Best Drugstore Toners For Oily Skin, Makeup Expert’s Top 13 Picks Of 2024

Combat excess oil production and unclog your pores effectively, all on a budget.

Reviewed by Shawnda Dorantes, MSN, APRN, FNP-C Shawnda Dorantes Shawnda DorantesMSN, APRN, FNP-C facebook_iconinsta_icon
Written by , MA (English Literature), Certified Skin Care Coach Shiboli Chakraborti MA (English Literature), Certified Skin Care Coach linkedin_icon Experience: 4 years
Edited by , MA (English Literature), Diploma In Health & Wellness Aditi Naskar MA (English Literature), Diploma In Health & Wellness linkedin_icon Experience: 5 years
Fact-checked by , MA (English Literature) Ramona Sinha MA (English Literature) linkedin_icon Experience: 11 years
Last Updated on
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Toners are the best solution for many skin issues faced by oily skin. They contain active ingredients and help minimize sebum production, clear the pores, and exfoliate your skin. They do not cost and bomb, and there are many best drugstore toners for oily skin that work pretty well to offer glowing skin. Scroll down to find the list of the 13 best drugstore toners for oily skin to add to your skincare routine.

Top Picks
Check Price
Best For Large Pores:LAROCHE-POSAY EFFACLAR Astringent Lotion
Price on Amazon
Best For Blackheads:PAULA’S CHOICE Pore-Reducing Toner
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Best For Acne Breakouts:natural outcome Oily Skin Toner
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Best For Irritated Skin:raya Calendula Astringent
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Best Pore Cleanser:sebamed Clear Face Facial Toner
Price on Amazon
Best Non-Comedogenic: CeraVe Hydrating TonerPrice on Amazon
Best Anti-Inflammatory: Eight Saints Clear Seaweed Face Toner
Price on Amazon
Best For Skin Smoothening: PCA SKIN Smoothing Facial Toner
Price on Amazon
Best For Skin Tightening:LATHER Citrus Balancing Toner
Price on Amazon
Best pH-Balanced:Obagi Medical Nu-Derm Face TonerPrice on Amazon

What Do Toners Do For Your Skin?

Toners were earlier developed by the beauty industry to balance the skin’s pH level but have now evolved to aid several aspects of skincare. Cleansing your face with a face wash does not guarantee a 100% cleanse. Toners remove grease and makeup residue from your pores and tighten your pores. They also balance the sebum levels to make your skin oil-free.

Keep scrolling to look at the 13 best toners for oily skin available online.

13 Best Toners For Oily Skin

1. Best For Large Pores:LAROCHE-POSAY EFFACLAR Astringent Lotion

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4.5
LAROCHE-POSAY EFFACLAR Astringent Lotion Image: Laroche-posay

The LAROCHE POSAY EFFACLAR is specifically formulated for oily and acne-prone skin types. This toner has micro-exfoliating properties that reduce the pore size and help you achieve glowing skin. This dermatologist-recommended pore-minimizing toner for oily skin is infused with lipo hydroxy acids that help smoothen and refine the skin texture and prevent clogged pores. Other ingredients include glycerin, salicylic acid, hydrogenated castor oil, and capryloyl salicylic acid. You can check out the YouTuber’s review of this salicylic acid toner for oily skin if you need more encouragement to give it a try!

Skin Type: Oily | Product Dimensions: 1.75 x 1.75 x 6.7 inches | Weight: 7.41 Ounces

Pros

  • Dermatologist-tested
  • Allergy tested
  • Tested on acne-prone skin
  • Oil-free
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Paraben-free
  • Value for money

Cons

  • May sting on application.

protip_icon Pro Tip
Avoid rubbing the toner onto your skin with a cotton pad as it may cause micro-injuries. Gently pat the product using your palms.

2. Best For Blackheads:PAULA’S CHOICE Pore-Reducing Toner

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4.5
Paula's Choice Pore-Reducing Toner Image: Paula's Choice

The Pore-Reducing Toner by PAULA’S CHOICE is enriched with niacinamide that minimizes pores and fights the signs of aging. The antioxidants balance oily skin and eliminate blackheads and blemishes to smoothen your skin. The hydrating ceramides refine and protect your skin from damage. This toner is infused with chamomile extracts, burdock root extracts, and hyaluronic acid that restore the skin barriers to promote an even skin tone. It does not strip away natural moisture and provides hydration.

Skin Type: Oily, Acne Prone Skin, Combination, Normal | Product Dimensions: 1.97 x 1.97 x 6.3 inches | Weight: 8.15 Ounces

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Gentle
  • Clinically proven results
  • Paraben-free
  • Artificial fragrance-free
  • Value for money
  • Not tested on animals

Cons

  • Greasy residue
worth-buy-icon

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

This product has received 5,480 reviews from customers on Amazon, indicating its popularity and reliability.

3. Best For Acne Breakouts:natural outcome Oily Skin Toner

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4
Natural Outcome Oily Skin Toner Image: Natural Outcome

The Oily Skin Toner by natural outcome is infused with grapefruit, lemon, aloe vera, witch hazel, and pomegranate. The antibacterial grapefruit dissolves excess oils, balances oil production in your pores, minimizes the occurrence of clogged pores and prevents breakouts. The antioxidant-rich pomegranate has acne-fighting properties that promote cell regeneration and give you glowing skin.

Lemon prevents acne and clarifies skin. This lightweight formula also has natural vitamin C that brightens the complexion. Witch hazel refines the pores and is a natural astringent that cleanses dirt or grime. Aloe vera has natural anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that soothe irritation and breakouts while hydrating your skin. This formula is well-received by reviewers online for its mattifying effect on the skin.

Skin Type: Oily | Product Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 6.1 x 2.32 x 2.32 inches

Pros

  • Alcohol-free
  • Cruelty-free
  • Dye-free
  • Paraben-free
  • Sulfate-free
  • Silicone-free
  • Mineral oil-free
  • Value for money

Cons

  • May cause irritation.
LAROCHE-POSAY EFFACLAR Astringent Lotion
Best For Large Pores
PAULA’S CHOICE Pore-Reducing Toner
Best For Blackheads
natural outcome Oily Skin Toner
Best For Acne Breakouts
Skin Type Oily Oily, Acne Prone Skin, Combination, Normal Oily
Dimensions 1.75 x 1.75 x 6.7 inches 1.97 x 1.97 x 6.3 inches -
Weight 7.41 Ounces 8.15 Ounces-
Dimensions ‏-- ‎ 6.1 x 2.32 x 2.32 inches
Rating
Reviews2,7855,480441
Price$24.99$22.0$11.95

4. Best For Irritated Skin:raya Calendula Astringent

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4.4

The Calendula AstringenT by raya is specially formulated for oily skin. This lightweight formula is infused with aloe vera, lemon, calendula extracts, andGlycolic acid.

Aloe vera has natural anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that soothe irritation and breakouts while hydrating your skin. Lemon prevents acne and clarifies and brightens your skin. Glycolic acid balances your face’s natural pH, prevents breakouts, reduces excess oil, and eliminates fine lines or wrinkles.

Skin Type: Oily, mature, Combination, aging, break-out | Product Dimensions: 2 x 2 x 5.5 inches | Weight: 6.88 Ounces

Pros

  • Paraben-free
  • Cruelty-free
  • Value for money
  • Mild

Cons

  • Unpleasant smell

5. Best Pore Cleanser:sebamed Clear Face Facial Toner

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4.5

This toner from sebamed is a gentle, deep pore cleanser. The pH-balanced moisturizing toner soothes, cleanses, and restores the natural skin barrier to give you a radiant skin. It removes excess oil, grime, and dirt while controlling sebum production. This clinically-tested toner smells good and contains panthenol, silk proteins, and allantoin to soothe your skin concerns and improve cell regeneration.

Skin Type: Oily | Product Dimensions: 2.5 x 6.5 x 1.5 inches | Weight: 8 Ounces

Pros

  • Clinically tested
  • Contains natural ingredients
  • Dermatologically tested
  • Paraben-free
  • Sulfate-free
  • Silicone-free
  • Mineral oil-free
  • Value for money

Cons

  • Contains alcohol

protip_icon Caution
Avoid this toner if you have oily-sensitive skin, as the product contains alcohol.

6. Best Non-Comedogenic: CeraVe Hydrating Toner

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4.5
CeraVe Hydrating Toner Image: Cerave

The CeraVe Hydrating Toner is formulated for sensitive, oily, and acne-prone skin. It is non-alcoholic and contains hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and essential ceramides that provide ample hydration and makes the skin smooth, soft, and refreshed-looking skin. The ceramides essentially help with restoring the skin’s natural skin barrier and maintaining the pH balance. This dermatologically-approved oil-free toner for oily skin formula also aids in eliminating leftover dirt from deep within the pores.

Skin Type: Sensitive, Dry, Normal

Pros

  • Non-drying
  • Non-greasy
  • Lightweight
  • Non-alcoholic
  • Fragrance-free
  • pH balanced
  • Allergy tested
  • Oil-free

Cons

  • Might not be suited for sensitive skin

7. Best Anti-Inflammatory: Eight Saints Clear Seaweed Face Toner

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4.7
Eight Saints Clear Seaweed Face Toner Image: Eight Saints

The Eight Saints Clear Seaweed Face Toner helps remove dirt and oil from the skin without stripping away its natural moisture. The purifying mist contains key skincare ingredients, such as witch hazel that reduces the likelihood of breakouts, vitamin B5 to nourish and protect the skin barrier, and MSM as an anti-inflammatory. These ingredients will make your skin more supple, wrinkle-free, and acne-resistant. It’s the ideal toner to use after cleansing to remove the last traces of makeup, clear pores, and renew skin before moisturizing.

Skin Type: Oily, Acne Prone Skin, Combination, Normal

Pros

  • Cruelty-free
  • Fragrance-free
  • Mild
  • Clinically proven results
  • Contains natural ingredients
  • Non-drying

Cons

  • Might give a tingling sensation

8. Best For Skin Smoothening:PCA SKIN Smoothing Facial Toner

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4.4
PCA SKIN Smoothing Facial Toner Image: Pca Skin

The PCA SKIN Smoothing Facial Toner is one of a kind, alcohol-free toner formulated specifically to reduce the appearance of acne and pores for a smooth and clear skin texture. The acne-fighting toner for oily skin contains aloe, botanical extracts, citric, and lactic acids to remove dead skin cells for a brightened skin tone, without stripping the natural moisture from the skin. This dermatologist-recommended toner reduces excess oil from the skin to prevent further acne breakout and uneven skin texture.

Skin Type: Oily

Pros

  • Fragrance-free
  • Paraben-free
  • Alcohol-free
  • Best suited for acne-prone skin

Cons

  • Might burn or irritate the skin

9. Best For Skin Tightening:LATHER Citrus Balancing Toner

This clarifying toner for oily skin is infused with rosemary extracts, lemon extract, horsetail extract, lemongrass oil, pine tree extract, and mandarin orange extracts. These ingredients balance the pH level of the skin and have skin tightening properties.

This toner also helps control natural sebum production and refreshes your skin. It is rich in omega-6 linoleic acid and allantoin to smooth out your skin and keep it clean. The refreshing toner for oily skin is also rich in vitamin E and has antioxidant-rich ingredients. To incorporate this antioxidant-rich toner for oily skin into your skin care routine, use it both in the morning and evening for optimal results. Witness its refreshing and revitalizing effects on your skin!

Skin Type: All

Pros

  • Mild
  • Contains natural ingredients
  • Paraben-free
  • Sulfate-free
  • Silicone-free
  • Mineral oil-free
  • Cruelty-free
  • Dye-free
  • Synthetic fragrance-free
  • Value for money

Cons

  • None

10. Best pH-Balanced:Obagi Medical Nu-Derm Face Toner

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4.4

The non-drying Obagi Medical Nu-Derm Face Toner helps to adjust the pH of the skin. It is suitable for dry, regular, and oily skin. You can use this toner after cleansing the skin to remove the dead skin and impurities. The dermatologist-tested toner helps to reduce fine lines and wrinkles. It transforms the skin’s appearance by improving the complexion and making the skin look healthier.

Skin Type: Dry | Product Dimensions: 2.53 x 1.78 x 6 inches | Weight: 8 Ounces

Pros

  • Alcohol-free
  • Non-drying formula
  • Travel-friendly
  • Easy-to-use

Cons

  • Watery consistency
worth-buy-icon

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

With 1,548 positive reviews on Amazon, this product has become a bestseller.

11. Best Anti-Aging:VMV HYPOALLERGENICS Superskin 3 Monolaurin + Mandelic Acid Toner

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3.5

This toner from VMV HYPOALLERGENICS is a deep-cleansing and acne-managing toner. It brightens your skin tone to help you achieve a youthful appearance and reduces signs of aging. The clinically-tested toner gently removes dead skin cells, dirt, impurities, and excess oil from your pores and prevents breakouts. It gives a matte look and clarifies your skin by lightening blemishes and fine lines.

Product Dimensions: 3 x 3.5 x 8 inches | Weight: 4.8 Ounces.

Pros

  • Clinically tested
  • Fragrance-free
  • Mattifying
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Non-comedogenic
  • Paraben-free
  • Dye-free
  • Phthalate-free
  • Preservative-free
  • Value for money

Cons

  • Contains alcohol

12. Best For Combination Skin:THAYERS Alcohol-Free Rose Petal Witch Hazel Facial Toner

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4.6
Thayers Facial Toner Image: Thayers

The THAYERS Rose Petal Witch Hazel Facial Toner is an affordable option that is formulated to tone and smooth the skin while maintaining the skin’s moisture barrier. This toner helps reduce the appearance of pores, and balances the pH level of the skin. It is made with organic witch hazel, aloe vera, and vegetable-derived glycerin that provides the hydration and nourishment required for smooth skin to help you retain a youthful appearance. It is considered to be one of the best soothing toners for oily skin.

Skin Type: Combination, Normal | Product Dimensions: 6.18 x 2.52 x 2.52 inches | Weight: 0.01 Ounces

Pros

  • Dermatologically tested
  • Cruelty-free
  • Non-alcoholic
  • Non-comedogenic
  • 100% natural ingredients

Cons

  • Not suitable for sensitive skin
  • Strong fragrance
worth-buy-icon

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

The product has more than 108,935 reviews and is a top choice all around the world.

13. Best For Brightened Skin:InstaNatural Vitamin C Toner

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4.4
InstaNatural Vitamin C Toner Image: Insta Natural

The InstaNatural Vitamin C Toner is an astringent spray that maintains your skin’s pH balance and natural moisture barrier. It contains vitamin C which keeps the skin hydrated and reduces signs of aging, while adding more brightness to your skin. It is infused with witch hazel, lavender, and geranium oils which balance oil production, reduce skin irritation, and leave you with radiant and soft skin for a youthful appearance.

Skin Type: Oily, Combination, Sensitive, Dry, Normal | Product Dimensions: 3 x 1 x 6 inches | Weight: 2.08 Ounces

Pros

  • Paraben-free
  • pH-balancing
  • Anti-aging
  • Sulfate-free
  • No synthetic fragrance
  • PEG-free
  • Petroleum-free
  • Formaldehyde releasor-free
  • Cruelty-free
  • Synthetic dye-free
  • Mineral oil-free
  • Affordable option

Cons

  • Might dry out your skin
worth-buy-icon

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

With over 6,054 reviews, this product has become a fan favorite among users.

*The prices provided in this article are based on the latest available information. However, they may vary due to changes in pricing by the seller and/or promotional offers.

Let’s now look at the factors to consider while choosing a toner for oily skin.

How To Choose The Best Toner For Oily Skin

  • pH Balance

The healthy pH for skin is 5.5. If you have oily skin, your skin tends to become more acidic. Over-cleansing will make your skin worse and dry it out. A toner with an optimal pH level will balance your skin’s acidity and make it moisturized and glowing.

  • Check The Key Ingredients

Opt for exfoliating toners with AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) and BHAs (beta hydroxy acids) like glycolic, salicylic, and lactic acids. They gently exfoliate your skin, cleanse the pores, and reduce sebum production without drying out your skin. Look for soothing and hydrating ingredients like niacinamide and aloe vera. Opt for naturally-derived ingredients that do not irritate or damage your skin.

  • Avoid Harsh Chemicals

Avoid ingredients like alcohol that dry out your skin, strip off moisture, trigger sebum production, and cause breakouts. Highly concentrated ingredients like witch hazel may cause irritation and breakouts. Avoid products with alcohol, parabens, sulfates, artificial fragrances, and silicones to prevent skin damage.

  • Other Skin Problems

If you have combination or oily skin, excessive exfoliation can dry it out and increase oil production. Therefore, keep in mind your skin concerns and avoid ingredients like glycolic acid, benzoyl peroxide, and witch hazel that can trigger acne or lead to dehydrated skin.

Infographic: Key Ingredients In Drugstore Toners For Oily Skin

Choosing the right toner for your oily skin might be challenging without prior knowledge about the ingredients. The wrong toner can cause serious harm to your skin, and hence, you must be cautious. Check out the infographic below for a lowdown on key ingredients that enhance the effectiveness of drugstore toners for oily skin.

Key Ingredients In Drugstore Toners For Oily Skin (infographic)

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

The Bottom Line

Drugstore toners can help reduce pores and exfoliate your skin. No, they do not cost a lot, but you need to choose the best drugstore toner according to your skin type. For oily skin, toners can help remove grease and makeup residue from your pores while attempting to tighten your skin. For instance, try the LAROCHE-POSAY EFFACLAR Astringent Lotion to mimize large pores and blackheads, and the PAULA’S CHOICE Pore-Reducing Toner to improve rough skin texture. On the other hand, the CeraVe Hydrating Toner works effectively for those with oily skin who still need hydration. Some toners also comprise micro-exfoliating properties that smoothen the texture of your skin and help in hydrating, nourishing, and rejuvenation. Avoid toners that sting too much when you apply them.

Why Trust Stylecraze

The author, Shiboli Chakraborti, is a certified skin care coach and loves reviewing new and exciting products for her readers. She handpicked the best drugstore toners for oily skin after thoroughly researching multiple products and sifting numerous user reviews on trusted online forums and websites. The shortlisted products are dermatologically-tested and contain potent natural ingredients that help tighten your pores with every application.

Frequently Asked Questions

How should I apply a toner?

Soak a cotton pad with the toner and gently dab or swipe it on your neck and entire face. You can also dab some on your hand and pat it on your face. Make sure you use a toner after cleansing your face and before moisturizing it.

How many times a day should I use a toner?

It is recommended to use a toner twice a day after washing. If your skin is very sensitive and gets irritated or dry easily, applying the toner once will be sufficient.

How do you know your skin toner is working?

After using a toner, your face feels less greasy or shiny. It also tightens your pores and makes your face look smoother and cleaner.

How long does a toner last?

Toners can last up to one year from the date of manufacturing. If you find any change in color, smell, or irritation to your skin, discard the product immediately.

Can I use drugstore toner without moisturizer for oily skin?

Yes. If the toner provides enough moisture, it can be applied without a moisturizer. However, it is always advisable to use moisturizer to keep the skin nourished, hydrated, and supple.

Can you use rosewater as a toner for oily skin?

Yes, rose water helps balance natural oils and is one of the best natural toners for oily skin.

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Shawnda Dorantes
Shawnda DorantesMSN, APRN, FNP-C
Shawnda Dorantes, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, is the founder and Master Injector at Beauty Lounge Medical Spa. She has 15 years of experience in the beauty industry and 13 years as a registered nurse.   Dorantes began her career as a Beauty Advisor for Estee Lauder.

Read full bio of Shawnda Dorantes
Shiboli Chakraborti
Shiboli ChakrabortiCommerce Editor
Shiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor, she guides her team members on the best practices to create crisp and authentic content.

Read full bio of Shiboli Chakraborti
Aditi Naskar
Aditi NaskarAssociate Commerce Editor
Aditi Naskar has a postgraduate degree in English literature from Presidency University, Kolkata, a bachelor’s degree in education from WBUTTEPA, Kolkata, and a diploma in health and wellness. She is an associate commerce editor with 5 years of experience and specializes in reviewing fitness and health products.

Read full bio of Aditi Naskar
Ramona Sinha
Ramona is an editor at StyleCraze with 11 years of experience in writing and editing. She has authored over 200 articles on skin and hair care. She graduated from the University of Calcutta, West Bengal, and did her post-graduation from the University of Kalyani, West Bengal.

Read full bio of Ramona Sinha