Toners are often the unsung heroes of skincare, but they are essential to having healthy, glowing skin. When used as part of your skincare routine, these adaptable elixirs provide numerous benefits. Toners are primarily used to help balance the pH levels of the skin, which keeps it in the best possible condition for absorbing other skincare products. They strive to get rid of any last bits of debris and makeup, leaving your skin feeling pure and renewed. They come in various formulations, each offering unique benefits, from hydration to exfoliation and even oil control.
With the plethora of toners available in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your unique needs. That's why we've curated this list of the best face toners currently on the market. Our selection covers a variety of skin concerns and types, ensuring you can find the perfect toner to up your skincare routine and achieve your desired complexion.
Essentials factors to consider when making choice for a facial toner
- Skin Type: Determine your skin type (normal, dry, oily, combination, sensitive) as this will influence your choice of toner. Different toners cater to various skin types, addressing their unique requirements.
- Ingredients: Check the ingredients list for any potential allergens or irritants. Look for toners with skin-loving ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, aloe vera, or antioxidants like vitamin C.
- Purpose: Define your goals for using a toner, whether it's for hydration, exfoliation, pore minimization, or oil control. Choose a toner designed to fulfil your specific skin care objectives.
- Formulation: Consider whether you prefer an alcohol-free, water-based, or oil-based toner. Each type has distinct effects on the skin, so choose one that suits your needs.
- pH Level: Opt for a toner with a pH level that complements your skin's natural pH balance (around 5.5) to maintain its health and integrity.
- Allergies and Sensitivities: If you have allergies or sensitive skin, opt for fragrance-free and hypoallergenic toners to reduce the risk of adverse reactions.
- Texture: Some toners are more viscous, while others are watery. Choose a texture that you find pleasant to use and that works well with your overall skincare routine.
- Patch Test: Always perform a patch test on a small area of your skin to check for any adverse reactions before applying the toner to your entire face.
How we chose them for you
- Ingredient Analysis: We carefully evaluate the ingredients in each toner to ensure they align with specific skincare needs. We look for ingredients that are known for their effectiveness and safety in promoting healthy skin.
- Skin Type Compatibility: We consider the suitability of each toner for different skin types, ensuring that our selection caters to a diverse range of individuals, whether they have dry, oily, sensitive, or combination skin.
- Product Performance: We review product performance by examining factors such as hydration levels, exfoliating properties, and oil control. We take into account the real-world results reported by users and professional opinions.
- Brand Reputation: We consider the reputation and credibility of the brands behind the toners, taking into account their history, customer feedback, and commitment to quality.
- Value for Money: We assess the toners in terms of their price and the value they offer, ensuring that our selection includes options for various budgets.
- Texture and User Experience: We consider the texture of the toners and their overall user experience to ensure they are pleasant to use and fit well into daily skincare routines.
Read below to find some of the best face toners that are currently dominating the market
The Minimalist PHA 3% Alcohol-Free Face Toner is a game-changer for all skin types. This lightweight, easy-to-apply liquid toner is specially crafted to provide gentle exfoliation and deep hydration, making it perfect for oily, acne-prone, sensitive, and normal skin. PHAs, the next-gen AHAs, offer mild exfoliation while doubling as humectants, locking in moisture.
For added benefits, it contains Prebiotics and Probiotics to balance your skin microbiome and boost natural defence barriers. Unfortunately, some users found it sticky, which could be a drawback for those seeking a non-sticky finish. But don't let that overshadow its qualities; with quality ingredients sourced from renowned suppliers, it's your go-to for pore-tightening, UV protection, even-toning, and glowing skin.
Specifications:
- Price: 379
- Type: Liquid toner
- Skin Type: Oily, All Skin Types
- Material: Alcohol-Free
- Volume: 150 ml
- Weight: 150 grams
- Active Ingredient: Prebiotics
Pros:
- Suitable for all skin types
- Lightweight and quick absorption
- Provides gentle exfoliation
- Balances skin microbiome
- Offers UV protection
- Multi-level hydration
Cons:
- Can feel sticky
- May cause sensitivity
- May worsen acne
- Some find it not hydrating
User’s Review: I have just recently started a skincare routine after absolutely ignoring my skin for 19 years and this was the first product in the routine. It works really great and evens out the skin well. I apply it daily and am still on bottle 1 after almost 3 months!
Why it's worth buying: Worth buying for its broad skin type compatibility and advanced exfoliation. Proven popularity with 4,000 recent Amazon purchasers.
Our Top for you pick: https://amzn.to/40ncyVU
The Plum Green Tea Alcohol-Free Toner is a must-have for those with combination or oily skin. This gel-based toner is designed to combat acne and its pesky marks. Infused with the goodness of green tea extracts and glycolic acid, it tackles acne at its root, removes dead skin cells, and leaves you with clear, hydrated, and even-toned skin with just one swipe.
While it's FDA approved, mineral oil-free, SLS-free, cruelty-free, and 100% vegan, some users with oily, acne-prone skin have experienced increased oiliness. It's a stellar choice for many, but personal results may vary. For acne-prone skin seekers, this could be your skincare ally or, like some, it may not hit the right notes.
Specifications:
- Price: 292
- Type: Gel toner
- Skin Type: Combination
- Material: Phthalate-free, alcohol-free, paraben-free
- Volume: 200 ml Weight: 0.22 grams
- Active Ingredient: Green tea extracts
Pros:
- Anti-acne & anti-inflammatory
- Clears & tones skin
- Refreshing & nourishing
- Vegan & cruelty-free
- Hydrates & clarifies
Cons:
- May increase oiliness
- Individual results may vary
- Potential breakouts for some users
User’s Review: I would definitely recommend this toner. It has a good smell and is good to go while preparing.
Why it's worth buying: Worth buying for its popular 4.2-star rating from over 12,000 Amazon users, signifying its effectiveness and customer satisfaction. A trusted choice for clear, refreshed skin.
Our Top for you pick: https://amzn.to/3QmnK0v
The Dermafique All Important Alcohol-Free Skin Toner, a clarifying solution designed for all skin types, from oily to sensitive. This dermatologist-tested liquid toner is formulated to cleanse pores, balance your skin's pH, and prepare it for hydration, leaving you with a refreshed, glowing complexion. Infused with hyaluronic acid and antioxidants, it hydrates, evens skin tone, and prevents signs of ageing.
Although, it's worth noting that some users experienced dryness and acne breakouts, so a patch test is advisable for those with sensitive skin. While this toner offers promising benefits, individual reactions may vary.
Specifications
- Price: 349
- Type: Liquid toner
- Skin Type: All skin types
- Material: Alcohol-free, Paraben-free, SLES-free
- Volume: 150 millilitres
- Weight: Lightweight
- Active Ingredient: Hyaluronic acid
Pros:
- Suitable for all skin types
- Alcohol and paraben-free
- Restores pH balance
- Enriched with hyaluronic acid
- Dermatologist-tested
- Prepares skin for hydration
Cons:
- Some users experienced dryness
- May cause acne breakouts
- Contains glycolic acid (AHA)
- Patch test recommended
User’s Review: Okay so it has been a month since I began using this and I am happy with the product. I wanted a toner that fits my budget and decided to try this. I am really happy with the results. It gives a very fresh feel to my skin and can be doubled as a cleanser if you really don’t want to buy a cleanser and a toner. I definitely recommend this as a base for moisturising serum.
Why it's worth buying: Worth buying for its versatility across skin types and pH-balancing benefits, plus the inclusion of hydrating hyaluronic acid. Dermatologist-tested and free of harmful chemicals.
Our Top for you pick: https://amzn.to/3shIluP
This alcohol-free toner is specially formulated for all skin types and stands out with watermelon extracts, glycolic and lactic acid, and willow bark extract. While it aims to tighten pores, control oil, and brighten skin with a lightweight, quick-absorbing texture and a refreshing melon fragrance, some users found the scent to be unappealing.
But nonetheless, if you're in search of a toner to address pigmentation, unclog pores, and balance pH while combating that shiny T-zone, Dot & Key delivers a worthy solution for your skincare arsenal. Individual experiences may vary, but it's paraben-free and designed to meet your needs.
Specifications:
- Price: 316
- Type: Liquid drop
- Skin Type: All
- Material: Alcohol-free, paraben-free
- Volume: 150 ml
- Weight: Not specified
- Active Ingredient: Watermelon, glycolic & lactic acid
Pros:
- Balances sebum production
- Lightweight, quick-absorbing texture
- Brightens and moisturises skin
- Unclogs pores and fights pigmentation
- Suitable for all skin types
- Tackles imbalanced pH and shiny T-zone
Cons:
- Unpleasant fragrance for some
- Limited pore-tightening effect
User’s Review: This is a very cute product which I have bought for the first time.. Earlier I was using another brand but it made my skin dry but this watermelon toner is so soothing, gives a supple skin and my skin doesn't feel dry after use.. Mildly exfoliating in nature that's why helps in cleaning clogged pores and reducing them.. Really effective for oily skin or acne prone skin.
Why it's worth buying: Worth buying for balanced, glowing skin with added hydration and a fresh fragrance, suitable for all skin types.
Our Top for you pick: https://amzn.to/3QlQpTy
The Biotique Honey Water Pore Tightening Brightening Toner with Himalayan Waters is a skincare essential that revitalises and rejuvenates your complexion. This toner, suitable for all skin types, is designed to refresh, tone, and balance pH levels while offering nourishment and hydration. Infused with 100% botanical extracts and Himalayan waters, it harnesses the benefits of honey and the soothing properties of Aloe Vera.
While it aims to minimise pores, brighten skin, and improve texture, some users found the scent too powerful and reported it may not be suitable for sensitive skin. However, for those seeking a budget-friendly, organic skincare solution, Biotique delivers a value-for-money option in their product line. Individual experiences may vary, so a patch test is advisable if you have sensitive skin.
Specifications:
- Price: 126
- Type: Toner
- Skin Type: Combination
- Material: Botanical Extracts
- Volume: 120 ml
- Weight: 160 grams
- Active Ingredient: Honey
Pros:
- Refreshing and hydrating
- Brightens and tones skin
- 100% natural botanical extracts
- pH balancing formula
- Affordable and value for money
- Dermatologically tested for all skin types
Cons:
- Powerful scent
- Not suitable for sensitive skin
- May cause breakouts
- Varied effectiveness for different users
User’s Review: It works well to get the Ph balance back on your skin .. have been using it for years now!
Why it's worth buying: Worth buying for affordable, natural, and skin-brightening benefits, with a refreshing formula suitable for most skin types.
Our Top for you pick: https://amzn.to/3Supfwf
For all skin types, the Face Shop Rice & Ceramide Moisturising Face Toner is a Korean skincare treasure. Rich in ceramide, rice bran oil, and rice extracts, this toner delivers intense hydration without leaving skin feeling gummy. Its main components combine to provide non-sticky moisture and vital nutrients for a smooth, radiant skin tone.
It's important to keep in mind that while it claims to treat fine lines, even skin tone, and brighten skin, some users found the fragrance to be overpowering and experienced skin irritations and breakouts. But if you're looking for good Korean skincare products, this toner from the Republic of Korea is the epitome of hydration and brightness. If you have sensitive skin, a patch test is advised as individual results may differ.
Specifications
- Price: 679
- Type: Face Toner
- Skin Type: Normal
- Material: Liquid
- Volume: 150 ml
- Weight: 150 grams
- Active Ingredient: Ceramide
Pros:
- Deep hydration with rice extracts
- Suitable for all skin types
- Non-sticky moisture
- Enhances skin's softness
- Brightens the complexion
Cons:
- Strong, perfume-like fragrance
- May cause skin breakouts
- Potential eye irritation
- Contains artificial fragrances
User’s Review: It offers deep hydration, brightening, and softness, making it a valuable addition to your skincare routine for a radiant, glowing complexion.
Why it's worth buying: Worth buying for affordable, natural, and skin-brightening benefits, with a refreshing formula suitable for most skin types.
Our Top for you pick: https://amzn.to/3QGYwLM
The Pilgrim Korean Beauty White Lotus Refreshing Face Mist & Toner is a skin-loving essential that encapsulates the essence of Korean beauty secrets. This alcohol-free and pH-balanced toner, crafted following The Pilgrim Code, rejuvenates and restores your skin's pH balance, absorbing excess oil without causing dryness.
Enriched with natural ingredients like white lotus extract, camellia extract, and witch hazel, it soothes, purifies, and refreshes tired skin, making it suitable for all skin types. While it promises glowing skin and tighter pores, it's worth noting that some users may find the fragrance strong. Packed with premium benefits, this mist and toner combination is your ticket to clear, glowing skin anytime, anywhere. Individual experiences may vary, but it's a cruelty-free, toxin-free choice that adheres to strict quality guidelines.
Specifications
- Price: 224
- Type: Face Mist & Toner
- Skin Type: All
- Material: Natural Ingredients
- Volume: 100 ml
- Weight: 100 grams
- Active Ingredient: White Lotus Extract
Pros:
- pH-balanced and alcohol-free
- Provides hydration and revitalization
- Suitable for all skin types
- Cruelty-free and toxin-free
- Portable and refreshing on-the-go
- Supports glowing skin and tighter pores
Cons:
- Strong fragrance for some users
- May not suit sensitive skin
User’s Review: It’s a very good toner. Smells like roses but not artificial. Good for skin as well.
Why it's worth buying: This toner offers hydration, pH balance, and portability for a refreshing skincare boost on the go. It's cruelty-free and toxin-free, adhering to high-quality standards.
Our Top for you pick: https://amzn.to/47AkyFJ
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need a toner in my skincare routine?
- While not essential, toners can be beneficial for most people. They can help maintain healthy skin by ensuring that the subsequent skincare products are more effectively absorbed. The choice of toner depends on your skin type and specific concerns.
When should I apply a toner?
- Toners are typically applied after cleansing your face and before applying serums and moisturisers. You can use them morning and night as part of your skincare routine.
Can toners help with acne or acne-prone skin?
- Yes, some toners are formulated with ingredients like salicylic acid or witch hazel that can help control acne and prevent breakouts. Look for toners designed for acne-prone skin
How should I apply a toner?
- Apply a small amount of toner to a cotton pad and gently sweep it across your face and neck. Alternatively, you can also pat it into your skin using your clean hands. Let it dry before applying other skincare products.
Can I use a toner as a makeup setting spray?
- Some toners can be used as a makeup setting spray, but it's essential to check the product's label to ensure it's suitable for this purpose.
How long does a bottle of toner typically last?
- The longevity of a toner depends on the size of the bottle and how much you use. On average, a 150ml bottle of toner may last a few months when used twice daily.
Final Verdict
Our carefully curated list of recommended face toners offers a diverse range of options to suit various skin types and concerns. These toners are chosen based on their effectiveness, quality, and alignment with different skincare needs.
While individual preferences and skin reactions may vary, our recommendations prioritise reputable brands and high-quality ingredients. By exploring our list, you'll have the opportunity to discover a toner that aligns with your unique skin care goals, helping you achieve healthier and more radiant skin.
