Medik8 Press & Glow® - Daily Exfoliating PHA Toner Dupes & Cheaper Alternatives
From 14 Reddit threads · Updated November 6, 2026
5.5% gluconolactone gently smooths texture and pores; pricey for a toner. Here's what Redditors reach for instead.
The short answer
Best Overall AlternativeSalicylic Acid targets sebaceous filaments and pore congestion · $16.80 · 149.9 ml
Best Cheaper Alternative2% glycolic acid plus 0.5% salicylic acid in a watery toner · $12.60 · 150 ml vs $35.00 for the original
Same Active: PHASoftens rough texture with gluconolactone · $35.05 · 149.9 ml
#1
Best Overall Alternative
- Size: 149.9 ml
- Price per ml: $0.11/ml (original $0.18/ml)
The why
This acid toner combines Salicylic Acid, Lactobionic Acid, and Niacinamide for occasional pore maintenance. Redditors report glow and fewer sebaceous filaments, while studies found 4% niacinamide can improve acne; sensitive or tretinoin-treated skin often finds it harsh.
One minus
Too harsh for sensitive skin; irritation can outlast the trial
Good forOily Skin
Both recommended for Texture / Pores.
“using Some by mi toner every other night has reduced my pore size.”
— Reddit, r/tretinoin
The original, at a glance
- Why people love it
- 5.5% gluconolactone PHA; unusually gentle daily exfoliation
- Price
- $35.00 · 198.1 ml · $0.18/ml
#2
Best Cheaper Alternative
Green Plum Refreshing Toner : AHA + BHA
Beauty of Joseon·Toner
See alternatives2% glycolic acid plus 0.5% salicylic acid in a watery toner
- Size: 150 ml
- Price per ml: $0.08/ml (original $0.18/ml)
The why
A watery glycolic acid and salicylic acid toner for congested pores, rough texture, and occasional breakouts. It suits oily or combination skin using acids sparingly, but sensitive or barrier-damaged skin may sting and develop bumps.
One minus
Stings when the moisture barrier is compromised
Good forSensitive Skin, Combination Skin, Dry Skin, Oily Skin
Both recommended for Texture / Pores.
“i tried BOJ’s plum toner a while back.”
— Reddit, r/koreanskincare
#3
Same Active: PHA
Watermelon Glow PHA+BHA Pore-Tight Toner
Glow Recipe·Toner
See alternativesSoftens rough texture with gluconolactone
- Size: 149.9 ml
- Price per ml: $0.23/ml (original $0.18/ml)
The why
An exfoliating toner built around gluconolactone and betaine salicylate, with hyaluronic acid for a less stripped finish. Best on combination or congested skin wanting softer texture, but frequent use can dry, flake, or irritate a compromised barrier.
One minus
Twice-daily use can flake skin and damage the barrier
Good forDry Skin, Sensitive Skin
Both recommended for Texture / Pores.
“Glow Recipe Watermelon AHA/BHA Toner - 7/10 - Provides adequate pore-minimizing results”
— Reddit, r/30PlusSkinCare
#4
Best for Texture / Pores
Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution
The Ordinary·Toner
See alternatives7% glycolic acid for noticeable resurfacing
- Key actives: Glycolic Acid 7%
- Size: 239.5 ml
- Price per ml: $0.06/ml (original $0.18/ml)
The why
This 7% glycolic acid toner is a leave-on AHA for rough texture, clogged pores, and fading marks. Studies found acne benefits, and Redditors report smoother skin and brighter spots; sensitive, dry, rosacea-prone skin often gets burning, peeling, or barrier damage.
One minus
Burning, peeling, and redness can happen fast
Good forOily Skin
Both recommended for Texture / Pores.
Other alternatives worth a look
8% glycolic acid gel for weekly resurfacing · 15 recs
Dry SkinHyperpigmentation
Soothing, fragrance-free formula with centella · 10 recs
K-Beauty
Gradual brightening for mouth-area hyperpigmentation · 8 recs
Lactic AcidTranexamic Acid
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