From wide pores to persistent shine, my face has all the symptoms of your typical oily skin type. Undoubtedly a result of temperamental hormones, I'm a regular with blotting sheets and pressed powders, oil-free skincare and ultra-matte bases, so when it comes to TikTok's most viral skincare trends (glass skin, dewy bases, etc.), you can usually find me on the sidelines. Remedying my troublesome complexion has taken years of trial-and error, which is exactly where the Glow Recipe Toner comes in. Continuously sold out and finally back in stock for Cyber Monday, there's no better time to add this K-beauty hero to your collection.
What is the Glow Recipe toner?
I've always been drawn to K-Beauty textures; my natural aversion to products sitting on top of my skin has led me to prefer air-light, buildable finishes like gels, crèmes and lightweight tonics. I first trialled the viral Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow AHA Night Treatment several years ago, before falling head over heels for the whole juicy franchise. Soon after, the Watermelon Glow PHA + BHA Pore-Tight Toner became a staple in my personal roster of products.
Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow PHA + BHA Pore-Tight Toner
Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow PHA + BHA Pore-Tight Toner
With a gentle blend of acids and hydrators, the Watermelon line is ideal for oily yet sensitive and dehydrated skin types. Think: dewy glow that doesn't look overly sweaty; traceless moisture that never settles on the skin's surface and pleasant natural scents that dissipate swiftly after application.
Since using this toner, my post-acne journey (and my skin) has become much smoother. My breakouts fade faster and occur less frequently and my once shine-ridden complexion appears more balanced. What more could an oily girl want?
What are the biggest benefits?
Inspired by the Korean Aqua Peel Facial, this lightweight toner focuses on minimising the appearance of pores, while keeping your skin hydrated.
As a fan of gentle acids, it's the dose of PHAs (polyhydroxy acids) and BHAs (beta-hydroxy acids) which keep me coming back to this formula specifically. The BHAs, willow bark and tree-derived betaine salicylate, are oil soluble and penetrate the pores to tackle congestion. The PHAs sit on the surface of the skin to slough away dead cells and improve uneven texture. The result? Smoother, brighter skin with a reduced risk of break0uts.
Over on the hydration side, the Glow Recipe Toner uses a trio of nourishing plant-based ingredients (watermelon extract to deliver moisture, cactus water to retain it and good old hyaluronic acid) to plump, nourish and create dew.
Just remember to use SPF the following day.
How often can I use the Glow Recipe Toner?
If you're wondering how often you can use your Glow Recipe Toner, it really depends on your skin type. Well versed in the art of acids? The lightweight balance of hydrating ingredients and gentle PHAs and BHAs means you can get away with using this every evening. However, if you're veering on the sensitive side, once or twice a week is a good place to start.
In terms of feel, the Glow Recipe Toner sits comfortably between a classic toner and an essence, thicker than water but weightless on the skin. I opt for a press-in fingers application to ensure I get the most out of every bottle. Alternatively, you can apply a little to acne-prone areas as a targeting spot treatment or pay extra attention to the T zone and chin to tackle visibly enlarged pores.
Glow Recipe Pomegranate Peptide Firming Serum
