12 Best Face Toners for Every Skin Type, Backed by Dermatologists

12 Best Face Toners for Every Skin Type, Backed by Dermatologists

Toners have come a long way from their harsh, alcohol-based origins. Today, they cater to a wide range of skin needs, from hydration and brightening to oil control and acne treatment. Whether you're looking for a toner to soothe redness, refine pores, or add a glow, there's an option suited to your skin type. Here’s a list of dermatologist-recommended toners that have been thoroughly tested.

Best Overall: EltaMD Skin Recovery Essence Toner ($37)

• Why It Stands Out: This gentle, alcohol-free formula is packed with amino acids that soothe irritated skin and support the skin barrier.
• Pros: Fragrance-free, reduces redness, and calms sensitive skin.

• Cons: Some users find it slightly drying.

  

Best for Dry Skin: CeraVe Alcohol-Free Hydrating Face Toner ($10)

• Key Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and niacinamide to replenish moisture.
• Pros: Non-irritating and deeply hydrating.

• Cons: Can take time to absorb fully.

  

Best for Oily Skin: Pixi Clarity Tonic ($15)

• What Makes It Work: A potent mix of glycolic, salicylic, and lactic acids helps to control oil production and keep skin clear.
• Pros: Great for reducing shine and breakouts.

• Cons: Not suitable for highly sensitive skin.

  

Best for Acne-Prone Skin: The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution ($13)

• How It Helps: Glycolic acid gently exfoliates, helping to clear acne, reduce hyperpigmentation, and even out skin tone.
• Pros: Affordable and effective for both face and body.

• Cons: Can cause redness or irritation in sensitive skin.

  

Best for Redness: Charlotte Tilbury Daily Glow Toner ($55)

• Unique Formula: Unlike many exfoliating toners, this is acid-free and contains soothing ingredients like niacinamide and prickly pear extract.
• Pros: Hydrating, gentle, and ideal for sensitive skin.

• Cons: High price point.

  

Best Brightening Toner: Good Molecules Niacinamide Brightening Toner ($6)

• Why It Works: Niacinamide evens skin tone and brightens dull complexions.

• Pros: Budget-friendly and lightweight.

  Cons: May take time to see visible results.

  

Best K-Beauty Toner: CosRX AHA Toner ($11)

• What Sets It Apart: A gentle blend of AHA and BHA exfoliates while keeping skin hydrated.
• Pros: Lightweight, easy spray application, great for acne-prone skin.

• Cons: Mild exfoliation means results may take time.

  

   

Best Exfoliating Toner: Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant ($35)

• Key Benefit: Salicylic acid unclogs pores and smooths skin texture.
• Pros: Effective for reducing acne and fine lines.

• Cons: Can be too drying for sensitive skin.

  

Best Pore-Minimizing Toner: Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow PHA + BHA Pore-Tight Toner ($34)

• Hero Ingredients: PHA gently exfoliates while watermelon extract hydrates.
• Pros: Balances hydration and exfoliation well.

• Cons: Some users dislike the scent and texture.

  

Best for Sensitive Skin: Tower 28 Beauty SOS Daily Rescue Facial Spray ($28)

• Unique Ingredient: Hypochlorous acid, known for its soothing properties.
• Pros: Ideal for calming irritation and reducing redness.

• Cons: Some reviewers say it has a chlorine-like scent.

  

Best Gentle Toner: Beekman 1802 Pore-Minimizing Facial Toner ($13)

• Key Ingredients: Lactic acid and niacinamide for mild exfoliation.
• Pros: Hydrating and non-stripping.

• Cons: Can cause minor peeling for some users.

  

Best Witch Hazel Toner: Thayers Alcohol-Free Rose Petal Witch Hazel Facial Toner ($11)

• What It Does: Witch hazel helps control oil while aloe vera soothes the skin.
• Pros: Affordable and effective for oily skin.
• Cons: Some users may experience mild irritation.

How We Selected These Toners

Dermatologists provided expert recommendations based on ingredients and effectiveness. Each product was also tested for how well it addressed concerns like dryness, acne, and irritation.

Choosing the right toner can enhance your skincare routine by balancing pH, clearing pores, and improving hydration.