Gone are the days when the very mention of the word ‘toner’ instantly invoked the icy vapors of chemically tinged alcohol solutions and that accompanying sting against your skin. Now, the dominance of those astringents of yesteryear, which once ruled the beauty aisles has waned somewhat.

In their place now are newer creations which promise to soothe and cleanse and provide additional pampering too.

And the best toners also promise amazing perks: smaller pores, pristine skin not to mention a restored pH balance and added moisture – all with a gentle touch and soothing fragrance.

This article is dedicated to that rather select category and all the wonderful qualities the best toners available can bestow on your skin.

But first of all, we need to take a look at the very best qualities which any toner worthy of earning a coveted spot during your daily routine, will need to come with.

There’s simply something about brands which have stood the test of time that quite simply invites us to examine their offerings on our quest for the ideal skin care product.

And when the brand in question happens to be the brainchild of two dermatologists, giving into that curiosity does seem justified. After all, how often do you come across products which have not just been endorsed but have actually been created by medical skin care specialists?

Here was a toner which claimed to be capable of shrinking our pores, evening out our complexions and keeping our skin supple and moisturized.

We’re delighted to note that it did live up to our expectations — in spite of its penchant for stinging mini cuts and skin irritations.

As a result, we were able to note visibly smoother, clearer skin which was more radiant, too.

But perhaps those results are by no means surprising given what Proactiv’s Revitalizing Toner is made of:
A healthy dose of natural extracts including aloe vera and panthenol for providing a double helping of hydration; there’s also witch hazel, nature’s more efficient answer to harsh alcoholic astringents for eliminating all that extra sebum on oily skin.

The presence of glycolic acid also explained our clear, radiant complexions given its ability to get rid of all those dead cells.
And even though we can admit we had hoped our hunch was right, we were really pleased to find our curiosity richly rewarded. Especially since not every venture into the unknown results in a happy ending.

And you too might just get to experience amazing beginnings and endings to each day thanks to this delightful toner which ticks all the boxes it’s meant to.

Key Features
  • A unique formula developed by medical experts
  • Natural extracts for effective, safe skin care
  • A formula capable of shrinking pores and eliminating blemishes
Specifications
  • Product Dimensions: 5.4 x 1.7 x 1.4 inches
  • Product Weight: 8 ounces
  • Primary Ingredients: Aloe vera, chamomile, allantoin, witch hazel, panthenol
  • Brand: Proactiv
Pros
  • Capable of reducing sebum and acne
  • Capable of moisturizing skin efficiently
  • Capable of eliminating blemishes and providing an even complexion
Cons
  • May sting tiny cuts and blemishes

Conscientious manufacturers are always a delight. Especially those which are dedicated to providing products which are not only efficient but safe.

And we must admit we were rather impressed by InstaNatural’s commitment to only including natural and safe synthetic ingredients in their products.

We were also rather curious about just how well it actually delivered with regards to its Vitamin C Facial Toner and to know what it contained before trying it out.

There was vitamin C which the toner had been named for, known for its ability to stimulate healing and to also encourage collagen production.

There was also glycolic acid renowned for being particularly efficient at getting rid of all those pesky dead cells and also at healing acne and banishing any resulting scarring.

We were also rather pleased to note the presence of vitamin E, a potent antioxidant as well as several essential oil extracts which meant we could also look forward to a product which was anti-inflammatory as well as antimicrobial.

And because all the best toners are also amazing at hydrating, we were also pleased to find that we could look forward to youthful, dewy skin thanks to the presence of aloe vera.

And that list of goodies is by no means exhaustive since this is one toner which happens to contain a plethora of ingredients capable of gently exfoliating, hydrating and rejuvenating on a daily basis.

Were we surprised to find that we were rather satisfied with its results? Not in the least. Especially since our initial peek at all those ingredients hinted that we were in for dewy, younger looking, clearer skin.

If you too would love to treat yourself to the same experience, this toner, provided by a delightfully attentive manufacturer, might just be the elixir your skin needs.

Key Features
  • Vitamins C and E for promoting collagen production and providing antioxidant protection
  • Aloe vera and argan oil for providing hydration and extra protection for skin
  • Glycolic acid for a more radiant complexion
Specifications
  • Product Dimensions: 3 x 1 x 6 inches
  • Product Weight: 2.08 ounces
  • Primary Ingredients: Aloe vera, argan oil, and vitamins
Pros
  • Gentle exfoliation and healing of acne scars
  • Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory as well as antimicrobial protection
  • Efficient hydration for dewy, younger looking skin
Cons
  • May cause rashes

Certain products come with guarantees that make them virtually irresistible. And as far as toners go, the terms oil and alcohol-free might just be included in that category of wonderful features.

Especially since you can be certain of a new experience for your skin which does not involve any excessive dryness or excess oil which might just cause an acne breakout.

And when the toner itself has actually been brought to you by a brand which is not only a staple of the beauty industry but has also been bestowed with the medical community’s seal of approval, there’s no doubt that you’re on to something special.

And since toners which tick all these boxes do seem to be few and far between, we knew that we simply had to try out the Oil- and Alcohol-Free Facial Toner.

We discovered a product which was mild on our skin and very efficient at getting rid of any residue our cleansers might have left behind.

We also loved the fact that it was non-comedogenic and hypoallergenic, making it an excellent option for oily, sensitive skin.

But best of all, there was the satin smoothness its moisturizing touch bestowed on our skin with a mild delicate fragrance.

Were we glad we tried out the Oil- and Alcohol-Free Facial Toner? We most certainly were. And if you happen to have oily or sensitive skin, this product might turn out to be the ideal after-cleansing treatment for you.

Key Features
  • Dermatologist approved formula
  • Hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic
  • Mild, delicate fragrance
Specifications
  • Product Dimensions: 3 x 2 x 7.1 inches
  • Product Weight: 0.32 ounces
  • Primary Ingredients: Butylene glycol, sodium chloride, panthenol
Pros
  • Efficiently moisturizes skin
  • Mild and gentle on skin
  • Ideal for sensitive and oily skin
Cons
  • May have a slightly soapy feel

We love products which come in twos, especially when they promise to protect our skin from any acne breakouts while gently healing any resulting scarring or irritation too.

And that’s what made us pay special attention to Thayers Rose Petal Witch Hazel with Aloe Vera. A closer peek at its ingredients made us glad that we’d decided to do just that, especially since it was filled with all the things our skin loves.

There was vitamin E known for its powerful antioxidant properties as well as aloe vera renowned for its ability to heal and moisturize. There was also undistilled witch hazel, an efficient astringent capable of doing all the things those potent stinging alcohol based solutions promised without any of their accompanying harshness or dryness. And thanks to the presence of vegetable glycerine, we could all be certain of its ability to make our skin feel supple with an extra bit of bounce.

And that meant we could only expect good things from it - and the fact that there was a second bottle too meant there was no risk of running out of it anytime soon.
And we were delighted with the results: Visibly radiant and smoother skin, tinier pores not to mention the elimination of all those pesky zits - all delivered with a delightful rose fragrance.

Thanks to its ability to deliver wonderfully, we were left with no doubt that Thayers' Rose Petal Witch Hazel with Aloe Vera is one product which deserves a very special place in the beauty cabinet — and hearts too — of everyone who loves to give their skin a light touch of pampering on a regular basis.

Key Features
  • Hypoallergenic formula containing vegetable glycerine
  • Enriched with vitamin E to provide antioxidant and UV protection
  • A mild, natural rose fragrance
Specifications
  • Product Dimensions: 7.7 x 2.9 x 1.7 inches
  • Product Weight: 1.84 pounds
  • Primary Ingredients: Rose water, witch hazel, aloe vera
Pros
  • Excellent antioxidant and UV protection thanks to vitamin E
  • Suitable for sensitive, oily skin thanks to hypoallergenic formula
  • Delicate rose fragrance
  • Alcohol- and paraben-free
Cons
  • May cause redness of skin

At a first glance at this product, we rather liked what we saw. It seemed as though some savvy manufacturer had somehow bottled up a golden ray of rose-scented sunshine to share it with the world. And it felt like a touch of sunrise against our skin when we applied it too.

It was not only light and soothing, but shrank those pores beautifully. There were also its moisture retaining properties which took it up several notches in our estimate. We even went along with the suggestion to try it out on our hair and found it was just as amazing on our tresses as it was on our skin too.

And that meant that the Natural Moroccan 24K Rosewater Toner had not just ticked every box on our list but had even exceeded our expectations.

But perhaps it was no surprise given the fact that one of its ingredients happens to be 24k gold. Renowned for its ability to keep bacteria at bay and to also eliminate the likelihood of any breakouts, this deluxe ingredient is also capable of keeping your skin moist and supple.

What’s more, this toner which has been brought to you in a dark amber bottle to ensure the protection of its near magical properties, is also completely vegan, alcohol and paraben free.

No wonder its manufacturer feels every faith in their product as evidenced by their money back guarantee.

And we happen to think that all these qualities and the fact that it’s ideal for oily, dry and even sensitive skin, make the Natural Moroccan 24K Rosewater Toner a worthy addition to any beauty cabinet.

Key Features
  • A product which is vegan, alcohol and paraben free
  • Special tinted storage to preserve the qualities of its contents
  • Antibacterial, moisture retaining and rejuvenating qualities
Specifications
  • Product Dimensions: 2 x 2 x 4 inches
  • Product Weight: 9.6 ounces
  • Primary Ingredients: 24 karat gold-infused natural Moroccan Rose floral water
Pros
  • Mild, delicate fragrance
  • Protects skin from bacteria, aging and dryness
  • Suitable for all skin types
Cons
  • May cause skin redness

The best things in life are simple, organic and free from any chemical stuff which may come with a few unpleasant surprises. Just like Beauty by Earth’s Witch Hazel Face Toner which is filled with stuff your skin’s bound to love. Packed with aloe vera juice, witch hazel extract, cucumber fruit extract, and rose water, it’s just what your skin needs for an efficient post cleansing touch up. Especially since it will not only get rid of every last residue of your makeup, but will also leave your skin hydrated, nourished and prepared to absorb all the goodness from your moisturizer.

And there’s no need to worry about any sneaky aftereffects which are often caused by the presence of a suspicious chemical or two, such as redness, harsh overpowering fumes or breakouts.

No wonder this toner’s so easy to love. And all these delightful qualities are far from being all there is to it too. Because it’s completely plant based relying on ingredients traditionally used in skin care, it’s cruelty-free and vegan.

There’s also the fact that it’s really convenient to apply thanks to its special spray nozzle. As a result, you’ll be able to dispense the toner in a very fine spray mist which will settle gently all over your skin and set to shrinking your pores, absorbing all that excess sebum and soothing any redness or swelling.

And with all these good things it comes with and so much more, we’re pretty convinced that the Witch Hazel Face Toner is not only a magic potion of sorts, but one of the best things in life — as far as toners are concerned.

Key Features
  • A plant based, organic, cruelty-free formula
  • Gentle soothing fragrance
  • Ideal for all skin types
Specifications
  • Product Dimensions: Not provided
  • Product Weight: 8.5 ounces
  • Primary Ingredients: Aloe, cucumber, and fruit extracts
Pros
  • Lightweight, versatile formula
  • Capable of absorbing excess oils
  • Ideal for providing hydration
  • An excellent remedy for treating sunburns
Cons
  • May cause itching

Do you prefer unscented beauty products which are every bit as effective as they’re meant to be? If so you’ll love Thayers' Alcohol-Free Witch Hazel Toner which has been brought to you courtesy of a manufacturer committed to providing cruelty-free products which will care for your skin with a gentle touch.

This is one product which announces right away that it’s completely alcohol-free, assuring you that there’ll be no icy vapors or stinging sensations against your skin.
Rather than relying on harsh chemicals to eliminate excess oil, the manufacturer, Thayers has opted for witch hazel, a potent natural astringent to do just that and to also lend its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties to this product too.
And that means you’ll be able to look forward to a reduction in acne breakouts as well as redness and inflammation.

Thayers hasn’t left out hydration either and thanks to the presence of the naturally healing and hydrating gel from the aloe vera plant, you’ll be able to enjoy supple, healthier skin.
And for antioxidant protection, there are tannins which will provide you with a youthful glow.

All these natural ingredients have come together to form a toner which will protect, moisturize and soothe and which is also particularly suitable for sensitive skin.

If you’re in search of a product which will be gentle on your skin while keeping it hydrated and refreshed, you’ll love this fragrance-free offering brought to you by a manufacturer which has delighted its customers for over a century.

Key Features
  • Natural aloe vera gel for efficient hydration
  • Antioxidant protection due to the presence of tannins
  • Efficient oil absorption and antimicrobial protection
Specifications
  • Product Dimensions: 3 x 2 x 8 inches
  • Product Weight: 12 ounces
  • Primary Ingredients: Aloe and witch hazel
Pros
  • Suitable for frequent use
  • An excellent option for sensitive skin
  • Capable of providing supple, smooth skin
Cons
  • May cause breakouts

It isn’t that often you come across a product which can be described as potent and gentle all at once.
Especially one which seems as though it’s been conjured into existence by a fairy godmother with the ability to not only treat your skin with a delicate touch but to also efficiently eliminate excess oils and bacteria while delivering loads of moisture.

Just like TreeActiv’s Balancing Herbal Toner which not only combines all those qualities but also relies on natural means to do so.
Thanks to the tea tree oil contained in its formula, your skin will be able to enjoy antimicrobial and antifungal protection.
The toner has also been infused with clary sage which not only enhances its already impressive antibacterial qualities provided by tea tree oil, but is also capable of soothing your skin.

And thanks to the presence of rose water and witch hazel, the Balancing Herbal Toner will also be able to gently exfoliate your skin while moisturizing it at the same time.

And you’ll also be able to look forward to antioxidant protection too, thanks to vitamins A and C, which it’s been infused with.

All these wonderful qualities mean that this is one product which certainly deserves to be considered both potent and gentle and capable of providing your skin with the care it deserves.

Key Features
  • Antioxidant and antimicrobial protection
  • Efficient astringent qualities capable of reducing acne and breakouts
  • Anti-inflammatory and moisturizing skin care
Specifications
  • Product Dimensions: Not provided
  • Product Weight: 3.84 ounces
  • Primary Ingredients: Rose, clary sage, and witch hazel
Pros
  • Excellent antioxidant and antimicrobial protection
  • Suitable for sensitive skin
  • Capable of moisturizing skin while eliminating toxins
Cons
  • May cause skin redness

It isn’t that often you get to come across a product which promises to provide you with the experience of being pampered at a spa and is not only completely natural, but has also been made using age old traditional methods.

And when it also comes with the full backing of a manufacturer which has every faith in the ability of its offering to deliver, there’s no doubt that it’s worth checking out.

And we’re glad we did try out Poppy Austin’s Pure Rose Water Facial Toner and are even happier to get to tell you all about it.

One of the things we loved most about this toner was its suitability for all skin types: dry, oily, normal and sensitive. And that meant we were face to face with a product which was not only a superb choice for enabling anyone to navigate tricky acne breakouts, but was also amazing at keeping allergic reactions at bay too.

We also loved its particularly soothing touch after shaving and its ability to make our skin instantly feel refreshed and revitalized after a brief dab with cotton wool.

And the fact that it was completely organic, made from natural ingredients and free from any chemicals with rather dubious reputations (parabens, artificial fragrances, colors and additives), was also a huge plus too.

In our estimate, few products were more deserving than Poppy Austin’s Pure Rose Water Facial Toner of a spot on the best toner list we were putting together and we wasted no time at all in adding it at once.

And we’re certain there’s a huge chance it might just make its way onto your list of favorite things, too.

Key Features
  • A completely organic formula free from artificial fragrances, colors or additives
  • Excellent antioxidant, moisturizing and antibacterial properties
  • Perfect for all skin types
Specifications
  • Product Dimensions: Not provided
  • Product Weight: 8 ounces
  • Primary Ingredients: Rose water
Pros
  • Excellent for soothing skin thanks to its anti-inflammatory qualities
  • Antioxidant and antibacterial protection
  • Ideal for use on skin and hair
Cons
  • Unsuitable for individuals with an allergy to roses

It’s one thing to find a product which delivers on its manufacturer’s promises, and it’s quite another to find one which not only does so, but is also delightfully versatile.

And that’s what Teddie Organics Organic Alcohol Free Rose Water is, making it seem like a toner dream come true.

There’s its ability to restore your skin’s natural pH right after a shower and soothe any redness or soreness that may arise as a result of shaving.

There’s also its ability to stave off acne breakouts by absorbing excess oil on your skin and unblocking your pores while shrinking them too.

And apart from being a great choice of toner for your morning routine, it’s also just what you need after a long trip to refresh and enliven your skin right before you head out to bask in the sights and sounds of that new town or city.

And a few drops in your favorite shampoo and conditioner will also bestow an enchanting lustre on your hair thanks to its excellent hydrating qualities.

With such wonderful versatility, it’s clear that Teddie Organics Organic Alcohol Free Rose Water is not just a toner, but a beauty product for all occasions.

And you too can get to experience all those pleasant qualities on a daily basis and treat your skin — and hair, too — with a toner that’s natural and smells just like spring and summer.

Key Features
  • Perfect for all skin types
  • A formula which is capable of removing excess oil and evening out your complexion
  • Manufacturer’s money back guarantee
  • Anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and antioxidant protection
Specifications
  • Product Dimensions: Not provided
  • Product Weight: 6.4 ounces
  • Primary Ingredients: Rose Water
Pros
  • Delicate floral fragrance
  • Capable of absorbing excess oil on skin
  • Capable of clearing and shrinking pores
  • Excellent anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and antioxidant properties
Cons
  • May provoke itching and redness for some

Selecting the best toner for your skin

Choosing the best toner is all about selecting that one product which will transform your skin from being merely cleansed to completely pristine while also placing it in the perfect state to receive an extra hydrating dose of moisturizer.

And with so many products all vying to take their place among your favorites, one of the very best means of whittling down that list of potential candidates is by deciding just how likely they are to not only get along with your skin, but make it feel amazing — with very visible results, no less.

And in the list below, you will find just what to look for when searching for the toner which will feel as though it’s been made for you and no one else:

Oily skin

For skin which tends to have rather active oil-producing glands, it’s always best to select an alcohol-free option which also comes with the ability to gently get rid of those dead cells and keep your face smooth at the same time. Ingredients to look for include salicylic and lactic acid as well as glycolic acid.

Dry skin

If you tend to have skin in this category, you will need to select toners which have what it takes to provide your skin with an extra dose of moisture. Toners which contain aloe vera, chamomile, glycerin or rose are especially suitable choices in this regard.

Normal skin

If you happen to have skin that is exceptionally well behaved, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t reward it with an extra bit of care and pampering too. Opt for toners which are capable of soothing your skin while ensuring it appears smooth and youthful. Products which contain Vitamin C, lavender or willow bark are particularly excellent options.

How to choose the Best Toner

Now that you have an idea of what to look for when selecting toners, you’ll be able to navigate the multitude of beauty products to select the one that’s just right for you.

And to make it even much more fuss-free, we’ve actually done some whittling of our own and compiled a list of our favorites for you to take a glimpse at. And we’re pretty certain you’ll find a toner which your skin will fall in love with.

Resources— AdoreBeauty, Allure, Anne Marie Gianni, ElleNeutrogena100percentpure

Share this Buyers Guide About The Author