
Why this product
Redness-prone, irritated, or acne-prone skin. The #1 trending K-beauty toner in 2025-2026.
What it does: Toner step. Balances pH and preps skin for essences and serums that follow.
Skin types: All, especially sensitive and acne-prone.
vs Thayers: $18 vs $34. Western toners tend to be astringent (witch hazel, alcohol). Korean toners are hydrating — they add moisture rather than strip it. Anua’s heartleaf concentration is unmatched in Western alternatives.
Consistently rated Holy Grail across an estimated 6,800+ community discussions on r/AsianBeauty. Most common praise: this replaced everything in my toner rotation. My redness is basically gone after 3 weeks.
Hydrate step
Step 3 in your routine. Sign in to add it.
Where in your routine
Why this step exists in K-beauty
Heartleaf (Houttuynia Cordata) is the ingredient that defines 2025-2026 K-beauty. It’s an anti-inflammatory herb used in traditional Korean medicine for centuries. At 77% concentration, this toner calms redness, controls excess sebum, and preps skin without any irritation.
How to use
Key ingredients
Details
Western equivalent
Thayers
Witch Hazel Toner
$34
Western toners tend to be astringent (witch hazel, alcohol). Korean toners are hydrating — they add moisture rather than strip it. Anua’s heartleaf concentration is unmatched in Western alternatives.
The bottom line
Anua Heartleaf 77% Soothing Toner is a hydrate that costs $18 for 250ml. It has 6,800+ community discussions and Holy Grail status on r/AsianBeauty. The Western equivalent (Thayers) runs $34 — you save 47%. Best for all, especially sensitive and acne-prone skin.