You could apply the toner with a cotton round or pat it on with your hands — I chose the latter. Unlike other AHA or BHA products I've tried, I didn't notice any stinging or tinging feeling upon application. PHAs , after all, are known to be gentler than other acids, and also have humectant properties. After layering on the rest of my routine, my skin felt bouncy and happy — and within a week of using it every other night, I already noticed fewer breakouts, and more hydrated, calmer skin.