If you have acne-prone skin, you would know that treating zits is only half the battle. Oftentimes, pimples leave behind marks on the skin. While most dark spots, otherwise known as hyperpigmentation, will fade on their own over time, there are many ways you can speed up the process—one of which is by using an exfoliating toner.
What are exfoliating toners?
These toners contain exfoliating acids such as AHAs and BHAs. AHAs (alpha-hydroxy acids) like glycolic acid gently dissolve dead skin to reveal a brighter layer underneath. BHAs (beta-hydroxy acids) like salicylic acid, on the other hand, help clear the skin by dislodging dirt, sebum, and other deep-seated impurities, which cause blackheads and whiteheads. (READ MORE: Everything You Need To Know About AHAs and BHAs)
How do you use exfoliating toners? Can these help fade pimple marks?
Using exfoliating toners tends to make your skin more sensitive to the sun so it's best to apply them at night. Applying SPF in the morning is also a must to protect your skin from getting sunburnt easily.
Generally, dermatologists recommend using exfoliating toners at least once or twice a week. Remember, over-exfoliating can do more harm than good, especially when you have acne-prone skin. Going overboard with exfoliating toners might damage your skin barrier and result in breakouts and redness. Before introducing acids into your routine, it's always best to speak with your dermatologist first.
8 Exfoliating Toners That Can Fade Pimple Marks
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Pixi Glow Tonic
This toner is a cult favorite for two reasons: It does an amazing job in making your skin ~glow~, and it can fade dark spots, too! It contains five percent glycolic acid that gently exfoliates the skin to reveal a brighter complexion. It's also formulated with soothing and hydrating aloe vera extract.
Instagram/pixibeautyPixi Glow Tonic 100 mL, P1,050, glamourbox.ph
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Snail White Glow Potion AHA-BHA Toner
If you're looking for an affordable option, turn to this exfoliating toner from Snail White—it costs less than P500! It contains glycolic acid, salicylic acid, and niacinamide that work together to not only brighten your complexion but also refine your skin's texture.
Snail WhiteSnail White Glow Potion AHA-BHA Toner, P395, Watsons
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Some by Mi Miracle Toner
This bestselling toner has three types of chemical exfoliants (AHA, BHA, and PHA) to get rid of the skin's impurities—pimple marks included! Ideal for acne-prone skin types, it's also formulated with witch hazel and tea tree to soothe inflammation and keep new zits from forming.
AltheaADVERTISMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW ↓Some By Mi Miracle Toner, P730, Althea
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The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution
Score a clear and radiant complexion when you use this toner every other night. As its name suggests, it has a high concentration of glycolic acid, which can help reduce pigmentation. It's balanced out with skin-soothing ingredients like aloe vera and ginseng.
The OrdinaryThe Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution, P720, Go Bloom and Glow
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Mario Badescu Glycolic Acid Toner
Here's another cult favorite! Ideal for those with combination or dry skin types, this toner is infused with two percent glycolic acid to speed up the skin cell's turnover rate. With regular use, you'll have a smoother and more even skin tone.
Rustan'sADVERTISMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOW ↓Mario Badescu Glycolic Acid Toner, P1,250, Rustan's
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COSRx AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner
If it's your first time trying chemical exfoliants, this toner from COSRx is worth a try. Its mild formula helps dissolve dead skin and it keeps blackheads and whiteheads from forming, too!
WatsonsCOSRx AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner, P680, Watsons
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Ole Henriksen Glow 2OH Dark Spot Toner
Here's another contender for brightening! Loyal consumers claim that this toner works wonders in fading pimple marks. It's made with a high concentration of AHAs such as glycolic acid and lactic acid, and it also contains witch hazel water, which helps refine the appearance of pores.
Ole HenriksenOle Henriksen Glow 2OH Dark Spot Toner, P2,020, Sephora PH
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Son & Park Beauty Water
Don't let its minimal packaging fool you—this refreshing toner-slash-cleansing water packs a punch. It's loaded with papaya extract, willow bark extract, and rose water to hydrate, exfoliate, and brighten the skin.
Go Bloom and GlowSon & Park Beauty Water, P1,400, BeautyMNL
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