The 11 Best Witch Hazel Toners That Are Hypoallergenic – 2024

Eliminate that extra oiliness from your face skin-brightening gentle formulas.

Reviewed by Donna Kay Parrish, Licensed Esthetician Donna Kay Parrish Donna Kay ParrishLicensed Esthetician facebook_icontwitter_iconlinkedin_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 , MBA, Certified Skin Care Coach Krati Darak MBA, Certified Skin Care Coach linkedin_icon Experience: 3 years
Fact-checked by , Integrated MA Medha Deb Integrated MA linkedin_icon Experience: 5 years
Last Updated on
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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.

Top PicksCheck Price
Best Dermatologist-Tested:Thayers Witch Hazel Aloe Vera Formula Facial TonerPrice on Amazon
Best Lightweight:Bioré Witch Hazel Pore Clarifying TonerPrice on Amazon
Best Alcohol-Free:Dickinson's Enhanced Witch Hazel Hydrating TonerPrice on Amazon
Best Non-Comedogenic:Neutrogena Pore Refining TonerPrice on Amazon
Best For All Ages:Proactiv Revitalizing TonerPrice on Amazon
Best Synthetic Fragrance-Free:Mario Badescu Witch Hazel & Lavender TonerPrice on Amazon
Best Hypoallergenic:Maple Holistics Witch Hazel TonerPrice on Amazon
Best For All Skin Types:Differin Pore-Minimizing Skin TonerPrice on Amazon
Best Mineral Oil-Free:Secret Key Witch-Hazel Pore Clear TonerPrice on Amazon
Best Cruelty-Free:Bliss What a Melon TonerPrice on Amazon

11 Best Witch Hazel Toners

1. Best Dermatologist-Tested:Thayers Witch Hazel Aloe Vera Formula Facial Toner

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4.6
Thayers Facial Toner Image: Thayers

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.

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

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)

protip_icon ProTip
Always put your toner in the refrigerator for twenty minutes before using it. Refrigerating your toner will help prevent swelling and skin inflammation. Also, it will give your skin a soothing sensation.

worth-buy-icon

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 Lightweight:Bioré Witch Hazel Pore Clarifying Toner

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4.4
Bioré Witch Hazel Pore Clarifying Toner Image: Biore
Now 19% Off

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.

Skin Type: Normal | Product Dimensions: 1.7 x 2.4 x 6.5 inches | Weight: 9.6 Ounces.

Key Ingredients: Witch hazel, 2% salicylic acid 

Pros

  • Non-comedogenic
  • Oil-free
  • Lightweight
  • Dermatologist-tested
  • No animal testing

Cons

  • Not suitable for sensitive skin
worth-buy-icon

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

With over 14,572 Amazon acclaimed reviews, this product is sure to find a place in everyone’s shopping bag.

3. Best Alcohol-Free:Dickinson’s Enhanced Witch Hazel Hydrating Toner

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4.5
Dickinson's Enhanced Witch Hazel Hydrating Toner with Rosewater Image: Dickinson's
Now 16% Off

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.

Product Dimensions: 2.5 x 3 x 7.68 inches | Weight: 1 Pounds

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
worth-buy-icon

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

The product has more than 1,384 reviews and is a top choice all around the world.

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
Reviews108,93514,5721,384
Price$10.95$6.87$5.87

4. Best Non-Comedogenic:Neutrogena Pore Refining Toner

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4.5
Neutrogena Image: 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.

Skin Type: All | Product Dimensions: 1.57 x 3.15 x 5.91 inches | Weight: 9.98 Ounces

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

protip_icon Caution
Avoid using toners with alcohol as they will eventually cause your skin to become dry and flaky.

worth-buy-icon

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

There are more than 7,001 Amazon reviews attesting to the quality of the product and endorsing its value.

5. Best For All Ages:Proactiv Revitalizing Toner

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4.6
Proactiv Revitalizing Toner Image: Proactiv

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.

Skin Type: Acne Prone | Product Dimensions: 5.4 x 1.7 x 1.4 inches | Weight: 6 Ounces

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
worth-buy-icon

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

It has gained over 2,843 positive reviews on Amazon, making it an all-time best-seller.

6. Best Synthetic Fragrance-Free:Mario Badescu Witch Hazel & Lavender Toner

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4.5
Mario Badescu Witch Hazel & Lavender Toner Image: Mario Badescu

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.

Skin Type: Acne Prone Skin | Product Dimensions: 2 x 2 x 6.5 inches | Weight: 9.6 Ounces.

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

Our Tester's Experience

"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

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4.4
Maple Holistics Witch Hazel Toner Image: Maple Holistics

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.

Skin Type: Acne Prone Skin | Product Dimensions: 2 x 2 x 6.5 inches | Weight: 9.6 Ounces.

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

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4.4
Differin Pore-Minimizing Skin Toner Image: Differin

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.

Skin Type: All | Product Dimensions: 2.03 x 2.03 x 6.65 inches | Weight: 8 Ounces.

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

Our Tester's Experience

"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

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4.3
Secret Key Witch-Hazel Pore Clear Toner Image: Secret Key

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.

Skin Type: mature | Package Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 7.25 x 1.9 x 1.9 inches; 8.39 Ounces

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

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4.3

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.

Skin Type: Oily, Combination, Dry, Normal | Product Dimensions: 2.17 x 2.17 x 5.35 inches | Weight: 0.01 Ounces.

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.
Skin Type: Oily

Key ingredients: Witch hazel, tea tree leaf oil 

Pros

  • Cruelty-free
  • Paraben-free
  • Phthalate-free
  • Alcohol-free
  • Non-toxic
  • Vegan

Cons

  • Strong fragrance
*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.

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.

Key Ingredients To Look For In Witch Hazel Toners (infographic)

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

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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Donna Kay Parrish
Donna Kay ParrishLicensed Esthetician
Donna Kay Parrish is a licensed esthetician and an oncology certified reiki practitioner based out of Oxford, North Carolina. She worked as an operating room radiologic technologist at a Level I trauma center for 18 years before opening her own practice full time in esthetics.

Read full bio of Donna Kay Parrish
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
Krati Darak
Krati DarakAssociate Commerce Editor
Krati is an associate commerce editor, a certified skin care coach, and a beauty enthusiast. She has a master’s degree in advertising and publishing relations from DAVV University and three years of experience in writing and editing for different niches.

Read full bio of Krati Darak
Medha Deb
Medha DebCommerce Editor
Medha Deb is a commerce editor with a master's degree in applied linguistics from the University of Hyderabad, which has allowed her to develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts. She specializes in the areas of beauty, health, and wellness and is committed to ensuring that the content on the website is of the highest quality.

Read full bio of Medha Deb