Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Toner
the claim
The Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Toner claims to be a highly concentrated, dermatologically tested toner boasting hyaluronic acid, trehalose, birch sap extract and collagen to rejuvenate skin with moisture.
the science
Sodium Hyaluronate is a salt derived from Hyaluronic Acid. It delivers similar benefits only skin absorbs it more easily. Hyaluronic Acid is a Glycosaminoglycan, a vital naturally occurring substance of the skin which works to keep every aspect of skin stable, safeguarded and continuously renewed. Able to attract up to 1000 times its weight in water, it’s also a competent humectant, well supported by Glycerin and Butylene Glycol, the latter also assisting to increase the effectiveness of other ingredients.
Trehalose is a sugar considered particularly useful because of its rehydrating and water binding properties, as well as its antioxidant properties. When applied topically, it allows the skin to retain moisture that it would otherwise be lost. Similarly, β-Glucan is a polysaccharide sugar derived from various mushrooms, plants, algaes, yeast or oats. It’s able to stimulate collagen production, accelerate wound repair, soothe and calm irritated and inflamed skin, moisturise and fight the signs of ageing. Its humectant effect is supposedly 20% more hydrating than hyaluronic acid, able to lock in moisture while simultaneously preventing transepidermal water loss.
Vitamin B5, Panthenol, is an effective skin penetrator, able to reach into the lower layers for deep skin cell absorption and effective moisturisation. It may possibly also provide anti-inflammatory benefits that can counteract acne causing bacteria.
Anti-inflammatory, skin soothing and packed with vitamins, White Birch Sap and Aloe Vera are used to treat skin conditions and moisturise. Enzyme activity in Aloe Vera also helps to rejuvenate tissues, promote collagen production plus cleanse and detoxify for healthy pores and skin. Also able to boost collagen synthesis is Hydrolyzed Collagen, a protein that is readily absorbed by the body and broken down into peptides. Medicinal properties are strengthened by Pulsatilla Koreana Extract.
Antioxidant protectin is provided from Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Japanese Pepper Extract while Lichen Extract and Hydroxyethylcellulose impart antibacterial properties to naturally preserve the product.
the ingredients
Sodium Hyaluronate (50%), Water, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Trehalose, Betula Alba (White Birch) Juice, Beta-Glucan, Hydrolyzed Collagen, Althaea Rosea Root Extract, Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Extract, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Panthenol, Zanthoxylum Piperitum (Japanese Pepper) Fruit Extract, Pulsatilla Koreana Extract, Usnea Barbata (Lichen) Extract, Hydroxyethylcellulose
the packaging
The Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Toner is presented in a clear plastic cylindrical bottle with screw top lid and dropper opening which is covered by an aluminum seal when new.
the analysis
Both the CosDNA and EWG assessments conclude an ideal low hazard rating for the Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Toner, without any warning flags.
the application
After cleansing, take a moderate amount on a cotton pad and wipe the skin. Tap to aid absorption.
the scent
The Hyaluronic Acid Toner has no detectable scent.
the cost
The Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Toner costs around USD$13.00 for 200ml. It has been recently been released in a 400ml bottle for USD$26.00.
the availability
Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Toner is available from many Korean skincare boutiques such as Style Korean. I purchased mine from Yes Style.
the expiry
The toner has a 2 year shelf life and should be used within 12 months of opening.
the performance
Clean and elegant in presentation, the Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Toner comes in a clear cylindrical plastic bottle with dropper opening and screw top cap. It’s clear like water in appearance although has a thicker consistency, being quite viscous in texture. There is no detectable scent. The toner comes in a large 200ml bottle and the brand has recently released a jumbo 400ml size too. It’s well priced and affordable so represents really good value.
I love to layer toner and usually apply more than one type in my routine. At night, I follow an acid toner with a hydrating one while my morning routine tends to comprise some combination of essence and toner.
It has a very slippery texture. It glides over the skin effortlessly and feels almost slimy. But, it absorbs very cleanly and thoroughly in quick time, no stickiness, no tackiness.
The formula is promising and in practice, the stars all come out to play. 50% Sodium Hyaluronate solution combines with powerhouse moisture gatherers including Glycerin, Trehalose, Panthenol and Beta-Glucan to deliver a most hydrating result. White Birch and Aloe Vera soothe and calm the skin while Hydrolyzed Collagen and antioxidant heavy exotic extracts attend to ageing concerns.
Upon application, it feels instantly hydrating and satisfying so I find I only need one layer to give my skin the moisture it needs. When it’s parched, two will suffice. It is completely satisfying. CosDNA and EWG assessments confirm a gentle formulation that will suit all skin types including sensitive. This toner will quench the thirst of drier complexions with few layers while soothing characteristics and fast absorbing behaviour will please irritated and oilier skin types. As for mature skin, the incredible hydration it offers will assist to achieve plumpness, helping to blur existing imperfections and keep fine lines and wrinkles at bay.
the conclusion
In short, this is one of the best hydrating toners I have tried. It’s effective, efficient, economical and gentle. It comes highly recommended and is definitely on my repurchase list!
the summary
| Pros | Cons |
| Ideal CosDNA and EWG results | Only available online in Australia |
| Fast, clean absorption without residue | |
| Plumps with hydration with only one layer | |
| Suitable for all skin types |
the references
Isntree website
How Hyaluronic Acid Benefits Skin Paula’s Choice Skincare
Butylene Glycol The Dermatology Review
Trehalose The Truth In Aging
Beta Glucan is the Future of Skincare Mack In Style
This Little-Known Skincare Ingredient Might Take Over Hyaluronic Acid’s Job Kaitlyn McLintock
Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice Radiant RG-Cell Cosmeceuticals
the disclaimer
Please read in context with my disclaimer.
