[Mary&May] Vegan CICA Tea Tree AHA PHA Blemish Toner 200ml

Mary&May Vegan CICA Tea Tree AHA PHA Blemish Toner 200ml

Blemish-prone skin needs a toner that does more than just prep — it needs one that actively fights the causes of breakouts while simultaneously calming the inflammation they leave behind. The Mary&May Vegan CICA Tea Tree AHA PHA Blemish Toner is exactly that: a comprehensive, multi-action blemish treatment in toner form. By combining chemical exfoliants (AHA and PHA) with antibacterial botanicals (Tea Tree and CICA), this toner tackles acne from every angle — unclogging pores, eliminating bacteria, reducing inflammation, and refining skin texture — all in one generous 200ml bottle.

100% vegan and thoughtfully formulated to be effective yet gentle enough for daily use, this is the toner that acne-prone and blemish-prone skin has been waiting for.

✨ Key Ingredients & What They Do

• AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid — Glycolic & Lactic Acid) — Water-soluble exfoliating acids that work on the skin's surface to dissolve the bonds between dead skin cells, accelerating cell turnover and revealing fresher, smoother, more even-toned skin beneath. Glycolic acid — the smallest AHA molecule — penetrates most deeply and is particularly effective at fading post-acne marks, hyperpigmentation, and uneven texture. Lactic acid is gentler and also acts as a humectant, hydrating as it exfoliates. Together, they brighten the complexion, smooth rough texture, and prevent the buildup of dead skin cells that can clog pores and trigger breakouts.
• PHA (Polyhydroxy Acid — Gluconolactone) — The gentlest of the chemical exfoliant family, PHA has a larger molecular size than AHA, meaning it exfoliates more slowly and superficially — making it ideal for sensitive or reactive skin types that cannot tolerate stronger acids. PHA also has humectant properties that hydrate the skin as it exfoliates, and antioxidant benefits that protect against environmental damage. Its inclusion alongside AHA creates a balanced exfoliation system that is effective yet well-tolerated for daily use.
• Tea Tree Oil (Melaleuca Alternifolia) — A clinically validated antibacterial and anti-inflammatory ingredient that directly targets Cutibacterium acnes — the bacteria responsible for inflammatory acne. Tea Tree Oil reduces the size and redness of active blemishes, prevents new breakouts from forming, and helps regulate sebum production. Studies have shown it to be comparable to benzoyl peroxide in treating mild to moderate acne, with significantly less irritation and dryness.
• CICA (Centella Asiatica Extract) — Provides essential calming and barrier-repairing action to counterbalance the exfoliating acids and Tea Tree Oil. CICA reduces redness and inflammation around blemishes, accelerates the healing of post-acne skin, and strengthens the skin barrier to prevent the sensitivity that can arise from regular exfoliant use. Its inclusion makes this toner suitable for daily use without the barrier disruption associated with acid toners that lack calming support.
• Houttuynia Cordata Extract (Heartleaf) — A powerful antibacterial and anti-inflammatory botanical that complements Tea Tree's blemish-fighting action, providing additional protection against acne-causing bacteria while soothing inflamed, congested skin.
• Niacinamide — Regulates sebum production, minimizes pores, fades post-acne marks, and strengthens the skin barrier — addressing the aftermath of blemishes as effectively as the blemishes themselves.

🌿 What It Targets

• Active breakouts, acne, and blemishes
• Clogged pores, blackheads, and congestion
• Excess sebum and oily skin
• Post-acne marks and hyperpigmentation
• Rough, uneven skin texture
• Redness and inflammation around blemishes
• Dull, lacklustre complexion

🧴 Texture & Feel

The toner has a lightweight, slightly watery texture with a clean, fresh scent from the Tea Tree and botanical extracts. It absorbs quickly without any stickiness, leaving skin feeling refreshed, toned, and noticeably cleaner after every use. Applied with a cotton pad, it provides a gentle physical exfoliation alongside the chemical exfoliation of the AHA and PHA — a satisfying combination that leaves skin visibly smoother and more refined with consistent use.

📋 How to Use

1. After cleansing, apply the Blemish Toner as the first active step of your skincare routine.
2. Soak a cotton pad generously with the toner.
3. Sweep gently across the face and neck in upward strokes — avoid the eye area.
4. Focus on blemish-prone areas: T-zone, chin, cheeks, and forehead.
5. Do not rinse off — leave on and allow to absorb fully before applying your serum and moisturizer.
6. Use once daily (preferably in the evening) when starting out, increasing to twice daily as skin builds tolerance.
7. Always follow with SPF in the morning — AHA increases photosensitivity and UV protection is essential.

⚠️ Important Notes

• 100% Vegan — free from animal-derived ingredients and by-products. ✅
• Contains AHA — always use SPF during the day when using this toner, as AHA increases UV sensitivity.
• Patch test recommended for first-time users, especially those new to chemical exfoliants.
• Start with once daily use (PM) and increase frequency gradually as skin acclimates.
• Avoid using on broken, severely irritated, or sunburned skin.
• Do not use in conjunction with other strong exfoliants (e.g. physical scrubs, high-concentration AHA/BHA serums) on the same day to avoid over-exfoliation.
• For external use only — avoid contact with eyes. If contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water.
• Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
• Discontinue use if persistent irritation or allergic reaction occurs.

📦 Product Details

• Brand: Mary&May
• Volume: 200ml
• Country of Origin: South Korea 🇰🇷
• Vegan: Yes ✅
• Skin Type: Oily, combination, acne-prone, and blemish-prone skin
• Best For: Blemish control, pore cleansing, chemical exfoliation, post-acne mark fading, sebum regulation
• Key Actives: AHA (Glycolic + Lactic Acid), PHA (Gluconolactone), Tea Tree Oil, CICA, Niacinamide
• Step in Routine: After cleansing — use before serums and moisturizer. PM use recommended when starting out.