Dr.Melaxin Cactox Cactus Essence Pore Relief Toner is a lightweight essence toner designed to deeply hydrate, smooth rough-looking texture and help enlarged-looking pores appear more refined. The formula combines nine clearly named forms of Hyaluronic Acid with Panthenol, Niacinamide, Gluconolactone (PHA), Ceramide NP, 12 peptides, cactus extracts and Retinol. Its fast-absorbing texture delivers moisture without a heavy or greasy finish while supporting smoother, more balanced-looking skin.
Benefits:
- Provides intensive hydration: Nine forms of Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin, Glyceryl Glucoside and Polyglutamic Acid help attract and retain moisture for a plumper, smoother-looking complexion.
- Helps refine enlarged-looking pores: Niacinamide, PHA and hydration-supporting ingredients help improve the appearance of pores affected by excess sebum, dehydration and uneven texture.
- Gently exfoliates rough texture: Gluconolactone provides PHA exfoliation to help loosen accumulated dead surface cells and support softer, more even-looking skin.
- Supports smoother-looking skin: Retinol, Adenosine and a 12-peptide complex help improve the appearance of uneven texture and fine lines with consistent use.
- Supports the moisture barrier: Ceramide NP, Cholesterol, Panthenol, Hydrogenated Lecithin and skin-conditioning lipids help maintain skin comfort and moisture retention.
- Helps brighten dull-looking skin: Niacinamide, 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid and Ascorbic Acid support a brighter and more even-looking complexion.
- Provides cactus-based conditioning care: Opuntia Ficus-Indica Flower, Fruit and Stem Extracts help condition the skin and provide botanical antioxidant support.
- Supports a firmer-looking complexion: Copper Tripeptide-1 and eleven additional clearly named peptides complement Adenosine and Retinol for elasticity-focused cosmetic care.
- Helps maintain skin comfort: Panthenol, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract and moisturizing humectants support comfortable-feeling skin.
- Absorbs without a heavy finish: The essence-style toner is designed to provide substantial hydration while remaining suitable for layering within a skincare routine.
Skin Types: Normal • Dry • Dehydrated • Combination • Oily • Mature skin • Sensitive skin with appropriate retinoid and exfoliant tolerance
Skin Concerns: Enlarged-looking pores • Dehydration • Rough texture • Dullness • Uneven-looking tone • Fine lines • Loss of firmness • Excess sebum • Uneven skin texture
Clinical Results:
- The supplied product information states that the toner has been clinically evaluated for skin improvement.
- No numerical results, testing institution, participant number, test duration, dates or assessment methodology were supplied, so no specific clinical improvement percentage can be verified from the provided information.
- Individual results may vary.
Formula Notes:
- 9-layer Hyaluronic Acid claim: The supplied INCI contains nine clearly named forms of Hyaluronic Acid or hyaluronate, which supports the marketing description of a 9-layer Hyaluronic Acid complex.
- PHA 1% claim: Gluconolactone, a PHA, is clearly present. According to the supplied product information, the formula contains PHA 1%, but this percentage is not stated directly in the INCI and therefore cannot be independently confirmed from the ingredient list alone.
- Retinol: Retinol is clearly listed in the supplied INCI. The exact percentage is not supplied and cannot be determined from ingredient order alone.
- Liposomal Retinol claim: The supplied description refers to a liposomal Retinol complex. Retinol, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Lysolecithin and Phosphatidylcholine are present, but the exact structure and concentration of the claimed proprietary liposomal complex cannot be established from the INCI alone.
- Triple-patented liposome claim: The supplied product information describes a triple-patented liposome formula. Patent details or documentation were not supplied, so this cannot be independently verified from the ingredient list.
- Peptide complex: Twelve clearly named peptides are present: Copper Tripeptide-1, Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, Dipeptide Diaminobutyroyl Benzylamide Diacetate, Hexapeptide-9, Nonapeptide-1, Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12, Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5, Pentapeptide-3 and Tripeptide-1.
- Cactox Elixir: The supplied product information refers to Cactox Elixir. Opuntia Ficus-Indica Flower, Fruit and Stem Extracts and Lactobacillus Ferment are present, but “Cactox Elixir” is not itself listed as a standardized INCI ingredient, so its exact proprietary composition cannot be independently confirmed.
- BioDtox: The supplied marketing description refers to BioDtox, but no ingredient by that name appears in the INCI. Several botanical extracts are present, but the exact composition of any proprietary BioDtox complex cannot be confirmed from the supplied ingredient list.
- Fragrance: Fragrance is listed in the supplied INCI, so the toner is not fragrance-free.
- Essential oils: No clearly identified aromatic essential oils are listed in the supplied INCI.
- Vegan status: Vegan status cannot be confirmed from the INCI alone. Chitosan is present, and its biological source is not specified by the ingredient name.
How to Use:
- Use after cleansing on dry or lightly damp skin.
- Dispense an appropriate amount onto a cotton pad and gently sweep over the face following the skin’s natural texture, avoiding the eye and lip areas.
- Alternatively, dispense into clean palms and gently press into the skin if you prefer to minimize friction.
- Because the formula contains Retinol and PHA, evening use is preferable when first introducing the toner.
- If you are new to retinoids or exfoliating acids, begin approximately 2–3 nights per week and gradually increase frequency only if your skin remains comfortable.
- Avoid combining multiple Retinol, Retinal or other retinoid products in the same routine.
- If your skin is sensitive, consider alternating this toner with strong AHA/BHA exfoliants rather than layering them together.
- Avoid application to broken, irritated, freshly shaved or freshly waxed skin.
- Mild temporary tingling may occur with exfoliating ingredients, but persistent burning, pronounced redness or irritation is a reason to discontinue use.
- Follow with serum and moisturizer as needed.
- Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen every morning while Retinol and exfoliating acids are part of your routine.
- Avoid Retinol-containing products during pregnancy. During breastfeeding, discuss Retinol use with your doctor.
Key Ingredients:
- 9 Forms of Hyaluronic Acid: Hyaluronic Acid, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate and six additional derivatives help support moisture retention and a temporarily plumper appearance.
- Gluconolactone: A PHA that gently exfoliates dead surface cells while also providing humectant benefits.
- Retinol: A Vitamin A derivative that helps improve the appearance of fine lines, roughness and uneven texture with consistent and appropriately introduced use.
- Niacinamide: Helps brighten dull-looking skin, support barrier function and improve the appearance of uneven tone and enlarged-looking pores.
- Panthenol: Helps moisturize and support skin comfort.
- 12-Peptide Complex: Includes Copper Tripeptide-1, Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 and multiple palmitoylated peptides to support smoother and firmer-looking skin.
- Ceramide NP & Cholesterol: Skin-identical lipid components that help support the moisture barrier and reduce moisture loss.
- Polyglutamic Acid: A humectant that helps retain moisture at the skin’s surface.
- 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid & Ascorbic Acid: Vitamin C ingredients that provide antioxidant care and support a brighter-looking complexion.
- Opuntia Ficus-Indica Extracts: Cactus Flower, Fruit and Stem Extracts provide botanical conditioning and antioxidant support.
- Adenosine: Helps improve the appearance of fine lines and supports smoother-looking skin.
- Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract: Provides hydrating and soothing skin-conditioning care.
- Malachite Extract: A mineral-derived ingredient used for antioxidant and skin-conditioning support.
Ingredients:
Water, Butylene Glycol, Propanediol, Hyaluronic Acid, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate, Pentylene Glycol, Glycerin, Niacinamide, Sodium Citrate, Gluconolactone, Erythritol, Glyceryl Glucoside, 1,2-Hexanediol, Hydroxyacetophenone, Glycereth-25 PCA Isostearate, Citric Acid, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Flower Extract, Dextrin, Gardenia Florida Fruit Extract, Ethylhexylglycerin, Methyl Diisopropyl Propionamide, Adenosine, Fragrance, Cellulose Gum, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Panthenol, Polyglutamic Acid, Aluminum/Magnesium Hydroxide Stearate, Ceramide NP, Cholesterol, Lysolecithin, Phosphatidylcholine, Phytosteryl/Behenyl/Octyldodecyl Lauroyl Glutamate, Polysorbate 80, Stearic Acid, Malachite Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Lactobacillus Ferment, Copper Tripeptide-1, 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, Ascorbic Acid, Bioflavonoids, Dimethylsilanol Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Brassica Oleracea Italica (Broccoli) Extract, Opuntia Ficus-Indica Flower Extract, Opuntia Ficus-Indica Fruit Extract, Opuntia Ficus-Indica Stem Extract, Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hyaluronate, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Sodium Hyaluronate Dimethylsilanol, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, Dipeptide Diaminobutyroyl Benzylamide Diacetate, Hexapeptide-9, Nonapeptide-1, Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12, Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5, Pentapeptide-3, Tripeptide-1, Pyrus Malus (Apple) Fruit Extract, Brassica Oleracea Acephala Leaf Extract, Apium Graveolens (Celery) Extract, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Fruit Extract, Actinidia Chinensis (Kiwi) Fruit Extract, Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil, Retinol, Brassica Campestris (Rapeseed) Sterols, Pentaerythrityl Tetra-di-t-butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Chitosan, Tris(Tetramethylhydroxypiperidinol) Citrate
FAQ:
Q: What does Dr.Melaxin Cactox Cactus Essence Pore Relief Toner do?
A: It hydrates, gently exfoliates and supports smoother-looking skin while helping enlarged-looking pores, dullness and uneven texture appear more refined.
Q: Is this primarily a hydrating toner or an exfoliating toner?
A: It combines both functions. The formula has an extensive humectant system with nine forms of Hyaluronic Acid, while Gluconolactone provides PHA exfoliation and Retinol supports longer-term texture care.
Q: Does it really contain nine types of Hyaluronic Acid?
A: Yes. Nine clearly named Hyaluronic Acid or hyaluronate forms are present in the supplied INCI.
Q: Which nine forms of Hyaluronic Acid are included?
A: They are Hyaluronic Acid, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate, Dimethylsilanol Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hyaluronate, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Sodium Hyaluronate Dimethylsilanol and Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate.
Q: Does it contain PHA?
A: Yes. Gluconolactone is clearly listed in the ingredient list and is a PHA.
Q: Does it contain 1% PHA?
A: According to the supplied product information, the toner contains PHA 1%. The percentage is not written directly in the supplied INCI, so it cannot be independently confirmed from the ingredient list alone.
Q: What does PHA do in this toner?
A: Gluconolactone helps loosen accumulated dead surface cells and smooth uneven-looking texture while also providing humectant properties.
Q: Does the toner contain Retinol?
A: Yes. Retinol is clearly listed in the supplied INCI.
Q: What percentage of Retinol does it contain?
A: No Retinol percentage was supplied, and the exact concentration cannot be determined from the INCI alone.
Q: What is the liposomal Retinol complex?
A: The supplied product information describes a liposomal Retinol complex. Retinol and several lipid-based ingredients associated with delivery systems are present, including Hydrogenated Lecithin and Phosphatidylcholine, but the exact proprietary complex cannot be reconstructed from the INCI alone.
Q: Is the triple-patented liposome claim confirmed by the ingredient list?
A: No. The supplied description states that a triple-patented liposome system is used, but patent documentation was not provided and this claim cannot be verified from INCI names alone.
Q: How many peptides does the toner contain?
A: The supplied INCI contains 12 clearly named peptides.
Q: Which peptides are included?
A: They are Copper Tripeptide-1, Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, Dipeptide Diaminobutyroyl Benzylamide Diacetate, Hexapeptide-9, Nonapeptide-1, Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12, Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5, Pentapeptide-3 and Tripeptide-1.
Q: Does it contain Copper Peptide?
A: Yes. Copper Tripeptide-1 is listed in the formula.
Q: Is Dipeptide Diaminobutyroyl Benzylamide Diacetate Botox?
A: No. It is a cosmetic peptide and is not injectable botulinum toxin. It should not be described as Botox or as freezing facial muscles.
Q: Does the toner permanently shrink pores?
A: No. Cosmetics cannot permanently change pore size. Hydration, exfoliation, Niacinamide and improved surface texture can help pores appear smoother and less noticeable.
Q: Can it help clogged-looking pores?
A: The PHA can help remove dead surface cells that contribute to uneven texture, but this is not a dedicated BHA pore-clearing treatment. Persistent blackheads or congestion may benefit from a separate appropriately formulated Salicylic Acid product.
Q: What is Cactox Elixir?
A: Cactox Elixir is a proprietary name used in the supplied marketing information. The formula contains Opuntia Ficus-Indica Flower, Fruit and Stem Extracts plus Lactobacillus Ferment, but the exact composition of Cactox Elixir is not separately identified in the INCI.
Q: Does it really contain cactus extracts?
A: Yes. Opuntia Ficus-Indica Flower Extract, Fruit Extract and Stem Extract are all listed.
Q: What is BioDtox?
A: BioDtox is mentioned in the supplied marketing description, but it is not an INCI ingredient name. The formula contains several fruit and vegetable extracts, but the exact composition of any proprietary BioDtox complex cannot be confirmed from the supplied INCI.
Q: Does the toner contain Panthenol?
A: Yes. Panthenol is included to help moisturize and support skin comfort.
Q: Does it contain Ceramides?
A: Yes. Ceramide NP is listed, together with Cholesterol and additional lipid-based ingredients that help support the skin’s moisture barrier.
Q: Does it contain Vitamin C?
A: Yes. Both 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid and Ascorbic Acid are listed in the supplied INCI.
Q: Is it suitable for dry or dehydrated skin?
A: Yes. The nine-form Hyaluronic Acid complex, Glycerin, Polyglutamic Acid, Panthenol and barrier-supporting lipids make it particularly relevant for dehydration. Dry or sensitive skin should introduce it gradually because PHA and Retinol are also present.
Q: Is it suitable for oily skin?
A: Yes. Its lightweight texture, Niacinamide and PHA can suit oily skin, particularly when visible pores and dehydration occur together.
Q: Is it suitable for combination skin?
A: Yes. It can provide hydration to drier areas while supporting smoother texture and more refined-looking pores in oilier areas.
Q: Is it suitable for sensitive skin?
A: Sensitive skin should use additional caution because the formula combines PHA, Retinol and Fragrance. Start gradually and discontinue use if persistent irritation develops.
Q: Is it suitable for acne-prone skin?
A: It may be used by acne-prone skin if tolerated and may support smoother texture and hydration, but it is not a medical acne treatment.
Q: Is the toner fragrance-free?
A: No. Fragrance is listed in the supplied INCI.
Q: Does it contain essential oils?
A: No clearly identified aromatic essential oils are listed in the supplied ingredient list.
Q: Does it contain drying alcohol?
A: Ethanol and Alcohol Denat. are not listed in the supplied INCI.
Q: Is the toner vegan?
A: Vegan status cannot be confirmed from the supplied ingredient list. Chitosan is present, and its biological source is not specified by the INCI name alone.
Q: Can I use this toner every day?
A: Skin already accustomed to Retinol and exfoliation may tolerate frequent use, but beginners should start around 2–3 evenings per week and increase gradually only if the skin remains comfortable.
Q: Should I use it in the morning or at night?
A: Evening use is preferable when first introducing it because Retinol is present. Experienced users may adjust frequency according to tolerance, but sunscreen remains essential every morning.
Q: Can I use it with another Retinol or Retinal serum?
A: Avoid combining multiple retinoids in the same routine unless specifically advised by a skincare professional. Layering several retinoid products can unnecessarily increase dryness and irritation.
Q: Can I use it with AHA or BHA exfoliants?
A: It is possible for experienced skin, but the toner already contains PHA and Retinol. Sensitive skin is better served by alternating stronger exfoliants rather than stacking them in one routine.
Q: Can I use it with Vitamin C?
A: Yes, but because the toner already contains Vitamin C derivatives as well as Retinol and PHA, sensitive skin may prefer using a separate strong Vitamin C treatment at a different time of day.
Q: Can I use it with Niacinamide serum?
A: Yes, although the toner already contains Niacinamide, so an additional Niacinamide serum is optional rather than necessary.
Q: Can I use it with Copper Peptide products?
A: The toner itself already contains Copper Tripeptide-1. Adding another peptide product is generally unnecessary unless it serves a separate purpose in your routine.
Q: Can I use the toner immediately after shaving or waxing?
A: No. Because it contains PHA and Retinol, avoid applying it immediately after shaving or waxing when the skin is more vulnerable to stinging and irritation.
Q: Should I use a cotton pad or my hands?
A: The supplied directions recommend a cotton pad. You may also press the toner into the skin with clean hands if you want to reduce rubbing, particularly when your skin feels sensitive.
Q: Do I need sunscreen while using this toner?
A: Yes. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen every morning because the formula contains Retinol and an exfoliating PHA.
Q: Can I use it during pregnancy?
A: No. Retinol is listed in the formula, and topical retinoids are generally avoided during pregnancy.
Q: Can I use it while breastfeeding?
A: Because Retinol is present, discuss its use with your doctor if you are breastfeeding.
Q: Where can I buy Dr.Melaxin skincare in Cyprus?
A: You can find Dr.Melaxin Cactox Cactus Essence Pore Relief Toner at Just Cosmetics, together with a curated selection of Korean Cosmetics in Cyprus.















