Collage: Paula Balondo; Source images: Courtesy of Allure editors and brands Save Story Save this story Save Story Save 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.
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.
Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying the CosRx BHA Blackhead Power Liquid Treatment
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
Han after applying the CosRx BHA Blackhead Power Liquid Treatment
Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han
“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.
Key ingredients: willow bark extract, niacinamide, sodium hyaluronate Fragrance-free: yes Best for Combination Skin: Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant Save to wishlist Save to wishlist Paula's Choice
Allure contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai applying Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
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 sali…