11 Best Alcohol-Free Toners Worth Buying In 2024, As Per An Esthetician
Gentle formulations that make your skin look supple, smooth, and well-toned!
Nichelle Temple is an NYC-based esthetician and the owner of Inderma Studio with over a decade of experience in microcurrent, HydraFacial, and holistic skin care treatments. She is passionate about using professional-grade and organic products as well as cutting-edge technology to help her clients experience instant and illuminating results.
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Experience: 5 yearsMedha Deb is a commerce editor with a master's degree in applied linguistics from the University of Hyderabad, which has allowed her to develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts. She specializes in the areas of beauty, health, and wellness and is committed to ensuring that the content on the website is of the highest quality.
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Experience: 4 yearsShiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor, she guides her team members on the best practices to create crisp and authentic content.
Read full bio of Shiboli Chakraborti
Experience: 11 yearsRamona is an editor at StyleCraze with 11 years of experience in writing and editing. She has authored over 200 articles on skin and hair care. She graduated from the University of Calcutta, West Bengal, and did her post-graduation from the University of Kalyani, West Bengal.
Read full bio of Ramona Sinha
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Toners cleanse your skin, tighten your pores, help with uneven texture, and prep your face for other skin care products. Here, we have listed the best alcohol-free toners you can try to reap maximum benefits from this product. Stress, harsh chemicals, dust, environmental stressors, and pollution negatively affect your skin and lead to issues like suntans, fine wrinkles, dark spots, and pimples. Your skin requires deep washing, which goes beneath the skin barrier. Facial toners are the way to go, as you may have figured! In this article, we have listed the best alcohol-free toners available online. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s dig into it.
In This Article
Top 11 Alcohol-Free Toners of 2024
1. Best For Reducing Pores:Simple Sensitive Skin Expert Soothing Facial Toner
The Simple Sensitive Skin Expert Soothing Facial Toner is a gentle chemical-free toner, that promises to be ‘kind’ to your skin. Its unique alcohol-free formula maintains your skin’s pH level and smooths your skin by reducing pores. Scientifically formulated with vitamin B, this toner moisturizes skin and diminishes age spots. Containing witch nut and allantoin, this toner doesn’t just work on the surface but deeply cleanses your pores to give you clean, fresh, and radiant skin.
Pros
- Maintains pH level of your skin
- Vitamin B moisturizes skin
Cons
- May cause breakouts
"This toner refreshes my skin without drying it out too much. However, I'd say if you have dry skin, use a serum in between this toner and your face cream. It was ineffective in removing leftover makeup, but efficiently soothed and balanced my skin. It works well for regular nighly skin care."
Pro Tip2. Best For Enhancing Skin Elasticity: Pixi Skintreats Glow Tonic
If you are one among those women who have acne-prone skin, then we have good news for you! The Pixi Skintreats Glow Tonic is so delicate on your skin that it retains the natural oils and doesn’t cause breakouts. This toner has a non-greasy liquid texture that enhances the elasticity of your skin. The aloe vera extracts gently work on your skin without causing burning or irritation. It has a refreshing scent and leaves the skin feeling clean and relaxed. This product has about 1448 reviews on Amazon for its efficiency in improving skin elasticity and radiance.
Pros
- Does not cause breakouts
- Enhances skin elasticity
- Has a pleasant natural scent
Cons
- Expensive
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has more than 384 reviews and is a top choice all around the world.
3. Best Hypoallergenic: Eau Thermale Avene Gentle Toning Lotion
Just using a makeup remover isn’t enough, as residual makeup or impurities can clog your pores. The Eau Thermale Avene GentleToning Lotion completes your cleaning routine by penetrating deep into your skin and removing all dirt, be it makeup or grime, and letting you achieve glowing skin. The signature Eau Thermale spring water smooths the skin and leaves it supple, making it the right choice for acne-prone skin. This product is also hypoallergenic, alcohol-free, and contains no other harsh chemicals.
Pros
- Balances natural pH levels
- Hypoallergenic
- Suitable for adult acne
Cons
- Not suitable for eczema
Simple Sensitive Skin Expert Soothing Facial Toner Best For Reducing Pores | Pixi Skintreats Glow Tonic Best For Enhancing Skin Elasticity | Eau Thermale Avene Gentle Toning Lotion Best Hypoallergenic | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skin Type | All | All | - |
| Dimensions | 1.81 x 4.88 x 2.2 inches | - | 1.97 x 2.36 x 2.36 inches |
| Weight | 6.7 Ounces | - | 6.7 Ounces |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 224 | 384 | 75 |
| Price | $9.64 | $28.95 | $25 |
4. Dermatologist-Tested: L’Oreal Paris HydraFresh Toner
Keep your skin hydrated and safe with this dermatologist-tested toner L’Oreal Paris HydraFresh Toner. It is scientifically formulated with BHA, that helps remove dead skin gently, and pro-vitamin B5, which protects moisture loss, softens the skin and reveals a brighter, healthier looking complexion. It effectively revitalizes tired skin to make it clean, supple, and refreshed. This gentle and non-drying formula soothes your dehydrated skin and is suitable for your AM/PM routine. This lightweight toner is backed by 5099 reviews and recommendations on Amazon for its ability to retain moisture for long hours.
Pros
- Dermatologist-tested
- Lightweight formula
Cons
- May contain fragrance
5. Best Antibacterial Properties: Plum Green Tea Alcohol-Free Toner
Plum Green Tea Alcohol-free Toner fits perfectly in your skin care regimen, irrespective of your skin type. This 100% alcohol-free toner is a crowd-favorite for its natural astringent, antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. This sulfate-free toner contains green tea extracts that help reduce pore size, clear skin issues like hormonal acne, and control blemishes. It also contains glycolic acid (an alpha hydroxy acid), which is a natural exfoliant that has proven efficacy in skin cell renewal. It gets rid of all the dirt, excess oil, and dead skin cells on your skin and offers a natural glow. It also unclogs pores, improves skin texture, and reveals a healthy looking complexion.
Glycerin, a natural moisturizer, hydrates the skin and keeps it from becoming dull and dry. It has been reviewed by over 9000 users and has been recommended for oily skin that’s more prone to acne. This product is 100% vegan, animal cruelty-free, and safe as it does not contain parabens, phthalates, silicones, sulfates, or polypropylene alcohol.
Pros
- 100% alcohol-free
- Protects and brightens the skin
- Renews and exfoliates the skin
- Prevents the skin from drying out
Cons
- None
"I use this toner as a base before applying makeup. It provides a decent refreshing sensation but the scent is enticing. It contains green tea that soothes my skin even when I have sensitivity or pimples. I use it along with my face wash, and it does a good job of deep cleaning."
Pro Tip6. Best Moisturizing Formula: Thayers Natural Remedies Facial Toner Witch Hazel with Aloe Vera
With over two centuries of trust to its name, the Thayers Natural Remedies Facial Toner Witch Hazel with Aloe Vera is one of the best natural toners. With the goodness of rose water, aloe vera, and witch hazel extract, the key benefit of this toner is that it moisturizes the skin, leaving it feeling fresh and relaxed. The rose petal extracts lock in moisture and increase the production of oils in the skin. This toner also replenishes the lost vitamin C in the skin, which fades scars and repairs skin cells. This facial toner has no less than 13,107 reviews for its soothing properties and keeping your skin well hydrated. Do check out this video to learn more about the Thayers Natural Remedies Facial Toner Witch Hazel with Aloe Vera.
Pros
- Cleanses and moisturizes skin
- Enriches skin with vitamin C
Cons
- Not suitable for acne and rosacea-prone skin
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has more than 14,383 reviews claiming its efficacy.
7. Best Oil-Free Formula: Neutrogena Alcohol-FreeToner
From one of the world’s largest skincare companies comes the professional-grade Neutrogena Alcohol-Free Toner. Its alcohol-free formula prevents dryness, flaky skin and its purifiers enrich your skin with vitamin C. Being oil-free and hypoallergenic, this acne-prone skin toner works wonders! With just one swipe, it removes impurities, makeup residue, and oil that clogs pores, giving you a radiant glow and squeaky clean skin. With no less than 20000 reviews, this product has been loved by all for its ability to retain natural moisture even after cleansing. Watch this video to check out the honest review of the Neutrogena Alcohol-FreeToner.
Pros
- Pleasant rose scent
- Suitable for acne-prone skin
- Oil-free and hypoallergenic
Cons
- Skin needs to be washed with face wash before using, for best results
Pro Tip8. Best Organic Formula: Dickinson’s Enhanced Witch Hazel Hydrating Toner
Scientifically formulated with 98% distilled witch hazel, you already know that this toner means business! It is composed of hyaluronic acid that gently moisturizes your skin and aloe vera that guards it against the loss of natural oils. This hydrating toner also brings you the luxurious properties of Barbadensis leaves, which is an excellent source of vitamin E, that deep cleanses pores.
Pros
- 100% organic
- Vitamin E offers a deep cleansing experience
Cons
- May cause tingling on sensitive skin
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has received 1,384 reviews on Amazon and is a popular choice among shoppers.
9. Best For Maintaining pH Levels: Dear Klairs Supple Preparation Facial Toner
The Dear Klairs Supple Preparation Facial Toner is one product that every woman must have in her makeup pouch, and here’s why! It delicately cleans pores and maintains the pH balance of the skin. Its fast-absorbing organic blend gives a boost of hydration to the skin and keeps it smooth the entire day. Unlike other toners, this one comes in a serum texture that is easy to apply. This toner is not tested on animals and is FSC certified. It also comes in eco-friendly packaging. Take a look at this video to know more about a reviewer’s experience of using Dear Klairs Supple Preparation Facial Toner.
Pros
- Maintains pH balance
- Organic blend moisturizes skin
- Serum-like texture
Cons
- May cause breakouts in acne-prone skin
10. Best For Reducing Hyperpigmentation: Murad Environmental Shield Essential-C Toner
Invented by Dr. Howard Murad, a practicing dermatologist in the USA, this toner is made by understanding the ‘the science of water.’ With its patented Environmental Shield Essential-C formula, it fights against all signs of skin damage, including pigmentation and dryness, and gives a subtle glow. It is composed of coneflower and licorice that enhances skin tone and smoothes out fine lines. This dermatologist-recommended paraben-free toner is ethically made, with no animal testing, and free from alcohol, sulfates, and phthalates.
Pros
- Brightens skin tone
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Phthalate-free
- Clinically-proven
Cons
- Has a strong smell
"This toner from Murad hydrates and brightens my skin and improve its texture. The scent isn't my favorite but it did not cause breakouts on my skin either - so, I am not complaining. It's a noteworthy addition to my skin care routine."
11. Best Antiseptic Properties: SKIN & CO Roma Truffle Therapy Essential Face Toner
The Skin & Co Roma Truffle Therapy Face Toner not only comes in a picture-perfect chic bottle, but its formulation is highly effective on all skin types. It contains antiseptic properties that exfoliate your skin by removing dead cells and dirt. For best results, following the toner with the serum and therapy cream is advised. Composed of calendula, this toner soothes and heals irritated skin, while glycerin increases your skin’s ability to reserve water. For sensitive skin, a patch test is recommended before using the product.
Pros
- Designed for all skin types
- Contains antiseptic properties
Cons
- Expensive
"This toner is gentle and does not cause skin irritation. It keeps my skin clean and hydrates it. I noticed it has improved my skin appearance after a week of regular use. I have love its refreshing scent."
Toners are water-based formulations that prep your skin for other products by tightening the pores and cleaning the dermis of residues. Apart from being alcohol-free there are some important features you should look for while choosing your alcohol-free toner. Check out the list of factors given below to choose the best ones for your skin.
How To Find The Best Alcohol-Free Toner
- Formulation
Lightweight, non-greasy formulations or fragrance-free, clinically-tested toners devoid of synthetic extracts are preferred as they are gentle on the skin. They are less likely to cause allergic reactions and will keep your skin safe especially, if you have super-sensitive skin. Also, always perform a patch test before applying it all over your face.
- Ingredients To Look For
Choose a toner with ingredients that have soothing properties. Allontin, hyaluronic acid, rose water, licorice, vitamin E oil, calendula, chamomile extracts, and aloe vera have moisturizing properties while being gentle on the skin. They are able to help curb breakouts and refresh the skin instantly. Plant-based ingredients are also good options for sensitive skin. For mature skin, opt for products recommended by board-certified dermatologists.
- Ingredients To Avoid
Steer clear of toners with parabens, phthalates, silicones, and sulfates. These will have drying effects and can irritate your skin. They strip your skin of natural moisture and cause excessive dryness.
- Skin Type
Choose a dry skin toner with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, which provides a much-needed boost of hydration. For an oily skin type choose a lightweight, non-comedogenic formula with green tea extracts that help in shrinking pores.
- Additional Benefits
- Maintains pH Balance
This is a critical function of a toner, as the cleansers you use prior to the toner do not have the right alkaline level. They disrupt the pH levels of your skin which leads to weakened skin barrier, clogged pores, and premature aging. A pH of 5.5 is optimal for your skin, this pH level keeps you looking radiant and also safe from harmful bacteria. For inflamed skin, look for ingredients like calendula, lavender extracts, and witch hazel that have soothing and anti-inflammatory benefits that are proven to deliver visible results.
- Controls Sebum Production
An oily skin toner helps to remove excess sebum while minimizing open pores to keep your skin clear and acne-free. Look for exfoliating toners with BHA and AHA for mild exfoliating properties. The presence of witch hazel, ceramides, and niacinamide helps to regulate oil production while keeping your skin from drying out.
The Bottom Line
Try using the best alcohol-free toners if you want to reap the maximum benefits out of your cleansing routine. Besides cleansing your skin, these toners will help tighten your pores while prepping your skin for other skin care products. Some toners also help combat the effects of sun damage and radical damage. The Simple Sensitive Skin Expert Soothing Facial Toner is ideal for all skin types, especially oily and acne-prone skin with enlarged pores, while the Thayers Natural Remedies Facial Toner Witch Hazel with Aloe Vera is perfect for normal skin types. The Dear Klairs Supple Preparation Facial Toner is an excellent choice for sensitive skin. The reviewed options mentioned in the curated list have hypoallergenic formula free of all harsh additives. They are gentle, effective, and a must-have in your skin care arsenal. In addition, these toners are great for dry and dull skin as they prevent your skin from drying out. Incorporating an alcohol-free toner in your skincare regimen will be your ultimate secret to flawless skin. Besides using an alcohol-free toner, you also need to correctly follow the other steps of your cleansing routine to get flawless skin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is alcohol-free toner better?
Yes, alcohol-free toners are way better than tones that contain alcohol. Unlike their counterparts, alcohol-free toners are gentle on the skin and do not damage it by stripping it off its natural oils. Most of them contain plant-based ingredients like aloe vera, which moisturizes your skin, keeping it soft and supple.
Which toner does not contain alcohol?
Now that women understand the harmful effects of alcohol in toners, there is a rise in the demand for alcohol-free toners. The 10 products listed above are the best alcohol-free options that you can get your hands on.
Do all toners have alcohol?
No, not all toners contain alcohol. Some toners contain milder chemicals like hyaluronic acid, while many others are entirely organic.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Medha Deb, the author, is a skin care enthusiast who likes to review beauty products. She has compiled this product list of the best alcohol-free toners for you. Sneha has carefully researched thousands of user reviews and feedback over several platforms to select the best products. These products are excellent in quality and help clean and tighten your pores so you can flaunt healthy skin every day.
Best Toners For Dry Skin You Should TryBest Face Toners For Clear And Hydrated SkinBest Drugstore Facial TonersBest Toners For Combination Skin
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