The 11 Best Witch Hazel Toners That Are Hypoallergenic – 2024
Eliminate that extra oiliness from your face skin-brightening gentle formulas.
Witch hazel is a natural astringent with essential antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. That’s why the best witch hazel toners are the most popular toners to eliminate oiliness and prepare the skin to absorb other beauty products more effectively. This skin care ingredient is tried, tested, and extensively used in many beauty products. “Witch Hazel makes your face a canvas. Use prior to applying any type of product for optimal absorption. It’s been around the longest and it’s a reason why. It’s a great product for the skin.”, says Donna Kay Parrish, a Licensed Esthetician.
In This Article
11 Best Witch Hazel Toners
1. Best Dermatologist-Tested:Thayers Witch Hazel Aloe Vera Formula Facial Toner
This moisturizing witch hazel toner from Thayers harnesses the goodness of the nutrient-rich organic aloe vera that hydrates the skin. It also maintains the skin’s natural barrier. The toner is infused with non-distilled witch hazel extracts, an active ingredient. The rose water in this preparation increases its natural astringent properties. It controls sebum production, seals moisture, and combats free radicals. This pH-balancing toner has skin-brightening and anti-aging properties. It also soothes and heals infections. It penetrates the skin and cleanses dirt and grime. It shrinks open pores and eliminates the appearance of blackheads and whiteheads. Check out a reviewer’s experience of using this skincare product in a video on YouTube.
Key Ingredients: Witch Hazel, rose petals, Aloe barbadensis leaf juice
Pros
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- Propylene glycol-free
- Cruelty-free
- Gluten-free
- Dermatologist-tested
- Clinically tested
- Visible results after a week
- Soft fragrance
Cons
- Contains phenoxyethanol (a preservative)
2. Best Lightweight:Bioré Witch Hazel Pore Clarifying Toner
This balanced skin clarifying toner from Bioré is formulated with 2% salicylic acid to heal the skin of infections and acne. It also cleanses the skin of build-up from oil, dirt, and grime. The astringent properties of witch hazel help prevent new breakouts by cleansing and shrinking open pores, while refreshing and clarifying the skin. This oil-free preparation also has exfoliating properties that slough away dead skin cells and reveal a clearer and brighter skin tone. The toner is ideal for acne-prone oily skin and irritated skin, as it controls sebum production without drying the skin out. This refreshing toner is lightweight and is filled with exfoliating benefits.
Key Ingredients: Witch hazel, 2% salicylic acid
Pros
- Non-comedogenic
- Oil-free
- Lightweight
- Dermatologist-tested
- No animal testing
Cons
- Not suitable for sensitive skin
3. Best Alcohol-Free:Dickinson’s Enhanced Witch Hazel Hydrating Toner
The alcohol-free hydrating toner from Dickinson’s is powered by 98% natural organic certified witch hazel that has been distilled to retain its purity. The toner gently removes impurities from the skin. It is enriched with hyaluronic acid and vitamin E that help increase skin moisture and firm the skin. The rosewater and aloe vera juice in this formula offers a refreshing and ultra-clean feel. This lightweight, hyaluronic acid-infused toner cleanses the skin of impurities, refines and reduces the appearance of pores, and leaves the skin soft and smooth.
Key Ingredients: Witch hazel, hyaluronic acid, rosewater, vitamin E, Aloe barbadensis leaf juice
Pros
- Natural, organic ingredients
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Dye-free
- Gluten-free
- Alcohol-free
- Dermatologist-recommended
Cons
- Strong fragrance
Thayers Witch Hazel Aloe Vera Formula Facial Toner Best Dermatologist-Tested | Bioré Witch Hazel Pore Clarifying Toner Best Lightweight | Dickinson's Enhanced Witch Hazel Hydrating Toner Best Alcohol-Free | |
---|---|---|---|
Skin Type | Combination, Normal | Normal | - |
Dimensions | 6.18 x 2.52 x 2.52 inches | 1.7 x 2.4 x 6.5 inches | 2.5 x 3 x 7.68 inches |
Weight | 0.01 Ounces | 9.6 Ounces. | 1 Pounds |
Rating | |||
Reviews | 108,935 | 14,572 | 1,384 |
Price | $10.95 | $6.87 | $5.87 |
4. Best Non-Comedogenic:Neutrogena Pore Refining Toner
The facial cleansing toner from the dermatologist-recommended brand, Neutrogena, is formulated with a combination of witch hazel extracts along with alpha- and beta-hydroxy acids that visibly reduce open pores and exfoliate dead skin cells. This non-drying formula smoothens rough and uneven patches on the skin and leaves skin soft and supple. It penetrates the skin and clears away impurities and leftover makeup. The aloe vera, eucalyptus, and peppermint leaf extracts help moisturize the skin. The toner’s antibacterial properties help prevent future breakouts. This hypoallergenic preparation has been dermatologist-tested and is suitable for all skin types.
Key ingredients: Witch hazel, salicylic acid, aloe vera leaf extract, eucalyptus leaf extract, peppermint leaf extract, allantoin
Pros
- Non-drying
- Non-comedogenic
- Oil-free
- Hypoallergenic
- Dermatologist-tested
- Suits all skin types
Cons
- Contains alcohol
5. Best For All Ages:Proactiv Revitalizing Toner
The Proactiv revitalizing toner is packed with botanical extracts from aloe vera, allantoin, chamomile, witch hazel, and panthenol. These ingredients help absorb surface oil, clarify open pores, and reduce inflammation. This toner is formulated with glycolic acid that gently exfoliates dead skin cells and minimizes breakouts while promoting the skin cell renewal process, acting like an effective acne treatment. This alcohol-free preparation clears dirt, oil, and makeup. It also helps maintain the skin’s pH balance. It maintains the skin’s moisture balance and keeps the skin soft and radiant.
Key Ingredients: Aloe, chamomile, allantoin, witch hazel, panthenol (vitamin B complex)
Pros
- pH-balanced formula
- Alcohol-free
- Safe for all ages
Cons
- Not suitable for sensitive skin
6. Best Synthetic Fragrance-Free:Mario Badescu Witch Hazel & Lavender Toner
The lavender and witch hazel toner from Mario Badescu deeply cleanses the skin without stripping it of its natural oils and moisture. It is enriched with a blend of lavender essential water and oil to calm and soothe stressed skin. The witch hazel clarifies pores and reduces the appearance of acne, blackheads, and blemishes. This blemish-control formula is also infused with rosewater and aloe vera responsible for its moisturizing and hydrating properties. When used twice daily, this toner effectively restores the natural balance of the skin and reveals a radiant, youthful complexion. We recommend that you try pressing it into the skin, with a cotton pad, after cleansing for best results.
Key Ingredients: Witch hazel, aloe, lavender essential water, lavender oil, rosewater
Pros
- Phthalate-free
- Alcohol-free
- Paraben-free
- Gluten-free
- Synthetic fragrance-free
- Vegan-friendly
Cons
- None
"This toner has a soothing touch, especially for sensitive skin. The scent is mild and pleasant too. The gentle formulation works wonders for skin clarity, offering a refreshing feel without irritating. It's perfect for a regular skin care routine."
7. Best Hypoallergenic:Maple Holistics Witch Hazel Toner
The Maple Holistic toner is fortified with a blend of botanical extracts that offer therapeutic benefits to the skin. This witch hazel, lavender, and aloe formula balances the production of sebum. It also helps with skin tightening and combats acne. It helps slough away the dead skin cells and protects the skin from damage. The toner works gently to cleanse makeup residue and everyday pollutants while soothing skin irritation and keeping skin hydrated. This versatile toner can also be included in the hair care routine to keep the scalp clean and flake-free.
Key Ingredients: Witch hazel, lavender, and aloe vera
Pros
- Non-greasy
- Hypoallergenic
- Paraben-free
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
- Alcohol-free
Cons
- Slightly sticky texture
8. Best For All Skin Types:Differin Pore-Minimizing Skin Toner
The pore minimizing toner from Differin is enriched with witch hazel to remove dirt and impurities from your skin. The toner also unclogs open pores and reduces excess oil production. It is fortified with vitamin B, aloe vera, and rosehip extract that keeps the skin hydrated, nourished, and well-conditioned. The chamomile in this alcohol-free toner gives a soothing effect and keeps your skin calm. This toner is suitable for all skin types and can be used twice a day to tighten open pores. It also keeps the skin clear of acne and blemishes and promotes even skin tone.
Key Ingredients: Witch hazel, chamomile, vitamin B, rosehip extract, aloe
Pros
- Suits all skin types
- Alcohol-free
- Dermatologist-tested
Cons
- May dry the skin out
"This toner is suitable for sensitive, acne-prone skin. It's gentle, non-irritating, and reduces my pore size. While it can be slightly drying with regular use, it works well with other acne treatments. It is useful for keeping the skin feeling clean and soothed."
9. Best Mineral Oil-Free:Secret Key Witch-Hazel Pore Clear Toner
This non-irritating, gentle skin care toner from Secret Key is packed with the goodness of numerous botanical extracts that keep the skin soothed and calm. The astringent properties of witch hazel control oil production and cleanse and tighten blocked pores. The toner also penetrates the skin and clears away makeup residue and daily grime, making this toner a perfect addition to your skin care regimen. The snail mucus extract in this preparation helps reduce wrinkles and fade dark spots. The toner is also infused with aloe vera and mulberry extract that keep the skin moisturized.
Key Ingredients: Snail mucus extract, heartsease (viola tricolor extract), mulberry root extract, portulaca extract, hollyhock extract, aloe vera extract, witch hazel extract, usnea extract
Pros
- Oil-control formula
- Botanical ingredients
- Paraben-free
- Benzophenone-free
- Mineral oil-free
- No chemical preservatives
Cons
- May dry skin out
10. Best Cruelty-Free:Bliss What a Melon Toner
The watermelon toner from Bliss is a powerhouse of natural ingredients that blend together to energize dull and tired skin. Its antioxidant-rich watermelon extract infuses the skin with hydration and nutrition. It also fortifies the natural moisture barrier. The natural astringent properties of witch hazel have a pore-tightening effect and keep the skin free of excess oil and grime, an ideal benefit for those with combination skin. The willow bark and cucumber extracts work together to exfoliate dead skin cells and keep the skin calm and revitalized. This lightweight formula protects the skin from free radical damage and slows down the aging process.
Key Ingredients: Watermelon fruit extract, witch hazel, willow bark extract, sodium hyaluronate, cucumber fruit extract
Pros
- Calming effect
- Phthalate-free
- Sulfate-free
- Paraben-free
- Alcohol-free
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
- Dermatologist-tested
Cons
- May dry skin out
11. Best Non-Toxic:Sky Organics Organic Tea Tree Witch Hazel Toner
This USDA-certified organic toner from Sky Organics is crafted from a powerful blend of tea tree and witch hazel. This convenient facial mist uses organic witch hazel that keeps skin hydrated all day long. The tea tree leaf oil in this formula has antibacterial properties that soothe acne-prone skin, cleanse blocked pores, and combat future breakouts. This toner enhances the absorption of moisturizers and helps maintain the skin barrier. It has a non-greasy texture and can also be used under makeup.
Key ingredients: Witch hazel, tea tree leaf oil
Pros
- Cruelty-free
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- Alcohol-free
- Non-toxic
- Vegan
Cons
- Strong fragrance
Witch hazel is a multifunctional astringent and one of the best ingredients to battle the woes of oily or sensitive skin. Witch hazel toners are a must-have in your skin care routine, whether for cleansing or toning purposes. Here are some factors to keep in mind while choosing a hypoallergenic witch hazel toner for your skin care.
Things To Consider While Choosing The Best Witch Hazel Toner
1. Skin Type
As witch hazel is an astringent and has drying properties, it is recommended to avoid this ingredient in toners if you have dry skin. Incase of oily skin, witch hazel is super-efficient in pulling out excess sebum, dirt and grime from the skin cells. This also helps in minimizing acne formation and tackling uneven skin tone. For sensitive or normal skin types, one must use a witch hazel toner with natural oils for moisturization.
2. Moisturization
As beneficial as witch hazel is, it can cause severe dryness to already dry skin. Dryness can also lead to irritation for sensitive skin. It is therefore important to pick a toner which also has moisturizing ingredients. Look for additional ingredients like:
- Glycerin: Glycerin in the toner can offer hydration to the skin, locking in the moisture and neutralizing the drying effect of witch hazel.
- Aloe Vera: A hypoallergenic toner made with witch hazel and aloe has strong oil-absorbing properties which works well on oily skin. Aloe is rich in minerals and antioxidants which balance the strength of witch hazel. It contains vitamin A and C which encourage collagen production along with providing hydration to the skin. This plumps the skin and gives it renewed freshness.
Other beneficial ingredients include hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, allantoin, and rose water.
3. Formulation
Look for a hypoallergenic witch hazel toner that helps balance the natural pH level while toning the skin. Opt for mild formulations that do not strip the skin of its natural oils. Formulas tested on human skin may better suit people prone to allergies.
If your skin is sensitive or damaged, it needs special care. Pick a witch hazel toner that is tested and recommended by a dermatologist. This will help, not only treat your skin issues but also nourish your skin back to good health. Look for a toner that is enriched with tannins and antioxidants found in witch hazel. You can also perform a patch test to avoid allergic reactions.
Infographic: Key Ingredients To Look For In Witch Hazel Toners
Witch hazel toners are excellent to revitalize your skin. They harness the power of nature to effectively work on your skin and target various skin concerns. Although most of these toners are crafted carefully for sensitive skin, you may need to look out for natural ingredients that help you reveal a balanced, revitalised complexion. Check out this infographic to learn about the key ingredients you should look out for in witch hazel toners.
The Bottom Line
The benefits of witch hazel in skin care have been realized only in recent times, which makes it a popular ingredient commonly seen in many regular skin care regimes. Witch hazel toners eliminate oiliness and prepare the skin to absorb other beauty products more effectively. It is a tried and tested skin care ingredient used in many skin care products. Thayers Witch Hazel Aloe Vera Formula Facial Toner shrinks pores, whereas Dickinson’s Enhanced Witch Hazel Hydrating Toner is perfect for gently removing impurities. Mario Badescu Witch Hazel & Lavender Toner is a good choice if you want to reduce the appearance of acne and blemishes You can incorporate that into your regular skin care regime. Most of the witch hazel toners mentioned in the list are hypoallergenic, free of harmful chemicals, and have a non-greasy texture. Ensure you go through several reviews and read about several testers’ experiences to help you find the perfect one for you!
Frequently Asked Questions
What does witch hazel do to your face?
Witch hazel helps heal damaged skin, absorbs excess oils, cleanses dirt and grime, eases inflammation, tightens pores, and helps reduce acne. It has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects on the skin.
Is witch hazel a good toner?
Yes, witch hazel is a natural toner that helps address a number of skin conditions. It can be used in combination with other ingredients to keep your skin shine-free and relieve mild skin irritation. It also clears dirt and makeup residue.
Should I use witch hazel every day?
You can use witch hazel twice a week or everyday, depending on your skin requirements. But it is essential to check the other ingredients in your toner before use. Limit use if your toner contains alcohol.
Is witch hazel good for aging skin?
Witch hazel has astringent properties that help tighten pores and firm up the skin, thereby potentially slowing down the aging process. It also has antioxidant properties that fight free radicals.
Can you use witch hazel toner when pregnant?
Yes,witch hazel reduces inflammation, redness, and swelling, and is suitable during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Are witch hazel toners good for hemorrhoids?
Yes. Witch hazel is an astringent, which makes it great for treating hemorrhoids. It reduces swelling, itching, and pain.
Can I use witch hazel toner before retinol?
Yes, but perform a patch test before adding the two ingredients to your skin care regime. Use a minimal concentration of witch hazel to avoid irritation.
How to use witch hazel toner?
Apply the witch hazel toner after cleansing your face to balance your skin’s pH level. Then, apply a serum and a moisturizer to complete the rest of your skin care routine.
How long does it take for witch hazel to work on your face?
It takes four to six weeks for witch hazel to work on the face and show the best results.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Finding a witch hazel toner is no easy task. To help you, our skin care expert and certified skin care coach, Shiboli Chakraborti, has compiled a list of the best witch hazel toners. She has compared multiple product reviews to handpick the perfect ones and has described their formula in detail so that you can choose a toner to suit your skin concerns.
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