My pick: Beauty of Joseon Green Plum Refreshing Toner

I’ve cycled through so many “soothing” toners that either stung on contact or felt nice but did absolutely nothing for my breakouts. Beauty of Joseon Green Plum Refreshing Toner is the first one that actually earns a permanent spot on my shelf. It has a light, refreshing scent that fades fast, and the texture is watery-light yet surprisingly hydrating—no syrupy slip, no tacky film.

What makes it different for me is the gentle AHA (from green plum + glycolic). It doesn’t act like a hardcore peel; instead, it quietly loosens dead skin so pores look clearer and those tiny “almost a breakout” bumps calm down before they fully erupt. When my skin is inflamed and my barrier feels thin, I can still use it without the spicy tingle. I usually pour a little into my palms after cleansing and press it in; on cranky nights I do a second thin layer or soak two cotton pads and park them over my cheeks for two minutes. Either way, redness looks less loud, and that “hot face” feeling cools off.

Makeup days are where I notice the payoff most. Foundation doesn’t cling to dry edges around healing spots, and my base sits smoother because the surface is even and lightly hydrated, not slick. Midday, I don’t get the tight, papery feeling I used to—just a steady, calm canvas. It won’t vacuum out blackheads or erase texture overnight (that’s not its job), but as a simple, low-pH, sensitive-skin-friendly toner, it keeps my skin smooth, fresh, and calm so the rest of my routine can actually work.

If you’re acne-prone, a little dehydrated, and easily irritated, this is that rare “boring in the best way” step: splash, press, done—no drama, just results.

What’s your favorite soothing toner for the Olivetalk contest? Drop your pick (and skin type!) below so we can compare notes