Itโs taken me over a decade to get around to writing this review. I often think that itโs the unglamorous workhorses that never get any attention, but Iโd be doing a disservice if I didnโt write about this.ย Because Quantum Hydrox KALMA Facial Tonerย isย most definitely a hard-worker and a multi-tasker. Brightening, de-clogging, soothing, and clarifying โ itโs simple, effective, and ultra-affordable. I canโt even really knock Quantum Hydroxย for choosing not to update their packaging (or shell out for funds on marketing and branding).
People often ask me to suggest good skincare products that contain salicylic acid and alpha-hydroxy acids and KALMAย is one thatย immediately comes to mind every time.ย Mainly because itโs really quite uncomplicated. Free from alcohols, fragrance, and silicones, this aloe-based toning liquid combines 5% glycolic acid and 2% salicylic acid with antioxidative bits and pieces. Whether you put up with the occasional breakout, have uneven skin texture, orย simply want to enhance the efficacy of subsequent skincare products, itโs just a very simple solution that does it all.
KALMA Facial Tonerย aims to be highly effective and universally well-tolerated at the same time. Iโd say this isย excellent for all skin typesย (so long as youโre not sensitive to a particular ingredient). In addition to glycolic-salicylic acid complex, thereโs also pro-vitamin B5 for hydration andย powerful anti-oxidants and anti-irritants (including Green Tea,ย Tiger Grass, and Allantoin)ย to keep the skin calm and on an even keel. Itโs completely non-sticky on combination skin andย wonโt feel drying for drier skin. This has no unpleasant odour.
The only downside is availability. Quantum Hydrox is a Canadian skincare brand (from Vancouver) and the products cannot be bought outside of Canada.ย The entire range isย only available at Shoppers Drug Mart, both in-store (just in selected locations) and online. Delivery is Canada-only.
Itโs CDN$19.50 for a 240ml bottle here so itโs good value for money. Just wipe on with cotton pad after cleansingย and youโre good to go with the rest of your routine.ย It doesnโt disturb anything else, it doesnโt require any special measures or considerations and the bottle lasts for ages.
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Do you know the pH of this toner?
I DMed them on IG, they said the pH is 4.
Thanks! You replied so quickly!
Was wondering how this compares to Paulaโs choice BHA 2% liquid exfoliant
I really donโt like Paulaโs Choice BHA liquid due to the heavy, oily, sticky residue it leaves on the skin. This looks and feels like water.
I emailed the brand and this actually have 7% glycolic acid, 3% lactic acid and 2% salicylic acid.
Thank you! I went by what the brand said on their Instagram in my review.
I have this and it makes my skin feel amazing! How often do you use it
Usually in the evening but sometimes morning too.
Wow I live in Vancouver and never heard of this brand. Might try this despite being a little worried that itโll be too much for my skin. What do you think of PHAs?
PHAs are good for drier, more sensitive skin since theyโre much gentler (and also moisturising). Neostrata (also Canadian) invented PHA products and they have filed some patents on their formulas. Other brands have put out their take on PHAs but Neostrata is one of the most reliable in the market.