If you’re looking for a toner that is gentle on the skin, you’ve come to the right place. Here is our guide to the absolute best gentle toners on the market.
Our Recommendations
1. Supple Preparation Facial Toner
Klairs Toner for Hydrating and Soothing
Klairs Supple Preparation Facial Toner
This gentle toner is packed with botanical extracts that work to nourish, moisturize, soothe, and balance the skin’s pH level.
This vegan and cruelty-free toner is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a gentle moisturizing toner to add to their routine. It contains beta glucan and centella asiatica extract, which both soothe irritation and redness, as well as hyaluronic acid, which attracts and locks in hydration.
Pros
- Gentle
- Hydrating
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Artificial fragrance-free
Cons
- Contains fragrant essential oils, which may irritate those with scent sensitivities
In addition to the ingredients mentioned above, this daily toner contains licorice root, which improves the appearance of uneven skin tone.
Water, Butylene Glycol, Dimethyl Sulfone, Betaine, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Natto Gum, Sodium Hyaluronate, Disodium EDTA, Centella Asiatica Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Polyquaternium-51, Chlorphenesin, Tocopheryl Acetate, Carbomer, Panthenol, Arginine, Luffa Cylindrica Fruit/Leaf/Stem Extract, Beta-Glucan, Althaea Rosea Flower Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Lysine HCL, Proline, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Acetyl Methionine, Theanine, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil, Pelargonium Graveolens Flower Oil, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Oil, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil, Cananga Odorata Flower Oil, Copper Tripeptide-1
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Centella asiatica in cosmetology"
Accessed Jan. 24, 2022. -
National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Hyaluronic Acid"
Accessed Jan. 24, 2022.
2. Hydrating Toner
CeraVe Toner for Hydration and Skin Barrier Support
CeraVe Hydrating Toner
This hydrating toner from drugstore skincare brand CeraVe is packed with ingredients that quench the skin and support its protective barrier.
This non-drying, lightweight toner is an excellent gentle product for those looking for extra hydration and skin barrier support. It contains three essential ceramides, which are crucial for strengthening and maintaining the skin barrier, as well as hyaluronic acid, which attracts and locks in moisture. This affordable toner also contains calming niacinamide.
Pros
- Non-comedogenic
- Fragrance-free
- Oil-free
- Alcohol-free
- Dermatologist developed
Cons
- None
This gentle toner is free of common skin irritants, and is formulated to be safe for sensitive skin. It is also pH balanced, which is ideal for optimal skin health.
Aqua/Water, Propanediol, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Ppg-6-Decyltetradeceth-30, Peg-240/Hdi Copolymer Bis-Decyltetradeceth-20 Ether, Peg/Ppg/Polybutylene Glycol-8/5/3 Glycerin, Ceramide Np, Ceramide Ap, Potassium Laurate, Ceramide Eop, Carbomer, Niacinamide, Sodium Hydroxide, Sodium Citrate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Cholesterol, Phenoxyethanol, Chlorphenesin, Tocopherol, Citric Acid, Phytosphingosine, Xanthan Gum, Ethylhexylglycerin
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "The structure, function, and importance of ceramides in skin and their use as therapeutic agents in skin-care products"
Accessed Jan. 25, 2022. -
National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Hyaluronic acid: A key molecule in skin aging"
Accessed Jan. 25, 2022. -
National Center for Biotechnology Information. "How Much Do We Really Know About Our Favorite Cosmeceutical Ingredients?"
Accessed Jan. 25, 2022.
3. PHA Toner
The Inkey List Toner for Exfoliating and Smoothing Texture
The Inkey List PHA Toner
This gentle toner uses the power of polyhydroxy acid to gently exfoliate dead skin cells to improve skin texture and tone while locking in moisture.
PHA molecules are large compared to other chemical exfoliants, so this exfoliating toner is excellent for those looking for a gentle exfoliation. PHA is also a humectant, so the 3% concentration helps lock in moisture.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Gentle
- Fragrance-free
- Cruelty-free
- Non-toxic
- Affordable
Cons
- Some reviewers complain about the bottle leaking during shipment
In addition to the PHA, this lightweight toner contains a 3% concentration of niacinamide, which minimizes blemishes and the appearance of large pores, controls excess oil, calms redness, and soothes the skin. Aloe leaf juice further works to calm the skin.
Water (Aqua / Eau), Propanediol, Gluconolactone, Niacinamide, Pentylene Glycol, Glycerin, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Ppg-26-Buteth-26, Peg-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Citric Acid, Sodium Hydroxide
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "The use of polyhydroxy acids (PHAs) in photoaged skin"
Accessed Jan. 25, 2022. -
National Center for Biotechnology Information. "How Much Do We Really Know About Our Favorite Cosmeceutical Ingredients?"
Accessed Jan. 25, 2022.
4. Sake High Moisture Skin Lotion Toner
Kiku-Masamune Toner for Hydrating and Soothing
Kiku-Masamune Sake High Moisture Skin Lotion Toner
This hydrating toner from Japanese skincare brand Kiku-Masamune helps hydrate, soothe, and smooth the skin using the power of sake.
This is an excellent gentle toner for those looking to hydrate and soothe the skin. The amino acids found in the sake help soften and hydrate the skin, while ceramides support the skin’s barrier to prevent moisture loss.
Pros
- Gentle
- Hydrating
- Affordable
Cons
- Contains fragrance
In addition to the ingredients mentioned above, this affordable toner contains brightening arbutin, hydrating glycerin, and fine line and wrinkle softening arginine.
Water, glycerin, butylene glycol, rice ferment filtrate (sake), glutamate, arginine, leucine, ceramide 3, ceramide 6 II, placenta extract, arbutin, Glycyrrhizic acid, soy protein, maltitol, methyl gluceth-10, peg-60 hydrogenated castor oil, hydroxyethyl cellulose, alkyl styrene/acrylic acid copolymer, citric acid, sodium citrate, phenoxyethanol, methylparaben, fragrance
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Importance of amino acid composition to improve skin collagen protein synthesis rates in UV-irradiated mice"
Accessed Jan. 24, 2022. -
National Center for Biotechnology Information. "The structure, function, and importance of ceramides in skin and their use as therapeutic agents in skin-care products"
Accessed Jan. 24, 2022.
5. SoonJung pH 5.5 Relief Toner
Etude House Toner for Soothing and hydrating
Etude House SoonJung pH 5.5 Relief Toner
This gentle toner uses 97% naturally derived ingredients, which work to hydrate, soothe, and balance the skin while repairing skin damage.
This refreshing and lightweight toner is a great daily go-to for those looking for a gentle formula that soothes and hydrates. It features anti-inflammatory panthenol, which hydrates, as well as madecassoside (derived from centella asiatica), which repairs skin damage. It also contains nourishing and anti-inflammatory camellia sinensis leaf extract.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Hydrating
- Gentle
- Fragrance-free
- Paraben-free
Cons
- May not be hydrating enough for very dry skin
This gentle toner is suitable for sensitive skin, and free of many common irritants, including fragrance, artificial colors, and parabens.
WATER, PROPANEDIOL, GLYCERIN, BETAINE, PANTHENOL, 1,2-HEXANEDIOL, POLYGLYCERIN-3, ETHYLHEXYLGLYCERIN, DISODIUM EDTA, CARBOMER, MADECASSOSIDE, BUTYLENE GLYCOL, SCUTELLARIA BAICALENSIS ROOT EXTRACT, TOCOPHEROL, CAMELLIA SINENSIS LEAF EXTRACT
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Centella asiatica in cosmetology"
Accessed Jan. 10, 2022. -
National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Skin moisturizing effects of panthenol-based formulations"
Accessed Jan. 10, 2022.
6. Ultra Repair Wild Oat Hydrating Toner
First Aid Beauty Toner for Soothing and hydrating
First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Wild Oat Hydrating Toner
This soothing toner uses colloidal oatmeal, wild oats, honey, and other ingredients to hydrate and relieve irritated skin for a softer and calmer complexion.
Two of the star ingredients in this hydrating toner are colloidal oatmeal and wild oats, which soothe and protect the skin. It also features honey, a natural humectant that helps moisturize and restore the skin. The formula is particularly well-suited for dry and distressed skin.
Pros
- Hydrating
- Fragrance-free
- Non-comedogenic
- Alcohol-free
- Cruelty-free
- Dermatologist tested
Cons
- Some reviewers complain that it feels sticky on the skin
In addition to the ingredients mentioned above, this toner contains anti-inflammatory propolis extract, a honey derivative that nourishes the skin. Hyaluronic acid helps attract and lock in moisture, and can smooth the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Water/Aqua/Eau, Glycerin, Glycereth-26, Squalane, Sorbitan Oleate, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexyl Salicylate, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Colloidal Oatmeal, Mel (Honey, Miel), Saccharomyces/Honey Ferment Filtrate, Chrysanthemum Parthenium (Feverfew) Extract, So-dium Hydroxide, Potassium Sorbate, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract, Sodium Benzoate, Citric Acid, Beta-Glucan, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Ex-tract, Propolis Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Xanthan Gum, Ethylhexylglycerin, Tetrasodium EDTA, Chlorphenesin, Benzoic Acid, Sorbic Acid
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Bee Products in Dermatology and Skin Care"
Accessed Jan. 10, 2022. -
National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Anti-inflammatory activities of colloidal oatmeal (Avena sativa) contribute to the effectiveness of oats in treatment of itch associated with dry, irritated skin"
Accessed Jan. 10, 2022. -
National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Hyaluronic acid: A key molecule in skin aging"
Accessed Jan. 10, 2022.
7. Full Fit Propolis Synergy Toner
COSRX Toner for Soothing, hydrating, and plumping
COSRX Full Fit Propolis Synergy Toner
This gentle toner is packed with black bee propolis, honey, and other ingredients that heal, soothe, hydrate, and protect the skin for a more radiant complexion.
This soothing toner features two ingredients made by bees: propolis extract and honey extract. Nourishing and healing propolis extract is rich in vitamins, and has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Honey extract moisturizes the skin to protect the skin’s barrier function. These ingredients (along with others in the formula) help to improve skin texture, plump and support elasticity, and boost radiance.
Pros
- Hydrating
- Cruelty-free
- Fragrance-free
- Alcohol-free
- Paraben-free
- Dermatologist tested
- Hypoallergenic
Cons
- Some reviewers complain that it feels sticky on the skin
The heavy hitters in this toner are the propolis and honey, but the formula also contains additional hydrating ingredients, including sodium hyaluronate and cassia obtusifolia seed extract.
Propolis Extract, Honey Extract, Butylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Glycerin, Betaine, Cassia Obtusifolia Seed Extract, Panthenol, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, Polyglyceryl-10 Myristate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Bee Products in Dermatology and Skin Care"
Accessed Jan. 10, 2022.
8. Hydralight Healthy Skin Refreshing Toner
Paula's Choice Toner for Refreshing and Balancing
Paula’s Choice Hydralight Healthy Skin Refreshing Toner
This is one of the best Paula’s Choice toners for normal to oily skin, as it is super lightweight but still effectively balances the skin’s hydration levels. It also contains ingredients that provide antioxidant protection.
This gentle toner is great for normal to oily skin, as it helps to balance the skin’s hydration levels without leaving a greasy finish. Additionally, it contains anti-irritants to calm the skin and soothe any redness.
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Lightweight
- Gentle
Cons
- May not be suitable for sensitive skin
This toner contains willow herb extract, which helps soothe redness. It also contains green tea and grape seed extracts, which both have antioxidant properties and can protect the skin against environmental aggressors.
Water (Aqua), Methyl Gluceth-20, Polysorbate 20, Camellia Oleifera (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Epilobium Angustifolium (Willowherb) Extract, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Glycerin, Sodium PCA, Allantoin, Butylene Glycol, Caprylyl Glycol, Hexylene Glycol, Bisabolol, Panthenol, PEG-90M, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Citrate, Citric Acid, Potassium Phosphate, Phenoxyethanol.
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Protective Mechanisms of Green Tea Polyphenols in Skin"
Accessed Aug. 6, 2021. -
National Center for Biotechnology Information. "The Topical Effect of Grape Seed Extract 2% Cream on Surgery Wound Healing"
Accessed Aug. 6, 2021.
9. Skin Recovery Enriched Calming Toner
Paula's Choice Toner for Hydrating and Soothing
Paula’s Choice Skin Recovery Enriched Calming Toner
This milky toner helps to soothe and hydrate dry skin while also protecting it from environmental aggressors.
This toner is filled with antioxidants, essential lipids, and other ingredients that are perfect for hydrating, soothing, and protecting dry skin. It is super gentle, and was even formulated to be suitable for eczema-prone skin.
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Gentle
- Hydrating
Cons
- May not be suitable for acne-prone skin
Some of the hydrating, soothing, and protecting ingredients in this toner include evening primrose oil, borage oil, Vitamin E, allantoin, and niacinamide.
Water (Aqua), Cyclopentasiloxane (hydration), Butylene Glycol (hydration), Glycereth-26 (hydration/texture-enhancing), Dimethiconol (hydration), Oenothera Biennis Oil (evening primrose oil/non-fragrant oil/antioxidant), Borago Officinalis Seed Oil (borage oil/non-fragrant oil/antioxidant), Sodium Hyaluronate (hydration/skin replenishing), Tocopheryl Acetate (vitamin E/antioxidants), Tocopherol (vitamin E/antioxidants), Ascorbyl Palmitate (vitamin C/antioxidant), Panthenol (skin replenishing), Allantoin (skin-soothing), Glycerin (hydration/skin replenishing), Hydrogenated Lecithin (skin-restoring), Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (emollient), Niacinamide (vitamin B3/skin-restoring), Superoxide Dismutase (antioxidant), PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil (emollient), Linoleamidopropyl PG-Dimonium Chloride Phosphate (stabilizer), Laureth-4 (texture-enhancing), Laureth-23 (texture-enhancing), Disodium EDTA (stabilizer), Sodium Benzoate (preservative), Chlorphenesin (preservative), Phenoxyethanol (preservative), Benzoic Acid (preservative), Sorbic Acid (preservative)
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Anti-Inflammatory and Skin Barrier Repair Effects of Topical Application of Some Plant Oils"
Accessed Aug. 5, 2021. -
National Center for Biotechnology Information. "How Much Do We Really Know About Our Favorite Cosmeceutical Ingredients?"
Accessed Aug. 5, 2021.
FAQs
What is the best gentle toner for oily skin?
There are a few excellent gentle toners on this list that are great for oily skin. If you’re looking for a toner that will gently exfoliate and smooth texture, check out The Inkey List PHA Toner. If you’re looking for a hydrating and soothing toner, try the Klairs Supple Preparation Facial Toner, the Etude House SoonJung pH 5.5 Relief Toner, or the Paula’s Choice Hydralight Healthy Skin Refreshing Toner.
What is the best gentle exfoliating toner?
The Inkey List PHA Toner is a great option for those looking for a toner with mild exfoliation power. This toner uses the power of polyhydroxy acid (PHA), which super gently exfoliates the skin. PHA also works as a humectant, so this toner is also great for locking moisture into the skin.
What is the best gentle drugstore toner?
One of the best gentle drugstore toners is the super affordable CeraVe Hydrating Toner. This drugstore toner works to support the skin’s barrier while hydrating. Another great option for those looking for an exfoliating toner is The Inkey List PHA Toner. While it’s not available at drugstores, this toner is sold at a drugstore-level price.
The Bottom Line
There are a variety of excellent toners available on the market that are effective yet super gentle on the skin. If you’re thinking of adding a toner to your skincare routine, consider using one of our recommended products.