Neogen Real Ferment Micro Toner | Review

The skincare terminology that we know of in this generation is the AHA (Alpha-hydroxy acids) & BHA  (Beta-hydroxy acids). In recent years, PHA (Polyhydroxy acid) has come up a lot in the market, adding a sensitive skin-friendly option that is more gentle than AHA & BHA due to the larger molecule (reaching less deep than AHA/BHA). I was relatively amazed at the new addition- LHA (Lipohydroxy acid). Neogen released this 4-in-1 formula with AHA, BHA, PHA, and LHA in one toner. Let's find out if this product makes a difference to the skin. 

Claims: When I first came across this toner, I was really intrigued by its formula. It claims to contain 90% Bio Ferment Complex, which includes fermented ingredients like probiotics and fermented rice that are supposed to strengthen the skin barrier and improve overall skin health.

The toner is also formulated with multiple exfoliating acids — AHA, BHA, PHA, and LHA — which are commonly used to remove dead skin cells and help keep pores clear. On paper, it sounded like the perfect toner for smoother, clearer skin.

However, after trying it for a while, I realised that this toner unfortunately wasn’t the best match for my acne-prone skin.

Texture & Consistency: The toner has a lightweight, watery texture that absorbs quickly into the skin. It feels refreshing when applied and doesn’t leave a sticky residue, which I really appreciate in a toner.

It’s also formulated with a pH of around 5.5, which is considered mildly acidic and generally suitable for maintaining the skin’s natural barrier.

Another interesting thing about this toner is the fermented ingredient base, including:

• Bifida Ferment Lysate
• Saccharomyces Ferment Filtrate
• Rice Ferment Filtrate (Sake)

Fermented skincare ingredients are often praised for their ability to support the skin microbiome and improve skin barrier health.

Because of this, I initially expected the toner to help calm my skin while gently exfoliating.

Ingredient List: Bifida Ferment Lysate, Saccharomyces Ferment Filtrate, Betula Alba Juice, Rice Ferment Filtrate (Sake), Water, Aspergilus Ferment, Propanediol, Polyglyceryl-4 Caprate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Glycereth-25 PCA Isostearate, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Lactate, Sodium Gluconate, Allantoin, Lactobacillus, Disodium EDTA, Tromethamine, Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Oil, Gluconolactone, Salicylic Acid, Panthenol, Capryloyl Salicylic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Butylene Glycol, Hyaluronic Acid, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate

Experience: Even though the ingredient list looks promising, my experience with the toner was not as positive as I expected.

The main issue for me is that the formula contains a high concentration of active ingredients, including multiple exfoliating acids and fermented ingredients.

While these ingredients can be beneficial, using them together — especially with a 90% fermented base, may be a bit too strong for sensitive or acne-prone skin.

After using it for some time, I noticed that my skin started to feel slightly irritated and more reactive, and I experienced a few unexpected breakouts.

For people with acne-prone skin, sometimes too many active ingredients in one product can disrupt the skin barrier, which may trigger more breakouts instead of helping them.

Another ingredient that may contribute to irritation is peppermint oil, which is included for fragrance and a cooling sensation. While it can feel refreshing, essential oils can sometimes irritate sensitive or acne-prone skin.

Final Verdict: If you’re someone with resilient skin who enjoys exfoliating toners, you might still like it. But for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin, I would recommend approaching it carefully or choosing a gentler toner with fewer active ingredients. What do you think? Speak soon x

All photos by Prisc

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