The Very Best Toners On The Market Right Now

When it comes to skincare, one of the bigger mysteries (particularly to newbies) is the mystical toner. Long a valuable part of the “cleanse, tone, and moisturise” skincare mythology, it’s the only part that still leaves many asking what toners do precisely. 

Well, there’s a long and a short answer to the classic “What is a toner?” question. The short one is that it depends. And the long one? Well, if you want that answer, then read on.

The first category of “toners” are those which use acids to exfoliate the skin. These are the ones that’ll give you the most apparent results in the shortest amount of time, offering a smoother, shinier skin surface. There are many of these on the market, but I always come back to three.

Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Exfoliant

The first is the Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Exfoliant. This is a miracle for those with an oilier, more clog-prone skin type, as it exclusively contains salicylic acid. A step up in terms of intensity is the Tarte Knockout Tingling Treatment, which also contains lactic acid. This one is a little more “stingy” in feel and tends to feel nicer when used at night rather than under makeup.

If both sound too intense, I suggest the Mario Badescu Keratoplast Lotion. This is a super gentle formula, so it takes a little more time to offer results – but slow and steady may win the race if you’re on the sensitive side.

Astringent Toner

Another category of toners I enjoy is from Astringent. These have somewhat debated skincare benefits, but I like nothing more when I’m feeling uber-grimy. Classic witch hazel can be good for this, but an excellent amped-up version is the Mario Badescu Witch Hazel & Rosewater, which has added hydration and a delicious scent. The Origins Zero Oil Pore Purifying Toner is also amazing for prepping your skin for moisturiser or makeup. It smells like heaven on earth with a hint of toothpaste.

Toners with Camphor

I’m also a fan of anything containing camphor, which seems to work wonders on my pores like no other. The Kiehl’s Blue Astringent Herbal Lotion is a skincare classic for this reason, and it always leaves me feeling cleansed as hell. But if you want more acne-busting benefits, go for the Mario Badescu Special Cleansing Lotion C, which has sulfur to help fight breakouts before they begin.

For those with a drier complexion, you’ll likely want to steer clear of anything that claims to be too deeply cleansing. But never fear – there are toners out there for you, too! One of the best options for dry skin is the Fresh Rose Deep Hydration Facial Toner, which has the added bonus of looking absolutely mesmerizing in the bottle. The Origins Mega Mushroom Relief & Resilience Lotion is incredible if you want something with more age-preventing benefits. In fact, I can’t think of a skin type that wouldn’t like it.

If your skin errs more on the sensitive side, you need aloe vera. We’ve long known of its soothing properties – but they’re famous for a reason. The Mario Badescu Aloe Lotion is nice and simple, which does what it says on the tin. To boost your moisture levels, though, the Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Toner is as softening as it is soothing.

Final Recommendation for Toners

My final recommendation is what I’d call a good “all-rounder.” If you don’t have a particular skin concern but want to add something toner-y to your rotation, I point you to the Fatco Toner Lavender & Rosemary. It’s purifying but still hydrating without the potential to irritate, smells good, and can be easily spritzed on to replenish your skincare routine. What more could you ask for?