17 Best Face Toners For Clear And Hydrated Skin (2024): As Per An Expert
Say hello to these pore-tightening, alcohol-free skincare essentials for healthy, refreshed skin.
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 Beaut... more
oyendrila kanjilalMA, Certified Skin Care Coach
Experience: 2 yearsOyendrila holds a master's degree in English Literature from the University Of Calcutta, West Bengal, and is a certified skin care coach. As a beauty and lifestyle writer with two years of experience,... more
shiboli chakrabortiMA (English Literature), Certified Skin Care Coach
Experience: 4 yearsShiboli 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,... more
anjali sayeeBTech
Experience: 7 yearsAnjali is an associate editor at StyleCraze. She specializes in hairstyles and hair and skin care and has written over 200 articles in these domains. She has 7 years of experience, and her philosophy ... more
Image: StyleCraze Design Team
The purpose of the best toners for hydrating skin is to give your skin a healthy sheen by doing its work between cleansing and moisturizing and it’s a mistake to skip this step. It is a must-have in your skin care routine. Bella Schneider, the Paramedical Esthetician and Founder of BSB, says, “Toners remove post-cleansing residue and impurities from the skin pores. They restore the skin’s pH level, improve skin texture, tone, and tighten the pores to reduce the penetration of environmental contaminants into the skin. It also protects skin with antioxidants and removes traces of chlorine and minerals left behind from the tap water.”
You’re missing a critical step in your cleanse-tone-moisturize (CTM) process if you’ve been skipping the toner. Whether you have oily or acne-prone skin, using a toner can help keep your complexion balanced and healthy. However, you need to be mindful about choosing the right toner if you tend to have dry skin. Keep reading to get more insight into toners and check out our list of the top toners with positive reviewer’s experience available on the market.
In This Article
17 Best Face Toners For Clear And Hydrated Skin
1. Best Overall:Thayers Facial Toner – Rose Petal
This spray-on toner contains clinically verified non-distilled witch hazel extract and rose water. It is rich in tannins that keep your skin healthy and prevent skin irritation. The organic witch hazel has natural astringent properties and it refreshes your skin, aloe vera promotes hydration, and glycerin moisturizes without clogging skin pores. This rosewater toner contains an organic formula does not disrupt the natural skin barrier and inhibits excess oil production. The Thayers Facial Toner is pore-refining, controls hormonal acne and oil production, and reduces redness and inflammation. If you need more convincing, feel free to check out this honest review of this toner on YouTube. The review will help you understand if the product shows proven efficacy and will also give you an insight into the reviewer’s experience.
Dr. Debra Jaliman, NYC-based board-certified dermatologist and Assistant Professor of Dermatology, Icahn School of Medicine, says, “Witch hazel is a natural astringent and can decrease oil and redness. It can reduce bacteria growth on the skin, including acne-causing bacteria. It can moisturize and tighten your skin without leaving it greasy.”
Suitable For: All skin types
Key Ingredients: Witch hazel, Aloe vera, and Glycerin
Pros
- Contains organic ingredients
- Dermatologist-tested
- Non-comedogenic
- Alcohol-free
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- Gluten-free
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- None
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has received 108,935 positive Amazon reviews from its users, stating its numerous benefits.
2. Best pH-Balanced: The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution
The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution contains glycolic acid that exfoliates your skin gently and improves its texture. The non-irritating oil control formula contains clinically-proven ingredients like Tasmanian pepperberry, ginseng root, and aloe vera extracts that helps improve skin radiance and provide skin-soothing benefits. The pH level of this refreshing formula is approximately 3.6. Continuous use of this exfoliating toner improves the overall skin appearance. You can take a look at this YouTube video to understand this toner’s merits and demerits and get an insight into the reviewer’s experience.
Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Stacy Marie Chimento, MD, absolutely loves the product. She says, “It improves dull skin, is gentle enough for sensitive skin, and provides a gentle exfoliation to give you a luminous glow.”
Note: Avoid using it on compromised skin and use sunscreen to avoid UV damage.
Suitable For: All skin types
Key Ingredients: Glycolic acid
Pros
- Alcohol-free
- Water-free
- Oil-free
- Silicone-free
- Nut-free
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- None
Pro TipWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has more than 8,734 reviews and is a top choice all around the world.
3. Best Vegan:Elizabeth Mott Facial Toner
The Elizabeth Mott Facial Toner is designed to balance and refresh the skin after cleansing. It can effectively get rid of any leftover impurities or remove traces of residue and restore the skin’s natural pH balance. It is made with clinically backed ingredients, such as hyaluronic acid, Centella asiatica extract, panthenol, etc. that hydrate, soothe, or brighten the skin. It also contains Antoxyl-S that protects the skin from environmental aggressors and removes deep-rooted dirt and impurities. The fast-absorbing formula of this refreshing toner acts as a serum that does not feel dry or sticky, and instead, makes your skin bouncy and youthful.
Suitable For: All skin types, including sensitive skin
Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic Acid and Antoxyl-S
Pros
- Suitable for daily use
- Suitable for all skin types
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Acts as a toner and a serum
- Hydrating
- Non-oily
- Non-sticky
- Non-clogging
Cons
- None
"This hyaluronic acid face toner controls dryness without aggravating my sensitive skin. It helps me remove residual makeup and leaves my skin soft and supple. I also like how it hydrates my skin without a greasy feeling."
Pro Tip| Thayers Facial Toner – Rose Petal Best Overall | The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution Best pH-Balanced | Elizabeth Mott Facial Toner Best Vegan | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skin Type | Combination, Normal | Sensitive | All, Sensitive, Dry |
| Dimensions | 6.18 x 2.52 x 2.52 inches | - | 6.1 x 1.7 x 1.7 inches |
| Weight | 0.01 Ounces | - | 5.28 Ounces. |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 108,935 | 8,734 | - |
| Price | $10.95 | $19.98 | $16 |
4. Best Hydrating:L’Oreal Paris HydraFresh Toner
The L’Oreal Paris HydraFresh Toner refreshes and softens the skin. It makes your skin appear smooth, soft, supple, and bright. This toner contains beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that gently sweeps away dull, tired skin and provitamin B5 that protects your skin against moisture loss.
Suitable For: Dry skin
Key Ingredients: BHA and Provitamin B5
Pros
- Lightweight
- Non-drying
- Dermatologist-tested
- 99% alcohol-free
Cons
- Overwhelming fragrance
Pro Tip5. Best For Regular Use:Plum Chamomile & White Tea Calming Antioxidant Toner
The Plum Chamomile & White Tea Calming Antioxidant Toner is gentle on your skin and great for regular use. It is enriched with chamomile extract with anti-inflammatory properties, antioxidant-rich white tea extract that offers sun protection, and aloe leaf juice that soothes your skin.
Suitable For: All skin types
Key Ingredients: Chamomile extract, White tea extract, and Aloe leaf juice
Pros
- Suitable for daily use
- Silicone-free
- Alcohol-free
- Vegan
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- None
"This toner is great for my dry skin. I like that it nourishes my skin and evens out my complexion. I like its fragrance as well because it does not overwhelm my senses."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With over 1,402 Amazon acclaimed reviews, this product is sure to find a place in everyone’s shopping bag.
6. Best For Acne-Prone Skin:PIXI Glow Tonic
This facial toner is pH-balanced and has a calming and rejuvenating effect on stressed skin. The PIXI Glow Tonic contains 5% glycolic acid to remove all the impurities from your pores, aloe vera to soothe and hydrate your skin, and red ginseng to protect and energize your skin. This face toner fades blemishes for a radiant complexion and is not tested on animals. To understand the nuances of this toner in a detailed manner, make sure to take a look at this YouTuber’s elaborate review. This toner can be beneficial for those with blemish-prone skin, and it can also improve the texture of the skin.
Suitable For: Acne-prone skin
Key Ingredients: 5% Glycolic acid, Aloe vera, and Red ginseng
Pros
- Non-drying
- Non-oily
- Alcohol-free
- Paraben-free
- Silicone-free
- Mineral oil-free
- Sulfate-free
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- None
Why It’s Worth Buying: The product has more than 1,402 reviews and is a top choice for all reviewers around the world.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product is so liked by shoppers that it has gained over 384 great reviews on Amazon.
7. Best Hypoallergenic:Neutrogena Alcohol-Free Toner
The Neutrogena Alcohol-Free Toner is gentle and helps maintain healthy and glowing skin. This specially formulated, oil-free toner refreshes your skin without stripping your skin’s natural oils and moisture. It has mild purifiers to remove all the surface impurities and make it feel tight and firm without any dryness.
If you are looking for a budget-friendly option, this clarifying toner is for you. Dr. Marie Jhin, a California-based dermatologist, agrees and says, “This is a good cheap toner for acne-prone skin.”
Suitable For: All skin types
Pros
- Non-comedogenic
- Absorbed quickly
- Hypoallergenic
- Mild
- Oil-free
- Alcohol-free
Cons
- Contains parabens and artificial fragrance
8. Best Clean Toner:Kiehl’s Calendula Herbal-Extract Toner
The Kiehl’s Calendula Herbal-Extract Toner is enriched with calendula flower petals with anti-inflammatory properties to soothe your inflamed skin, burdock root extract with moisturizing benefits, and allantoin to enhance hydration. These ingredients work great together to reduce visible redness, excess oil, and the appearance of enlarged pores. This gentle and alcohol-free facial toner cleanses the skin and perks it up to reveal a healthy glow.
Suitable For: Normal, sensitive, and oily skin types
Key Ingredients: Calendula flower petals, Allantoin, and Burdock root extract
Pros
- Alcohol-free
- All-natural
- Non-drying
- Non-comedogenic
- Paraben-free
- Fragrance-free
- Silicone-free
- Mineral oil-free
- Dye-free
Cons
- None
"This Kiehl's toner is gentle on my skin. It leaves my skin feeling soft and refreshed. I like that it hydrates my skin without clogging or enlarging pores. Overall, it is a fitting addition to my skin care regimen."
9. Best For Oily Skin:The Body Shop Tea Tree Mattifying Toner
Try this mattifying toner if you have super oily skin and need something to prevent the excess shine. The Tea Tree Mattifying Toner by The Body Shop removes all traces of impurities and makeup from your skin. It is infused with potent tea tree oil that purifies and tones the skin to minimize the appearance of pores, leaving it refreshed and visibly clear.
Suitable For: Oily skin
Key Ingredients: Tea tree oil
Pros
- 100% vegan
- Not tested on animals
- Naturally derived ingredients
Cons
- None
"This tea tree toner refreshes my skin. It rejuvenates and makes my skin appear soft. I like how it clarifies and smooths the skin texture. I use it every day because it is gentle, even for someone with sensitive skin like me."
10. Best For Dry Skin:Dickinson Enhanced Witch Hazel Hydrating Toner
Image: Dickinson's If you have extremely dry skin that needs a boost of hydration, this toner can help you out. The Dickinson Enhanced Witch Hazel Hydrating Toner is enriched with vitamin E, hyaluronic acid, and witch hazel extract. It keeps your skin clean and refreshed without stripping its moisture. This face toner also refines your skin pores and gently removes impurities.
Suitable For: Dry skin
Key Ingredients: Witch hazel extract, Vitamin E, and Hyaluronic acid
Pros
- Alcohol-free
- Recommended by dermatologists
- Contains natural ingredients
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- None
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product has made it to our top favorite list with more than 1,384 rave reviews on Amazon.
11. Best For Moisture Balance:Dr.Hauschka Facial Toner
This Facial Toner by Dr. Hanuschka supports the natural cleansing and renewal process of the skin. It minimizes the appearance of pores and balances moisture. The toner contains anthyllis and witch hazel extracts, which improve skin tone and elasticity. It also doubles as a makeup setting spray and lets you achieve glowy skin.
Suitable For: Sensitive, Combination, Normal, Dry, and Mature skin
Key Ingredients: Anthyllis and Witch hazel extracts
Pros
- Contains natural ingredients
- Paraben-free
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- None
"This toner offers a soothing touch to my skin. It clears irritation and makes my skin appear rejuvenated. I like that it refreshes my skin without drying it out. It is gentle and enhances my skin's appearance."
12. Best For Skin Hydration:ISNTREE Green Tea Fresh Toner
The ISNTREE Green Tea Fresh Toner is suitable for oily and combination skin types. It contains green tea extract sourced from Jeju Island that protects, brightens, and balances your skin. The centella asiatica extract in the formula maintains the skin’s moisture barrier, hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid boosts hydration, allantoin soothes, and blueberry fruit extract calms the skin. This lightweight toner eliminates excess sebum production to keep the skin shine-free.
Suitable For: Oily and combination skin types
Key Ingredients: Green tea
Pros
- EWG-certified
- Artificial fragrance-free
- Paraben-free
- Mineral oil-free
- Formaldehyde-free
- Alcohol-free
- Silicone-free
- No animal ingredients
- Petrolatum-free
Cons
- None
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
A whopping 2,658 reviews on Amazon make it obvious that users genuinely love this product.
13.Best Quick Drying Formula: La Roche-Posay Serozinc Face Toner
The La Roche-Posay Serozinc Face Toner contains zinc sulfate solution and works as a face toner and facial mist. It has a mattifying effect and prevents shine. The toner has a watery consistency and gets absorbed quickly.
Suitable For: Oily and sensitive skin types
Key Ingredients: Zinc sulfate
Pros
- Dermatologist-tested
- Paraben-free
- Fragrance-free
- Oil-free
Cons
- None
"This face toner controls shine without over-drying my skin. It absorbs well and does not leave any greasiness behind. I use it as a part of my skin prep routine before wearing makeup and it helps my makeup last longer."
14. Best Lightweight:Dermatologica Multi-Active Toner
The Dermatologica Multi-Active Toner has a lightweight formula. It conditions and prepares the skin for the next skin care steps. The toner contains moisture-binding humectants, which soothe and hydrate the skin. This product also claims to minimize the appearance of enlarged skin pores.
Suitable For: All skin types
Key Ingredients: Aloe vera, Lavender extract, Balm Mint, and Arnica
Pros
- Gluten-free
- Paraben-free
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
- Artificial color-free
- Synthetic fragrance-free
Cons
- None
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With 423 positive reviews on Amazon, this product has become a bestseller.
15. Best Skin Detoxification:Milk Makeup Matcha Toner
The Milk Makeup Matcha Toner product is one of its kind. It is the first solid toner with a concealed gel formula. It contains kombucha, matcha green tea, and cactus extracts that hydrate, detoxify, and calm irritated skin.
Suitable For: All skin types
Key Ingredients: Kombucha, Matcha green tea, and Cactus extract
Pros
- Organic ingredients
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Gluten-free
- Soy-free
- Talc-free
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- Sulfate-free
Cons
- None
"This matcha toner certainly preps skin nicely. It soothes my skin and gives it a beautiful glow. I keep using it because it does not feel heavy. Overall, it absorbs well and hydrates my skin quickly."
16. Best Ph Balance:Acwell Licorice pH Balancing Cleansing Toner
This cleansing and brightening toner water contains a high concentration of licorice extract and peony water. Both of these botanical extracts are natural ingredients, and they help reveal brighter skin. The Licorice pH Balancing Cleansing Toner by Acwell also contains green tea extract that calms your skin and reduces pigmentation.
Suitable For: All skin types (especially dry and sensitive skin)
Key Ingredients: Licorice extract, Green tea, Bergamot oil, and Peony water
Pros
- pH-balanced
- Gentle formula
- Non-irritating
Cons
- May feel a bit sticky
"This toner is a great part of my skin care routine. It controls the oiliness in my T-zone without drying the rest of my face out. It has a subtle scent that does not overwhelm me. I like how it settles on my skin without irritating it."
17. Best For Dead Skin Cells:Proactiv Revitalizing Toner
The Revitalizing Toner from Proactiv is ideal for balancing moisture and natural oils in your skin. It provides gentle exfoliation and helps remove dead cells from the skin, and clears the pores. The plant-based toner formula is enriched with chamomile and aloe extracts, witch hazel, allantoin, and panthenol. All these ingredients minimize irritation and stimulate skin cell regeneration. Dr. Marie Jhin, a California-based dermatologist, says, “I like this product for acne-prone skin.”
Suitable For: Acne-prone skin
Key Ingredients: Chamomile, Aloe vera, Witch hazel, Allantoin, and Panthenol
Pros
- Alcohol-free
- Non-drying
Cons
- Contains parabens
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
More than 2,843 rave reviews on Amazon prove why we are so in awe of this product.
What Is A Face Toner?
A toner is a water-based product that gently nourishes, replenishes, and refreshes your skin without stripping its natural moisture. It is the second and integral part of the CTM (Cleansing-Toning-Moisturizing) routine. A toner is crucial to keeping your skin hydrated.
Nowadays, toners have skin type-specific formulas with a variety of nourishing ingredients to perform multiple duties. Check out the best face toners suggested by the dermatologist.
What Does A Facial Toner Do To Your Skin?
- Removes traces of dirt, grime, and impurities post-cleansing
- Removes excess oil and improves the appearance of pores
- Restores the skin’s pH balance. The skin’s pH is slightly acidic (around 5.5). Cleansers and soaps have an alkaline pH and may disrupt the skin’s natural pH balance. Licensed esthetician Jordanna Antonoff says, “The main benefit of skin toners is to balance the pH and oil production. Balancing the skin pH is incredibly important because it repairs signs of dryness, leading to increased hydration.”
- Some toners contain humectants and help to bind moisture to the skin.
- Tighten cell gaps after cleansing to protect your skin against impurities and environmental contaminants
- May facilitate better absorption of serums and other skincare products
Toners have customized formulas to address different skin issues. If hydration is your main concern, scroll down to check our list of the17 best face toners to get clear and hydrated skin.
Above are the best face toners that contain a variety of ingredients and are suitable for different skin types and issues. Before buying one, here are a few pointers to keep in mind.
How To Choose The Best Face Toners As Per Your Skin Type – Buying Guide
Picking the right toner is about two factors:
- Your skin type and issues
- Ingredients that will work for your skin type
Therefore, before buying a toner, always:
1. Determine Your Skin Type
Schneider says, “Choose a toner customized to your particular skin type and concerns. For example, just like shampoos meant for straight hair will not work on curly hair, a toner for oily skin will not be effective on dry skin.” Therefore, always go for a toner developed to suit your skin type and issues. Look for dermatologically-approved products that are backed by reviewers.
2. Check The Ingredients
According to Schneider, “If you have oily skin, you will want a toner that is more drying to balance out your skin type. Look for formulations with salicylic acid, witch hazel, and AHAs. For dry, sensitive, or aging skin, choose hydrating formulas containing rose water, chamomile, aloe vera, cucumber juice, vitamin E, antioxidants, and avoid formulations with alcohol. These formulas moisturize, soothe, and retain the skin’s natural oils. Finally, if you have combination skin, look for a formulation that contains soothing ingredients like honeysuckle and aloe vera.”
If you are not using a toner yet, it is time you get one as per your skin type. If you have dry skin, we recommend the L’Oreal Paris.
HydraFresh Toner. And if you are looking for a soothing option, your skin will love the Kiehl’s Calendula Herbal-Extract Toner. This face toner works great for oily and sensitive skin and suits pretty much all skin types.
Infographic: How To Use A Face Toner (Step-By-Step)
The following infographic includes the step-by-step process of how to use a facial toner for your skin. With the help of this infographic, you will be able to understand how to incorporate a toner into your skincare routine and what are the correct steps of using this product. You will also learn how a toner will give your skin a healthy sheen by doing its work between cleansing and moisturizing. Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Toners play a crucial role in the CTM routine. They hydrate and deeply moisturize your skin to keep it healthy and glowing. Incorporating them into your daily routine can help remove the impurities and post-cleansing residue from the pores, improve skin texture, restore the natural skin’s pH balance, and shrink the open pores. The Thayers Facial Toner-Rose Petal is made with rose extract and perfect to soothe and hydrate the skin, while the PIXI Glow Tonic allows you to focus on exfoliation and achieve radiant skin. If you want to revitalize and hydrate the skin with organic plant extracts, try Kiehl’s Calendula Herbal-Extract Toner. Choose the perfect fit for your skin concerns and achieve a balanced, radiant glow. Most of the toners on our list are non-comedogenic, hypoallergenic, and alcohol-free. However, some products may have overpowering fragrances and sticky textures. So, read the reviews well before you purchase a toner. Make sure you get a formula that is suited to your skin type.
Frequently Answered Questions
Is it good to use toner on your face every day?
Yes, you can use a facial toner twice a day after cleansing your skin.
Is toner good for dry skin?
Yes. Toners are great, especially for dry skin. They help alleviate dehydrated skin without altering the skin’s natural moisture balance. They also get rid of redness and minimize irritation.
Do toners dry out the skin?
No. Hydrating toners do not dry out your skin. They gently rehydrate your skin without hampering its moisture levels.
Are there any side effects of using a toner?
Toner does not have any side effects unless they contain alcohol, which can be drying on your skin. They are safe to use for all skin types.
Can toner damage your skin?
Yes. Overusing alcohol-based toners can cause skin irritations. Hence it is always advisable to use mild water-based toners.
Does toner help with oily skin?
Yes. Toners can effectively work for oily skin. They curb excess oil production, reduce breakouts, and prevent the skin from drying out.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author, Oyendrila Kanjilal, is a certified skin care coach and has reviewed hundreds of skin care products. She carefully selected these face toners after reviewing their user testimonials and feedback available on multiple forums and brand websites. The products listed in this post restore the skin’s pH level, improve skin texture and tone and tighten the pores to reduce the penetration of environmental contaminants into the skin.
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