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17 Best Toner for Combination Skin in 2023

Best Toner for Combination Skin

Toner is a skincare product that looks like water that is applied to the face and neck. Although it looks like water, it is infused with different nourishing ingredients that target specific skin concerns. Each toner on the market is formulated differently. Toners can contain acids, glycerin, antioxidants, exfoliants, emollients, and anti-inflammatory properties. These ingredients aid in nourishing, hydrating, and moisturising the skin. Furthermore, it can remove dead skin cells, and reduces signs of ageing, and the appearance of the pores. Toner is applied on the skin as a primer to prepare the skin before applying any other skin care products. Usually, it is applied after cleansing the face, and before serums and moisturisers as they are much thicker in consistency than toner. Moreover, different toners are formulated for different skin types as it has to give the proper treatment to the skin type and concern it needs.

One of the skin types that people can have is Combination skin. If people have combination skin, it means that they both have dry and oily areas on their faces. Usually, the dry areas are the cheeks and the oily area is the T-zone or the nose and forehead. People with this kind of skin type should opt for toners that target both of these areas of their skin. They should use a toner that can moisturise their dry areas whilst also controlling the oil production on their face. Adding a toner to the skincare routine can help people with combination skin prevent breakouts and other skin-related issues.  

Listed below are the top selection lists for the best toner for combination skin in 2023.


  • Roxie Editors Choice: Face Boom's Normalizing Face Wash Gel for Oily & Combination skin is an innovative mattifying solution to keep your complexion clean and clear. This gentle yet effective gel is designed to fight imperfections and excessive greasiness, without overburdening the skin. The active ingredients, such as Citrus Water, Betaine, and Salicylic Acid, provide toning, hydrating, and anti-blackhead properties to the skin. Enjoy a fresh, clean, and healthy complexion with Face Boom's Normalizing Face Wash Gel for Oily & Combination skin. 
  • Best Overall: The best overall toner for combination skin in 2023 is Thayers Facial Toner. It is an alcohol-free toner that leaves the skin hydrated and purified without drying it out. 
  • Best Value: The best value toner for combination skin in 2023 is The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution. For only £8.25 GBP, people can use a toner that improves the elasticity of their skin whilst reducing inflammation, and signs of ageing. 
  • Best Formula: The best formula for combination skin in 2023 is Murad Clarifying Toner. It can reduce the excess oil in the skin whilst tightening the pores to reduce its appearance. 



We recommend


1. Thayers Facial Toner (Best Overall)

Thayers Facial Toner is an alcohol-free, non-drying toner that aids in hydrating, purifying, balancing, and renewing the skin. It can provide 8-hour hydration and can maintain the skin’s moisture barrier. Thayers Facial Toner can make the pores appear smaller and smoother, and help to even out the skin tone. There are six different variants of this toner - Original, Unscented, Rose Petal, Cucumber, Salicylic Acid, and Coconut Water. All are free from harmful ingredients like phthalate, paraben, and gluten and were not tested on animals. They are all infused with Aloe Vera, and Witch Hazel that moisturises, relieves inflammation, and tightens the pores. The only difference is that the other variants contain additional ingredients besides Aloe Vera and Witch Hazel. Rose Petal Toner contains Rose Water that balances out the natural oils present on the skin and hydrates the skin. Blemish Clearing 2% Salicylic Acid Acne Treatment Toner contains Tea Tree Oil that helps in treating acne, redness, swelling, and wounds. Cucumber Toner contains Cucumber that combats premature ageing, tightens the skin, and reduces puffiness. Unscented and Original Toner does not contain any additional ingredients, only that Unscented Toner does not contain any fragrance. Apply this toner after cleanser and before mosituriser with a cotton pad. Use it at any time of the day. 

Thayers Facial Toner Advantages

Thayers Facial Toner Disadvantages

Dermatologist tested and deemed safe for sensitive skin

Other variants contain fragrance

Cruelty-Free

Contain tannins

Vegan Formula 


2. The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution (Best Value)

The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution is infused with Glycolic Acid, Amino Acids, Aloe Vera, Ginseng, and Tasmanian Pepper berry. The 7% Glycolic Acid present on the toner offers mild exfoliation to enhance the appearance of the skin. The amino acids aid in maintaining the skin’s hydration, whilst building up the skin’s immune system. Aloe Vera, Ginseng, and Tasmanian Pepperberry reduce inflammation, swelling, signs of ageing, and puffiness whilst enhancing the elasticity and collagen production of the skin. Not only can it hydrate and moisturize the skin but can also exfoliate the skin to enhance its appearance by making it look radiant. Use this only once a day in the evening, only after using the cleanser. This is so over-exfoliation can be avoided. 

The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution Advantages

The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution Disadvantages

Vegan

Leaves a sticky film on the skin

Cruelty-Free

Not alcohol-free

Free from any harmful components

Not for sensitive skin


3. Murad Clarifying Toner (Best Formula)

Murad Clarifying Toner is infused with a cooling formula, witch hazel, and cucumber extract. Witch Hazel reduces large pores by making them appear smaller, whilst also reducing skin inflammation. Cucumber extract contains anti-inflammatory properties as well that can help defend skin from bacteria or dirt that can cause acne or breakouts. Additionally, Murad Clarifying Toner contains Algae extract that aids in reducing the shine or oiliness of the skin. Furthermore, it is infused with Grape seed extract and vitamin E which also protects the skin from bacteria. This toner is best for people that have Balanced, Oily, and Combination skin. Use this toner after cleanser by applying a small amount of the product on a cotton pad and spreading it on the face, neck, and chest. 

Murad Clarifying Toner Advantages

Murad Clarifying Toner Disadvantages

Oil-fighting formula

Dries out skin

Cruelty-Free

Unpleasant smell

Tightens the pores

Can irritate the skin


4. COSRX AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner

COSRX AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner is infused with alpha hydroxy acid, beta hydroxy acid, and clarifying herbal components. These ingredients are exfoliants that remove the dead skin cells, which will enhance the skin’s texture by making the pores appear smaller. It can also make the skin look lively. Additionally, the toner contains salix alba, or white willow bark that is responsible for the exfoliation of skin whilst reducing the signs of ageing. Furthermore, the toner contains Pyrus Malus Fruit Water, which is an antioxidant that makes the skin smooth and prevents signs of ageing as well. This toner claims to be gentle on any skin type. After cleansing the face, use this toner by spraying it on a cotton pad and spreading it on the face whilst avoiding the eye and mouth contour. 

COSRX AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner Advantages

COSRX AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner Disadvantages

balances the pH level of the skin

amount of betaine salicylate is too low to exfoliate, clear blackheads, or improve pores

keeps the flaking of dry skin at bay

Willow bark water cannot work like salicylic acid


5. Origins United State Balancing Tonic

Origins United State Balancing Tonic is a toner that exfoliates, purifies, and rebalances both oil and the dry region of a combination face. This toner minimises the appearance of the pores by declogging the pores of dirt and debris, thus smoothing out the rough spots. It is infused with Laminaria Digitata that moisturises the skin whilst removing the shine on the T-zone without making the skin feel so tight and stingy. The ingredient makes sure that the skin has the right amount of moisture level to avoid blistering. Additionally, the toner contains Soy Protein, which also does the same job as the Laminaria. The toner also has oils added to it, namely, Bergamot, Spearmint, and Lavender oil. Bergamot oil is effective for treating acne or spots, Spearmint improves the elasticity of the skin, and Lavender reduces the inflammation of the skin. These three oils also add a great fragrant to the skin that is not overpowering. Use this toner after cleanser in the morning and evening. 

Origins United State Balancing Tonic Advantages

Origins United State Balancing Tonic Disadvantages

Dermatologist Tested

Scent can be unpleasant for some

Rebalances and Refines Skin

Expensive


6. Dickinson’s Enhanced Witch Hazel Hydrating Toner

Dickinson’s Enhanced Witch Hazel Hydrating Toner is infused with Hyaluronic Acid, Witch Hazel, and Rosewater. Hyaluronic Acid is known for moisturising the skin and reducing the appearance of signs of ageing like wrinkles and fine lines. If the skin has wounds, hyaluronic acid can speed up the healing process of the wound. Using hyaluronic acid on the skin on a daily basis is deemed to be safe and will not cause any reaction. It claims that the skin will feel clean, fresh, and soft without the tight feeling. The toner only contains natural ingredients with harmful components like parabens, sulphates, dyes, and glutens, thus eliminating the risk of experiencing skin irritation, especially for those who have sensitive skin. The toner claims to make any skin type look healthier by clarifying it. Another plus point for this toner is that it does not contain alcohol that can strip the natural oils of the face and may make the skin feel tight. After cleanser and before applying moisturiser, apply this toner using a cotton pad on the face and neck in the morning and evening. 

Dickinson’s Enhanced Witch Hazel Hydrating Toner Advantages

Dickinson’s Enhanced Witch Hazel Hydrating Toner Disadvantages

Dermatologist Recommended 

Some experienced burning sensation

Removes impurities

Sticky

Refine pores

Not for dry skin


7. Neutrogena Alcohol-Free Toner

Neutrogena Alcohol-Free Toner is a gentle toner that cleanses and conditions the skin whilst removing impurities. This toner is known for the dual action of cleansing and balancing the skin. Furthermore, the toner also protects the skin’s natural moisture, thus leaving the skin without a tight, dry, or stingy feeling. This oil-free toner does not contain alcohol that can strip off the skin with its natural oil. It claims that the toner will leave the skin feeling clean and fresh after every use. When using a cleanser, the skin may feel tight afterward, but once the toner is used after the cleanser it will recondition and restore the skin’s moisture level to prevent the skin from drying out any further. 

Neutrogena Alcohol-Free Toner Advantages

Neutrogena Alcohol-Free Toner Disadvantages

Non-comedogenic 

Some experienced burning and tingling sensation

Hypoallergenic

Contains parabens 

Absorbs quickly

Not for sensitive skin


8. Insta Natural Vitamin C Toner

Insta Natural Vitamin C Toner is infused with vitamin C, MSM, Witch Hazel, Geranium Oil, and Lavender Oil. Vitamin C can help brighten up the skin’s complexion by enhancing the skin tone and its texture. It can keep the skin hydrated and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. MSM reduces the redness and inflammation of the skin. Geranium Oil enhances the natural glow of the skin and its overall health. It can also reduce the appearance of pores by making them look smaller. This oil, along with Lavender oil, nourishes and refreshes the skin as well. The toner can be used before serum and moisturisers for it to be absorbed well by the skin. This toner is known to be an all-in-one toner as it not only hydrates the skin but also prevents premature ageing because of its age-defying components. This makes the toner effective for treating signs of ageing like fine lines and wrinkles. Furthermore, this toner claims to be suitable for any skin type. After cleansing the skin, apply this toner on the skin in the morning and net before serums and moisturiser. 

Insta Natural Vitamin C Toner Advantages

Insta Natural Vitamin C Toner Disadvantages

Pleasant fragrance

Drying

Lightweight

Can ruin the pH level of the skin

Clean formula

New formula is not good


9. Dermalogica Multi-Active Toner

Dermalogica Multi-Active Toner is a light toner that aids in hydrating and making the skin feel refreshed. This toner locks in the moisture on the skin, thus conditioning and preparing it for absorbing more moisture on the skin. It is infused with Arnica, Balm Mint, and Lavender, which are all components that make the skin feel refreshed and hydrated. Arnica is best known for soothing skin by relieving it from any pain or wound. Furthermore, arnica prevents and reduces irritation as well. Balm Mint also does the same thing as Arnica in calming and soothing the skin from inflammation and irritation. Additionally, this toner contains Cucumber that aids in refreshing, cooling, and conditioning the skin. After cleansing the face, apply the toner directly to the face and neck in the morning and evening. 

Dermalogica Multi-Active Toner Advantages

Dermalogica Multi-Active Toner Disadvantages

Helps even out skin porosity

Some experienced burning sensation

Optimizes moisturizer absorption

Sticky

Not hydrating enough


10. REN Clean Skin care Ready Steady Glow Daily AHA Tonic

REN Clean Skin care Ready Steady Glow Daily AHA Tonic is infused with Lactic Acid and Salicylic acid that aids in exfoliating the skin. Lactic acid removes dead and dull skin cells on the face whilst adding moisture to the skin. Salicylic acid cleanses the skin by exfoliating the skin, thus enhancing the overall health and appearance of the skin. Additionally, this exfoliant unclogs pores, thus reducing their appearance so that the skin will appear smoother. These two ingredients are beneficial for those who are prone to acne and breakout. Although some exfoliants may not be advisable to be used every day, this gentle exfoliating toner claims to be gentle enough to be used on a daily basis. Apply this toner in the morning and evening using a cotton pad on the face and neck, whilst avoiding the eye area.

REN Clean Skin care Ready Steady Glow Daily AHA Tonic Advantages

REN Clean Skin care Ready Steady Glow Daily AHA Tonic Disadvantages

Vegan

Toner smells terrible

Alcohol-free

Not for sensitive skin

Clean formula

Leaves a sticky texture


11. TruSkin Daily Super Toner

TruSkin Daily Super Toner is infused with Ocean Minerals, MSM, Aloe Vera, Witch Hazel, and Matrixyl 3000 that help in making the skin feel fresh and healthy-looking. Ocean Minerals help prevent acne and skin infections and can aid in the healing process of the skin. Matrixyl 3000 contains peptides that restore the skin after being damaged. Additionally, the toner contains anti-ageing ingredients that help in reducing the appearance of fine lines. Apply this toner by spraying directly to the face in the morning and evening, whilst avoiding the eye area. 

TruSkin Daily Super Toner Advantages

TruSkin Daily Super Toner Disadvantages

Non-drying

Unpleasant smell

Can even out skin

Expensive

Freshen the skin

Can cause breakout


12. Eau Thermale Avene Gentle Toning Lotion

Eau Thermale Avene Gentle Toning Lotion is infused with silicates that will protect the skin every day. This alcohol-free toner does not clog the pores, softens, and protects the skin from any irritants. It claims that the pH level of the toner will not dry out the skin and cause any allergic reaction. The fragrance present is only mild and not overpowering, thus this toner can be great for those who have sensitive skin. Additionally, the toner contains niacinamide, which reduces the redness and inflammation of the skin. Use the toner in the morning and evening after cleanser. Apply it to the face and neck using a cotton pad. 

Eau Thermale Avene Gentle Toning Lotion Advantages

Eau Thermale Avene Gentle Toning Lotion Disadvantages

Helps soothe and protect skin from environmental aggressors

Scent can be overpowering

Physiological pH will not over-dry skin

Some experienced drying

Soothes dry and sensitive skin


13. Paula’s Choice Resist Weightless Advanced Repairing Toner

Paula’s Choice Resist Weightless Advanced Repairing Toner is a lightweight toner with age-defying properties that freshens and purifies ageing skin. It is infused with niacinamide and peptide complexes that regenerate the skin. Additionally, peptide complexes aid in making the skin firmer, and youthful-looking. Furthermore, the toner protects the skin against external irritants and damage. Use this toner after cleanser in the morning and evening. Apply it using a cotton pad on the face and neck. 

Paula’s Choice Resist Weightless Advanced Repairing Toner Advantages

Paula’s Choice Resist Weightless Advanced Repairing Toner Disadvantages

Lightweight formula

Some experienced burning sensation

Hydrating

Some experienced drying and irritation

Lightens dark spots

Toner has a weird texture


14. Pyunkang Yul Facial Essence Toner

Pyunkang Yul Facial Essence Toner is a hydrating toner that is infused with milkvetch root extract that acts as a barrier that defends the skin against external irritants and damage. Additionally, it is formulated without fragrance, dyes, and other harsh components. It has a gel formula that makes it easier for the toner to be absorbed by the face quickly. The toner is great at soothing redness and inflammation of the skin as well. Furthermore, it claims to be gentle on any skin type. Apply this toner in the morning and evening on the face and neck after the cleanser. 

Pyunkang Yul Facial Essence Toner Advantages

Pyunkang Yul Facial Essence Toner Disadvantages

Not irritating

Leaves a sticky feeling

Moisturising

Contains PEG

Make pores less noticeable

Some experienced allergic reaction


15. NU Skin pH Balance Mattifying Toner

NU Skin pH Balance Mattefying Toner is a mattifying toner that absorbs oil and shines on the face. It is an alcohol-free toner that balances out the pH level on the skin whilst leaving a matte finish. This toner is infused with a strawberry extract that aids in treating acne, brightening the skin, and improving the overall health of the skin. This extract is also the component that controls and absorbs the oil of the face, thus reducing the shine on the face. Furthermore, the strawberry extract helps in reducing the appearance of dark spots, fine lines, and wrinkles. Use this in the morning and evening after the cleanser. Apply it over the face and neck using a cotton pad. 

NU Skin pH Balance Mattifying Toner Advantages

NU Skin pH Balance Mattifying Toner Disadvantages

Essential-free

Allergy-inducing ingredients

Silicone-free

Contains potentially irritating ingredients

Sulphate-free

Contains fragrance


16. Simple Kind To Skin Soothing Facial Toner

Simple Kind To Skin Soothing Facial Toner is infused with Pro-Vitamin B%, Chamomile, Witch Hazel, and Allantoin. Pro-Vitamin B5 aids in keeping the skin soft, smooth, and healthy-looking. Furthermore, it can help speed up the healing process of the skin because of its anti-inflammatory properties. Chamomile reduces fine lines, wrinkles, and any other signs of ageing. Allantoin is a moisturising agent that prevents the skin from drying by providing hydration. Moreover, it is also an anti-ageing component of the toner. Simple claims this toner to be kind to any skin type as it does not contain artificial perfume, colour, alcohol, paraben, phthalates, and harsh chemicals. Apply this toner in the morning and evening using a cotton pad and spread it on the skin using upward movements. 

Simple Kind To Skin Soothing Facial Toner Advantages

Simple Kind To Skin Soothing Facial Toner Disadvantages

Dermatological tested and approved

Some experienced allergic reactions

Cruelty-free

Not for sensitive skin

Smells pleasant

Cannot clean the skin perfectly


17. No7 Radiant Results Purifying Toning Water

No7 Radiant Results Purifying Toning Water is a multitasking toner that not only preps the skin before applying other skin care products but also enhances the skin’s appearance by reducing the size of the pores. It is infused with Tri-Vit Complex and Meadowsweet, which reduces the inflammation of the skin and improves the overall health and condition of the skin. Furthermore, the toner will help remove leftover makeup, debris, and dirt after cleansing the face. The toner claims to be suitable for people with oily skin. Apply this toner in the morning and evening using a cotton pad to the face and neck. 

No7 Radiant Results Purifying Toning Water Advantages

No7 Radiant Results Purifying Toning Water Disadvantages

Reduce acne and breakouts

Too harsh for sensitive skin

Can make the skin feel cleaner

Nourishes and soften skin


How to choose the best toner for combination skin?

People with combination skin have some areas of their skin that are dry and others that are oily. Therefore, look for a toner that contains Salicylic Acid, Lactic Acid, and Witch Hazel. Salicylic Acid can unclog the pores of the skin and remove the debris and dirt that can cause acne or breakout. This ingredient is also great for treating the dry areas of the skin. Lactic Acid aids in removing the dead skin cells by exfoliating the skin of the face. But be sure to use sunscreen after applying the toner, as Lactic Acid can make the skin sensitive to the damage to the sun. Witch Hazel can tighten the pores and remove excess oil on the skin because of its tannins. But be aware of overusing this astringent, as it can leave the face with a stingy feeling for people who have sensitive skin. With that being said, it is no surprise that most of the products mentioned above contain at least one or two of these ingredients.

How does toner help combination skin?

Just as mentioned above, people with combination skin have areas of their face both dry and oily. Toners help combination skin by hydrating and moisturising the dry areas of the face, whilst removing the excess oil of the oily areas. The best kind of toner to use for combination skin is a toner without alcohol. This is so the drier areas will not be affected any further. Rather, toner with nourishing and gentle components will help combination skin balance out the overall health of the skin.

Does using toner improve skin combination?

Yes, toner can improve the skin condition of people with combination skin. There are toners out on the market that are specially formulated for people with combination skin. These toners both target the dry and oily part of the skin by hydrating and removing the unnecessary oils on the skin. Not only that, toners can balance out the pH level of the skin, thus the skin will not dry out any further. Dry and oily skin can both cause breakouts or acne, thus using toners formulated for combination skin can prevent this.

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