Saccharomyces Ferment 30% Milky Toner
A gentle exfoliating milky toner that smooths texture, boosts radiance, and supports hydration.
A better option than strong acid toners for people who want smoother, brighter skin but need something gentler and more hydration-friendly.
It fills a gap in The Ordinary line: something between a basic hydrating toner and a strong acid toner. The ferment-based gentle exfoliation in a milky format is appealing for people who want skin texture improvement without the acid-toner risk.
After cleansing, before serum — as a second cleanse/prep step. Can be used morning and evening. Apply to face and neck with fingers or a cotton pad and leave on.
Sensitive skin that wants gentle exfoliation without risking acid irritation. Also great for people who want a prep toner that also conditions skin rather than just stripping before serums.
For people expecting the same texture-clearing punch as a 10% AHA — this is gentler by design. Manage expectations: you get consistent soft improvement over time, not overnight refinement.
Very gentle — safe to continue. If the citric acid pH feels irritating on inflamed skin, pause temporarily but this is unlikely to be a significant issue for most people.
- A hydrating serum after it (the gentle exfoliation preps skin to absorb serums better)
- SPF in the morning
- A richer moisturizer on top for dry skin
Best For
- Dull skin
- Uneven texture
- Dryness
- Sensitive skin wanting gentle exfoliation
- Radiance
How to Use
Shake well, then apply morning and evening to the face and neck using fingers or a cotton pad. Do not rinse.
Key Ingredients
Provides gentle enzymatic exfoliation, brightening support, barrier-conditioning benefits, and antioxidant action. In milky toners, acts as a gentle resurfacing and radiance-boosting active without the direct acid exfoliation of AHAs.
Softens and conditions the skin, reinforces the moisture barrier, and provides a lightweight emollient feel without greasiness.
Ingredients to Note
May be a concern for some skin types. Tap to learn more.
May be a concern for some skin types. Tap to learn more.
Full Ingredient List
About This Product
The Ordinary Saccharomyces Ferment 30% Milky Toner uses saccharomyces ferment (yeast extract) as its primary active in a milky emulsion format. Unlike the brand's acid-based toners, the exfoliating action here comes from fermentation-derived enzymes and organic acids rather than direct AHA application. The result is a gentler exfoliating effect with a simultaneous hydration-boosting milky texture, suitable for daily use where AHA toners may be too aggressive.