Last updated: September 24, 2026
Anua Heartleaf 77% Soothing Toner and SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella toners are two of the most popular K-beauty toners for calming, redness-prone and acne-prone skin. Both are built around soothing plant extracts, both cost roughly the same, and both have loyal followings. The differences come down to their key plant, whether they include a gentle exfoliating element, and how they feel on different skin types.
Quick comparison
| Feature | Anua Heartleaf 77% Soothing Toner | SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Toning Toner |
|---|---|---|
| Hero ingredient | Houttuynia cordata (heartleaf) extract, 77% | Centella asiatica extract |
| Exfoliating element | None as a main feature | Mild exfoliating component in the Toning Toner; check label |
| Texture | Watery, light | Watery, light |
| Main role | Soothing, hydrating, calming | Soothing plus gentle smoothing |
| Typical price | ~$18–30 for 250 ml | ~$15–25 for 210 ml |
| Fragrance | Fragrance-free (check current label) | Fragrance-free (check current label) |
SKIN1004 sells several centella toners, some purely hydrating and some with mild exfoliation. Confirm which one you are buying.
Ingredient science
Heartleaf (Houttuynia cordata)
Heartleaf is a plant used in K-beauty for its soothing and antioxidant properties. Laboratory and small studies suggest it has anti-inflammatory activity, which is why it is popular for irritated, acne-prone skin. Anua’s toner uses a high concentration in a simple base.
Centella asiatica
Centella is one of the better-studied botanicals in skincare, with compounds such as madecassoside and asiaticoside associated with soothing and barrier support. SKIN1004’s range features centella sourced from Madagascar. The Toning Toner version adds a mild exfoliating ingredient to help smooth texture.
Which suits your skin?
| Skin type or concern | Better pick | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Irritated, reactive, post-procedure-calm-down days | Anua | No exfoliation, pure soothing |
| Acne-prone with texture | SKIN1004 Toning Toner | Soothing plus gentle smoothing |
| Oily | Either | Both are light |
| Dry | Anua, layered | Hydrating when patted in multiple layers |
| Using retinoids or strong acids | Anua | Avoids stacking exfoliation |
| Dull, uneven texture | SKIN1004 Toning Toner | Mild exfoliating element |
How to use each
Anua Heartleaf
After cleansing, pour a small amount into your palms and pat into the skin, or use a cotton pad. It can be layered 2–3 times for extra hydration (the “7-skin” approach) or soaked onto cotton pads as a 5-minute calming mask on red areas. Use morning and night.
SKIN1004 Toning Toner
Apply with a cotton pad in gentle sweeps, or pat in with hands. Because of its mild exfoliating element, start once daily, preferably in the evening, and increase if your skin tolerates it. Avoid layering it multiple times per session on sensitive skin.
Pairing with actives
Anua pairs with almost any routine, including retinoids and exfoliating acids, because it adds no extra exfoliation. SKIN1004’s Toning Toner should be spaced away from strong AHA/BHA products and used cautiously on retinoid nights. Both work well before niacinamide, hyaluronic acid serums and moisturizer.
Using both
Some people use SKIN1004 Toning Toner a few evenings a week for texture and Anua on other nights and every morning for calm hydration. That keeps exfoliation controlled while getting the benefits of both plants.
Value
Both bottles last roughly 2–3 months with twice-daily patting. Anua’s slightly larger bottle often gives similar or better value per ml. If you use the cotton-pad mask method frequently, you will go through either faster.
Choosing by climate and season
In hot, humid months, many people find either toner alone gives enough hydration under a light gel moisturizer. In cold months, Anua layered two or three times provides more comfort, while the SKIN1004 Toning Toner may feel slightly drying if used daily alongside retinoids. Adjust frequency with the season rather than switching products constantly.
Who should avoid each
People allergic to plant extracts in the Saururaceae (heartleaf) or Apiaceae (centella) families should avoid the relevant toner or patch test carefully. Those with very sensitive skin, eczema or rosacea should be cautious with the exfoliating Toning Toner. Stop use if you notice stinging, rash or persistent redness and consult a dermatologist. Neither toner is a treatment for acne or rosacea.
FAQ
Can a toner really calm redness?
Soothing toners can help skin look and feel calmer, especially after cleansing. Persistent redness, flushing or rosacea should be evaluated by a dermatologist.
Do I need a toner at all?
No. Toners are optional. These two are useful for adding hydration and soothing ingredients, but a good cleanser, moisturizer and sunscreen matter more.
Bottom line
Choose Anua Heartleaf 77% for pure soothing and hydration that pairs with any routine, including retinoids and acids. Choose SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Toning Toner if you want soothing plus gentle smoothing for texture and acne-prone skin, used a few times a week. Double-check which SKIN1004 toner you are buying, since the range includes non-exfoliating versions too.
