




Exfoliating toners can help if you think you need to address skin concerns like hyperpigmentation, dullness, and acne. Exfoliating toners are also referred to as “acid toners” because they contain AHAs, BHAs, and PHAs. These chemical exfoliants are considered better and relatively more gentle than physical exfoliants as they remove the dead skin cells from within.
You will know more about them in this buying guide to help you on your quest to find the right product according to your skin’s concerns. We even included some comments ad tips from board-certified dermatologist Dr. Katrina Erika Habaluyas Luz. Find out why and when to use one and check the best of the best on our list. Let’s get started!
Quick List - Top Exfoliating Toners
LUXE ORGANIX

Unclog, Refine, and Glow, Your Daily Complexion Miracle
The Originote

Pore-fectly Clear, Perfectly Hydrated Skin

Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz is the face behind Ask Your Derma. She is a board-certified dermatologist in Metro Manila. She is also an educator and digital creator on all things skin, hair, and nails. She is a Diplomate of the Philippine Dermatological Society and offers online video consultations. You can also catch her on her Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube channel.

Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Every mybest article is crafted with hours of in-depth research and interviews with experts. Each month, we are continually expanding our database of products based on our research. By emphasizing user insight and reliable information, we deliver trustworthy content to readers.
The skin naturally exfoliates after 28 to 30 days, but sometimes the skin needs a bit of help to keep the pores from being clogged. A great and gentle way to exfoliate is by using exfoliating toners. They consist of acids that are non-abrasive, resulting in a healthy, beautiful glow.
With the right concentration and combination of acids, they can even penetrate even the multiple layers of your skin. These exfoliating toners are also well-formulated with other ingredients to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, unclog pores, brighten dark spots, to name a few.
There are other ways to exfoliate your skin, such as chemical peels, scrubs, and sponges. However, some of these alternatives can be too harsh on your skin. For instance, scrubs can be rough or have a coarse texture, so if you have sensitive skin, it may harm the surface of the face's skin.

Remember, when it comes to exfoliating toners, choose one that is gentle regardless of your skin type. At the end of the day, the skin cells still form a part of the skin barrier. If done too aggressively, you'd be left with broken skin.
Here are some key points to consider:
For more detailed information, read through our buying guide below.
If you plan to include an exfoliating toner in your skincare routine, here are the important things to consider based on your skin type. Exfoliating toners aren’t formulated the same, so make sure you also know the active ingredients in the bottle.
Exfoliating toners are formulated with acids, such as glycolic acid, malic acid, citric acid, and lactic acid, which are both AHAs or (Alpha Hydroxy Acids). These two superstar ingredients are beneficial for combination to dry skin. They reduce fine lines and wrinkles, brighten the skin, and eliminate dark spots from sun damage. AHAs are less likely to irritate the skin with the right dose.

When applied to the skin, AHAs such as glycolic acid enable exfoliation of skin cells in the stratum corneum leading to the sloughing off of dull skin and promoting cellular renewal. The benefits of AHAs include exfoliation, reduction of fine lines and wrinkles, collagen synthesis, skin lightening, and moisturization.
As for the ever-tricky combination skin type, lactic acid is a good option as it is a water-soluble alpha-hydroxy acid. It's hydrophilic, aka water-loving, and thus can bind water to the skin's surface, improving hydration and skin texture. Lactic acid also strengthens the skin barrier and helps reduce fine lines and wrinkles.
Salicylic acid is the most common BHA or Beta Hydroxy Acid ingredient used in exfoliating toners. This is the gold standard in treating acne and other skin problems like whiteheads and blackheads. It can penetrate your skin's surface and pores, which can prevent breakouts and blackheads.
Moreover, salicylic acid has anti-inflammatory properties, which effectively treat rosacea and regulate sebum production. BHAs also target sun discoloration and improve overall skin texture. Look for concentrations of about 0.5% to 2% BHA solutions if you want to treat acne, blemishes, and clogged pores.
Although not a BHA, another ingredient to consider is witch hazel, recommended by dermatologists ideal for oily and acne-prone skin. It's a natural astringent with anti-inflammatory powers that can relieve dry and irritated skin. Go for alcohol-free exfoliating toners, especially if you plan to use them regularly.

For oily and acne-prone skin, an exfoliating toner can be beneficial. Look for ingredients such as salicylic acid, a beta-hydroxy acid that is lipid-soluble, making it an attractive ingredient for oily skin. It has the ability to penetrate inside pores and remove oil and debris.
PHAs or Polyhydroxy Acids are exfoliators that repair the skin, remove dead skin cells, and have anti-aging benefits. Some examples are gluconolactone, galactose, and lactoionic acid. They are recommended for all skin types, but sensitive skin will benefit significantly from these because they are more gentle than AHAs and BHAs.
PHAs are gentle on the skin because they have large molecules, which penetrate slowly into the skin. On top of that, they are also humectants, which means they also retain moisture on your skin. They can also combat glycation, a process that weakens your skin’s elasticity and collagen.

For those with a sensitive skin type, a good alternative is PHAs or polyhydroxy acids. The thing about polyhydroxy acids is that there are larger molecules and, thus, by virtue of their size, are unable to penetrate deep into the skin. With that, they have fewer chances of causing irritation. Look for ingredients such as gluconolactone or lactobionic acid! And remember, patch test, patch test, patch test!
Exfoliating toners do not only contain exfoliants! Some contain good-for-the-skin nourishing ingredients like vitamin C, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and more! Read the section below to find out more!
If you have dull skin, look for exfoliating toners that have active ingredients like vitamin C and vitamin A, antioxidant skin superstars that brighten your skin, and are beneficial for those who have uneven skin tone. Kojic acid, Panax ginseng, and glutathione also have skin brightening benefits and target dark spots, sun damage, and scars.
You may also want to look for ingredients to address hyperpigmentation—AHAs, such as glycolic acid and lactic acid, and also niacinamide, a well-known humectant that can reduce dark spots. Azelaic acid, a not-so-distant acid to AHAs and BHAs, also has a "magical" skin-lightening effect.

Is your skin concern "skin that is dull and lackluster"? Or perhaps, hyperpigmentation? Toners that contain ingredients such as niacinamide have been shown to have brightening effects on the skin. And the great thing about it, it's backed by clinical trials! Another option would be choosing toners with antioxidants such as Vitamin C, which has been shown to protect the skin from UV-induced damage.
Look for exfoliating toners that are alcohol-free because alcohol can dry your skin. If you already have dry skin, look for moisturizing ingredients like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide to strengthen the skin's barrier and soothing effects. Aloe vera extract is beneficial for the skin as a natural ingredient - ideal for improving skin hydration.
Avoid toners that have sulfates and dyes, which can also exacerbate dryness. While glycolic acid is recommended for oily skin, it’s also a humectant, which can help retain moisture on your skin.

If you have dry skin, definitely choose an alcohol-free toner. More than exfoliating toners, you can even opt for a hydrating toner to provide that extra boost of hydration. Look for ingredients such as hyaluronic acid or glycerin. These can give you the extra hydration you need.
Mature skin tends to be dry, dull and may have a rough texture and dark spots. Since AHAs have anti-aging properties aside from their ability to remove dead skin cells, look for exfoliants formulated with these acids and other active ingredients like green tea extract. It also has moisturizing powers and can reduce skin roughness.
Humectants are also beneficial for this type of skin, so toners with niacinamide, ceramides, hyaluronic acid are the best bet. Overall, since this type of skin can also be sensitive, go for gentle exfoliants and formulations with the right amount of concentration of acids.

Those with mature skin types can benefit from an exfoliating toner that contains alpha-hydroxy acids. Studies have shown that alpha-hydroxy acids such as glycolic acid are effective in reversing the effects of aging.
How? AHAs stimulate the exfoliation of epidermal cells in the stratum corneum leading to the sloughing off of dull skin and promoting cellular renewal. The benefits of AHAs include exfoliation, reduction of fine lines and wrinkles, collagen synthesis, skin lightening, and moisturization.
In addition to AHAs, certain vitamins have also been shown to provide anti-aging benefits. Niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3, has been shown to improve fine lines and wrinkles, dark spots, blotchiness as well as elasticity.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Exfoliant | Skin Type | Key Ingredients | Glycolic Acid Percentage | Best For | Alcohol-Free | Fragrance-Free | Net Weight | |||||
1 | Cosrx AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner | ![]() | Clear, Smooth, Refined Skin With Every Swipe | AHA, BHA | Normal Skin, Oily Skin, Combination Skin | Mineral Water, Willow Bark Water, Apple Fruit Water, Butylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Sodium Lactate, Glycolic Acid, Betaine Salicylate, Allantoin, Panthenol, Ethyl Hexanediol | 0.1% | Oily Skin, Combination Skin | 150 mL | |||
2 | LUXE ORGANIX Miracle Solutions AHA/BHA Pore Toner | ![]() | Unclog, Refine, and Glow, Your Daily Complexion Miracle | AHA, BHA, PHA | Normal Skin, Oily Skin, Sensitive Skin, Combination Skin | Tea Tree Oil, Niacinamide | unknown | Oily Skin, Sensitive Skin, Combination Skin | 150 mL | |||
3 | Snailwhite Glow Potion AHA/BHA Toner |150 ml | ![]() | Radiance from Within, Without the Sting | AHA, BHA | Oily Skin, Dry Skin, Sensitive Skin, Combination Skin, All Skin Types | Butylene Glycol, Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid, Ginseng Extract, Witch Hazel, Swiss Alpine Willowherb, Glycerin | unknown | Oily Skin, Sensitive Skin, Dry Skin, Combination Skin | 150 mL | |||
4 | The Originote H Low Clarifying Toner Exfoliating and Hydrating with AHA BHA PHA | ![]() | Pore-fectly Clear, Perfectly Hydrated Skin | AHA, BHA, PHA | Normal Skin, Oily Skin, Dry Skin, Sensitive Skin, Combination Skin, All Skin Types | Willow Bark Extract, Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid, Allantoin, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol | unknown | Oily Skin, Sensitive Skin, Dry Skin, Combination Skin | 80 mL | |||
5 | Papa Recipe Eggplant Clearing Peeling Pad Toner | ![]() | Gentle Exfoliation Meets Soothing Care | AHA, BHA, PHA | Normal Skin, Oily Skin, Dry Skin, Sensitive Skin, Combination Skin | Eggplant Extract, Centella Asiatica, Calendula | unknown | Oily Skin, Sensitive Skin, Dry Skin, Combination Skin | 255 mL | |||
6 | Dermorepubliq 7% Glycolic Acid (AHA) Skin Renewing Toner | ![]() | Renew Your Look, Reclaim Your Confidence | AHA | Normal Skin, Oily Skin, Dry Skin, Sensitive Skin, Combination Skin | Aloe Vera Leaf Juice, Propylene Glycol, Glycerin, Sodium Hydroxide, Cucumber Extract, Gotu Kola Extract, Papaya Fruit Extract, Witch Hazel Leaf Extract | 7% | Oily Skin, Sensitive Skin, Dry Skin, Combination Skin | 100 mL | |||
7 | Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant | ![]() | Unclog Pores, Smooth Wrinkles, Brighten Beauty | BHA | Normal Skin, Oily Skin, Dry Skin, Sensitive Skin, Combination Skin, All Skin Types | Green Tea Extract, Methylpropanediol, Butylene Glycol, Polysorbate 20, Sodium Hydroxide | 0% | Oily Skin, Sensitive Skin, Dry Skin, Combination Skin | 30 mL, 118 mL, 236 mL | |||
8 | The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution | ![]() | Glow Up Starts Here | AHA | Normal Skin, Oily Skin, Dry Skin, Combination Skin, All Skin Types | Amino Acids, Aloe Vera, Ginseng, Tasmanian Pepperberry | 7% | Oily Skin, Dry Skin, Combination Skin | 240 mL | |||
9 | Y.O.U Reeffect Boost 7% Glycolic Acid Deep Exfoliating Toner with AHA BHA PHA | ![]() | Dazzle Bright, Clear Deep, Feel Fresh Daily | AHA, BHA, PHA | Oily Skin, Sensitive Skin, All Skin Types | Tranexamic Acid, 5X Centella Asiatica, 7X Soothing Complex | 7% | Oily Skin | 100 mL | |||
10 | Sola Yuzu Burst Glow Toner | ![]() | A Citrusy Burst of Sparkle and Healthy Vibrance | AHA, BHA | Oily Skin, Sensitive Skin, Combination Skin, All Skin Types | Yuzu Extract (high in Vitamin C), Korean Black Ginseng, Gluconolactone | unknown | Oily Skin, Sensitive Skin, Combination Skin | 150 mL | |||
| Exfoliant | AHA, BHA |
|---|---|
| Skin Type | Normal Skin, Oily Skin, Combination Skin |
| Key Ingredients | Mineral Water, Willow Bark Water, Apple Fruit Water, Butylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Sodium Lactate, Glycolic Acid, Betaine Salicylate, Allantoin, Panthenol, Ethyl Hexanediol |
| Glycolic Acid Percentage | 0.1% |
| Best For | Oily Skin, Combination Skin |
| Alcohol-Free | |
| Fragrance-Free | |
| Net Weight | 150 mL |
| Exfoliant | AHA, BHA, PHA |
|---|---|
| Skin Type | Normal Skin, Oily Skin, Sensitive Skin, Combination Skin |
| Key Ingredients | Tea Tree Oil, Niacinamide |
| Glycolic Acid Percentage | unknown |
| Best For | Oily Skin, Sensitive Skin, Combination Skin |
| Alcohol-Free | |
| Fragrance-Free | |
| Net Weight | 150 mL |
Features and benefits:
Reviews mention:
Users appreciate its gentle yet effective exfoliation, noting brighter, more radiant skin and visibly smaller pores. Many report improved skin texture and hydration without irritation, making it suitable even for sensitive skin. Others love its lightweight feel and that it prepares skin well for moisturizing and other treatments. Some users with very sensitive or dry skin may experience mild dryness or irritation initially.
| Exfoliant | AHA, BHA |
|---|---|
| Skin Type | Oily Skin, Dry Skin, Sensitive Skin, Combination Skin, All Skin Types |
| Key Ingredients | Butylene Glycol, Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid, Ginseng Extract, Witch Hazel, Swiss Alpine Willowherb, Glycerin |
| Glycolic Acid Percentage | unknown |
| Best For | Oily Skin, Sensitive Skin, Dry Skin, Combination Skin |
| Alcohol-Free | |
| Fragrance-Free | |
| Net Weight | 150 mL |
| Exfoliant | AHA, BHA, PHA |
|---|---|
| Skin Type | Normal Skin, Oily Skin, Dry Skin, Sensitive Skin, Combination Skin, All Skin Types |
| Key Ingredients | Willow Bark Extract, Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid, Allantoin, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol |
| Glycolic Acid Percentage | unknown |
| Best For | Oily Skin, Sensitive Skin, Dry Skin, Combination Skin |
| Alcohol-Free | |
| Fragrance-Free | |
| Net Weight | 80 mL |
| Exfoliant | AHA, BHA, PHA |
|---|---|
| Skin Type | Normal Skin, Oily Skin, Dry Skin, Sensitive Skin, Combination Skin |
| Key Ingredients | Eggplant Extract, Centella Asiatica, Calendula |
| Glycolic Acid Percentage | unknown |
| Best For | Oily Skin, Sensitive Skin, Dry Skin, Combination Skin |
| Alcohol-Free | |
| Fragrance-Free | |
| Net Weight | 255 mL |
| Exfoliant | AHA |
|---|---|
| Skin Type | Normal Skin, Oily Skin, Dry Skin, Sensitive Skin, Combination Skin |
| Key Ingredients | Aloe Vera Leaf Juice, Propylene Glycol, Glycerin, Sodium Hydroxide, Cucumber Extract, Gotu Kola Extract, Papaya Fruit Extract, Witch Hazel Leaf Extract |
| Glycolic Acid Percentage | 7% |
| Best For | Oily Skin, Sensitive Skin, Dry Skin, Combination Skin |
| Alcohol-Free | |
| Fragrance-Free | |
| Net Weight | 100 mL |
| Exfoliant | BHA |
|---|---|
| Skin Type | Normal Skin, Oily Skin, Dry Skin, Sensitive Skin, Combination Skin, All Skin Types |
| Key Ingredients | Green Tea Extract, Methylpropanediol, Butylene Glycol, Polysorbate 20, Sodium Hydroxide |
| Glycolic Acid Percentage | 0% |
| Best For | Oily Skin, Sensitive Skin, Dry Skin, Combination Skin |
| Alcohol-Free | |
| Fragrance-Free | |
| Net Weight | 30 mL, 118 mL, 236 mL |
Features and benefits:
Reviews mention:
Typical reviews highlight the product’s effectiveness in smoothing skin texture, shrinking pores around the nose, fading dark spots, improving overall glow, and its versatility for face and body application. A few users report noticeable improvements in acne scarring, hyperpigmentation, and even keratosis pilaris with consistent use. The toner is praised for being gentle yet effective without causing irritation. Negative feedback generally concerns the potential for over-exfoliation if used too frequently, leading to skin barrier sensitivity or irritation in some users.
| Exfoliant | AHA |
|---|---|
| Skin Type | Normal Skin, Oily Skin, Dry Skin, Combination Skin, All Skin Types |
| Key Ingredients | Amino Acids, Aloe Vera, Ginseng, Tasmanian Pepperberry |
| Glycolic Acid Percentage | 7% |
| Best For | Oily Skin, Dry Skin, Combination Skin |
| Alcohol-Free | |
| Fragrance-Free | |
| Net Weight | 240 mL |
| Exfoliant | AHA, BHA, PHA |
|---|---|
| Skin Type | Oily Skin, Sensitive Skin, All Skin Types |
| Key Ingredients | Tranexamic Acid, 5X Centella Asiatica, 7X Soothing Complex |
| Glycolic Acid Percentage | 7% |
| Best For | Oily Skin |
| Alcohol-Free | |
| Fragrance-Free | |
| Net Weight | 100 mL |
| Exfoliant | AHA, BHA |
|---|---|
| Skin Type | Oily Skin, Sensitive Skin, Combination Skin, All Skin Types |
| Key Ingredients | Yuzu Extract (high in Vitamin C), Korean Black Ginseng, Gluconolactone |
| Glycolic Acid Percentage | unknown |
| Best For | Oily Skin, Sensitive Skin, Combination Skin |
| Alcohol-Free | |
| Fragrance-Free | |
| Net Weight | 150 mL |

Before you slather on that exfoliating toner on your face, read Dr. Katrina's answers to some of the internet's most asked questions!
Different skin types can benefit from an exfoliating toner. The key lies in identifying the right one. Another equally important consideration is what your skin concern is and choosing the toner that addresses it!
Remember, there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to skincare. We cannot predict the reaction of everyone to a particular product. While there are some people with sensitive skin who will both benefit from and tolerate exfoliating toners, there are some who might not too! At the end of the day, listen to your skin! Also, Ask Your Derma for guidance too!
Remember, toners aren't a must in any skincare routine. They are great add-ons, especially if you have a particular skin concern that can be addressed by such. Based on that premise having more than one exfoliating toner may not be beneficial. In fact, it may even increase the chances of your skin developing irritation. Sometimes, less is more!
Are toners a must? The answer is actually no. But exploring the world of toners can be an interesting endeavor, not to mention it does have its benefits. Always listen to your skin!
Because sharing is caring, here are some of the skincare products our specialists have reviewed so far. Achieve that glass skin look and explore the best skincare items that fit your needs and budget. Click the links below for more buying guides and product recommendations.
10 Best Skincare Products With Centella Asiatica (Cica) in the Philippines 2025 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist
10 Best Korean Essences in the Philippines 2025 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist
10 Best Night Serums in the Philippines 2025 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist
10 Best Anti-Aging Serums in the Philippines 2025 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
No. 1: Cosrx |AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner
No. 2: LUXE ORGANIX |Miracle Solutions AHA/BHA Pore Toner
No. 3: Snailwhite |Glow Potion AHA/BHA Toner |150 ml
No. 4: The Originote |H Low Clarifying Toner Exfoliating and Hydrating with AHA BHA PHA
No. 5: Papa Recipe |Eggplant Clearing Peeling Pad Toner
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.

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