The 18 Best Toners of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Because the stripping, drying toners of the past are so over.

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Toners

InStyle / Jhett Thompson

Toner is one of the most mysterious skincare products we’ve encountered as beauty editors. In the past, toners were harsh, powerful solutions that made your skin overly dry and stripped it of its natural oils. Today, luckily, toners come in gentler options, made for every need from sensitive skin to mature skin and everything in between.

However, to the layperson, toner can still be pretty confusing. To make it easier for you to figure out what toner is best for you, we tested 24 of the most popular options out there and rated them carefully on consistency, feel, active ingredients, and results. After weeks of testing and analysis, we’re confident that these 18 are the best toners of 2024.

Our Top Picks
Best Toner Overall:
Tower 28 SOS Daily Rescue Facial Spray at Amazon ($28)
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Best Anti-Aging:
Renee Rouleau Elderberry Soothing Toner at Reneerouleau.com ($40)
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Best Splurge:
SK-II Clear Lotion Skin Toner at Sephora ($80)
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Best Budget:
Neutrogena Alcohol-Free Toner at Amazon ($7)
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Best Drugstore:
Thayers Witch Hazel Facial Toner at Amazon ($10)
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Best Hydrating:
Fresh Rose Deep Hydration Toner at Nordstrom ($48)
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Best for Combination Skin:
Absolute Joi Balancing PH Skin Toner at Amazon ($39)
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Best for Redness:
Innisfree Green Tea Hyaluronic Acid Toner at Amazon ($22)
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Best for Large Pores:
REN Clean Skincare Ready Steady Glow Tonic at Amazon ($40)
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Best for Dry Skin:
LANEIGE Cream Skin Toner & Moisturizer at Amazon ($16)
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Best Toner Overall

Tower 28 SOS Daily Rescue Facial Spray

Tower 28 SOS Daily Rescue Facial Spray

Sephora

View On Amazon $28 View On Sephora $12 View On Tower28beauty.com
What We Love
  • Made with a non-drying, pH-balancing formula, this toner instantly soothes and calms skin.

What We Don’t Love
  • It takes about five or six sprays of this toner to adequately wet a cotton round.

Tower28 SOS Daily Rescue Spray does exactly as the name implies — it rescues skin and gives it new life. Made with hypochlorous acid, this natural ingredient works to reduce the appearance of redness on the spot, successfully soothes and nourishes skin, and provides much-needed hydration. Additionally, this face toner helps to clear skin over time by cleaning out pores from the inside out. As for the best part? Thanks to the innovative blend of ingredients in its formula, the product creates an anti-inflammatory and antibacterial shield for the skin, blocking harmful germs, gunk, and bacteria from building up. (Read: Fewer breakouts!)

According to our tester, this toner goes above and beyond to effectively clean skin. “It cleanses my skin well and removes excess grime that my face wash alone can’t pick up,” she says. Aside from just purifying complexions, this product also adds supple moisture. “My skin feels more hydrated, refreshed, and rejuvenated, and it gives my skin a glowy boost without feeling heavy or sticky,” our tester adds.

For best results, use this toner both in the morning and evening. You can spritz it directly on your face or wet a cotton round (though it takes four to six sprays to adequately saturate a round). Additionally, if you have red blemishes, sunburns, rashes, or eczema, bring this toner on the go and spritz it when needed for an instant refresh.

Active Ingredients: Hypochlorous acid, butylated hydroxyanisole | Key Benefits: Soothes, hydrates, cleanses | Skin Type: Dry, sensitive, acne-prone | Size: 4 oz.

Best Anti-Aging

Renee Rouleau Elderberry Soothing Toner

Renee Rouleau Elderberry Soothing Toner

Renee Rouleau

View On Reneerouleau.com $40
What We Love
  • This toner is made with elderberry extract, which helps minimize the appearance of fine lines and dark spots.

What We Don’t Love
  • It has a floral scent that some people might not like.

Plump, bouncy skin is in close reach when you use this Renée Rouleau facial toner. Made with elderberry fruit extract (which provides skin with a hearty dose of antioxidants), sodium PCA (a water-binding agent that works to attract and retain moisture), and Biosaccharide Gum-1 (a soothing and hydrating sugar molecule that stores water between the cells), this product quickly and effectively hydrates the skin, while also minimizing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. And while this toner works wonders to hydrate skin, it also regulates oil production thanks to ylang ylang flower oil (the ingredient also gives the product a light floral scent).

Along with plumping the skin and balancing oil production, this face toner can also address hyperpigmentation, lessening the appearance of age spots and acne scars. “I love that this has anti-aging antioxidants that address so many concerns,” our tester raves. “It's never too early to start preventive care!”

Active Ingredients: Elderberry fruit extract, ylang ylang flower oil, citric acid | Key Benefits: Hydrates, soothes, calms, refreshes | Skin Type: Normal, dry, combination | Size: 6 oz.

Best Splurge

SK-II Clear Lotion Skin Toner

SK-II Facial Treatment Clear Lotion Toner

Sephora

View On Sephora $80 View On Saks Fifth Avenue $80 View On Shopbop.com
What We Love
  • This toner both hydrates the skin and cleans out pores.

What We Don’t Love
  • It has a strong herbal scent, so may not be a great pick for those with sensitive skin.

Concentrated with a mix of three powerful exfoliating acids (citric, salicylic, and lactic), this toner deeply cleanses and hydrates skin, providing long-lasting benefits. Citric acid works to exfoliate your complexion, sloughing away dead skin cells from the surface and effectively cleaning gunk from deep within pores. Salicylic acid works in tandem with citric acid, removing excess sebum and ultimately reducing oiliness. Finally, lactic acid steps in to fade dark spots, improve skin tone and texture, and reduce the appearance of superficial wrinkles.

This toner is also made with Pitera, SK-II’s signature liquid, which is derived from the process of rice fermentation and packed with vitamins, minerals, and amino acids to help support the skin’s cell turnover process. The ingredient also helps to hydrate and nourish, making this face toner great for anyone who needs a boost of hydration.

“This is such a soothing and lightweight formula that preps the skin nicely for other serums and creams,” our tester notes. “It helps with my dull, uneven skin texture and feels hydrating!” Keep in mind, though, that the toner does have a strong herbal scent, so you may want to avoid it if you’re sensitive to fragrance.

Active Ingredients: Citric acid, salicylic acid, lactic acid | Key Benefits: Hydrates, boosts radiance, minimizes pores | Skin Type: Normal, oily, dry, combination | Size: 5.4 oz.

Best Budget

Neutrogena Alcohol-Free Toner

Neutrogena Alcohol-Free Facial Toner

Amazon

View On Amazon $7 View On Walgreens $11 View On Herbspro.com $10
What We Love
  • This hypoallergenic toner cleans and refreshes skin without stripping it of its natural oils.

What We Don’t Love
  • This product only mildly hydrates skin, so it might not be ideal for someone with a very dry complexion.

If you’re looking for an affordable, everyday toner, you can’t go wrong with this Neutrogena favorite. What really makes this toner stand out is its ability to refresh skin both instantly and gradually, so you’ll be able to notice long-lasting benefits after each use. The hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic formula gently cleanses skin by removing impurities from deep within pores; plus, it mildly hydrates skin, thanks to the addition of panthenol in the ingredient list. (Panthenol, also known as vitamin B5, helps to decrease transepidermal water loss, meaning the skin won’t dry out as easily.)

In addition to making skin feel good, this toner also makes skin look good. “My face looks very clear after using this product,” our tester reports, adding, “I recommend this product to everyone. It makes my face feel clean and refreshed.” Oh, and did we mention it’s under 10 bucks? Yeah, that, too.

Active Ingredients: Butylene glycol, panthenol | Key Benefits: Cleanses, hydrates, refreshes | Skin Type: Normal, oily, combination | Size: 8.5 oz.

Best Drugstore

Thayers Witch Hazel Facial Toner

Thayers Alcohol-Free Rose Petal Witch Hazel Facial Toner

Amazon

View On Amazon $10 View On Ulta $11 View On Vitamin Shoppe
What We Love
  • This water-based toner boosts radiance and balances the skin’s natural pH levels.

What We Don’t Love
  • The bottle is a bit bulky and requires a good grip to squeeze and dispense the liquid.

Whether you’re a big beauty buff or not, there’s a good chance you've seen a bottle of Thayers facial toner at some point in your life. This fan-favorite brand has been around for ages (literally since 1847), and that’s because its offerings are reliable, effective, and affordable.

One of the Thayers’ bestselling products is its notable rose petal and witch hazel facial toner. Made with a blend of three powerhouse ingredients (rose water, aloe vera, and witch hazel), the formula makes skin glow. Individually, rose water gently cleans out pores, removing impurities and helping clear skin over time; aloe vera provides supple hydration to the skin, making complexions smoother, dewier, and more nourished; and finally, Thayers’ claim-to-fame ingredient — organic, non-distilled witch hazel — has antibacterial benefits, targets blemishes, and keeps acne from spreading. Overall, the classic toner cleanses, hydrates, repairs, and replenishes skin from the inside out.

While the bottle is part of what makes this product so iconic, it’s also a bit bulky which can make dispensing the toner a bit cumbersome — this isn’t a big deal, but something to keep in mind if you have minimal vanity space.

Active Ingredients: Rose water, aloe vera, witch hazel | Key Benefits: Cleanses, hydrates, evens out skin tone | Skin Type: Normal, oily, combination, acne-prone | Size: 12 oz.

Best Hydrating

Fresh Rose Deep Hydration Toner

Fresh Rose & Hyaluronic Acid Deep Hydration Toner

Sephora

View On Nordstrom $48 View On Ulta $27 View On Sephora $27
What We Love
  • This alcohol-free toner deeply hydrates skin thanks to the inclusion of hyaluronic acid and angelica leaf extract.

What We Don’t Love
  • The rose petals can clog the opening of the bottle.

If your skin is dry, flaky, or in need of hydration, we have just the thing for you. The Rose and Hyaluronic Acid Deep Hydration Toner from Fresh is here to give your complexion the pick-me-up it needs. This best-selling, alcohol-free face toner is made with a blend of three rose-infused ingredients: Rose fruit extract, damask rose extract, and rose oil. Plus, it’s infused with real rose petals — a luxurious addition that’s for more than just aesthetics.

The impressive formula works to hydrate while also effectively cleansing away impurities without stripping the skin of its natural oils. After just one use skin will feel smooth, refreshed, and balanced. “This toner definitely brightens and evens my skin,” our tester says. “There is a healthier, more vibrant look to my face after using it.”

If you really want to add more hydration to your skin, use this toner before applying an overnight face mask. The nourishing rose petals and hyaluronic acid will be able to really sink into skin, so you’ll wake up with a glowing, dewy complexion.

Active Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, rosewater, angelica leaf extract | Key Benefits:  Cleanses, hydrates, evens out skin tone | Skin Type: Normal, dry, oily, combination | Size: 8.4 oz.

Best for Combination Skin

Absolute Joi Balancing PH Skin Toner

Absolute Joi Balancing PH Skin Toner with Aloe

Thirteen June

View On Amazon $39 View On Thirteenlune.com $39 View On Absolutejoi.com
What We Love
  • This ultra-soothing, alcohol-free toner works to hydrate and calm skin.

What We Don’t Love
  • It has a thick, jelly-like consistency — a feature that makes this feel more like a serum than a toner.

AbsoluteJOI Balancing pH Toner is here to nourish, hydrate, and soothe all skin types. Made with a rich blend of good-for-your-skin ingredients including organic aloe vera, oat kernel extract, and hyaluronic acid, it instantly calms and hydrates skin with each use. On top of that, this face toner balances the skin’s pH levels, leaving complexions feeling soft, smooth, and supple.

Compared to other toners we tested, this one has a thicker, jelly-like consistency making it feel more like a serum than a traditional face toner. Regardless, we appreciate that it targets a range of skin concerns (it hydrates dry skin, soothes blemishes, and controls oil), which makes it suitable for all skin types — especially combination.

Active Ingredients: Organic aloe vera, oat, hyaluronic acid | Key Benefits: Hydrates, calms, soothes | Skin Type: Normal, dry, oily, combination | Size: 6.8 oz.

Best for Redness

Innisfree Green Tea Hyaluronic Acid Toner

Innisfree Green Tea Seed Hyaluronic Acid Toner

Sephora

View On Amazon $22 View On Sephora $22 View On Innisfree.com $22
What We Love
  • This lightweight toner is jam-packed with antioxidants and amino acids that soothe and hydrate skin.

What We Don’t Love
  • This toner has a very small dispenser, so it can be hard to get a sufficient amount of product out.

It’s a fact: One of our favorite brands is innisfree. The Korean skincare line has a collection of incredible products, all of which are highly effective and reasonably priced.

One of the brand’s bestsellers is its green tea face toner, and for good reason. It’s infused with five different kinds of hyaluronic acid to provide long-lasting moisture for all skin types; plus, it also contains green tea, which helps soothe irritated complexions. The addition of green tea makes this product ideal for anyone who is looking to address signs of redness because it works overtime to calm the skin, as well as clean out clogged pores that can lead to acne.

Our tester, who has sensitive skin and struggles with redness and hormonal acne, gave this toner rave reviews. “My skin was irritated prior to application because of hormones, but afterward, the redness and irritation went down completely,” she notes. “This product single-handedly reduced the redness from my hormonal acne in about three minutes.” Our tester also mentions that it takes some extra work to administer the product onto a cotton round since the dispenser is so small, but this feature ensures that it doesn’t splash everywhere.

Active Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, green tea, panthenol | Key Benefits: Soothes, hydrates, refreshes | Skin Type: Normal, dry, oily, combination | Size: 5.4 oz.

Best for Large Pores

REN Clean Skincare Ready Steady Glow Tonic

REN Clean Skincare Ready Steady Glow Daily AHA Tonic

Amazon

View On Amazon $40 View On Sephora $40 View On Dermstore $40
What We Love
  • This all-in-one toner brightens, exfoliates, hydrates, and tightens skin.

What We Don’t Love
  • This product can slightly sting skin when it’s first applied.

Minimizing the appearance of large pores is no easy feat, but Ren Clean Skincare Ready Steady Glow tonic is here to help. This vegan face toner is made with a combination of ingredients that work hand-in-hand to target blemishes and clean out pores. Thanks to the inclusion of salicin (a BHA) from willow bark extract, this product is able to draw out impurities from within. Plus, lactic acid (an AHA), exfoliates skin and removes dead skin cells from the surface. To top it all off, this toner is also formulated with azelaic acid precursors (which are derived from grains) to visibly boost radiance and even out complexions.

“My pores opened up and looked smaller after the toner absorbed into my skin,” says our tester. Plus, she also notes that her skin looked clearer and more refreshed. While we recommend this toner to people who want to shrink their pores, it’s important to note that this does sting a bit after the initial application. “The sensation subsided after a few seconds and didn't cause any redness or major irritation afterward,” our tester notes. For the best results, use this toner once a day to minimize the risk of irritation.

Active Ingredients: Lactic acid, salicin | Key Benefits: Exfoliates, brightens, tightens | Skin Type: Normal, dry, oily, combination | Size: 8.5 oz.

Best for Dry Skin

LANEIGE Cream Skin Toner & Moisturizer

LANEIGE Cream Skin Toner & Moisturizer

Sephora

View On Amazon $16 View On Sephora $6 View On Laneige.com $16
What We Love
  • This face toner doubles as a moisturizer and provides skin with all-day hydration.

What We Don’t Love
  • It’s not ideal for people with acne-prone skin because it can clog pores.

If dry, flaky skin is something you struggle with, you may not think you need a toner, but this two-in-one toner-moisturizer from Laneige will change your mind. First and foremost, it’s a face toner that’s formulated to smooth and prep skin, but it also doubles as a moisturizer, which means after you apply it, you’re done with your skincare routine (no extra lotion needed!).

This duality is in part thanks to the white leaf tea water in the formula: The ingredient has a high concentration of amino acids that work to strengthen the skin barrier, while also locking in moisture. Plus, aside from just hydrating skin, it also brightens your complexion. “I would say my skin is rarely ever clear, but after using this I feel like I'm glowing from the inside out,” our tester says.

However, we will note that because this product is more hydrating than most toners, it’s not ideal for people with acne-prone skin. The milky formula was made to nourish dry, flaky skin, which means it’s a bit heavy and can sometimes clog pores. If you have blemish-prone skin, opt for a toner that’s not as rich.

Active Ingredients: White leaf tea water, glycerin | Key Benefits: Soothes, hydrates | Skin Type: Normal, dry | Size: 5 oz.

Best For Oily Skin

Farmacy Deep Sweep Toner

Farmacy Deep Sweep 2% BHA Pore Cleaning Toner

Amazon

View On Amazon $34 View On Sephora $17 View On Farmacybeauty.com
What We Love
  • This oil-free toner deeply exfoliates skin without causing irritation or drying it out.

What We Don’t Love
  • If you're not careful when you pour the toner out of the bottle, too much liquid can come out.

Oily, clogged skin has no chance against this Farmacy favorite. Made with salicylic acid, moringa seed extract, moringa water, papaya enzymes, and chlorella, this toner gets right down to business. To kick things off, the salicylic acid gently exfoliates and deeply cleans out pores, drawing out dirt and grime while also controlling excess oil production. On top of that, the moringa seed extract and moringa water work together to cleanse pores, removing impurities and minimizing shine.

Papaya enzymes also exfoliate, removing dead skin cells and clarifying complexions. Last but not least, chlorella — which is rich in antioxidants — nourishes and soothes the skin, so your face won’t be red or irritated after use. “It feels like this toner tightened my forehead area a bit,” our tester says. “My cheeks feel smoother, too.” As for the best part: This toner is made without parabens, mineral oil, and fragrances, and it’s cruelty-free. While you may be excited to experience the product for yourself, be sure to dispense it onto a cotton round carefully, because a lot can come out at once.

Active Ingredients: Salicylic acid, papaya enzymes, chlorella | Key Benefits: Exfoliates, cleanses, controls oil production | Skin Type: Combination, oily | Size: 4 oz.

Best For Hyperpigmentation

Freck Beauty Cactus Water Lactic Acid Toner

Freck Beauty Cactus Water Cleansing Lactic Acid Toner

Freck Beauty

View On Sephora $32 View On Freckbeauty.com View On Beautybay.com
What We Love
  • This vegan toner lightly exfoliates the skin while also adding a supple boost of hydration.

What We Don’t Love
  • This toner comes in a glass bottle, which means you need to be careful if you are using it when your hands are wet.

This Freck Beauty face toner may not look like much in a bottle (our tester initially thought it was a micellar water), but it will quickly give your face a pristine glow. Made with cleansing cactus water and lactic acid, a little bit of this exfoliating toner goes a long way to rid the skin of dead cells and discoloration. With one swipe, it instantly sinks into the skin, nourishing and plumping your entire complexion while also brightening, hydrating, and calming it, too.

What we especially love about this product is that it makes skin more luminous. Because it works overtime to lessen the appearance of dark spots, acne scars, and overall blemishes, your skin will appear clearer in just a few weeks. Not to mention, the bottle is super aesthetically pleasing, which makes it a great addition to any vanity or bathroom display. Just be sure to handle it gingerly because the bottle is glass and can easily slip through wet hands.

Active Ingredients: Lactic acid, cactus flower extract, kelp extract | Key Benefits: Brightens, exfoliates, soothes | Skin Type: Normal, dry, oily, combination | Size: 6.5 oz.

Best Illuminating

Carrot & Stick The Toner

Carrot & Stick The Toner

Carrot & Stick

View On Carrotstick.com
What We Love
  • This face toner does an exceptional job of cleaning out pores and ridding the skin of dirt, grime, and makeup.

What We Don’t Love
  • Be gentle with the bottle because if you squeeze it too hard, the liquid can come out very fast.

Glowing, radiant skin is just a few swipes away when you have this illuminating toner. Made with nourishing hyaluronic acid, brightening plant extracts, and a slew of replenishing antioxidants, this face toner will bring dull skin back to life. We love that it locks in moisture, leaving complexions plump, full, and dewy. On top of that, it also works to lighten dark spots caused by acne scars and hyperpigmentation, which ultimately makes skin more luminous and radiant than before. Plus, it supports the production of collagen and elastin, promoting the look of smoother skin over time.

According to our tester, this product is a great final cleansing step to ensure all traces of dirt, makeup, and grime are removed. “This toner definitely cleaned my skin,” he notes. “It felt light, but also moisturizing as it set.” He also reports that this toner refreshed his face and kept it sufficiently hydrated. To get the most out of this product, use it twice a day and follow with a light moisturizer.

Active Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, glycerin, lavender leaf extract, coffee seed extract | Key Benefits: Brightens, hydrates, smoothes, soothes | Skin Type: Normal, dry, oily, combination | Size: 4.1 oz.

Best Calming

Belif Aqua Bomb Hydrating Toner

Belif Aqua Bomb Hydrating Toner

Sephora

View On Amazon $21 View On Ulta $30 View On Sephora $30
What We Love
  • Although this toner is extremely lightweight, it’s still able to quench skin with ample hydration.

What We Don’t Love
  • Because it cleans out pores so well, it can make skin feel slightly tight.

Give your skin some serious TLC with the help of this belif face toner. Made with soothing honeysuckle, this product efficiently and effectively calms skin on the spot. You’ll notice that your face feels more hydrated and supple with continued use, and that signs of redness and dullness are minimized overtime. Don’t be alarmed if skin initially feels slightly tight after using, though — because it deeply cleans out pores this is normal, and the sensation fades quickly.

There are some top-tier ingredients that also make this toner stand out: Made with sodium hyaluronate and baobab, this powerhouse duo works to prevent water from escaping the skin. Aside from providing serious hydration, this toner also lessens the appearance of dark spots. ”This helped reduce the appearance of my hyperpigmentation,” explains our tester. “I’m all for using products that can alter my skin’s appearance for the better, rather than using makeup to cover it up.”

Active Ingredients: Honeysuckle, baobab, sodium hyaluronate | Key Benefits: Hydrates, soothes, refreshes | Skin Type: Normal, oily, combination | Size: 6.8 oz.

Best For Textured Skin

SKKN by Kim Toner

SKKN by Kim Toner

SKKN

View On Skknbykim.com
What We Love
  • This toner leaves skin feeling clean, refreshed, and lightly hydrated.

What We Don’t Love
  • This toner can feel sticky on skin before it sinks in.

Leave it to Kim Kardashian to make a toner that changes the game. This SKKN by Kim product gets right down to business, gently exfoliating skin and cleaning out pores. It also enhances radiance, and leaves complexions looking dewy and hydrated.

Thanks to a mix of fruit enzymes, witch hazel, niacinamide, and salicylic acid, the formula cleanses, revitalizes, and replenishes skin on contact. Over time, you'll notice your complexion will clear up since pores will be cleared out. Plus, this toner supplies a light amount of hydration that keeps skin from drying out.

Our tester says that the formula sinks pretty well into the skin, but she does note that it made her skin feel a bit sticky at first. “However, after allowing the toner to absorb and dry for a minute, my skin felt hydrated without any remaining residue,” she adds. To get the best results from using this product, it’s recommended to lightly saturate a cotton pad with the toner and evenly pat it all over your face and neck.

Active Ingredients: Witch hazel, fruit enzymes, niacinamide, salicylic acid | Key Benefits: Smoothes, plumps, exfoliates | Skin Type: Normal, dry, oily, combination | Size: 6 oz.

Best For Sensitive Skin

Holifrog Utopia Microflora Toner

Holifrog Utopia Microflora Toner

Sephora

View On Thirteenlune.com View On Holifrog.com
What We Love
  • This toner is like a probiotic for your face — it gently balances the bacteria on the skin to make complexions brighter and healthier.

What We Don’t Love
  • While it lightly hydrates, you’ll definitely need to follow up with a moisturizer if you have normal to dry skin.

Dealing with sensitive skin can (more often than not) feel like an uphill battle. Some products can break skin out, while others can cause redness and irritation. That’s why finding a toner with specialized ingredients for sensitive skin will be your saving grace. Luckily, Holifrog Utopia Microflora Toner has everything you need to replenish, refresh, and revive your complexion.

This face toner is made with gentle ingredients, like jojoba seed oil and aloe leaf juice, to nourish and moisturize skin. Plus, it cleanses skin, leaving behind only safe, healthy bacteria. (You can thank apple cider vinegar and honey for this.) Not to mention, this product balances and replenishes the microflora on the skin’s surface, which ultimately creates the foundation for a strong skin barrier. Need we say more?

Active Ingredients: Citric acid, glycerin, jojoba seed oil, apple cider vinegar, honey extract | Key Benefits: Hydrates, balances, refreshes, cleanses | Skin Type: Normal, dry, oily, combination | Size: 4 oz.

Best Milky

Fenty Beauty Fat Water Toner Essence

Fenty Beauty Fat Water Hydrating Milky Toner Essence with Hyaluronic Acid and Tamarind

Sephora

View On Sephora $35 View On Fentybeauty.com $34 View On Kohls.com $35
What We Love
  • This hydrating toner works to soothe, plump, and nourish skin from the inside out.


What We Don’t Love
  • It takes about three full minutes for the product to fully absorb into the skin, which is longer than it takes most toners.

There’s no way around it: Fenty Beauty products consistently earn spots on our lists (and in our hearts). This bestselling toner is one of our favorites, thanks to the amount of skincare concerns it addresses in one fell swoop. For starters, this product is extremely hydrating: Made with both tamarind and hyaluronic acid, the formula nourishes and plumps the skin for hours on end. On top of that, the face toner also brightens skin and clears complexions thanks to a handful of fruit extracts (including apple, watermelon, and cherry) that target dark spots and reduce redness.

Aside from the glowing ingredient list, we love this product for its unique texture. “The consistency is milky, which gives my cheeks a subtle glow and helps calm irritation,” our tester notes. However, because this toner is thicker than most, it might take longer for it to absorb into the skin. Just be sure to let it dry before applying serum or moisturizer.

Active Ingredients: Tamarind, hyaluronic acid, panthenol | Key Benefits: Brightens, hydrates | Skin Type: Normal, dry, oily, combination | Size: 5 oz.

Best Witch Hazel

Murad Clarifying Toner

Murad Clarifying Toner

Sephora

View On Amazon $30 View On Nordstrom $30 View On Ulta $30
What We Love
  • This toner unclogs pores and minimizes the appearance of dark spots.

What We Don’t Love
  • Because this is made with witch hazel, it can dry out skin.

If you want a toner that will unclog pores, lighten hyperpigmentation, tighten skin, and control oil production, we have just what you’re looking for. This bestselling Murad toner does the trick, working quickly to clean, cleanse, and refresh the face. It’s made with witch hazel, which helps to taper down oil, making complexions less greasy and shiny. Plus, it incorporates algae extract into the formula to unclog pores and keep oil from building up. On top of that, grape seed extract and vitamin E team up to protect the skin from free radical damage throughout the day.

“My skin looks really nice after using the toner,” our tester mentions. “It’s glowing, smooth, [and] glossy. I love it.” Note: This probably isn't the best pick for dry skin. (Because it’s made with ingredients that control oil production, it can make dry skin even drier.)

Active Ingredients: Witch hazel, grape seed extract, vitamin E, algae extract | Key Benefits: Refreshes, tightens, clarifies, controls oil production | Skin Type: Normal, oily | Size: 6 oz.

Our Testing Process

To start, we researched the bestselling facial toners across the top beauty brands. After reviewing the ratings, we rounded up the 24 most popular products and put them to the test. Seventeen testers analyzed the toners on a scale of 1 to 5 for four important categories: Feel, absorption, hydration, and how much their skin changed after using the toner over a period of time. Once the testers provided their feedback, we were able to narrow down the 18 best facial toners of 2024.

SKKN by Kim Toner

InStyle / Jessica Juliao

What to Keep in Mind

Skin Type

When looking for a toner (or any skincare product for that matter), it’s important to find a product that caters to your specific skin type. “The right toner may differ from person to person depending on the skin type,” explains Dr. Dendy Engelman, board-certified cosmetic dermatologist. “If you have oily or acne-prone skin, you may want to look for a toner that contains both gentle exfoliants and soothing ingredients to balance the skin and prevent breakouts without over-drying.” (We recommend Farmacy Deep Sweep Pore Cleaning Toner)

“If you have dry or sensitive skin, you should look for gentle toners that have a calming, hydrating effect on skin. Botanicals like aloe vera and cucumber will help soothe and cool vulnerable skin. I recommend witch hazel for these skin types, too,” adds Dr. Engelman For those with dry or sensitive skin, Laneige Cream Skin Toner & Moisturizer is a great option because it deeply hydrates and soothes complexions.

The bottom line: Finding the right toner for your skin type is essential since it will not only help address your skincare concerns, but it will also be safer for your skin.

Ingredients

Beyond recognizing your skin type, you should also consider what ingredients your skin needs. “If you have dry or sensitive skin, you can find a toner with hyaluronic acid to use after cleansing,” says board-certified dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon Dr. Dustin Portela. (Anyone with dry skin should consider using fresh Rose & Hyaluronic Acid Deep Hydration Toner, AbsoluteJOI Balancing pH Skin Toner with Aloe, innisfree Green Tea Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Toner, or Fenty Beauty Fat Water Hydrating Milky Toner Essence with Hyaluronic Acid + Tamarind.)

On the other hand, if your skin is blemish-prone, look for a toner that has salicylic acid, which can tone down inflamed skin. (Opt for Farmacy Deep Sweep Pore Cleaning Toner or SK-II Facial Treatment Clear Lotion Toner in this case.) Additionally, if you want to treat hyperpigmentation, seek out a toner that includes lactic acid because this ingredient works to exfoliate skin and fade dark spots. (You can try Ren Clean Skincare Ready Steady Glow Daily AHA Tonic and Freck Beauty Cactus Water Cleansing Lactic Acid Toner)

On the flip side, there are also ingredients to avoid. “In general and in facial toners, you want to steer clear of products that contain fragrances or alcohol that might irritate the skin,” says Dr. Engelman. “Any synthetic dyes, parabens, or essential oils can also cause irritation, over-drying, or inflammation of the skin.” Be sure to read the label of every beauty product you’re buying to ensure your skin is protected against potential damage.

Your Questions, Answered

What is facial toner?

Essentially, face toner is a skincare product that’s used to cleanse, hydrate, soothe, and tone complexions. “Think of toner as the ‘prep-step,’ the first step after cleansing, which should prep the skin for the remainder of your skincare routine,” says Jordan Harper, nurse practitioner and founder of Barefaced. (Toner is used after you wash your face and before you apply serums or moisturizers.)

What does facial toner do?

“Facial toners were originally formulated to balance the skin's pH after cleansing,” explains Hallie Font, director of esthetics at Hi, skin. “Now that cleansers have evolved and are generally more pH balanced, toners are more often used to prep, hydrate, and nourish the skin after cleansing and before applying serums and moisturizer.”

Additionally, they can be used to remove any residual cleanser, makeup, or dirt from the face. Depending on which toner you pick, you can also address additional skincare concerns such as hyperpigmentation, dryness, redness, and more.

Is face toner necessary?

“While it shouldn't be the highest priority in your skincare arsenal, toners do offer significant benefits, provide real results, and enhance your serums and moisturizer,” says Font. So, if you’re a skin minimalist, you can skip this step if you have other products that cater to your skin’s needs. However, if you really want to address certain skincare issues quickly and effectively, toner can definitely speed that process up.

When should I use toner?

“Face toner is best used after cleansing your skin, and before using serums or lotions in your routine,” says Dr. Portela. “Most toners are safe to use daily, and those that contain hydrating ingredients can even be used twice daily if you desire.” (If your skin needs a boost of hydration, we suggest bringing the Tower28 SOS Daily Rescue Facial Spray with you on the go, since you can easily spritz it on your face when needed.)

Can I use toner every day?

“In most cases, it is safe to use a toner every day,” explains Dr. Portela. However, it’s important to take your skin type into account when it comes to using toner. “Whether or not toner is recommended for daily use depends on one’s skin type,” explains Dr. Engleman. “Some people can use toner every day, but people with extremely sensitive or dry skin (or certain skin conditions) may experience irritation and over-drying with daily toner use. If any of those descriptions apply to you, talk to your dermatologist about what toner is right for you and how often you should use it.”

But, generally, it is safe to use toner once or twice a day. If you are using a hydrating toner, feel free to use it twice a day. If you are using a toner with acids, start by initially introducing it into your routine two to three times a week to see how your skin responds. This way you won’t dry out your skin or harm your skin’s moisture barrier.

What Is InStyle Picks?

Did you notice the InStyle Picks seal of approval at the top of this story? That means our team of testers has reviewed every product on this list using a unique methodology to ensure it's really worth your time, money, and attention. We may get samples for free to try but we never promise positive (or any!) coverage in exchange. Put simply: InStyle picks are products we love, and we've put them to the test to be sure you will too.

Why Shop With Us

Lauren Harano has over seven years of experience in the beauty industry, previously holding editorial positions at Cosmopolitan, Seventeen, POPSUGAR, and NBCUniversal; and writing beauty pieces for InStyle since August 2022. She is knowledgeable in skincare, makeup, and hair care, and has tested hundreds of products throughout her career. For this article, Lauren interviewed four skin experts: Jordan Harper, MSN, NP-BC, founder and CEO of Barefaced; Dr. Dendy Engelman, MD, FACMS, FAAD, board-certified cosmetic dermatologist and Mohs surgeon Shafer Clinic, NYC; Hallie Font, director of esthetics at Hi, skin; and board-certified dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon Dr. Dustin Portela, DO. Each expert shared their insights on the best ways to properly and safely use facial toners. Additionally, Lauren compiled insights from our in-house testers, poured over product reviews and specifications, and rounded up our top picks for this story. Each toner on this list is effective, actively targets different skin concerns, and improves complexions.

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