In general, toners have changed a lot over the years. Instead of containing skin-drying alcohol, they have been infused with nutrients and ingredients that soften and smooth. I myself am guilty of overlooking the benefit of using this product, thinking that my typical morning and night cleanser would do the trick. But toners can provide a deeper clean while also replenishing the skin and reducing redness. Depending on the solution acidity, it can also prep the skin to absorb your moisturizer and other products better while potentially restoring pH balance. If your skin leans on the dryer side, a toner makes sense, and we’ve sifted through some of the best-reviewed, most nourishing options.
Good to Know
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4.7 star rating
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Dermatologist
Ceramides, also found naturally in our skin, help to restore and preserve the skin barrier. Hyaluronic acid and niacinamide also work with ceramides to soften, smooth and moisturize. Not only is this meant to add moisture to the skin, but it’s designed to be non-astringent and non-drying without alcohol. Not only is this ideal for parched skin, but it works well for those who suffer from sensitivity issues. The toner is fragrance and oil free, and has also been allergy and sensitive skin tested. PH balanced ingredients help bring more equilibrium to the skin.
What People Are Saying
“I have never tried such an amazing, hydrating toner! I loved that it was not greasy on my skin. It is also nice that it is fragrance free and pH balanced.”
Good to Know
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4.5 star rating
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Paraben and phthalate free
If typical cream moisturizers are too heavy for you, this toner can deliver the same amount of hydration, but in a much more light weight product. A key ingredient is white leaf tea water, which is an amino acid rich component that helps strengthen, moisturize and smooth the skin’s outer layers. Specifically, this toner is intended to target dryness, dullness, and an uneven texture. Equally as important as what’s in the ingredients, is what’s not included. Parabens, phthalates, and mineral oil are completely absent from the product. Minimal synthetic fragrances, less than one percent to be exact, have been used.
What People Are Saying
“This is an amazing product! It leaves my skin moisturized, soft, and really gives you that beautiful creamy look immediately.”
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4.6 star rating
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Gentle on the skin
Hyaluronic acid continues to increase in popularity, thanks to its hydrating and wrinkle fighting benefits. Our body actually produces this acid on its own, but when input into various beauty products, it has its benefits. Neutrogena is on the hyaluronic acid train, and uses it in this product particularly, to add extra glow and hydration. The toner may have you noticing a more smooth and supple texture. The product is detailed to be gentle and oil free, while not clogging pores.
What People Are Saying
“Deep moisturizing that lasts all day.”
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4.8 star rating
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Tightens pores
Hyaluronic acid can be made by fermenting specific types of bacteria. This particular product uses an impressive eight types of this acid, so it can pull moisture into multiple layers of the skin. While it hydrates, it also calms, while tightening pores. Green tea is the calming agent, while witch hazel and zinc work together to reduce shine, and tighten the pores. Interesting oil caps release bursts of CoQ10 and moringa oil, that enhance the moisture barrier.
What People Are Saying
“I love this toner! It cleans out my pores without stripping my skin!”
Good to Know
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4.7 star rating
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Anti-aging
Two mechanisms are front and center in this toner, to help combat aging. Hyaluronic acid hydrates, which is important for reducing the appearance of wrinkles. However, antioxidants also come into play, and they help fight against environmental damage that we potentially face every day. Even if there is already some sun damage, the product details that it can potentially improve this. Primrose oil and fatty acids also help restore, moisturize and strengthen the skin’s barrier. If you’re looking for instant revitalization and radiance, this might be a good one to go with.
What People Are Saying
“I love this toner. It’s definitely one of my new favorites. It’s super hydrating and definitely helps my skin give that dewy look.”
Good to Know
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4.7 star rating
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Uses sodium PCA
Perhaps you lean more on the simplistic side when it comes to your toner. Sometimes, simplicity is best. Ingredients such as aloe, lavender, and mint, work together to create a moisturizing, soothing effect. An ingredient that may not look as familiar is sodium PCA. Our skin already creates the substance, but it can be sourced from plants, or animals, to be added into beauty products. The benefit is added moisturize primarily. Arnica is another secret ingredient, and when used on the skin, can help reduce inflammation, serving as a calming component. Ideal for using anytime of the day, this is a versatile toner.
What People Are Saying
“This toner is great for the price! I use it multiple times a day and it helps with moisture and application for serums.”
Good to Know
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4.6 star rating
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Dermatologist tested
Kylie cosmetics has developed their own moisturizing toner that has a lightweight, milky texture. The formula is designed to be gentle while leaving the skin feeling moisturized and smooth. The absence of non-drying ingredients helps the two primary moisturizing ingredients, squalane and sodium hyaluronate, maintain the natural moisture balance. Additional ingredients include apple fruit extract, which improve the skin’s texture. The toner also claims clean, vegan, cruelty free, gluten-free and alcohol free titles. It’s also been dermatologist tested.
What People Are Saying
“Slightly slippery, moisturizing, creamy. Great to condition the skin. I love the smell. I love how it has oils.”
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4.4 star rating
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Organic witch hazel
Witch hazel is a plant, which is dried, then distilled to be used for various topical reasons thanks to anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties. Humphrey’s uses certified organic witch hazel in this alcohol free, hydrating toner. Imagine a clean, calming feeling, while not sacrificing any of your skin’s precious hydration. Hyaluronic acid and organic aloe work together to deliver increased moisture. Rose is added to help soothe. The company’s phrase not diluted never polluted means that you are getting a naturally potent product, free of dyes, sulfates, parabens, pthalates and gluten.
What People Are Saying
“I love this product ! It makes my skin smooth. Its also gentle. I’ve only used it a couple times but I like it already.”
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4.3 star rating
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Vegan
Personally, I’ve always been a fan of E.L.F, because of their quality products at an affordable price. I have yet to try the toner, but it sounds like a winner for those who have sensitive or dry skin, like myself. The formula has been crafted to improve overall complexion, and is technically suitable for every day use on all skin types. A variation of ingredients work together to exfoliate, nourish, and protect. The result is described as a smooth, even looking healthy skin. Some of the key ingredients include oat milk, niacinamide, and ceramides. This product has been created without fragrances, and is also cruelty free, and vegan.
What People Are Saying
“ I absolutely love this stuff!! It feels amazing when you put it on and I can see an amazing difference in the tone and texture of my skin since I started using it about 2 weeks ago.”
Good to Know
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4.5 star rating
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Antioxidant
Ferulic acid is one of the major components in this moisturizing toner, and while research is limited at this point, it is indicated to protect against the sun, and possibly even fight against skin cancer. Mentioned to be antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, cranberry and raspberry extracts are also brought in to fight back against free radicals and sun damage. Pure rosewater is anti-inflammatory, and other ingredients are specifically used to stimulate collagen production. Overall, with daily use, this product is mentioned to increase moisture of the skin.
What People Are Saying
“I like the moisture feeling when dry, I feel it is like a protective layer against pollutants. Smell is nice too.”
Good to Know
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4.6 star rating
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Prolonged hydration
This product is all about absorption. It’s upgraded moisturizer is described to rapidly absorb into the skin, and prolong the hydration effects more than 20% of other toners. With the use of hyaluronic acid and beta glucan, this is an ideal selection for those who struggle with pretty dry skin. It’s recommended to use two to three times consecutively if starting out with an extra parched face. However, due to it not being oily, this can be an option for those with normal to oily skin as well.
What People Are Saying
“Ever since the first time I tried this toner, I haven’t gone back to any other toners. I have dry skin and I use this daily after the shower. It cleanses and moisturizes. The consistency is a little bit thick so it doesn’t dry out as fast.”
Good to Know
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4.5 star rating
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Antioxidant
Vitamin C is the core ingredient, and it is a powerful antioxidant that can fight against aging. The easy to use mist is formulated to balance the skin’s PH, while absorbing quickly to provide ample moisture. Other mentioned benefits include the reduction of fine lines and wrinkles, and an overall refreshed feeling. Be sure to cleanse your skin beforehand to reap the maximum benefit. As the cherry on top, there is a natural light citrus scent.
What People Are Saying
“I used this along with the teami green tea cleanser, ginseng serum, and snail extract moisturizer and exfoliating face scrubby and when I tell you this stuff WORKS.”
