerin, thermal spring water
- Fragrance-free: no
Best Drugstore: Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Stress Control Triple-Action Toner
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Neutrogena
Oil-Free Acne Stress Control Triple-Action Toner
Amazon
Why it's worth it: If you’re stressed about breakouts (or breaking out because you’re stressed), Neutrogena’s Oil-Free Acne Stress Control Triple-Action Toner keeps excess oil at bay. “This product uses MicroClear Technology proven to dissolve oil and also improve the penetration of salicylic acid,” says Dr. Woolery-Lloyd. “It’s great for patients who are very concerned about excessively oily skin.” The formula combines 2% salicylic acid with calming green tea and cucumber extracts, plus glycerin to lightly hydrate so your skin feels refreshed, not tight. As the name suggests, this toner does triple duty: It treats acne, cuts down on oil, and soothes stressed-out skin all in one refreshing swipe.
More to know
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- Key ingredients: salicylic acid, cucumber extract
- Fragrance-free: no
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it okay to use a BHA toner every day?
BHA usage depends on your skin type. “Yes, it is okay to use a BHA daily for people with normal to oily skin,” says Dr. Woolery-Lloyd. “People with dry skin may need to decrease the frequency of use.” Because BHAs like salicylic acid help unclog pores and reduce excess oil, they’re often well tolerated by acne-prone skin types. That said, if you’re new to chemical exfoliants or have sensitive skin, it’s smart to start slow and build up to daily use. And don’t forget sunscreen, as BHAs can make your skin more sun-sensitive.
Which ingredients shouldn’t be combined with BHA?
While BHA can be paired with many ingredients, certain combinations may be too harsh. “People with dehydrated or sensitive skin may experience excessive dryness if they combine a salicylic acid toner with other drying or exfoliating ingredients, such as other acids, retinol, or benzoyl peroxide,” says Dr. Woolery-Lloyd. That said, “for people with normal to oily skin, these combinations of ingredients are very common.” Another combo to be cautious with is vitamin C and acids like BHA, since “vitamin C stability is pH-dependent,” she adds. To minimize irritation, consider alternating active ingredients or using them at different times of day.
Is there an ideal percentage of BHA?
There’s no one-size-fits-all ideal percentage of BHA—it depends on your skin type and what you’re using it for. “The concentration that is typically used for acne is 2%,” says Dr. Woolery-Lloyd. “For general use, concentrations range from 0.5 to 2%.” If you have sensitive skin, she notes that “lower concentrations may be better,” since tolerability can vary based on strength. “It really depends on the formula, but theoretically, the higher the percentage, the greater the exfoliating effects,” she adds.
Meet the experts
- Y. Claire Chang, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at UnionDerm based in New York City
- Mamina Turegano, MD, a board-certified dermatologist, internist, and dermatopathologist based in New Orleans
- Heather Woolery-Lloyd, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Miami
- Geeta Yadav, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Facet Dermatology based in Toronto, Canada
How we test and review products
When Allure tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle in an effort to best serve you. We review ingredients, scrutinize brand claims, and, when necessary, examine peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies. In addition to testing each and every product that's included in each and every review, we rely on experts who shape their fields, including dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine, to help us vet the ingredients and formulas.
For our list of the best toners for sensitive skin, we considered each product's performance across five primary categories: product ingredients and efficacy, packaging, fragrance, texture, and product wear. Every product was determined to have excelled in each category by our editorial team, which is composed of in-house writers and editors as well as contributors—along with special consideration from dermatologists. To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our complete reviews process and methodology page.
Our staff and testers
A beauty product is a personal purchase. You might be searching for a face cream to address persistent dryness or a new nail product to add to your Sunday self-care routine; you may simply be browsing around for the latest launches to hit the hair market. No matter what you seek or your individual needs and concerns, Allure wants to ensure that you love anything we recommend in our stories. We believe that having a diverse team of writers and editors—in addition to the wide range of outside testers and industry experts we regularly call upon—is essential to reaching that goal.
After all, can we really say a skin-care product is the "best" for people over 50 if the only testers we've solicited opinions from folks who have yet to hit 30? Can we honestly deem a high-end diffuser worthy of your hard-earned cash if it's never been tested on curls? We're proud that our staff spans a wide range of ages, skin tones, hair textures, genders, and backgrounds, which means that we are able to fairly assess any beauty product that comes into the beauty closet.
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