Aloe BHA Skin Toner
Aloe BHA Skin Toner
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle, hydrating toner featuring 80% Aloe Vera and 0.5% BHA (Salicylic Acid) to soothe irritated skin while gently exfoliating dead skin cells and unclogging pores. Perfect for acne-prone and sensitive skin seeking balanced hydration without irritation.
80% Aloe Vera Base
Uses Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Water as the primary ingredient instead of plain water for superior soothing and hydration.
Texture & feel
SENSORY80% Aloe Vera Base
Uses Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Water as the primary ingredient instead of plain water for superior soothing and hydration.
Gentle BHA Exfoliation
Contains 0.5% Salicylic Acid for mild exfoliation that unclogs pores without causing irritation or dryness.
Multi-Layer Hydration
Sodium Hyaluronate, Polyglutamic Acid, and Beta-Glucan work together for deep, lasting moisture.
Natural Preservatives
Formulated with plant-derived preservatives instead of synthetic parabens for a cleaner formula.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains only 0.5% topical salicylic acid, well below the 2% threshold considered safe by ACOG. Minimal systemic absorption from leave-on toner use.
Topical salicylic acid at this concentration is unlikely to be absorbed or appear in breastmilk. Avoid applying near breast area.
Free from fatty acids, oils, esters, and ferments that feed malassezia yeast. Listed as fungal acne safe by Simple Skincare Science.
Oil-free, non-comedogenic formula. No pore-clogging ingredients. Suitable for acne-prone skin.
Dermatologically tested. Slightly acidic pH (~5.5) matches skin's natural barrier. Patch test recommended for very reactive skin.
Can be used with retinol but introduce gradually. Apply on alternate nights initially or use toner in AM and retinol in PM.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSAloe Barbadensis Leaf Water 80%Proven
The primary ingredient replacing water. Aloe vera is renowned for its anti-inflammatory, moisturizing, and wound-healing properties. Contains polysaccharides, salicylates, and vitamins that soothe irritated skin.
- Function: Soothing, hydrating, anti-inflammatory
- Research: Studies confirm moisturizing and wound-healing benefits
Salicylic Acid (BHA) 0.5%Proven
A beta-hydroxy acid that's oil-soluble, allowing it to penetrate pores and dissolve sebum buildup. Provides gentle exfoliation while offering anti-inflammatory and antibacterial benefits.
- Function: Exfoliation, pore cleansing, anti-inflammatory
- FDA Recognition: 0.5-2% recognized as OTC acne treatment
- pH Dependent: Most effective at pH 3-4
Sodium HyaluronateProven
The salt form of hyaluronic acid with smaller molecular weight for better penetration. Can hold up to 1000x its weight in water, providing deep hydration and plumping effect.
- Function: Humectant, hydration, anti-aging
- Benefit: Attracts moisture from environment into skin
Polyglutamic AcidPromising
A high-molecular weight amino acid polymer claimed to have superior moisturizing properties compared to hyaluronic acid. Creates a film that improves moisture retention.
- Function: Film-forming humectant
- Claim: May hold 4-5x more moisture than HA
Beta-GlucanProven
A polysaccharide from yeast cell walls known for soothing, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties. Helps calm irritated skin and strengthens the skin barrier.
- Function: Soothing, barrier repair, anti-aging
- Research: Studies show wound-healing and immune-boosting effects
AllantoinProven
A gentle, non-irritating compound that promotes skin healing and cell regeneration. Known for its soothing and moisturizing properties.
- Function: Soothing, healing, moisturizing
- Benefit: Safe for sensitive and irritated skin
28 ingredients
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Water, Water, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Dipropylene Glycol, Pentylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Sodium Hyaluronate, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Psidium Guajava Fruit Extract, Aspalathus Linearis Extract, Cynanchum Atratum Extract, Salicylic Acid, Perilla Ocymoides Leaf Extract, Schisandra Chinensis Fruit Extract, Acorus Calamus Root Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Althaea Rosea Root Extract, Polyglutamic Acid, Beta-Glucan, Arginine, Allantoin, Citrus Paradisi (Grapefruit) Fruit Extract, Caprylyl Glycol, C12-14 Pareth-12, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Xanthan Gum
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse after cleansing as the first treatment step. Can be used both AM and PM. The 0.5% BHA is gentle enough for twice-daily use.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Face
Start with clean, freshly washed skin. Double cleanse in the evening if wearing makeup or sunscreen.
Dispense Product
Pump 2-3 pumps onto clean hands or soak a cotton pad. The watery-gel texture spreads easily.
Apply to Face
Gently pat onto face and neck, working from the center outward. Can also swipe with cotton pad for light physical exfoliation.
Wait and Continue
Allow 30-60 seconds for absorption. Follow with essence, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen (AM).
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily, combination, or acne-prone skin
- You want gentle BHA exfoliation without irritation
- You're new to chemical exfoliants and want to start mild
- You have sensitive skin that reacts to strong actives
- You need a hydrating toner that also treats breakouts
- You prefer fragrance-free, vegan skincare
- You have fungal acne and need a safe option
Consider alternatives if:
- You need stronger BHA (2%) for stubborn blackheads
- You have very dry skin needing rich hydration
- You want immediate, dramatic exfoliation results
- You prefer products with noticeable fragrance
- You're looking for anti-aging focused ingredients
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight, non-greasy formula absorbs quickly. BHA helps control sebum and minimize pores. Users report matte effect lasting throughout the day.
Balances well across T-zone and cheeks. Hydrates dry areas without adding shine to oily zones. Ideal for combination types.
Non-comedogenic, fungal acne safe formula. BHA unclogs pores and prevents breakouts. Aloe soothes inflammation from active acne.
Gentle 0.5% BHA is well-tolerated by most sensitive types. Fragrance-free, dermatologically tested. Patch test recommended for very reactive skin.
Provides hydration but may not be enough for very dry skin alone. Layer with hydrating essence and rich moisturizer. Some users with dry skin found it slightly drying.
Results timeline
WEEK 8+Immediate Hydration & Soothing
Skin feels more hydrated, plump, and less irritated. Redness may begin to reduce. Texture feels softer after each application.
85% noticed improved hydrationSmoother Texture & Reduced Breakouts
Dead skin cells are gently removed. Skin texture becomes smoother. New breakouts may decrease. Blackheads start to loosen.
70% noticed fewer breakoutsClearer Pores & Brighter Complexion
Pores appear smaller and cleaner. Skin tone becomes more even and radiant. Dramatic decrease in acne for consistent users.
65% noticed visibly clearer skinLong-Term Maintenance
Continued use maintains clear, balanced skin. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation may begin to fade. Skin barrier remains healthy.
75% continued using as HG productRatings by platform
4K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Gentle enough for daily use, even twice daily
- Hydrating despite containing BHA exfoliant
- Calms redness and soothes irritated skin quickly
- Non-sticky, lightweight texture absorbs well
- Great value for 200ml bottle ($14-18)
- Vegan, cruelty-free, fragrance-free formula
- Safe for fungal acne and sensitive skin
- Helps control oil without over-drying
Criticized
- 0.5% BHA may be too gentle for stubborn blackheads
- Results take longer compared to 2% BHA products
- May not be hydrating enough for very dry skin
- Pump dispenser can malfunction or spray too much
- New vegan formula removed snail mucin (some prefer old version)
- Can feel slightly sticky if over-applied
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Contains both AHA (glycolic) and BHA (betaine salicylate) for enhanced exfoliation. Less hydrating than Benton but more effective for surface texture. Apple water base instead of aloe.
Contains willow bark extract (natural salicylic acid source) and centella asiatica. More focused on pore care. Fungal acne safe. Korean brand alternative.
Higher BHA concentration (2%) for faster results. No aloe or hydrating ingredients - more of a treatment than toner. Best for targeted use, not daily application.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
6 MONTHS6 months after opening. Check packaging for PAO symbol.
Store in cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Refrigeration optional but can enhance soothing effect.
Green plastic bottle with pump dispenser. Transparent to monitor product level.
200ml exceeds carry-on limit (100ml). Transfer to travel container or purchase mini 30ml version.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, this toner is generally considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains only 0.5% topical salicylic acid, well below the 2% threshold recommended by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). Topical application at this concentration results in minimal systemic absorption. However, always consult your healthcare provider before adding new products to your routine during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Yes, this toner is fungal acne safe. It does not contain fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates, or fermented ingredients that feed malassezia yeast. It's listed as a safe option on Simple Skincare Science's comprehensive fungal acne product list. The salicylic acid can actually help combat fungal acne by exfoliating and keeping pores clear.
Yes, but introduce combinations gradually. With retinol: Use toner in AM and retinol in PM, or on alternate nights initially. With Vitamin C: Can be used together; apply toner first, wait a few minutes, then vitamin C. With other AHA/BHA: The 0.5% BHA is gentle, but avoid layering multiple strong acids to prevent over-exfoliation. Start with alternating days if using stronger BHA products. Always monitor skin for irritation.
This toner is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types. It's excellent for sensitive skin due to its gentle 0.5% BHA concentration and soothing aloe base. Those with normal skin can also benefit. However, people with very dry skin may find it insufficient alone and should pair it with heavier hydrating products. It's particularly ideal for those new to BHA who want to start with a gentle formula.
Most users notice immediate hydration and soothing effects from the first use. Texture improvements typically appear within 2-4 weeks of consistent use. For acne reduction and pore refinement, expect 4-8 weeks. Because the BHA concentration is gentle (0.5%), results are more gradual compared to stronger 2% BHA products, but with less risk of irritation. Consistency is key – use twice daily for best results.
Apply this toner as the first treatment step after cleansing. In a full K-beauty routine: 1) Oil cleanser, 2) Water cleanser, 3) This toner, 4) Essence, 5) Serum/ampoule, 6) Eye cream, 7) Moisturizer, 8) Sunscreen (AM only). You can apply with clean hands by patting, or swipe with a cotton pad for light physical exfoliation. Use both morning and evening.
No, this toner has a comedogenic rating of 0-1 out of 5, meaning it's highly unlikely to clog pores. The formula is oil-free and contains no known pore-clogging ingredients. In fact, the salicylic acid actively helps unclog pores by dissolving sebum and dead skin cells. It's specifically formulated for acne-prone skin and is non-comedogenic.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 6 months. Once opened, use within 6 months for optimal efficacy and safety. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The 200ml bottle typically lasts 2-4 months with twice-daily use, so you should finish it well within the PAO period. Watch for any changes in color, smell, or texture which may indicate the product has expired.
Verdict: The Benton Aloe BHA Skin Toner is an excellent entry-level BHA toner that prioritizes gentleness without sacrificing effectiveness. Its 80% aloe vera base provides exceptional soothing and hydration while the 0.5% salicylic acid offers mild exfoliation suitable for daily use. Perfect for sensitive, acne-prone skin or anyone new to chemical exfoliants. While those with stubborn blackheads may need stronger BHA products, this toner excels as a gentle, hydrating treatment that keeps skin clear, calm, and balanced. The vegan, fragrance-free, fungal acne-safe formula at an affordable price point makes it a K-beauty cult favorite worth trying.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.