The 11 Best Toners of 2024, Tested and Reviewed
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The Fresh Rose & Hyaluronic Acid Deep Hydration Toner is a lightweight, hydrating option that quickly absorbs into the skin
People / Jessica Juliao
Since skincare routines can be so time-consuming, adding a toner to the mix may seem unnecessary — that is until you start incorporating the right formula into your rotation.
Typically a liquid consistency, toners are applied to the skin after cleansing and before moisturizing. Their main functions are to balance the skin's pH and prepare it for the rest of your skincare routine, as well as remove any traces of makeup and dirt without stripping the skin of natural oils that it needs to stay nourished. If it seems like there is an overwhelming amount of products in that category, that’s because different toners are designed to do different things: Some exfoliate and brighten the skin, while others hydrate and soothe.
"It's important to pay attention to the ingredients and choose a toner best suited for your skin needs," board-certified dermatologist Margarita Lolis, MD tells PEOPLE. She notes that if your skin tends to be on the dry or sensitive side, it’s especially important to look for alcohol-free toners since alcohol can strip the skin of moisture, and that toners and essences with hyaluronic acid and amino acids "can help restore and maintain lost moisture." For oilier and acne-prone skin, Dr. Lolis says ingredients like beta hydroxy acids like salicylic acid can help exfoliate the skin, "so pore-clogging gunk like bacteria and dead skin cells have a lesser chance of causing breakouts." Likewise, if you have hyperpigmentation or are looking for skin-brightening products, "toners with gentle lactic acid can help to gently exfoliate the skin without damaging the skin barrier," she explains.
To help narrow down all of the choices, we tested 24 toners to see how they held up against each other in treating the skin. We looked at the formula's consistency and texture, how well it absorbed into the skin, the level of hydration, and, of course, how our skin felt after using. The best toners scored high in all of our categories and addressed various skin concerns like hyperpigmentation, acne, redness, and more.
Keep reading for the 11 best toners that PEOPLE tested.
Best Overall: Fresh Rose & Hyaluronic Acid Deep Hydration Toner
Pros
Boasts a lightweight texture that doesn’t feel oily or greasy
Absorbs into the skin almost instantly without having to pat it in
Contains ingredients that target dryness, dullness, and uneven texture
Cons
With a $40 price tag, it's more expensive than most others we tested
The Fresh Rose & Hyaluronic Acid Deep Hydration Toner stood out among the toners we tested — so let's get into it. Receiving a perfect score in absorption, hydration, consistency, and appearance, we loved that our skin appeared brighter and more even-toned after using it. Because this milky formula gently sinks into the skin almost instantly, it left no stickiness or residue. Plus, the combination of hyaluronic acid, rose water, and angelica leaf extract targeted dryness, dullness, and uneven texture by plumping, hydrating, and minimizing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Since it didn't strip our skin of its natural moisture, it's also gentle enough for daily use.
Looking at how our skin felt after using the Fresh toner, we were left with skin feeling clean, refreshed, hydrated, and free of impurities — we even saw some residue and dead skin leftover on the cotton pad after swiping. The toner visibly improved the appearance of hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and irritation caused by acne, leaving the skin feeling smoother and more even, and left us with no heaviness or stickiness. If you're looking for a foolproof toner that leaves your skin feeling more hydrated and vibrant, this is the toner for you.
Star ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, rose fruit extract, rosewater, angelica leaf extract | Skin type: All | Size: 8.4 oz. | Alcohol-free: Yes
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Best Budget: Neutrogena Alcohol-Free Facial Toner
Pros
Completely absorbs within 2-3 minutes
Skin feels hydrated immediately after application
We noticed that the skin looked clear after just one use
Cons
Watery consistency makes it a bit hard to apply with your fingers
When it comes to skincare, sometimes the budget-friendly option is just as exceptional as a splurge. This Neutrogena Alcohol-Free Toner is a prime example of that. This water-based formula is gentle on both oily and sensitive skin, making it a great option for those prone to breakouts and irritation. It’s lightweight on the skin and takes about two to three minutes to absorb, leaving behind zero residue and making skin looking clear with a boost of hydration.
This toner is easy to use and gentle, cleansing the skin without stripping it of its natural moisture. It's hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic, helping remove impurities without clogging pores or irritating the skin. We loved it and think it's a must-have for anyone seeking a reliable, affordable toner option.
Skin type: Oily, normal, sensitive | Size: 8.5 oz. | Alcohol-free: Yes
Best Investment: SK-II Facial Treatment Clear Lotion Toner
Pros
Lightweight and refreshing formula leaves you feeling like you just splashed cold water on your face
Leaves the skin feeling more hydrated without leaving behind any greasy or oily residue
Evened out texture after just one use
Absorbs into the skin in only a minute
Cons
Bottle makes it easy to pour out too much if you aren’t careful
If you're looking to splurge on skincare, SK-II is known to formulate unique and luxurious products with its secret trademarked ingredient, Pitera. Pitera is a vitamin and amino acid-rich liquid derived from natural fermentation. SK-II uses Pitera in its products to promote soft, smooth, and clear skin. We tested the SK-II Facial Treatment Clear Lotion Toner, which combines the power of Pitera with alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) to gently exfoliate and hydrate.
We found that this toner was truly weightless and quickly absorbed into the skin, leaving our skin feeling hydrated and invigorated, almost like we just splashed our face with cold water. This product is particularly suitable for sensitive skin or as a prep before using serums and oils. Another plus is that it doesn't clog pores, making it a safe choice if you're concerned with breakouts.
As for hydration, our forehead moisture reading skyrocketed from 19.2 percent to 34 percent after application. Not only did our skin feel super hydrated, but we also noticed a significant improvement in texture. The rough patches were gone, and our skin felt smooth and even. Plus, the toner was ultra-gentle on our sensitive skin and fragrance-free — we didn't notice any irritation at all. It noticeably sloughed off dead skin and gave us a clean, fresh canvas for the rest of our skincare routine. In terms of formula, this toner does not have the texture or consistency of a lotion despite its name — so don't expect that kind of creamy feel.
Overall, we recommend the SK-II Facial Treatment Clear Lotion Toner to anyone looking for a luxurious and effective addition to their skincare routine. While it costs $80 per bottle, we think it's a worthy investment; however, just be careful when pouring out the product to a cotton round — the bottle can easily dispense too much, and it would be a shame to use more than you need with this kind of price tag!
Star ingredients: AHA, niacinamide, Pitera | Skin type: All | Size: 5.4 oz. | Alcohol-free: Yes
Best Spray: Tower 28 SOS Daily Rescue Facial Spray
Pros
Spray bottle makes it super easy to apply and perfect for the on-the-go skincare
Leaves behind no heaviness or stickiness on the skin
Practically weightless formula
Cons
There was nothing we didn't love about this spray-on toner!
Skincare that is effortless yet effective is a dream come true. Enter Tower 28 Beauty's SOS Daily Rescue Spray, a toner so straightforward that you won't need a cotton round; spray it directly on your skin and gently pat it in. This pH-balancing formula comprises simple yet effective ingredients: water and sodium chloride.
Hailey Bieber considers this a favorite, using it to soothe her irritated and inflamed skin. During testing, we noticed that it gave our own skin a brighter appearance that looked healthier and more vibrant, enriching the skin with a light and even layer of hydration that soaked in immediately. What was left was a natural glow that wasn't sticky or heavy — but what we loved most is that it made dark spots less noticeable and minimized the appearance of pores. We love that this product is convenient to take with you on the go, making it easy to refresh your skin with a quick spritz, no matter where you are or where you're going.
Ingredients: Hypochlorous acid | Skin type: Acne-prone | Size: 4 oz. | Alcohol-free: Yes
Best Milky: Fenty Beauty Fat Water Hydrating Milky Toner Essence with Hyaluronic Acid and Tamarind
Pros
Very lightweight formula that was easy to apply
Absorbed into the skin in less than 3 minutes and instantly calmed the skin
Milky consistency makes it easy to pace how much toner you are dispensing
Cons
There was nothing we didn't love about this toner!
What do niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, Barbados cherry, Kalahari melon, and green tea extracts have in common? They work together to protect your skin barrier and leave your skin plump and radiant. These ingredients are also found in Fenty Skin's Fat Water Hydrating Milky Toner. Protecting and maintaining the skin barrier has been a popular topic recently, as it shields our skin from external irritants and moisture loss. When the skin barrier is damaged, it can lead to inflammation, itchiness, and premature aging.
Besides protecting the skin barrier, the Fat Water Hydrating Milky Toner is quick-absorbing and won't leave any residue or film. Not only does it reduce the appearance of fine lines and hyperpigmentation, but it also improves overall skin tone and reduces oiliness. We were left with fresh and clean skin and a subtle glow on our cheeks. Another bonus was the much-needed moisture boost, resulting in a more refreshed appearance. If you're seeking a hydrating toner that gives your skin a radiant glow, the Fat Water Hydrating Milky Toner by Fenty Beauty is an absolute must-have.
Star ingredients: Niacinamide | Skin type: Normal, dry | Size: 5 oz. | Alcohol-free: Yes
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Best for Hyperpigmentation: Freck Beauty Cactus Water Cleansing Lactic Acid Toner
Pros
Absorbs into the skin right away
Proved to significantly increase skin hydration levels in our testing
Protects against environmental stressors like pollution and UV rays
Cons
Scented formula could irritate sensitive skin
Takes a couple of shakes to get out the desired amount of product
Freck Beauty's Cactus Water is unique because it features cactus flower extract and kelp extract as key ingredients. Cactus flower extract soothes and hydrates the skin while protecting it from environmental stressors like pollution and UV rays, which can cause moisture loss and signs of aging. Our own testing showed a significant improvement in hydration, starting from a very dry 33 percent moisture reading and spiking to a normal/combination skin level of 44 percent.
This toner also contains powerful exfoliant lactic acid that aids in removing dead skin and minimizes discoloration. After using this toner, we immediately noticed plumper, more hydrated skin with a healthy glow. Free of any residue or stickiness after application, it feels like a refreshing drink of water for your face and applies similarly to that of micellar water. However, don't expect visible changes in hyperpigmentation, blemishes, or dark spots after just one use. As with most skincare products, it takes a few weeks of consistent use to see significant differences. While it's alcohol-free, the fragranced formula could irritate those with sensitive skin. We also found that dispensing the product was less seamless compared to other toners we tested, and it takes a few shakes to get out the desired amount, although this wasn't at all a deal-breaker.
Star ingredients: Lactic acid, cactus flower extract, kelp extract | Skin type: All skin types, including acne-prone | Size: 6.5 oz. | Alcohol-free: Yes
Related: These Are the 10 Best Freck Beauty Products
Best Hydrating: Belif Aqua Bomb Hydrating Toner
Pros
Consistency makes it easy to apply and fully absorbed into the skin within two minutes — you don't even need to pat it in
Skin felt calmer and more moisturized right away
We also saw a reduction in hyperpigmentation and the appearance of pores and fine lines
Cons
Does contain alcohol for those needing to avoid
If you're tired of dry, parched skin and on the hunt for a product that will quench your skin's thirst, look no further than this lightweight toner that will give your skin the hydration boost it craves.
The Belif Aqua Bomb Hydrating Toner soothes and calms your skin thanks to the power of honeysuckle — its anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties leaves skin feeling nourished and refreshed. This toner also includes baobab oil, which contains fatty acids that keep your skin hydrated and moisturized. All this paired with a light, refreshing scent that's not at all overwhelming.
After cleaning and before applying this toner, our skin felt dull, dry, and taut. After applying, however, we noticed a visible improvement in our skin's appearance; our skin looked brighter, more even-toned, and had a luminous and natural-looking glow. Hyperpigmentation and the appearance of fine lines and pores were also reduced, leaving our skin hydrated and refreshed. Plus, the watery, clear consistency is easy to apply and fully absorbed in about two minutes. While it works for all skin types, it's an especially good choice for those who have easily irritable skin.
Ingredients: Honeysuckle, baobab oil, sodium hyaluronate | Skin type: All | Size: 6.75 oz. | Alcohol-free: No
Best Smoothing: SKKN by Kim Toner
Pros
Exceptionally lightweight — felt like we barely had anything on our skin
Immediately after using it, our skin felt well-cleansed and refreshed
Extremely hydrating, our moisture reading jumped from 48.6% to 99% on our cheeks
Cons
Initially sticky when first applied to the skin
Does contain alcohol for those trying to avoid
The SKKN by Kim toner is a game-changer for those with oily or acne-prone skin looking for a smoothing and brightening toner. Its formula, which contains witch hazel, niacinamide, and AHA, work together to tighten, firm, and balance pH levels while regulating sebum production, reducing pore appearance, and leaving skin clearer and healthier-looking. It also brightens the skin, evens skin tone, and fades hyperpigmentation, fine lines, and wrinkles. The AHAs offer potent exfoliating benefits for a smoother, more even complexion. However, our favorite part was the proof of hydration. After using this toner, our moisture reading peaked from 48.6 percent to 99 percent on our cheeks.
SKKN's toner feels weightless on the skin, though it may feel slightly sticky upon initial application. However, it dries down seamlessly within a few minutes. Our skin felt tremendously more hydrated, and we noticed a visible difference in the areas where the toner was applied compared to where it wasn't. The appearance of our skin felt clean, refreshed, and hydrated, with a brighter and more even complexion overall. We loved this toner so much that we wanted to take it home from the PEOPLE Tested lab.
Star ingredients: Witch hazel, Fruit enzymes, AHA, niacinamide | Skin type: Balanced, oily, acne-prone | Size: 6 oz. | Alcohol-free: No
Best for Acne: Murad Clarifying Toner
Pros
Instantly refreshing, it left our skin feeling awake and revitalized in seconds
Truly cleaned our skin — after using a face wash, we noticed leftover dirt on the cotton pad after we used this toner
Absorbed into the skin in seconds, leaving behind a silky-smooth finish
Cons
May cause a temporary tingling sensation after application
Does contain alcohol for those trying to avoid
Finding the right acne products for oily or acne-prone skin that won't further cause breakouts is paramount, and, as we've seen in our testing, Murad's Clarifying Toner will actually help to counteract acneic skin. This toner contains natural ingredients like witch hazel and grape seed extract, which together regulate oil production and tighten pores while protecting against free radicals that can damage the skin and cause premature aging. Not only do these ingredients provide excellent benefits for the skin, but it also leaves skin looking glowy, smooth, and glossy.
While testing this toner, we immediately noticed how it replenished moisture in our dry skin, making it feel refreshed and revitalized. We were also impressed by how it helped reduce the visibility of dark spots, resulting in a more even complexion. After cleansing with face wash, we noticed more dirt on the cotton pad after wiping our face with the toner, making us feel like our skin was thoroughly clean because of it. While it left us with silky smooth skin that felt clean and refreshed, we must note that some people may experience a temporary tingling sensation once it dries down. If this is a sensation you don't like, this product may not be the best fit for you.
Star ingredients: Witch hazel, grape seed extract, vitamin E, algae extract | Skin type: Oily, acne-prone | Size: 6 oz. | Alcohol-free: No
Best for Sensitive Skin: Holifrog Utopia Microflora Toner
Pros
Absorbs well into the skin — we didn’t have to wait for it to dry down at all
We noticed a difference on the skin right after use when it came to how moisturized and bright it was
Helps reduce redness and swelling caused by acne and rosacea
Cons
Sticky consistency when first applied
More expensive than most other toners we tested
If you have sensitive skin, finding gentle yet effective skincare ingredients can be a daunting task — but the Holifrog Utopia Microflora Toner offers a great starting point for a balanced complexion. Its ingredients hydrate and improve the absorption of later skincare products: Apple cider vinegar balances pH and reduces inflammation and breakouts, while jojoba seed oil hydrates, protects against environmental stressors, disinfects acne-causing bacteria, and helps build a healthy skin barrier.
The first thing we noticed about this toner was its consistency. It has a distinct texture that isn't too watery or thick, almost creamy. It felt light and cool when first applied; however, it was a bit sticky to the touch. After application, the toner dried down to a natural finish on the face, leaving our skin looking brighter and firmer. We visibly noticed a reduction in the redness on our skin and a calming of the swelling caused by acne and rosacea. Right away, we noticed that our skin looked even more radiant, even and more firm after use. Acne and rosacea appeared less red and swollen, while pores felt more open and appeared less clogged. For those with sensitive skin looking for a healthier, more balanced complexion, the alcohol-free Holifrog Utopia Microflora Toner is a great option.
Star ingredients: Sodium hypochlorite, aloe barbadensis leaf, jojoba seed oil, apple cider vinegar | Skin type: Balanced, normal, dry, sensitive | Size: 4.05 oz. | Alcohol-free: Yes
Best for Redness: Innisfree Green Tea Seed Hyaluronic Acid Toner
Pros
Instantly relieves the skin; when it came to irritation and redness, our skin felt more hydrated and calm after just 3 minutes
Effectively reduces the appearance of pores and helped heal breakouts, including hormonal acne
Cons
Getting just three drops of toner on the cotton round took some effort
If you're familiar with color theory, you know that green and red sit on opposite sides of the color wheel and are known to neutralize each other, so it made total sense that Innisfree's Green Tea Toner performs remarkably well on sensitive, redness-prone skin. We experienced instant relief from redness and irritation after using this toner. Formulated with green tea sourced from Jeju Island in Korea and containing 16 amino acids, Innisfree carefully selected this specific green tea for this toner after evaluating over 3,301 different types.
This toner is hydrating and has a light and gentle consistency that is absorbed in about a minute. We were especially impressed by how quickly redness and irritation subsided, and even the appearance of breakouts reduced. This toner also tackled hormonal acne surprisingly well. What amazed us most was its ability to reduce redness within three minutes of application. Our skin was irritated before application, but we loved how it felt soothed and looked glowy after using this product. If you're searching for a product that reduces redness and calms irritated skin, Innisfree's Green Tea Toner is definitely worth considering.
Ingredients: Jeju green tea | Skin type: All skin types | Size: 6.76 oz. | Alcohol-free: Yes
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Things to Consider Before Buying Toner
Skin type
Your skin type is an important factor to consider when you’re picking a toner. People with oiler or acne-prone skin should look for toners with BHA (beta hydroxy acids) or salicylic acids to help exfoliate their skin and unclog pores. According to Margarita Lolis, this can help remove dead skin cells and lessen the chance of breakouts.
If you have dry skin, try to avoid products with witch hazel and alcohol, as these ingredients can further dry out the skin. Hyaluronic acid and amino acids are great ingredients to look out for because they can help restore the skin barrier and lock in moisture. If you’re looking for a solution for hyperpigmentation, look for toners with lactic acids — this can help “gently exfoliate the skin without damaging the skin barrier,” says Dr. Lolis.
Alcohol
Although it's important to look for alcohol-free toners if you have dry skin, alcohol is often included in toners because it effectively removes oil, dirt, and other impurities from the skin's surface. Alcohol can be beneficial in toners if you have incredibly oily skin since it can combat pore congestion. When deciding between an alcohol-free toner and one that contains alcohol, it's important to see if it includes other ingredients that restore moisture, like hyaluronic acid or other oils. For example, the Murad Clarifying Toner offsets the alcohol with grapeseed extract, which helps replenish the skin's moisture.
Price
When it comes to purchasing skincare products, price is often a major consideration. However, if you're on the hunt for a high-quality toner that you can use daily, you don't necessarily have to break the bank. While splurging on luxury skincare can be a treat, choosing a more affordable product doesn't mean you have to compromise on quality.
There are a variety of affordable toners on the market that are just as effective as their pricier counterparts. Two of our favorites include the Neutrogena Alcohol-Free Toner and Innisfree's Green Tea Toner, both of which are priced around $20. These toners are gentle, refreshing, and provide excellent hydration for the skin.
On the other hand, if you want to indulge in luxury skincare, you may be interested in trying out a product with patented ingredients that can deliver stunning results. The SK-II Facial Treatment Clear Lotion Toner, for example, is a lightweight and ultra-refreshing option with a price tag of $80, serving as the perfect base for layering other serums and moisturizers on top of it.
Regardless of how much you're willing to spend on your toner, you must consider your skin concerns and the type of toner that will best address them. A good toner can help hydrate the skin and alleviate various concerns, so choose one that suits your needs and preferences.
People / Jessica Juliao
How We Tested
Our PEOPLE Tested team set out to test 24 toners to determine which ones were most effective at addressing skin concerns. Upon arrival to our lab, we cleansed our faces and removed any buildup accumulated during our daily commute. To ensure we could easily apply the toner all over their face, we secured loose hair with a hair tie or headband. We also measured the initial moisture levels of our skin using a moisture reader device.
Next, we applied two to three squirts of the assigned toner product onto a cotton round. We then wiped the left sides of our foreheads, noses, cheeks, and chins with the toner to examine any noticeable differences between the side of the face with toner and the side without.
After allowing the toner to seep into our skin for a few minutes, we examined the skin and noted how it looked and felt. We noted the consistency of the toner, how well it absorbed into the skin, and if we noticed any significant differences in our skin's texture and clarity. We also measured our skin’s moisture levels once more after the toner was applied, so we could see how hydration levels were affected by the toner.
Finally, we rated each of the 24 toners on a 1 to 5 scale against the following categories: feel, absorption, hydration, and appearance. The toners with the highest average ratings earned a spot on this PEOPLE Tested list.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are toners actually good for your skin?
Dr. Lolis says toners can be good for your face “when the correct ingredients are used for the correct skin concerns.” Toners can help remove traces of dirt, makeup, and other impurities from your skin so that you are left with clean skin before you go in with serums and other skincare products. They can also offer an extra layer of hydration to the skin and contain actives that help address specific skin concerns to provide a smoother, less irritated base for the rest of your routine.
Is toner really necessary?
Dr. Lolis says unless you have specific skin conditions like acne or sensitive skin that needs more concentrated ingredients, “feel-good products” can elevate and enhance your skincare routine if you’re a skincare enthusiast. However, because of its ability to pre-moisten the skin and remove dirt and impurities, it’s still a worthy addition to your routine, even if you don’t have specific skincare concerns.
What ingredients are good to look for in toners?
According to Dr.Lolis, hydrating and soothing ingredients like hyaluronic acid are important to maintain the skin barrier. Alcohol or witch hazel will strip the skin of moisture and damage the skin barrier, leading to dehydrated skin and potentially acne breakouts. However, some alcohol toners have added ingredients that counteract the dehydrating effects of the alcohol.
When should I be using a toner?
Toner should be applied on damp skin after cleansing your face. Applying toner on damp skin helps with “proper penetration and hydration,” according to Dr. Lolis.
What is the best way to apply toner?
According to Dr. Lolis, the best way to apply toner is by “gently patting it into the skin with your hands or on a saturated round cotton pad."
What Is People Tested?
We created the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval to help you find the very best products for your life. We use our unique methodology to test products in three labs across the country and with our network of home testers to determine their effectiveness, durability, ease of use, and so much more. Based on the results, we rate and recommend products so you can find the right one for your needs.
But we don’t stop there: We also regularly re-review the categories in which we’ve awarded the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval — because the best product of today might not be the best of tomorrow. And by the way, companies can never buy our recommendation: Their products must earn it, fair and square.
In short, PEOPLE Tested provides recommendations you can trust — every day, every purchase.
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