A toner refers to a wash or tonic created to gently clean and helps minimize the appearance of pores, it provides hydration and refreshes the skin. It can be used as a makeup remover and gentle cleanser at the same time. The main job of a toner is to remove the excess product left on the skin after cleansing. It allows better absorption of skin products by removing excess oil and impurities. There are different toners that specifically address major skin concerns like dry skin, acne, dark spots, and visible lines.
Aside from its cleansing effect, toners can actually improve the skin’s hydration. Most toners contain natural ingredients that provide instant hydration while cleansing the skin. Gone are the days when toners are considered harmful and irritating to the skin, due to their alcohol content. Skin experts have come up with gentle ingredients that are alcohol-free and natural. Flower extracts, aloe vera, and other herbs are the most common natural ingredients that you can find in most toners today. The best toner should not only provide a clean face, but it should also hydrate the skin, even with regular use.
Listed below are the top selection lists of the best toner that hydrates the skin instantly.
1. Fresh Rose & Hyaluronic Acid Deep Hydration Toner (Best Overall)
The Fresh Rose & Hyaluronic Acid Deep Hydration Toner is a best-selling and alcohol-free toner that can be used on a daily basis. It deeply hydrates the skin with its Hyaluronic acid in the ingredients. This amazing toner helps refines the appearance of pores while maintaining the softness of the skin. This toner’s key ingredient consists of Rose water and Hyaluronic acid, both are safe for pregnant women. The rosewater in the ingredients helps to calm and soothes the skin, so there is no burning sensation when applied to the skin. The Fresh Rose & Hyaluronic Acid Deep Hydration Toner can be used daily, morning and night, right after cleaning the face. Apply the toner using cotton paid and gently pat it on the face and neck, a moisturiser can be applied after.
Fresh Rose & Hyaluronic Acid Deep Hydration Toner Advantages |
Fresh Rose & Hyaluronic Acid Deep Hydration Toner Disadvantages |
Hydrating |
Expensive |
Smells good |
|
Tighten pores |
2. Kiehl's Calendula Herbal Extract Toner (Best Formula)
The Kiehl's Calendula Herbal Extract Toner is an alcohol-free toner formulated with Calendula petals extract that is known for its soothing properties. It visibly reduces oiliness, and redness, and smoothens skin's texture in just 3 days. The Kiehl's Calendula Herbal Extract Toner cleanses the skin without harmful drying agents, suited for normal to oily skin types, including sensitive skin. This all-around toner can be used on acne-prone skin. The ingredients used in Kiehl's Calendula Herbal Extract Toner are evaluated for safety, but not specifically tested on pregnant women.
Kiehl's Calendula Herbal Extract Toner Advantages |
Kiehl's Calendula Herbal Extract Toner Disadvantages |
Made with recyclable packaging |
Expensive |
Paraben and fragrance-free |
|
Soothes redness |
3. Garnier SkinActive Hydrating Facial Mist with Aloe Juice (Best Value)
The Garnier SkinActive Hydrating Facial Mist with Aloe Juice facial mist spray is a facial mist and a treatment for the face. It can be used as a moisturiser as well. The formulation consists of 99% naturally derived ingredients, including aloe juice, and it is suited for sensitive skin. This facial mist is vegan and paraben-free. It is ideal for all skin types, and it can be used as a mist that can be sprayed to freshen up the face. This amazing facial mist is a multitasker because it can be used in four different ways. It can be used as a moisturiser, primer, makeup setter, and facial mist. No wonder it is loved by many because of its great value. Its versatility is what makes this product a great value for money.
Garnier SkinActive Hydrating Facial Mist with Aloe Juice Advantages |
Garnier SkinActive Hydrating Facial Mist with Aloe Juice Disadvantages |
Refreshing |
Unpleasant scent |
Reasonable price |
Leaves a sticky residue |
Versatile product |
4. Avène Gentle Toning Lotion
The Avène Gentle Toning Lotion is hailed as the best face toner for sensitive skin. It is a trusted brand when it comes to products that are very safe. This gentle toning lotion softens and protects the skin against aggressors. It helps maintains the pH balance of the skin and will not dehydrate it. It helps calm and soothes especially sensitive skin. The Avène Gentle Toning Lotion will make the skin soft, soothed, and rebalanced. Because of its gentle effect on the skin, it can be applied daily after cleansing during the day and night.
Avène Gentle Toning Lotion Advantages |
Avène Gentle Toning Lotion Disadvantages |
Very gentle |
Drying effect |
Affordable |
|
Nice smell |
5. L'Oréal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives 5% Glycolic Acid Toner
The L'Oréal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives 5% Glycolic Acid Toner is a perfect toner if the skin is suffering from acne. It contains 5% Pure Glycolic acid that exfoliates the skin and reveals glowing and smoother skin. This toner is gentle for everyday use, and over time it can minimize dark spots. T contains aloe vera and no alcohol, so it won't make the skin dry. Within one week of using this toner, there would be visible results on the skin.
L'Oréal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives 5% Glycolic Acid Toner Advantages |
L'Oréal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives 5% Glycolic Acid Toner Diasdvantages |
Contains acne-fighting ingredient |
Drying effect |
Affordable |
Peeling |
Anti-ageing |
6. Yves Saint Laurent Pure Shots Hydra Bounce Essence-In-Lotion
The Yves Saint Laurent Pure Shots Hydra Bounce Essence-In-Lotion is a hydrating facial lotion that replenishes skin moisture and leaves skin younger looking. It contains antioxidants infused with vitamin E, B3, Neroli, and orange blossom necessary to make the skin soft and well hydrated. The lotion consistency of this product is easily absorbed by the skin and will deeply moisturise it. This facial lotion can be applied every morning and evening to the face and neck after cleansing. It contains no paraben, so it is safe for every skin type. The Yves Saint Laurent Pure Shots Hydra Bounce Essence-In-Lotion promises the skin to have a youthful glow and feel comfortable.
Yves Saint Laurent Pure Shots Hydra Bounce Essence-In-Lotion Advantages |
Yves Saint Laurent Pure Shots Hydra Bounce Essence-In-Lotion Disadvantages |
Mositurising |
Expensive |
Nice consistency |
|
Light fragrance |
7. Thayers Alcohol-Free Unscented Witch Hazel Facial Toner with Aloe Vera Formula
The Thayers Alcohol-Free Unscented Witch Hazel Facial Toner with Aloe Vera Formula is an unscented and alcohol-free facial toner perfect for sensitive skin. The alcohol-free formula is so gentle that it makes the skin hydrated all day. This toner is Dermatologist tested and is considered safe for sensitive skin. It has a vegan formula and no animal-derived ingredients, and it is never tested on animals. This natural toner contains witch hazel, an important natural ingredient that helps in soothing inflammation and tightens pores. This toner can be applied daily after cleansing and before moisturising.
Thayers Alcohol-Free Unscented Witch Hazel Facial Toner with Aloe Vera Formula Advantages |
Thayers Alcohol-Free Unscented Witch Hazel Facial Toner with Aloe Vera Formula Disadvantage |
Restore skin’s pH balance |
Sticky |
Affordable |
|
Unscented |
8. Dr. Teal's Rose Witch Hazel Facial Toner
The Dr. Teal's Rose Witch Hazel Facial Toner is a certified organic toner that contains aloe vera and Witch hazel. It is alcohol-free, so it is non-drying. This toner effectively removes impurities and helps to make the pores look visibly smaller. It is packed with calming Rose water and a blend of essential oils to nourish the skin. Dr. Teal's Rose Witch Hazel Facial Toner is safe for every skin type, and it is Dermatologist-tested. This affordable toner can be applied after washing the face and neck and before applying moisturiser. For better results, it can be used on a regular basis day and night.
Dr. Teal's Rose Witch Hazel Facial Toner Advantages |
Dr. Teal's Rose Witch Hazel Facial Toner Disadvantages |
Perfect makeup remover |
Burning effect |
Sweet smell |
Sticky |
Cleanses skin effectively |
Visible redness on skin |
9. Paula's Choice RESIST Advanced Replenishing Toner with Hyaluronic Acid
The Paula's Choice RESIST Advanced Replenishing Toner with Hyaluronic Acid is an anti-ageing toner that restores and revives skin radiance. It is loaded with Omega fatty acids and antioxidants. It has a milky texture that leaves a soothing effect on the skin. The Paula's Choice RESIST Advanced Replenishing Toner with Hyaluronic Acid maintains and strengthens the skin's barriers. It effectively helps improve the appearance of sun damage and delivers an instant radiant glow. This toner increases the firmness and evens out skin tone. When added to the daily skin routine, a noticeable improvement in the overall quality of the face will be achieved. This toner is safe to use every day after cleansing. It can be incorporated into the daily morning and night skin routine.
Paula's Choice RESIST Advanced Replenishing Toner with Hyaluronic Acid Advantages |
Paula's Choice RESIST Advanced Replenishing Toner with Hyaluronic Acid Disadvantages |
Hydrating |
Irritates skin |
Soothes skin |
Unpleasant smell |
Non-greasy |
10. Mario Badescu Facial Spray With Aloe, Herbs, and Rosewater
The Mario Badescu Facial Spray With Aloe, Herbs, and Rosewater is a versatile hydrating facial mist that delivers hydrated and radiant skin. It is rich in antioxidant and rejuvenating Rose that makes skin looks dewy and aloe vera for hydration. It can be used as a makeup setter or as a toner before applying moisturiser. After cleaning the face, gently spray to a bare face and can be added to the skin routine during the day or night.
Mario Badescu Facial Spray With Aloe, Herbs, and Rosewater Advantages |
Mario Badescu Facial Spray With Aloe, Herbs, and Rosewater Disadvantage |
Lightweight |
Clog pores |
Smells great |
|
Affordable |
11. Shiseido Treatment Softener Enriched Lotion for Normal to Dry Skin
The Shiseido Treatment Softener Enriched Lotion for Normal to Dry Skin is a smoothing, moisturising toner that softens and plumps the skin. This amazing toner is Dermatologist tested and can cater to every skin type, from normal to very dry skin. The Shiseido Treatment Softener Enriched Lotion for Normal to Dry Skin contains signature Japanese ingredients like Kirishima Mineral spring water that helps nourish the skin's important minerals. It is infused with Hammamelis extract for its antioxidant ingredients. After cleansing the face, apply this lotion generously, for best results it can be used on a daily basis in day or night skin routine.
Shiseido Treatment Softener Enriched Lotion for Normal to Dry Skin Advantages |
Shiseido Treatment Softener Enriched Lotion for Normal to Dry Skin Disadvantages |
Hydrating |
Sticky |
Nice consistency |
Expensive |
12. InstaNatural Glycolic Acid Toner with Vitamin C
The InstaNatural Glycolic Acid Toner with vitamin C is perfect for all skin types. It addresses a lot of o skin concerns like visible pores, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation. What's good about this toner is that it has the exfoliating benefits of Glycolic acid and fruit acids that help reduced enlarged pores and promotes skin's natural renewal. Vitamin C is what makes this toner super effective in brightening dark spots and hyperpigmentation. Among the many benefits of this toner is it balances and preps the skin so that serums and moisturises will be easily absorbed by the skin. This toner can be applied daily for gentle exfoliation and at night following it with moisturisers or serum.
InstaNatural Glycolic Acid Toner with Vitamin C Advantages |
InstaNatural Glycolic Acid Toner with Vitamin C Disadvantage |
Skin brightening |
Overwhelming scent |
Unclog pores |
|
Makes skin clean and clear |
13. Sukin Organics Hydrating Mist Toner
The Sukin Organics Hydrating Mist Toner is a multi-use product that can be used before and after cleansing. It is an alcohol-free toner that contains Chamomile and Rosewater blended together to help purify and calm tired skin. This mist toner is perfect for removing makeup or when the skin is feeling dehydrated during the afternoon. This product will instantly refresh and leaves a cooling effect, perfect on hot days. Another remarkable thing about this organic mist toner is that it has natural ingredients that are vegan, cruelty-free and the packaging is recyclable.
Sukin Organics Hydrating Mist Toner Advantages |
Sukin Organics Hydrating Mist Toner Disadvantage |
Refreshing |
Drying |
Nice fragrance |
|
No burning effect |
How to incorporate toner in a skincare routine?
A toner can be incorporated into a skincare routine right after cleansing. It can be applied during the day and night. Right after washing the face, a toner can be applied using a cotton ball or pad. Using gentle strokes, swipe it on the face including the neck to remove excess dirt. After applying the toner, a moisturiser can be followed, to complete the skincare routine.
What is the importance of toner in the skincare routine?
The importance of toner in the skincare routine is it gently removes any last traces of dirt and impurities that penetrated into the pores after cleansing the face. It prepares the skin before applying moisturiser, making sure that there is no remaining dirt and oil left behind. In that way, facial products like serums can easily be absorbed and penetrate the skin. Toners help in making enlarged pores look tighter and smaller, leaving the skin flawless looking.
What is the best toner for combination skin?
The best toner for combination skin is the Kiehl's Calendula Herbal Extract Toner. In just 3 days, it will instantly reduce oiliness, and redness, and improve skin texture. It is formulated with Calendula petals extract that is effective in soothing the skin. This toner cleanses the face without drying it out.
What is the best hydrating face toner?
The Fresh Rose & Hyaluronic Acid Deep Hydration Toner is the best hydrating toner because it has all the good ingredients that deeply hydrate with its Rose water extracts and Hyaluronic acid, a known natural substance that lubricates the skin.
Is toner necessary in a skincare routine?
No. Toner is not really necessary in a skincare routine. It may help address some skin conditions, but most toners available on the market contain alcohol, an ingredient that can dry out the skin. It may be included in a day-to-day skincare routine during the day or night time. Most toners offer skin solutions that cleansers and moisturisers can do. Toners can give additional skin benefits if there is a specific skin concern to address.
Are there instances in which toner shouldn't be used?
There are instances where toner shouldn’t be used, if the skin is too sensitive, avoid using toners. Most toners contain alcohol, an ingredient that strips the natural lipids of the skin, leaving it dry. It disrupts the skin's natural production of oils, essential for its balance. Another instance is if the skin is suffering from a disease like eczema, using toner should be avoided. If there is an allergic reaction like red patches or a stinging sensation, then using facial toners should be refrained.