Korean toners have gained immense popularity in the skincare community, and for good reason. Unlike traditional toners that were once known for their astringent properties and high alcohol content, Korean toners have evolved to offer many benefits for acne-prone skin.
They are lightweight and watery in texture, allowing easy absorption into the skin without leaving a greasy or sticky residue. Korean toners are often formulated to restore the skin’s pH balance, essential for maintaining a healthy skin barrier and preventing further breakouts. Here are the 10 best Korean toners for acne skin in Malaysia.
How to Know if You Have an Acne Skin Type?
You can determine if you have an acne-prone skin type by observing frequent breakouts, particularly whiteheads, blackheads, papules, or pustules, as well as oily or combination skin with shiny areas, especially in the T-zone. Clogged pores, inflammation, redness, sensitivity, and scarring or hyperpigmentation from previous breakouts indicate acne-prone skin.
If you experience persistent acne despite skincare efforts, hormonal fluctuations affecting acne severity, and a family history of acne, it is likely that you have an acne-prone skin type.
Why Do You Need Korean Toners Specifically Formulated For Acne Skin?
The advantages of incorporating Korean toners into your skincare routine for acne-prone skin are manifold:
- Calming and Soothing Properties
Korean toners often feature ingredients like Centella Asiatica or Tea Tree leaf extract, known for their anti-inflammatory and soothing effects on irritated skin. These properties can help alleviate redness and inflammation associated with acne, promoting a calmer complexion. - Gentle Exfoliation
Many Korean toners contain mild exfoliating agents such as alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs). These help remove dead skin cells and unclog pores, resulting in smoother and clearer skin texture. Regular exfoliation also aids in absorbing other skincare products, maximizing their efficacy. - Balancing Oil Production
By restoring the skin’s natural moisture barrier and regulating oil production, Korean toners can help balance sebum levels. This prevents the skin from becoming excessively oily, reducing the likelihood of pore blockage and acne breakouts.
Discover more treatment products specifically formulated for acne-prone skin type here:
10 Best Korean Toners for Acne Skin in Malaysia 2025
Korean Toners for Acne Skin Under RM100:
1. ONE THING Centella Asiatica Extract
ONE THING Centella Asiatica Extract, sourced from the Centella Asiatica plant, is rich in Amino Acids, Beta Carotene, Fatty Acids, and Phytochemicals, offering remarkable anti-ageing properties. Particularly beneficial for acne-prone skin, Centella Asiatica Extract’s anti-inflammatory properties help soothe irritation and redness caused by breakouts, while its Amino Acids and Beta Carotene aid in skin repair, promoting recovery from acne-related damage.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Centella Asiatica Extract, Butylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol
- Size Available: 300ml
Pros:
✅ Reduces redness
✅ Promotes skin firmness
✅ Has anti-inflammatory properties
Price: RM75.90
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
2. INNISFREE Bija Trouble Toner
INNISFREE Bija Trouble Toner is an astringent toner designed to be wiped off, enriched with Bija seed oil to aid in exfoliating flaky skin and purging impurities, promoting clearer skin. Enriched with Jeju Bija Oil, it utilises natural Salicylic Acid and alcohol derived from fermented grain to remove dead skin cells and impurities gently. It helps to effectively address the root causes of skin troubles inside and outside the pores.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Water / Aqua / Eau, Alcohol Denat., Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Betaine, Methyl Gluceth-20, 1,2-hexanediol, Ppg-13-decyltetradeceth-24, Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract, Octyldodeceth-16, Disodium Edta, Torreya Nucifera Seed Oil, Ethylhexylglycerin, Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil, Salicylic Acid, Limonene, Juniperus Communis Fruit Oil, Pinus Sylvestris Leaf Oil, Juniperus Virginiana Oil, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Citrus Aurantifolia (Lime) Oil, Linalool, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Oil, Artemisia Vulgaris Oil, Pogostemon Cablin Oil, Cupressus Sempervirens Leaf/nut/stem Oil, Tocopherol
- Size Available: 170ml
Pros:
✅ Gently removes dead skin cells
✅ Tackles the root causes of skin troubles
✅ Wipe-off astringent toner
Price: RM80.00
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
3. numbuzin No.1 Pure-full Calming Herb Toner
numbuzin No.1 Pure-full Calming Herb Toner is a refreshing green toner crafted with three calming herb extracts to soothe and hydrate your skin. It swiftly alleviates irritation and sensitivity by replenishing hydration layer by layer. Specifically formulated for acne-prone skin, this toner is infused with Polygonum Multiflorum and Hyacinth Extract that promotes clear and pure skin, completing your skincare regimen with a hydrating touch.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Centella Asiatica Extract, Houttuynia Cordata Extract, Glycyrrhiza Uralensis (Licorice) Root Extract, 1,2-Hexanediol, Dipropylene Glycol, Propanediol, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Hyacinthus Orientalis (Hyacinth) Extract, Polygonum Multiflorum Extract, Carbomer, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Arginine, Allantoin, Disodium EDTA, Nymphaea Alba Flower Extract, Betaine, Panthenol
- Size Available: 300ml
Pros:
✅ Alleviates irritation
✅ Promotes clear skin
✅ Calming ingredients
Price: RM80.20
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
4. AXIS-Y Daily Purifying Treatment Toner
AXIS-Y Daily Purifying Treatment Toner is infused with 0.5% Salicylic Acid, capable of penetrating layers of sebum and dead skin to address skin concerns from within, resulting in a clearer complexion. This daily toner eliminates bacteria and pollutants deep within the pores, purifying the skin and alleviating acne and irritation. It features AHA and PHA for gentle chemical exfoliation and Centella Asiatica to enhance its soothing properties, ensuring a more effective skincare experience.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Water, Centella Asiatica Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Water, Propanediol, Butylene Glycol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Hieracium Umbellatum Extract, Gluconolactone, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Extract, Glycolic Acid, Betaine, Salvia Officinalis (Sage) Leaf Extract, Houttuynia Cordata Extract, Ethylhexylglycerin, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Dioscorea Japonica Root Extract, Laminaria Japonica Extract, Glycerin, 1,2-Hexanediol, Salicylic Acid, Sodium Citrate, Illicium Verum (Anise) Fruit Extract, Citrus Paradisi (Grapefruit) Fruit Extract, Nelumbium Speciosum Flower Extract, Paeonia Suffruticosa Root Extract, Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract, Arginine, Saccharum Officinatum (SugarCane) Extract, Rheum Palmatum Root Extract, Artemisia Princeps Extract, Panax Ginseng Root Extract, Chlorphenesin, PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Carbomer, Dimethyl Sulfone, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Linalool, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil
- Size Available: 200ml
Pros:
✅ Eliminates bacteria
✅ Improves acne-related issues
✅ Soothes the skin
Price: RM68.00
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
5. Isntree Green Tea Fresh Toner
Isntree Green Tea Fresh Toner is formulated with a fresh drop of Jeju Green Tea, making this water-based toner effectively removes excess sebum from the T-zone with just one swipe. Its unique formulation of Quintuple Hyaluronic Acids delivers intense hydration to the skin. The inclusion of PHYTO-OLIGO, a patented blend of Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract and Althea Rosea Root Extract, enhances moisturisation with its superior absorption capabilities, swiftly replenishing moisture.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Water, Propanediol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Trehalose, Sodium PCA, Glycerin, Hyaluronic Acid, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Althaea Rosea Root Extract, Betula Alba Juice, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Beta-Glucan, Panthenol, Pentylene Glycol, Caprylyl Glycol, Butylene Glycol
- Size Available: 200ml
Pros:
✅ Removes excess sebum
✅ Ensures intense hydration
✅ Superior absorption capabilities
Price: RM84.70
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
6. THE FACE SHOP Dr.Belmeur Clarifying Toner
THE FACE SHOP Dr.Belmeur Clarifying Toner is a hypoallergenic toner specially formulated to clarify and manage sebum while preserving the skin’s oil and moisture balance, essential for achieving flawless, oil-free skin. This toner effectively rebalances the skin’s pH levels, providing an immediate surge of hydration to sensitive skin. It works to minimise pores and creates a protective barrier, enhancing the overall health and resilience of the skin.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Purified Water, Dipropylene Glycol, Propanediol, 1, 2-hexanediol, Glycerin, Biosaccharide Gum-1, Hyssopus Officinalis Extract, Marrubium Vulgare Extract, Peucedanum Ostruthium Leaf Extract, Sambucus Nigra Flower Extract, Malva Sylvestris (Mallow) Extract, Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Leaf Extract, Primula Veris Extract, Alchemilla Vulgaris Extract, Veronica Officinalis Extract, Melissa Officinalis Leaf Extract, Achillea Millefolium Extract, Citrus Unshiu Peel Extract, Beta-glucan, Butylene Glycol, Glycoproteins, Niacinamide, Sodium Hyaluronate, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Octyldodeceth-16, Sodium Polyacrylate, Trisodium EDTA, Citric Acid, Sodium Citrate, Lime Outlet Oil, Bergamot Oil, Rosemary Leaf Oil, Eucalyptus Leaf Oil, Tea Tree Leaf Oil, Limonene
- Size Available: 200ml
Pros:
✅ Addresses sebum problems
✅ Minimise pores
✅ Rebalances the skin’s pH levels
Price: RM70.55
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
7. SKIN1004 Tea-Trica Purifying Toner
SKIN1004 Tea-Trica Purifying Toner is essential for those with oily or acne-prone skin, as it effectively addresses common concerns associated with these skin types. It exfoliates away pore-clogging dead skin cells and regulates excessive sebum production, preventing breakouts and promoting clearer skin. This toner contains key ingredients like Centella Asiatica Extract and the Pine Tree Complex to help treat inflammation and calm irritated skin.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Water, Chamaecyparis Obtusa Water, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Water(12%), Butylene Glycol, Centella Asiatica Extract(9.8%), Propanediol, Pinus Palustris Leaf Extract, Methyl Gluceth-20, 1,2-Hexanediol, Hydroxyacetophenone, Carbomer, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, Tromethamine, Pentylene Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Caprylyl Glycol, Citric Acid, Disodium EDTA, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil(200ppm), Sodium Citrate, Salicylic Acid, Castanea Crenata (Chestnut) Shell Extract, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Flower Extract
- Size Available: 210ml
Pros:
✅ Exfoliates pore-clogging dead skin cells
✅ Hinders breakouts
✅ Treats inflammation
Price: RM69.30
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
8. Medicube Red Toner
Medicube Red Toner is clinically tested for acne-prone and sensitive skin types, ensuring effective care without leaving a sticky residue. Certified as non-comedogenic, it minimises concerns about clogged pores or acne formation. Enriched with patented, Ovalicin, this toner is formulated to balance sebum production and effectively treat severe acne by targeting excessive sebum. It also improves skin health and relieves acne symptoms.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Red Toner Water, Methyl Gluceth-20, Alcohol, Niacinamide, Butylene Glycol, Beta-Glucan, Glycerin, Betaine, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Triethanolamine, Allantoin, Colloidal Sulfur, Chlorphenesin, Zanthoxylum Piperitum Fruit Extract, Pulsatilla Koreana Extract, Usnea Barbata (Lichen) Extract, Adenosine, Salvia Sclarea (Clary) Extract, Hyacinthus Orientalis (Hyacinth) Extract, Propanediol, Dinatrium Ethylendiaminetetracetic acid, Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root Extract, Camellia Japonica Leaf Extract, Salicylic Acid, Phellodendron Amurense Bark Extract, Citrus Paradisi (Grapefruit) Seed Extract, Magnolia fficinalis Bark Extract, Sophora Angustifolia Root Extract, Citrus Paradisi (Grapefruit) Fruit Extract, 1,2-Hexanediol, Willow Bark Extract, Benzyl Alcohol, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Water, Borago Officinalis Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower/Leaf Extract, Centaurea yanus Flower Extract, Ovalicin, Ethylhexylglycerin, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil
- Size Available: 100ml
Pros:
✅ Minimises clogged pores
✅ Tackles severe acne
✅ Improves skin health
Price: RM92.40
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
Korean Toners for Acne Skin Above RM100:
9. Abib Heartleaf calming toner Skin booster
Abib Heartleaf calming toner Skin booster is made with Heartleaf extract, harvested from Mountain Jiri at a concentration of 50,000ppm, to tackle excess oil and dead skin cells. Infused with low-molecule Hyaluronic Acid, it ensures intense hydration to the skin, promising moisture retention without any tightness or dryness. Containing Gold extract and Lonicera flower extract, this toner helps cool the skin, soothing dullness and tiredness.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Water, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Pentylene Glycol, Xylitol, Bifida Ferment Lysate, Houttuynia Cordata Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Seed Extract, Centella Asiatica Extract, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract, Gaultheria Procumbens (Wintergreen) Leaf Extract, Lonicera Japonica (Honeysuckle) Flower Extract, Betaine, 1,2-Hexanediol, Panthenol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Octanediol, Tocopherol, Biosaccharide Gum-4, Disodium EDTA, Xanthan Gum
- Size Available: 200ml
Pros:
✅ Provides intense hydration
✅ Cools the skin
✅ No tightness
Price: RM107.80
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
10. Laneige Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Essence Toner (Combination-Oily Skin)
Laneige Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Essence Toner (Combination-Oily Skin) features Blue Hyaluronic Acid, with its micro-low molecular weight, deeply moisturises and repairs damaged skin barriers. The PHA – Soy Yeast Complex gently exfoliates the skin and balances the oil-moisture levels. It has a quickly absorbing, non-greasy formula deeply moisturizes your skin, leaving it pleasantly plump.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Water, Butylene Glycol, Dipropylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Betaine, Trehalose, Diethoxyethyl Succinate, PPG-13-Decyltetradeceth-24, Xanthan Gum, Ethylhexylglycerin, Fragrance, Mentha Arvensis Leaf Extract, Disodium EDTA, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Propanediol, Gluconolactone, Aureobasidium Pullulans Ferment, Lactobacillus/Soybean Ferment Extract, Yeast Ferment Extract, Tocopherol, Undaria Pinnatifida Extract
- Size Available: 160ml
Pros:
✅ Repairs damaged skin barriers
✅ Exfoliates the skin
✅ Non-greasy formula
Price: RM135.00
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
Disclosure: This list was compiled by the team at My Weekend Plan after extensive research and shared opinions to suggest helpful recommendations for the public. The sequence of brands is in no particular order so if you have any other great suggestions too, please email us support@myweekendplan.asia. For more information, kindly refer to our copyright, privacy & disclosure policy.
