I May Have Found The Best K-Beauty Toner For My Combination Skin

Over the past few years, I’ve tried a staggering number of Korean toners. Many of which came highly recommended by other skincare enthusiasts in the beauty community. Some were spontaneous buys while browsing K-beauty stores or sites. And while I found a handful I very much enjoyed, nothing compares to my current obsession — the Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Hyaluronic Toner. I can honestly say I look forward to saturating two cotton pads with this glow juice and going to town on my skin in the morning. Rarely do I get so heavily invested in a hydrating toner but this one has become part of my routine suspiciously fast. More below.

What is it?

The Haruharu Wonder toner comes in two sizes: 150ml and 300ml. I highly recommend that you spring on the larger size because you will be going through it fast. I’m especially looking at those who practice the ‘7 skin’ method! Your skin should absolutely love it. The slightly viscous (but not sticky at all) Wonder formula strikes a great balance between deep hydration and lightweight moisture, making it an excellent daily solution for my combination yet perpetually dehydrated skin. This may be one of my best K-beauty finds yet. 

The Red Dot Award is an international design competition for product design, communication design and design concepts.

What’s in it

Formulated with 95% natural ingredients, the Haruharu Wonder toner highlights Black Rice Extract and Hyaluronic Acid as its hero ingredients. The first one is rich in flavonoids and polyphenols, offering superb antioxidant protection against environmental and lifestyle stressors — think pollution, but also afternoon cocktails. The latter provides instant and lasting hydration to parched, stressed, and fatigued complexions. If your skin needs some extra love, the formula also includes Ginseng, Skullcap, and Korean Pasque Flower Extract for extra healing and calming benefits. Is Lavender Oil a dealbreaker for you? Keep in mind that while it’s the very last ingredient listed, the toner does have a mild earthy/herbal, relaxing aroma. Personally, I love it. As with anything in skincare, you may not. 

How and When

Since I rotate between acid toners and hydrating essences, I usually reach for exfoliating solutions in the evening and for silky, moisture magnets in the morning. My PM routine always includes either the Royal Fern Essence or Biologique Recherche P50 1970 so the Haruharu Wonder Toner has been my rise and shine (and glow) AM go-to. In spite of its robust texture, the toner soaks well into the cotton pads and is impressively fast absorbing on my skin. 

ppm = parts per million

When it comes to applying toners and essences, I typically pour the liquid into the palm of my hand and press it into my face. I usually grab cotton of any kind when using acid toners so I surprised myself that I prefer using this method with the Haruharu Wonder toner. I don’t skimp either and grab two pads, douse them both generously, and start swiping across my face. I totally get into it and turn what can be a mundane task into a gentle facial massage. This technique also helps pick up the tiny stubble bits left behind after I trim my facial hair. Bonus perk: soothing sensation to my freshly shaved skin.

Why do I love it?

In short, this very well-rounded hydrating solution preps my skin for all the hard working serums I use after cleansing. It delivers instant hydration and comfort, both of which I like to address after using potent overnight treatments (currently, I’m on my doctor prescribed Aklief). The generous bottle (definitely go for the 300ml size) will last a few months and I’m glad because this toner is destined to become a year-round favorite. 

$37 (300ml) at verishop.com

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