COSRX Acne Calming Liquid Intensive AHA+BHA Toner, 125ml — 0.9% BHA & 1.7% AHA, High Propolis for Acne-Prone Skin

COSRX AC Collection Acne Calming Liquid Intensive is a fast-acting AHA+BHA toner designed to soothe and clarify acne-prone skin while helping rebalance oil and moisture.

This concentrated liquid from COSRX combines chemical exfoliants and calming botanicals to target breakouts and support clearer-looking skin. The formula blends 0.9% BHA and 1.7% AHA with a high-propolis content and Centella extracts to help remove dead skin cells, reduce surface congestion, and calm inflammation without heavy residue. It's formulated without parabens, sulfates, phthalates, and is cruelty-free, making it a straightforward addition to routines focused on acne control and skin barrier support.

How does this toner help reduce breakouts and congestion?

The product uses both BHA and AHA to loosen pore-clogging debris and smooth surface texture. BHA (salicylic acid) penetrates oily pores to clear sebum build-up, while AHAs encourage gentle surface exfoliation to prevent future blockage.

• 0.9% BHA helps dissolve oil and clears comedones.
• 1.7% AHA promotes surface exfoliation for smoother skin.
• Liquid texture reaches pores without heavy occlusion.

Will this calm irritation while treating acne?

The formula balances exfoliating acids with calming ingredients like Centella Asiatica and a 60% propolis blend. These components help soothe redness and support a healthier-looking barrier as exfoliation runs its course.

• Centella Asiática blend helps reduce visible redness and irritation.
• High-propolis content supports skin recovery and hydration.
• Non-comedogenic base minimizes additional pore blockage.

How should I add this into my skincare routine safely?

Introduce the toner gradually—start 1–2 times per week and increase as tolerated, especially if you use other actives. Apply after cleansing and before heavier serums or creams; follow with sunscreen in daytime routines because AHAs increase sun sensitivity.

• Use after cleansing on a cotton pad or with fingertips.
• Combine cautiously with retinoids or other strong exfoliants.
• Always follow with moisturizer and daytime SPF for protection.

Is this suitable for sensitive or allergy-prone skin?

The Intensive formula contains plant-derived alcohol to deliver active ingredients effectively, which may be strong for very sensitive skin. COSRX recommends the milder AC Collection Mild Liquid for those with significant sensitivity or known alcohol/acid intolerance.

• Contains plant-derived alcohol for improved penetration.
• Hypoallergenic and dermatologist-tested, but may still irritate sensitive users.
• Consider the milder alternative in the AC Collection if needed.

Who this product is for: This toner suits oily to combination skin types dealing with recurrent breakouts, blackheads, or uneven texture who want a potent yet cosmetically light treatment. It's aimed at users ready to incorporate chemical exfoliation into their routine and who will follow usage guidance (gradual introduction, sunscreen during daytime). If you have very reactive or allergy-prone skin, consider a patch test or the milder COSRX AC Collection Mild Liquid instead.

Ingredients

Propolis Extract, Alcohol, Butylene Glycol, Sodium lactate, Dimethyl Sulfone, Betaine, Lactic Acid,1,2-Hexanediol, Glycolic Acid, Water, Betaine Salicylate, Cassia Obtusifolia Seed Extract, Panthenol, Allantoin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Polysorbate 60, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Zinc PCA, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Ethyl Hexanediol, Asiaticoside, Asiatic acid, Madecassic acid