Anua BHA 2% Gentle Exfoliating Toner 150ml

Values You Can Trust: Halal-Friendly* / Vegan-Friendly* / Cruelty-Free* / 100% Authentic Guarantee

*Self-assessed by Adilsons based on available ingredient data (no ethanol/denat.; no haram animal-derived ingredients detected). / *Self-assessed by Adilsons based on available ingredient data (no animal-derived ingredients detected). / *Brand-stated; not certified by an independent body.

Dealing with stubborn blackheads, persistent breakouts, and rough skin texture can be frustrating. This toner offers a gentle yet effective solution to clarify and smooth your complexion without the harshness often associated with chemical exfoliants.

• Best For: Oily, Combination, and Acne-Prone skin types.
• Primary Benefits: Decongests pores, reduces blackheads and whiteheads, and refines skin texture.
• Key Ingredients: Salicylic Acid (BHA) 2%, Tea Tree Extract, 6 types of Ceramides, Hyaluronic Acid.
• Texture & Feel: A lightweight, watery liquid that absorbs quickly with no sticky residue.
• When to Use: PM only, starting 1-2 times per week and gradually increasing.

Introduce this toner into your evening routine slowly to let your skin adapt.

1. Cleanser: Wash your face with a gentle cleanser to create a clean base.
2. Anua BHA Toner (THIS PRODUCT): Dispense a few drops onto a cotton pad or into your palms and sweep over your face. See "How to Use" for frequency.
3. Moisturiser: Follow with a hydrating, non-comedogenic moisturiser to soothe and protect your skin barrier.

Mindful Consumption Note: If you already own a BHA or AHA exfoliant, finish it first before incorporating this one. Substitute, don’t stack strong exfoliants.

This exfoliant is best used in the evening. Your morning routine should focus on hydration and protection:

• Minimalist (3 steps): 1) Cleanser → 2) Hydrating Moisturiser → 3) Sunscreen SPF 30+
• Wait Times: Always wait 1-2 minutes for your moisturiser to absorb before applying sunscreen to prevent pilling.

• Minimalist (3 steps): 1) Cleanser (double-cleanse if you wear makeup or water-resistant SPF) → 2) Anua BHA Toner (THIS PRODUCT) → 3) Moisturiser.
• Optional: For extra hydration, you can add a soothing serum (like one with Centella or Hyaluronic Acid) between the toner and moisturiser.
• Texture Rule: Always apply products from the thinnest to thickest consistency.

Evening Use — PM Only:

• Amount: 3-4 drops, enough to dampen a cotton pad or lightly cover your face with your palms. Do not over-saturate.
• Apply to: A clean, dry face. Avoid the immediate eye and lip area.
• Method: Gently sweep across the face with a cotton pad, or pat in with your hands. Do not rub harshly.
• Frequency: Start with 1-2 times per week on non-consecutive nights. After 2-3 weeks, if your skin shows no signs of irritation, you may increase to 3 times per week. Daily use is not recommended for most people.
• Wait Times: Wait for the toner to fully absorb (about 1-2 minutes) before applying your next skincare step (serum or moisturiser).

If-This / Then-That:

• Very Oily/Congested Skin? You might tolerate use up to every other night. Focus application on the T-zone and areas with blackheads.
• Sensitive/Reactive Skin? Start once a week. Consider applying it over a hydrating toner to buffer the acid slightly.
• On Retinoids? Do not use this toner on the same night as your retinoid. Alternate nights to avoid over-exfoliation and irritation.

Safety: This product contains BHA, which can increase sun sensitivity. Daily use of sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher is mandatory. Avoid use on broken or irritated skin. Discontinue if you experience a burning rash.

Properly scheduling your exfoliants is key to avoiding irritation and achieving the best results. Here is an example for a beginner:

• Monday PM: THIS PRODUCT (Anua BHA Toner)
• Tuesday PM: Soothing/Hydrating Night (no strong actives)
• Wednesday PM: Soothing/Hydrating Night
• Thursday PM: THIS PRODUCT (Anua BHA Toner)
• Friday PM: Soothing/Hydrating Night
• Saturday PM: Soothing/Hydrating Night
• Sunday PM: Soothing/Hydrating Night or a gentle hydrating mask.

Rules:

• Always use strong actives like BHA in your PM routine.
• Do not use strong retinoids (retinol/retinal) or other strong acids (like glycolic acid >5%) on the same night as this toner.
• Listen to your skin. If you feel any irritation or dryness, skip the exfoliant and have an extra soothing night.

Mauritius Note: In our humid climate, this lightweight toner is excellent for keeping pores clear. Sunscreen is non-negotiable the next day to protect freshly exfoliated skin.

Consistency and patience are crucial. Skincare is a marathon, not a sprint.

• Immediate (First 1-3 uses): Skin may feel smoother to the touch as the toner helps to lift away dead surface cells.
• 2-4 Weeks: You may notice a reduction in blackheads and whiteheads. Some users may experience "purging" – a temporary increase in small breakouts as the BHA cleans out congested pores. This should subside within a few weeks.
• 4-8+ Weeks: With consistent use, skin texture should appear more refined, pores less congested, and overall skin tone may look brighter and more even, especially on post-acne marks.

• Why use a BHA Toner, not a harsh facial scrub? Harsh physical scrubs with large, jagged particles (like crushed shells or sugar) can cause micro-tears in the skin. This damages your skin barrier and can worsen inflammation and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), especially on acne-prone skin. A well-formulated BHA toner like Anua's dissolves the "glue" holding dead skin cells inside the pore, providing a much safer and more effective exfoliation.

• ✅ Works Well With: Hydrating ingredients like Hyaluronic Acid, Snail Mucin, and Beta-Glucan. Soothing ingredients like Centella Asiatica (Cica), Panthenol, and Allantoin. Niacinamide can also be used in the same routine to help with pores and oil control.
• ⚠️ Use With Caution: Avoid using on the same night as other strong exfoliants (AHAs like Glycolic Acid) or strong retinoids (Retinol, Retinal). Alternate nights to prevent irritation. If using Vitamin C in your AM routine, ensure your skin barrier is healthy and shows no signs of sensitivity.
• ❌ Avoid On: Do not apply to broken, wounded, or visibly irritated skin.

• Oily & Combination Skin: Excellent. Salicylic acid is oil-soluble, allowing it to penetrate and decongest oily pores effectively, helping to control shine and prevent breakouts.
• Acne-Prone Skin: Highly recommended. Directly targets clogged pores, blackheads, and whiteheads, which are the precursors to inflammatory acne.
• Normal Skin: Good for occasional use (e.g., once a week) to maintain clear pores and smooth texture, especially if you experience occasional congestion in the T-zone.
• Dry & Sensitive Skin: Use with caution. While Anua's formula is gentler than many 2% BHA products, it can still be drying. If you have dry skin, ensure you follow up with rich, barrier-supporting moisturisers. If you have very sensitive skin or rosacea, a PHA-based exfoliant may be a safer choice. Always patch test first.

• Clogged Pores
• Blackheads & Whiteheads
• Acne & Blemishes
• Excess Sebum / Oiliness
• Rough or Uneven Skin Texture
• Dullness

• Official Korean Name: 아누아 BHA 2% 젠틀 각질 토너 (Anua BHA 2% Gentle Gakjil Toner)
• Country of Manufacture: South Korea
• Period After Opening (PAO): 12 Months
• Date Marks Explained: Korean products often print the manufacturing date (제조) instead of the expiry date (까지). An unopened product is typically safe to use for 36 months from its manufacturing date.

• Halal Status: Halal-Friendly*. This product does not contain ethanol/denatured alcohol or any obvious non-permissible animal-derived ingredients based on our INCI review.
• Vegan Status: Vegan-Friendly*. Anua states their brand is vegan. Our review of the ingredients confirms no animal-derived components were detected.
• Animal Testing Policy: Cruelty-Free*. Anua is a brand that states it does not test on animals.

*Self-assessed by Adilsons based on available ingredient data (no ethanol/denat.; no haram animal-derived ingredients detected). / *Self-assessed by Adilsons based on available ingredient data (no animal-derived ingredients detected). / *Brand-stated; not certified by an independent body.

• MFDS Class: General Cosmetic. This product is not classified as a "Functional Cosmetic" by the South Korean Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS, formerly KFDA).
• Clinical Evidence: The brand states high satisfaction in pore care and improvement in skin clarity within 2 weeks based on internal testing. No public dataset is available for independent verification.
• Medical Disclaimer: This is a cosmetic product intended for skincare purposes only. It is not a medical treatment and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

*Brand claim—no public dataset available for independent verification.

Key Actives Explained:

• Salicylic Acid (BHA) 2%: The star ingredient. An oil-soluble acid that penetrates deep into pores to exfoliate from within, dissolving sebum and dead skin cells that cause clogs. It's also anti-inflammatory, helping to calm breakouts.
• Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Extract: Known for its natural antimicrobial and soothing properties, making it excellent for blemish-prone skin.
• Ceramide NP (and 5 other ceramides): These are lipids that are naturally part of your skin barrier. Adding them to the formula helps to strengthen the skin's defenses and prevent moisture loss, counteracting potential dryness from the BHA.
• Hyaluronic Acid (multiple forms): A powerful humectant that draws moisture into the skin, ensuring it stays hydrated and plump.
• Allantoin: A soothing and skin-protecting ingredient that helps to calm irritation.

Full INCI List:

Water, Dipropylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Salicylic Acid, C12-14 Pareth-12, Tromethamine, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Water, Sodium Hyaluronate, Houttuynia Cordata Extract, Allantoin, Butylene Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Disodium EDTA, Pentylene Glycol

• Fragrance Status: Fragrance-Free. This product contains no added artificial fragrances.
• Scent Profile: It has a very faint, slightly medicinal scent from the Tea Tree extract, which dissipates quickly. Intensity: 1/5.
• EU Allergens: None of the 26 declarable EU allergens are listed in the ingredients.

Purging & Photosensitivity Notice:

• Purging: When starting BHA, you might experience a "purge," where underlying clogs come to the surface as small pimples. This is a sign the product is working and should resolve in 2-4 weeks. If you experience irritation, redness, or breakouts in areas where you don't normally get them, discontinue use.
• Photosensitivity: BHAs can make your skin more sensitive to the sun. The daily use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher is essential while using this product and for a week after.

Patch Test Protocol:

1. Apply a pea-sized amount of the toner to a small, clean area of skin, such as behind your ear or on your jawline.
2. Wait 24-48 hours to observe for any signs of irritation like redness, itching, or burning.
3. If no irritation occurs, you can proceed with using the product on your face, starting with a low frequency (1-2 times per week).

For Teens: This product can be suitable for teenage acne, but should be part of a simple routine: cleanser, this toner (sparingly), moisturiser, and daily sunscreen. Avoid combining with other strong actives.

• Texture & Finish: A clear, watery liquid. It feels just like water on the skin and absorbs within seconds, leaving a natural, non-shiny finish with no tackiness.
• Scent: Minimal to no scent, with a very subtle hint of tea tree.
• pH: Approximately 3.5 - 4.0. This low pH is optimal for salicylic acid to effectively exfoliate.
• Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Compatibility: The ingredient list appears to be suitable for those with FA-prone skin, as it is free from common triggers like oils and esters. However, individual responses can vary.

• Issue: My skin feels dry or tight after use.
  Solution: You may be using it too frequently. Reduce use to once a week and ensure you are applying a rich, hydrating moisturiser afterward. You can also try applying it over a layer of hydrating toner to buffer its strength.
• Issue: I'm getting more breakouts than usual.
  Solution: This could be skin purging, which is temporary. However, if breakouts are inflamed, itchy, or in new areas, it might be irritation. Stop use for a week to let your skin calm down, then reintroduce it very slowly (once a week).
• Issue: I feel a slight tingling sensation.
  Solution: A mild, brief tingle can be normal for acid products, especially on the first few uses. If it turns into a persistent burn or causes significant redness, wash the product off immediately.
• Issue: I don't see any results after 8 weeks.
  Solution: Ensure you are using it consistently and, most importantly, wearing sunscreen daily. Sun exposure can counteract the benefits of exfoliation and worsen skin texture and marks.

This toner is exceptionally well-suited for the hot and humid climate of Mauritius.

• Humid Summers: Its watery, lightweight texture feels refreshing and won't add to the feeling of stickiness or heaviness on the skin. It effectively helps control the excess sebum and clogged pores that are common in our humid environment.
• Drier Winters: It remains effective, but you may need to pair it with a slightly more nourishing moisturiser to prevent any potential dryness from the combination of the BHA and less humid air.
• AC/Indoor Air: If you spend a lot of time in air-conditioned spaces, which can be dehydrating, ensure you are using a good hydrating serum and moisturiser alongside this toner to maintain your skin's water balance.

At Adilsons, we guarantee 100% authenticity. All our products, including this Anua toner, are sourced directly from the brand or their authorized distributors in South Korea. Your product should arrive sealed, with clear batch codes and date marks on the packaging. For any verification queries, feel free to contact us on WhatsApp with a picture of your product.

The claims for this product are based on the well-established functions of its ingredients.

• Ingredient Rationale: Salicylic Acid (BHA) is extensively studied and proven to be an effective keratolytic agent for exfoliating within the pore lining, making it a gold-standard ingredient for treating comedonal acne (blackheads and whiteheads). (Source: Peer-reviewed dermatological journals).
• Ingredient Rationale: Tea Tree extract is widely recognized in scientific literature for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which are beneficial for managing blemish-prone skin.
• Brand Test: Anua reports high user satisfaction with pore care and improved skin clarity within 2 weeks based on their internal consumer panels.

*Brand claim—no public dataset available for independent verification.

With a generous 150ml volume and a recommended use of only a few drops, 2-3 times per week, this toner offers exceptional value.

• Size: 150ml
• Estimated Uses: Approximately 200-250 uses.
• Duration at 3x/week: The bottle should last for well over a year, making it a very cost-effective part of your routine.
• Reorder Cue: You'll likely only need to repurchase this product once a year.

Starter Essentials (AM Protection, PM Exfoliation)

• ROUND LAB 1025 DOKDO CLEANSER 150ML — A gentle, hydrating cleanser that won't strip your skin, creating the perfect base.
• Anua BHA 2% Gentle Exfoliating Toner (THIS PRODUCT) — Your targeted PM treatment for clear pores.
• Beauty of Joseon RELIEF SUN : RICE + PROBIOTICS 50ML — A crucial last step for your AM routine to protect exfoliated skin and prevent dark spots.

Targeted Results (PM Pore Care & Barrier Support)

• COSRX ADVANCED SNAIL 96 MUCIN POWER ESSENCE 100ML — Use after the toner to deeply hydrate and soothe, enhancing skin repair.
• Anua BHA 2% Gentle Exfoliating Toner (THIS PRODUCT) — The primary exfoliating step.
• SKIN1004 MADAGASCAR CENTELLA SOOTHING CREAM 75ML — A lightweight, calming moisturiser to lock in hydration and support your skin barrier.

Compatibility note: Avoid using strong acids and strong retinoids on the same night.

This toner is an excellent choice if your primary concerns are clogged pores, blackheads, and managing oily skin gently.

• For More Intense Surface Exfoliation & Brightening: The Ordinary GLYCOLIC ACID 7% EXFOLIATING TONER 240ML — Choose this if your main goal is tackling dullness, sun damage, and rough surface texture, and your skin is resilient enough for a stronger AHA.
• For Very Sensitive Skin or Daily Use: SKIN1004 MADAGASCAR CENTELLA TONING TONER 210ML — Choose this if you want an extremely gentle daily exfoliation with the added calming benefits of Centella Asiatica. It uses PHA, which is suitable for even sensitive skin.
• For a Multi-Acid Approach to Acne: SOME BY MI AHA BHA PHA 30 DAYS MIRACLE TONER 150ML — Choose this if active acne is your main problem. It combines three types of acids with tea tree to target breakouts more comprehensively.

Mindful-use: If you already have a comparable BHA or exfoliating toner at home, finish it first to avoid waste and get a fair assessment of its results before switching.

• Format: 150ml bottle with a standard pour-spout opening.
• Material: The bottle is made of plastic (likely PET), which is widely recyclable in Mauritius. Please rinse before recycling.
• Storage: Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain the stability of the salicylic acid. A bathroom cabinet or drawer is ideal.
• Travel: The 150ml size is above the carry-on liquid limit for flights. Consider decanting into a smaller travel bottle for trips.

Aggregated sentiment from online communities. Individual results may vary.

"I've been using this toner for a few weeks now and wow. If you're dealing with clogged pores, blackheads, or texture, this is a quiet powerhouse. It's super gentle, which is rare for BHA products. No stinging, no dryness, just clean, calm skin."

— Reddit, r/SkincareAddiction review (2024)

"Honestly, the best toner for my skin. I have oily/sensitive skin and this is the only toner that works. I have less oil and less breakouts using this."

— YesStyle customer review (2025)

Fair Caveat: "In my experience, the Anua is more drying and harsher on the skin compared to the Isntree Chestnut BHA 2%. Not as much as the Paula's Choice 2% BHA, though. I live in a highly humid city, but tried it during winter. Maybe the cold made everything worse."

— Reddit, r/KoreanBeauty review (2025)

Anua is a Korean skincare brand that believes in relaxation and balance. They focus on creating simple yet highly effective formulas using pure, natural ingredients. By removing unnecessary additives and highlighting a single star ingredient, Anua delivers comfortable, results-driven skincare that helps soothe tired and sensitive skin.

BHA (Beta Hydroxy Acid)

An oil-soluble chemical exfoliant that works inside the pores to clear out excess sebum and dead skin cells. Salicylic Acid is the most common BHA in skincare.

Salicylic Acid

A type of BHA known for its ability to treat and prevent acne, blackheads, and whiteheads.

PIH (Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation)

The dark marks or spots left on the skin after a pimple or other inflammation has healed. Exfoliation helps to fade these marks faster.

FA (Fungal Acne / Malassezia Folliculitis)

Small, uniform, often itchy bumps caused by an overgrowth of yeast in the hair follicles, not bacteria. It requires products free from certain oils and esters.

MFDS (Ministry of Food and Drug Safety)

The South Korean government agency responsible for regulating food, drugs, and cosmetics (formerly known as the KFDA).

Sold by: Adilsons

Contact Us: +230 5 778 2336 (WhatsApp) | info@adilsons.mu

At Adilsons, we are committed to providing you with authentic, high-quality K-beauty products. We carefully curate our selection based on efficacy, safety, and value, ensuring you receive only the best, sourced directly from official channels in South Korea. Your skin health and trust are our top priorities.

1. Can I use this toner every day?
It is not recommended, especially for beginners. Over-exfoliation can damage your skin barrier. Start with 1-2 times per week and see how your skin tolerates it before increasing the frequency to a maximum of every other day.

2. Will this product make my skin "purge"?
It's possible. BHA accelerates skin cell turnover, which can bring pre-existing micro-comedones to the surface. This typically looks like small whiteheads in your usual breakout areas and should resolve within 2-4 weeks. If you experience irritation, redness, or breakouts in new areas, stop using the product.

3. Can I use this with my retinol serum?
It's best not to use them on the same night. Both are potent active ingredients that increase cell turnover. Using them together can lead to excessive dryness and irritation. Alternate nights for best results (e.g., BHA on Monday, Retinol on Tuesday).

4. Is it effective for fading dark spots (PIH)?
Yes, it can help. By exfoliating the skin and speeding up cell turnover, this BHA toner helps to shed the pigmented cells on the surface more quickly, gradually fading the appearance of post-acne marks.

Best For: Individuals with oily, combination, or acne-prone skin looking for a gentle but effective chemical exfoliant to manage clogged pores and blackheads without significant irritation.

Key Benefits:

• Effectively decongests pores with 2% Salicylic Acid.
• Formulated with ceramides and hyaluronic acid to be less drying than competitors.
• Fragrance-free, vegan, and suitable for FA-prone skin.

Keep in Mind:

• May not be strong enough for those accustomed to more potent BHA products like Paula's Choice.
• Daily sunscreen use is mandatory to prevent sun sensitivity and protect results.

• Coverage: Island-wide delivery (Mauritius).
• Processing & Timing: Orders process in 1–2 business days; usually ready by Day 3 for pickup. After pickup, delivery typically takes 1–5 business days (weekdays only).
• Express: May be available. Request on WhatsApp: +230 5 778 2336.
• Liquids/Sensitive Items: This product is a liquid and is available for pickup or door-to-door delivery only.
• Returns: No change-of-mind exchanges.
• Refunds (Summary): For defective/damaged items on receipt (report within 48h), wrong items, or manufacturing defects within 6 months. Opened skincare is non-returnable unless damaged on delivery.

Source of Truth: This is a quick snapshot. For full details, please refer to our official policy pages.

• Refunds & Returns Policy: https://adilsons.mu/policies/refund-policy
• Shipping Policy: https://adilsons.mu/policies/shipping-policy