16 Best Expert-Recommended Drugstore Facial Toners Of 2024

Owning the best drugstore toner can help you regain the softness of your skin that was lost to your hectic schedule. Toners help tighten skin and balance pH levels. They also create a barrier against oil, dirt, dead cells, and makeup residue and help to close pores.

Shawnda Dorantes, a skin care expert says, “One of the key benefits of a toner is that it can help balance the pH levels of your skin, making it more acidic and better able to protect itself from bacteria and other harmful substances. This can help to reduce inflammation, prevent acne, and promote healthy, glowing skin. Once you use a toner, your skin will be much more hydrated than otherwise, and then you can apply a moisturiser to get the cherry on top. Here are the 16 highest-rated toners from drugstores to add to your skincare routine.

16 Best Drugstore Facial Toners

1. Best Ph Balanced Formula:Thayers Alcohol-free Facial Toner

4.6

Image: Thayers

BUY ON AMAZON | $10.99

Thayers Alcohol-free Facial Toner is a natural botanical skin toner. It uses natural ingredients like rosewater, undistilled witch hazel, and aloe vera. Rosewater cleanses the face, witch hazel tones it, and aloe vera moisturizes it. The witch hazel extract contains 195% more tannins than most facial toners. Tannins have been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects, which can help to reduce inflammation in the body and improve conditions such as arthritis, cardiovascular disease, and digestive disorders. They help in pH-balancing the skin and clear it as well. This toner has a mild rose fragrance. The rose water helps soothe skin, and its astringent properties keep the skin clean, tight, and less oily. Aloe vera is an emollient that moisturizes skin and keeps it hydrated and increases the absorption of nutrients into the skin. It also contains vitamins A, C, and E that prevent aging and make the skin glow. Further, the product has not been tested on animals and is clinically-verified to be safe for sensitive skin.

Ingredients

Purified Water, Certified Organic Witch Hazel Ext Blend (Hamamelis Virginiana Extract (Witch Hazel), Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice (Filet of Aloe Vera), Glycerin, Phenoxyethanol, Fragrance (Natural Witch Hazel), Citric Acid, Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Seed Extract.

Quick Tip

Use a cotton pad to apply toner to your face and neck, right after washing your face, before applying cosmetics.

2. Best Organic Product:S.W. Basics Toner

4.2

Image: S.w Basics

BUY ON AMAZON | $23.52

The S.W Basics Toner is a natural toner that doesn’t use sulfates, parabens, synthetic fragrance, phthalates, and other harsh chemicals. It contains natural ingredients that suit all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin. It contains witch hazel and apple cider vinegar to balance the pH level of skin without drying or increasing oil production. Apple cider vinegar helps even out the skin tone, soothes and reduces redness. The calming toner is alcohol-free and also contains organic essential oils like clary sage and sandalwood and water. The toner is certified organic and cruelty-free.

Ingredients

Organic, raw apple cider vinegar, organic witch hazel, organic essential oils (sandalwood and clary sage), and water.

Quick Tip

Use toner twice, once in the morning and once at night. Apply it in circular motions to cleanse your face better.

3. Best Anti-Aging Effect:Leven Rose Rose Water Facial Toner

4.5

Image: Leven Rose

BUY ON AMAZON | $13.97

Leven Rose’s facial toner uses rose water as the base. It uses distilled rose petal concentrate to leave the skin feeling fresh and moisturized. Rose water is a good source of antioxidants and essential fatty acids. It also contains vitamins A, B6, C, and D, which can help soothe inflammation and prevent breakouts. Rose water can also help moisturize cracked skin.

This rejuvenating toner helps tone the face, neck, decolletage, and eye areas. It also helps prevent dry skin, balances the skin’s pH levels, soothes acne-prone skin, and helps reduce dark marks. It is alcohol-free and non-oily and does not contain glycerin, artificial fragrance, and parabens. This vegan-friendly toner is suitable for men and women and works for all skin types, especially sensitive skin and dry skin. It comes in a dark amber bottle to extend the shelf life of the oils and rose water used as they are light-sensitive. Further, the product has not undergone any animal testing.

Note: Use a natural cleanser like argan oil, jojoba oil, or coconut oil to clean the face first. Rinse your face with water. Apply the mist or the drops on a cotton ball and apply it over your face. You can also apply this toner on your hair after you have washed and conditioned it.

Ingredients 

100% pure, organic, natural Moroccan Rose floral water (Rosa damascena).

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

With over 9,057 Amazon acclaimed reviews, this product is sure to find a place in everyone’s shopping bag.

4. Best For Sensitive Skin:La Roche-Posay Effaclar Clarifying Solution Acne Toner

4.5

Image: La Roche Posay

BUY ON AMAZON | $16.99

La Roche is one of the top skin care brands in Europe. The La Roche-Posay Effaclar Clarifying Solution Acne Toner is a gentle exfoliating facial toner that penetrates the skin to remove debris that clogs your pores. It makes the skin smooth, fresh, and even-toned. It contains salicylic acid and glycolic acid.

Glycolic acid helps penetrates the skin, unclogs pores, and smoothes out the skin texture. Salicylic acid helps clear acne spots, whiteheads, blackheads, and acne breakouts. This toner revives dull complexion and also removes dead cells. It is recommended to use the toner twice a day for best results. It has been tested and approved for use on sensitive skin. It is also allergy-tested and dermatologist-tested. The toner is oil-free, fragrance-free, and paraben-free.

• Active ingredients: 0.5% Salicylic Acid
• Inactive ingredients: Water, alcohol denat, propanediol, glycolic acid, sodium hydroxide, capryloyl glycine, phenoxyethanol, benzyl alcohol, PPG-26-buteth-26, PEG-40 hydrogenated castor oil, menthol, tremella fuciformis, polysaccharide, butylene glycol, ophiopogon japonicus root extract, scutellaria baicalensis root extract.

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

The product has received 4,186 positive Amazon reviews from its users, stating its numerous benefits.

5. Best For Acne-Prone Skin:Neutrogena Rapid Clear 2-in-1 Fight & Fade Acne Toner

4.5

Image: Neutrogena

BUY ON AMAZON | $9.97

The Neutrogena Rapid Clear 2-in-1 Fight & Fade Acne Toner helps reduce breakouts and acne marks. It is specifically made for acne-prone skin. It contains salicylic acid to reduce blemishes and spots while leaving the skin even-toned. This toner uses microclear technology, which has proven to deliver visible results by dissolving oil and reducing the size of pimples, swelling, and redness in just under 8 hours. It also contains ingredients that help exfoliate the skin.

Clean your skin before using the toner. Apply a thin layer of the toner on the affected skin one to three times a day. It can make your skin dry on excessive use, so start off with one application a day, gradually increasing it to two to three times a day. If you notice extreme dryness or skin peeling, use the toner only once a day. It is important to note that this toner uses alpha hydroxy acid, which may increase the skin’s sensitivity to the sun. Hence, use sunscreen and wear protective clothing like a hat or scarf before stepping out in the sun. Please consult a dermatologist before using other medications with this toner.

Ingredients 

• Active Ingredient: Salicylic Acid 2% (acne medication)
• Inactive Ingredients: Water, alcohol denat., butylene glycol, PPG-5-ceteth-20, C12-15 alkyl lactate, sodium citrate, fragrance, cocamidopropyl PG-dimonium chloride phosphate, PEG/PPG-20/6 dimethicone, cetyl lactate, benzalkonium chloride, sodium benzotriazolyl butylphenol sulfonate, disodium EDTA, sodium hydroxide, glycolic acid, yellow 6, red 40.

6. Best For All Skin Types:Neutrogena Pore Refining Toner

4.6

Image: Neutrogena

BUY ON AMAZON | $49.99

The Neutrogena Pore Refining Toner helps reduce the appearance of pores and softens skin texture. It makes the skin clear, smooth, and even-toned. This toner helps remove the dead surface skin and smoothing rough skin and uneven patches. It uses a dermatologist-tested formula made with witch hazel and alpha and beta hydroxy acids that prevents the pores from clogging up. It penetrates the skin to deep cleanse the pores without causing irritation or over-drying the skin. The toner is non-comedogenic, oil-free, dermatologist-recommended, and hypoallergenic, making it suitable for all skin types.

Ingredients

Water, alcohol denat., glycolic acid, hamamelis virginiana (witch hazel) water, sodium PCA, salicylic acid, sodium lactate, aloe barbadensis leaf juice, PEG-40 hydrogenated castor oil, alcohol, allantoin, fragrance, propylene glycol, eucalyptus globulus leaf extract, mentha piperita (peppermint) leaf extract.

7. Best Non-Drying Formula:L’Oreal Paris Skincare Hydrafresh Toner

4.4

Image: L’oreal Paris

BUY ON AMAZON | $15.75

The L’Oreal Paris Skincare Hydrafresh Toner is a 99% alcohol-free toner that uses a non-drying formula. It is gentle and leaves the skin soft and refreshed. It uses beta hydroxy acid to clean the skin and remove dull and worn skin to reveal a fresh layer. BHA works by breaking down the bonds between dead skin cells, allowing them to be easily removed from the surface of the skin. This helps to promote cell turnover and reveal smoother, brighter, and more even-toned skin. The pro-vitamin B5 protects the skin from moisture loss. This toner makes the skin bright and supple and is tested by dermatologists. Apply the toner with a cotton ball in the morning and evening for softer skin.

Ingredients

7810731 Aqua/Water, Glycerin, Alcohol Dena., Butylene Glycol, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Citrate, Dipotassium Phosphate, Panthenol, Ppg-26-Buteth-26, Potassium Phosphate, Citric Acid, Benzophenone-4, Disodium Edta, Peg-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Capryloyl Salicylic Acid, Rosa Centifolia Water/Rosa Centifolia Flower Water, Diazolidinyl Urea, Ci 14700/Red 4, Ci 17200/Red 33, Parfum/Fragrance, Limonene, Linalool, Benzyl Benzoate, Alpha-Isomethyl Ionone, Hydroxycitronellal, Butylphenyl Methylpropional FIL#829422/1

8. Best Pore Minimizer:Instanatural Vitamin C Facial Toner

4.4

Image: Insta Natural

Now 15% Off

BUY ON AMAZON | $16.95

The Instanatural Vitamin C Facial Toner helps cleanse, clear, and prep the skin. It soothes the skin, penetrates the pores, and promotes skin elasticity. The toner uses advanced ingredients that make the skin receptive to serums, oils, and moisturizers. It combats oily skin and removes excess oil. The toner contains vitamin E and glycolic acid that penetrate the skin and pores to unclog the pores. It also contains vitamin C, which helps in the production of collagen. This allergy-tested product shows visible results by making the skin tighter and helps prevent aging. The toner restores the skin’s pH level and suits all skin types, including dry and sensitive skin.

Cleanse the skin before you apply the toner. Gently spray the mist on your face, keeping the bottle at least 10-12 inches away from your face. Apply a moisturizer or serum after spraying for better absorption.

Ingredients

Aqua, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate**, Sorbitan Oleate Decylglucoside Crosspolymer*, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Extract, Dimethyl Sulfone*, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Glycerin*, Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract, Punica Granatum Seed Extract, Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Limnanthes Alba (Meadowfoam) Seed Oil, Hesperidin, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Centella Asiatica Extract, Hibiscus Rosa-Sinensis Flower Extract, Pelargonium Graveolens Flower Oil, Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Seed Extract, Glycolic Acid**, Bromelain*, Papain*, Myrciaria Dubia Fruit Extract, Morinda Citrifolia Leaf Extract, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Fruit Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Daucus Carota Sativa (Carrot) Seed Oil, Beta-Glucan*, Potassium Hydroxide**, Pentylene Glycol*, Caprylyl Glycol**, Ethylhexylglycerin**, Citral*, Citronellol*, Geraniol*, Linalool*. *Naturally Derived, **Safe Synthetics.

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

It has received over 6,054 rave reviews on Amazon, proving it is a mass favorite.

9. Best For Soothing Redness:Heritage Store Rosewater & Glycerin Face Toner

4.6

Image: Heritage Store

BUY ON AMAZON | $9.88

The Heritage Store Rosewater & Glycerin Face Toner makes the skin vibrant and moisturized. It uses a simple formula containing vegetable glycerin, hydroessential rose, and vor-mag water. The rose refreshes skin and minimizes redness, giving you a more radiant complexion. Glycerin is a strong humectant that locks in moisture, giving the skin a dewy glow. The toner also protects skin against harsh weather conditions. It doesn’t use dyes or alcohol and is vegan-friendly with no animal testing done. It has been certified by periodic laboratory tests to be free of pesticide residue.

10. Best Non-Comedogenic Formula:Simple ‘Kind To Skin’ Soothing Facial Toner

4.4

Image: Simple

BUY ON AMAZON | $15.53

The Simple ‘Kind To Skin’ Soothing Facial Toner is light and 100% alcohol-free. It is pH-balanced, so it refreshes the skin without leaving it dry. The dermatologically- tested toner uses chamomile, witch hazel, pro-vitamin B5, and allantoin. Chamomile helps soften and soothe the skin. Witch hazel tones the skin and tightens pores. Pro-vitamin B5 helps restore, smooth, and soften the skin. Allantoin also helps soften the skin and keeps it tight and toned. It also uses triple purified water, which is the purest water, to hydrate the skin.

It contains no artificial perfume, dyes, or harsh chemicals that can harm the skin. It smoothes the skin by reducing the size of the pores. It also locks in the skin’s natural moisture while making it more absorbent to moisturizers. The toner removes any residue or impurities on the skin and pores. It is suitable for sensitive skin as the ingredients used are gentle. All the ingredients are run through multi-purification processes to make sure the skin is not irritated. The triple-purified water is enhanced with healthy multivitamins. The toner is non-comedogenic and hypoallergenic, however, a patch test is recommended.

11. Best Non-Irritating Option:Dickinson’s Original Witch Hazel Pore Perfecting Toner

4.6

Image: Dickinson’s Original Witch Hazel Pore Perfecting Toner

Now 38% Off

BUY ON AMAZON | $4.94

The Dickinson’s Original Witch Hazel Pore Perfecting Toner purifies the skin in just one step. It is made from 100% natural and distilled witch hazel. It gets rid of excess oil and balances oil production in the skin. It also gently soothes and refreshes the skin without leaving it dry. It is perfect for sensitive skin and expectant mothers.

The dermatologist-tested formula is 100% natural and made using sustainably harvested organic plants. It doesn’t contain parabens, dyes, sulfates, or gluten. The toner is also fragrance-free and non-irritating. Cleanse your skin before using the toner. Apply the toner on a cotton ball or pad and gently massage it on your face and neck. For best results, use it once in the day and once at night.

Ingredients

All Natural Witch Hazel, Containing Natural Grain Alcohol 14%, and Witch Hazel Extract.

12. Best Moisturizing Formula:Cosmedica Skincare Hydrate And Tone Facial Toner

4.4

Now 53% Off

BUY ON AMAZON | $9.99

The Cosmedica Skincare Hydrate And Tone Facial Toner contains rosewater and witch hazel, which have anti-aging properties. These two ingredients help tighten and brighten the skin while minimizing large pores. It also removes dirt, excess oil, and makeup from the skin and prepares the skin for additional skin care products. The refreshing pore-minimizing formula leaves your skin dewy and prepped. This toner is suitable for all skin types, vegan-friendly, and paraben-free. Further, the product is not subjected to any animal tests.

13. Best Nourishing Formula:TruSkin Daily Super Toner

4.2

Image: Truskin Naturals

BUY ON AMAZON | $15.99

The TruSkin Daily Super Toner is a natural anti-aging toner spray that nourishes, balances, tones, and refreshes the skin. It contains witch hazel, amino acids, MSM, vitamin C, glycolic acid, aloe vera, and active plant extracts. Aloe vera and witch hazel tone and refresh the skin. The deep ocean organic mineral complexes nourish the skin, while glycolic acid and vitamin C make the skin smooth, supple, and soft. MSM pushes the active ingredients deep into the skin tissues and prepares the skin for serums and moisturizers.

This radiance-boosting toner helps protect the skin from damage, reduces enlarged pores and fine lines, and evens out skin tone. It refreshes and hydrates dry skin, clears acne, and prevents breakouts. It minimizes acne scars and spots and makes the skin radiant. Further, it is not subjected to any animal tests. The toner is gentle and suitable for all skin types since it uses gentle ingredients. Make sure you close your eyes while using this toner.

Ingredients

Vitamin C, witch hazel leaf extract, aloe vera, glycolic acid, active plant extracts.

14. Best Skin Refreshing Action:Bioré Witch Hazel Pore Clarifying Toner

4.4

Image: Biore

Now 19% Off

BUY ON AMAZON | $6.87

The Bioré Witch Hazel Pore Clarifying Toner acts as a skin clarifying treatment. It contains witch hazel that has astringent properties. It clears acne, firms and tightens skin and the pores, and soothes inflammation. The toner contains 2% salicylic acid, which helps treat existing acne. It gets rid of excess oil from the skin and clears dead skin cells, dirt, and residue from clogged pores. It deeply penetrates the skin and prevents new acne blemishes from developing. The clarifying toner uses an oil-free formula to leave the skin feeling refreshed without an oily residue and improves skin clarity.

This toner is made specifically for oily and blemish-prone skin and is dermatologist-tested. For best results, use the toner 2-3 times a week or twice every day. Cleanse the skin before using this toner. Apply it to the affected skin, leaving a thin layer on the skin. The toner may leave the skin feeling dry, so start off using the toner once a day and then gradually move to twice a day. If you see any redness, irritation, or extreme dryness, consult your dermatologist.

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

This product has received 14,572 reviews from customers on Amazon, indicating its popularity and reliability.

15. Best For Skin Brightening:Andalou Naturals Clementine + C Illuminating Toner

4.5

Image: Andalou

Now 15% Off

BUY ON AMAZON | $12.74

The Andalou Naturals Clementine + C Illuminating Toner uses a natural antioxidant-rich formula with fruit stem cell complex, vitamin C, and aloe vera polysaccharides. These ingredients tone and hydrate the skin. They also improve circulation and help in balancing the pH level of the skin. The fruit stem cell complex, vitamin C, and superfruit antioxidants work as strong cell energizers, targeting hyperpigmentation and UV damage.

Vitamin C protects the skin from sun damage. It also makes the skin brighter and even. Aloe vera hydrates the skin, balances the pH, and stimulates blood circulation to make your skin glow. This toner is suitable for normal and combination skin types. It is organic, non-GMO, gluten-free, and cruelty-free. Shake the toner before spraying it on the face and neck.

Ingredients 

Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice*, Purified Water (Aqua), Vegetable Glycerin, Panthenol, Sodium PCA, Tocopherol, Sorbitan Oleate Decylglucoside, Fruit Stem Cells (Malus Domestica, Solar Vitis) and BioActive Berry Complex*, Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate (Vitamin C), Citrus Clementina (Clementine) Fruit Extract*, Cucumis Melo (Melon) Fruit Extract*, Allantoin, Aspalathus Linearis (Rooibos) Extract*†, Hibiscus Sabdariffa Flower Extract*†, Camellia Sinensis (White Tea) Leaf Extract*†, Phenethyl Alcohol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil*, Cymbopogon Martini (Palmarosa) Leaf Oil* *Certified Organic Ingredient **Component of Essential Oil †Fair Trade Ingredient.

16. Best For Oily Skin Type:Acne Free Witch Hazel Mattifying Toner

4.4

Image: Acne Free

BUY ON AMAZON | $10.49

The Acne Free Witch Hazel Mattifying Toner contains witch hazel, aloe vera, and glycolic acid. Witch hazel refreshes the skin, balances the pH, and removes excess oil from the pores. Glycolic acid and aloe vera deeply penetrate the skin to leave the tissues moisturized and hydrated. These ingredients leave the skin feeling refreshed, clean, and glowing. This toner refines the appearance of pores and controls facial shine. It is helpful for men and women, both teens and adults, who have oily skin.

Use this toner every morning and evening. Clean your face before using the toner. You can also apply it to your chest and back. If you are going out, please use sunscreen or wear a scarf. The toner is dermatologist-recommended for treating acne and care for your skin. Further, the product is not tested on animals.

Ingredients

Witch Hazel Mattifying Toner: Aqua / Water, Alcohol Denat, Hamamelis Virginiana Water / Witch Hazel Water, Hydrogenated Starch Hydrolysate, Glycerin, Polysorbate 20, Glycolic Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Citric Acid, Parfum / Fragrance, Bisabolol, Niacinamide, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice Powder, Panthenol, Propylene, Glycol, Disodium EDTA, Copper PCA, Lactic Acid, Chamomilla Recutita Flower Extract / Matricaria, Flower Extract, Pantolactone.

Infographic: Common Mistakes To Avoid When Using A Drugstore Facial Toner

Toners work wonders in removing impurities, regulating oil production, and smoothing out skin texture. However, to make the most of these products and achieve the best results, using them the right way is important. The infographic below lists some common mistakes that you must avoid when using a drugstore facial toner. Scroll down!

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the three types of toners?

The three types of toners include fresheners, skin tonics or acid toners, and astringents. While fresheners are the mildest form of toners, astringents are the strongest.

Do dermatologists recommend toner?

Yes, many toners are validated by leading dermatologists and they recommend toner for cleansing and improving your overall skin health. Toners also balance the pH level of your skin and help control excess oil.

Can I use micellar water as a toner?

Yes, you can use micellar water as a toner, cleanser, and makeup remover. However, it is recommended to use dermatologist-tested toners only in your daily skin care routine.

Should I use toner every day?

Yes. Gentle toners must be an essential part of your daily skin care routine. Also, beauty enthusiasts suggest applying a toner twice daily.

Can I use toner without moisturizer?

Yes. Although the skin care thumb rule says to use a toner with a moisturizer, some toners offer enough hydration to skip using an added moisturizer. However, pair a moisturizer with an exfoliating toner since it can be drying to the skin.

Why Trust StyleCraze?

The author, Krati Darak, is a certified skin care coach who loves to keep up with emerging trends and stay updated on the new product entries on the market. She keeps an eye out for high-quality products from drugstore brands. For this article, she conducted thorough research and carefully reviewed some of the best drugstore facial toners. The products she recommends on this list are highly rated and can help you achieve soft and tight skin with a balanced pH level.

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Reviewer Author Editor Fact Checker

Shawnda DorantesMSN, APRN, FNP-C

   

Shawnda Dorantes, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, is the founder and Master Injector at Beauty Lounge Medical Spa. She has 15 years of experience in the beauty industry and 13 years as a registered nurse.   Dorantes began her career as a Beauty Advisor for Estee Lauder.

Read full bio of Shawnda Dorantes

Krati DarakAssociate Commerce Editor

 

Krati is an associate commerce editor, a certified skin care coach, and a beauty enthusiast. She has a master’s degree in advertising and publishing relations from DAVV University and three years of experience in writing and editing for different niches.

Read full bio of Krati Darak

Medha DebCommerce Editor

Medha 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.

Read full bio of Medha Deb

Shiboli ChakrabortiCommerce Editor

Shiboli 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