There are a variety of great toners that you can find at your local drugstore. Below, we’ve compiled a list of the best drugstore toners.

Our Recommendations

1. Hydrating Toner

CeraVe 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.

Skin types: Normal, Dry, Combination and Sensitive
Best for: Hydration and Skin Barrier Support
Tested on animals: Yes
How to use: After cleansing, soak a cotton pad with the toner, and then sweep it across your face, neck, and chest. Follow up with a serum (if using) and moisturizer. This toner can be used twice daily.
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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

  1. 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.
  2. National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Hyaluronic acid: A key molecule in skin aging"

    Accessed Jan. 25, 2022.
  3. National Center for Biotechnology Information. "How Much Do We Really Know About Our Favorite Cosmeceutical Ingredients?"

    Accessed Jan. 25, 2022.

2. Glow Tonic

Pixi Glow Tonic

Pixi Toner for Brightening and Gentle Exfoliation

Pixi Glow Tonic

This award-winning facial toner uses the power of glycolic acid, aloe vera, and other potent ingredients to exfoliate and refresh the skin for a brighter and smoother complexion.

Skin types: All Skin Types
Best for: Brightening and Gentle Exfoliation
Tested on animals: No
How to use: After cleansing, soak a cotton pad with the toner, and then sweep it across your face, neck, and chest. Follow up with a serum (if using) and moisturizer.
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This gentle exfoliating toner contains ingredients that accelerate cell renewal for a brighter complexion. The star ingredient is the chemical exfoliant glycolic acid, of which there is a 5% concentration. This alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) works on the surface of the skin to promote a more even skin tone and smoother texture. It is an effective ingredient for smoothing fine lines and wrinkles and fading dark spots and hyperpigmentation.

Pros

  • Cruelty-free
  • Paraben-free
  • Alcohol-free

Cons

  • May not be suitable for more sensitive skin
  • Contains fragrance

In addition to the glycolic acid, this toner features ginseng, which improves circulation to the skin. It also contains soothing and hydrating aloe vera, as well as fructose and sucrose, which brighten.

Aqua/Water/Eau, Glycolic Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel)Water, Aesculus Hippocastanum (Horse Chestnut) Seed Extract, Hexylene Glycol, Fructose, Glucose, Sucrose, Urea, Dextrin, Alanine, Glutamic Acid, Aspartic Acid,Hexyl Nicotinate, Panax Ginseng Root Extract, Ethylhexylglycerin, Disodium EDTA, Biotin, Panthenol, PPG-26-Buteth-26, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil,Phenoxyethanol, Parfum/Fragrance, Caramel, Benzyl Benzoate, Citral, Citronellol, Coumarin, Geraniol, Hexyl Cinnamal, Hydroxycitronellal, Limonene, Linalool, CI 14700 (Red 4)

  1. National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Pharmacological attribute of Aloe vera: Revalidation through experimental and clinical studies"

    Accessed Jan. 10, 2022.
  2. National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Dual Effects of Alpha-Hydroxy Acids on the Skin"

    Accessed Jan. 10, 2022.

3. Full Fit Propolis Synergy Toner

COSRX 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.

Skin types: Normal, Dry, Combination and Sensitive
Best for: Soothing, hydrating, and plumping
Tested on animals: No
How to use: After cleansing, soak a cotton pad with the toner, and then sweep it across your face, neck, and chest. Follow up with a serum (if using) and moisturizer.
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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

  1. National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Bee Products in Dermatology and Skin Care"

    Accessed Jan. 10, 2022.

4. Hydralight Healthy Skin Refreshing Toner

Paula’s Choice 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.

Skin types: Normal, Oily and Combination
Best for: Refreshing and Balancing
Tested on animals: No
How to use: After cleansing, soak a cotton pad with the toner and swipe all over the face. Follow up with the rest of your skincare routine.
See on Paula's Choice

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.

  1. National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Protective Mechanisms of Green Tea Polyphenols in Skin"

    Accessed Aug. 6, 2021.
  2. National Center for Biotechnology Information. "The Topical Effect of Grape Seed Extract 2% Cream on Surgery Wound Healing"

    Accessed Aug. 6, 2021.

5. Resist Advanced Replenishing Toner

Paula’s Choice Resist Advanced Replenishing Toner

Paula's Choice Toner for Hydrating and Fighting Signs of Aging

Paula’s Choice Resist Advanced Replenishing Toner

This soothing toner is packed with ingredients that help fight the signs of aging while also hydrating and revitalizing the skin.

Skin types: Normal and Dry
Best for: Hydrating and Fighting Signs of Aging
Tested on animals: No
How to use: After cleansing, soak a cotton pad with the toner and swipe all over the face. Follow up with the rest of your skincare routine.
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If you want to add extra anti-aging benefits to your skincare routine, this top-rated product is one of the best Paula’s Choice toners for you. It is packed with antioxidants, omega fatty acids, and other skincare ingredients that strengthen the skin’s barrier, improve signs of sun damage, minimize fine lines and wrinkles, and increase firmness.

Pros

  • Fragrance-free
  • Hydrating
  • Anti-Aging

Cons

  • May not be suitable for sensitive skin

This toner contains hyaluronic acid, which draws moisture to the skin and helps minimize the signs of aging. It also contains evening primrose oil, which hydrates and strengthens the skin’s barrier, as well as antioxidants, which protect the skin against environmental aggressors.

Water (Aqua), Cyclopentasiloxane (hydration), Glycerin (hydration/skin replenishing), Glycerth-26 (emollient), Polysorbate 20 (emulsifier), Dimethiconol (texture-enhancing), Linoleic Acid (skin replenishing omega fatty acid), Oleic Acid (skin replenishing omega fatty acid), Linolenic Acid (skin replenishing omega fatty acid), Phospholipids (hydration/skin replenishing), Carnosine (skin-restoring), Epigallocatechin Gallate (antioxidant), Genistein (antioxidant), Sodium Hyaluronate (hydration/skin replenishing), Sphingolipids (hydration/skin replenishing), Ferulic Acid (antioxidant), Laurdimonium Hydroxypropyl Hydrolyzed Soy Protein (skin replenishing), Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract (licorice extract/skin-soothing), Acetyl Glucosamine (hydration/skin replenishing), Quercetin (antioxidant), Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Oil (non-fragrant plant oil), Beta Vulgaris (Beet) Root Extract, Cucurbita Pepo (Pumpkin) Seed Extract (antioxidants), Lecithin (skin-restoring), Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (emollient), Hydrolyzed Corn Starch (texture enhancer), Hydrogenated Lecithin (skin-restoring), Palmitic Acid (skin-replenishing omega fatty acid), Butylene Glycol (hydration), Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer (texture-enhancing), Xanthan Gum (texture-enhancing), Laureth-23 (cleansing), Laureth-4 (texture-enhancing), Aminomethyl Propanol (pH adjuster), Disodium EDTA (stabilizer), Sodium Benzoate (preservative), Ethylhexylglycerin (preservative), Phenoxyethanol (preservative), Chlorphenesin (preservative), Benzoic Acid (preservative), Sorbic Acid (preservative).

  1. National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Hyaluronic acid: A key molecule in skin aging"

    Accessed Aug. 6, 2021.

6. Effaclar Clarifying Solution Acne Toner

La Roche Posay Effaclar Clarifying Solution Acne Toner

La Roche-Posay Toner for Acne and Blackheads

La Roche-Posay Effaclar Clarifying Solution Acne Toner

This toner is one of the best La Roche-Posay products for acne, because it contains a low concentration of chemical exfoliators that gently unclog pores and clear away dead skin cells from the surface of the skin.

Skin types: Normal, Oily and Combination
Best for: Acne and Blackheads
Tested on animals: Yes
How to use: After cleansing, saturate a cotton ball with the product, and gently sweep across the face. Do not rinse after applying.
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This toner contains a 0.5% concentration of salicylic acid (a BHA), which is a low amount that will gently unclog pores to prevent breakouts. It also contains a 2% concentration of glycolic acid, an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that exfoliates the surface of the skin to reduce hyperpigmentation, smooth texture, and minimize fine lines and wrinkles.

Pros

  • Fragrance-free
  • Oil-free
  • Dermatologist tested

Cons

  • Contains menthol, which may irritate sensitive skin

If you deal with post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from previous breakouts, this toner may also help minimize the appearance of these spots, thanks to the glycolic acid.

0.5% Salicylic acid, 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 japonicu root extract, scutellaria baicalensis root extract.

  1. National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Over-the-counter Acne Treatments"

    Accessed Aug. 16, 2021.
  2. National Center for Biotechnology Information. "An antiaging skin care system containing alpha hydroxy acids and vitamins improves the biomechanical parameters of facial skin"

    Accessed Aug. 16, 2021.

7. Skin Recovery Enriched Calming Toner

Paula’s Choice 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.

Skin types: Normal and Dry
Best for: Hydrating and Soothing
Tested on animals: No
How to use: After cleansing, soak a cotton pad with the toner and swipe all over the face. Follow up with the rest of your skincare routine.
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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)

  1. National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Anti-Inflammatory and Skin Barrier Repair Effects of Topical Application of Some Plant Oils"

    Accessed Aug. 5, 2021.
  2. National Center for Biotechnology Information. "How Much Do We Really Know About Our Favorite Cosmeceutical Ingredients?"

    Accessed Aug. 5, 2021.

8. Skin Balancing Pore-Reducing Toner

Paula’s Choice Skin Balancing Pore-Reducing Toner

Paula's Choice Toner for Reducing Shine and Minimizing Pores

Paula’s Choice Skin Balancing Pore-Reducing Toner

If you have oily skin, you likely want a toner that will help balance oil production. This toner helps to minimize the appearance of pores and reduce shine while lightly hydrating the skin.

Skin types: Oily and Combination
Best for: Reducing Shine and Minimizing Pores
Tested on animals: No
How to use: After cleansing, soak a cotton pad with the toner and swipe all over the face. Follow up with the rest of your skincare routine.
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Many toners meant for oily skin are harsh, and can actually end up stripping the skin of its natural moisture – which triggers the skin to produce more oil. This gentle toner actually hydrates the skin to balance moisture levels, while working to reduce oil production and minimize the appearance of pores.

Pros

  • Fragrance-free
  • Lightweight
  • Non-greasy

Cons

  • May irritate sensitive skin

This toner contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid, which both restore the moisture barrier and hydrate the skin. It also contains niacinamide, which helps minimize the appearance of pores, as well as chamomile and burdock root extract, which soothe the skin.

Water (Aqua), Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Niacinamide, Polysorbate 20, Adenosine, Anthemis Nobilis (Chamomile) Flower Extract, Arctium Lappa (Burdock) Root Extract, Hydrolyzed Jojoba Esters, Sodium PCA, Panthenol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Ceramide NP, Ceramide AP, Ceramide EOP, Phytosphingosine, Cholesterol, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Oleth-10, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Caprylyl Glycol, Hexylene Glycol, Sodium Citrate, Xanthan Gum, Trisodium EDTA, Phenoxyethanol.

  1. National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Skin hydration is significantly increased by a cream formulated to mimic the skin’s own natural moisturizing systems"

    Accessed Aug. 6, 2021.
  2. National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Hyaluronic acid: A key molecule in skin aging"

    Accessed Aug. 6, 2021.

9. Resist Weightless Advanced Repairing Toner

Paula’s Choice Resist Weightless Advanced Repairing Toner

Paula's Choice Toner for Hydrating and Fighting Signs of Aging

Paula’s Choice Resist Weightless Advanced Repairing Toner

This lightweight toner is packed with ingredients that hydrate and fight the signs of aging while also reducing the appearance of pores and minimizing redness.

Skin types: Normal, Oily and Combination
Best for: Hydrating and Fighting Signs of Aging
Tested on animals: No
How to use: After cleansing, soak a cotton pad with the toner and swipe all over the face. Follow up with the rest of your skincare routine.
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This toner is excellent for normal to oily skin, as it helps renew and rehydrate the skin to minimize and prevent signs of aging without leaving a greasy finish. It also contains ingredients that soothe and calm the skin for an even, clear complexion.

Pros

  • Fragrance-free
  • Anti-Aging
  • Lightweight
  • Non-greasy

Cons

  • May not be suitable for sensitive skin

The key ingredient in this toner is niacinamide, which has been shown to minimize the appearance of pores, reduce redness, control sebum production, minimize fine lines, and act as an antioxidant.

Water (Aqua), Glycerin (hydration/skin replenishing), Ethoxydiglycol (hydration), Niacinamide (skin-restoring), Acetyl Glucosamine (hydration/skin replenishing), Salix Nigra (Willow) Bark Extract (skin-soothing), Resveratrol (grape-derived antioxidant), Sodium Hyaluronate (hydration/skin replenishing), Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 (skin-restoring), Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 (skin-restoring), Phospholipids (hydration/skin replenishing), Epigallocatechin Gallate (antioxidant), Carnosine (skin-restoring), Genistein (antioxidant), Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract (skin-soothing), Adenosine (skin-restoring), Xanthan Gum (texture-enhancing), Citric Acid (pH adjuster), Polysorbate 20 (texture-enhancing), Butylene Glycol (hydration), Ethylhexylglycerin (preservative), Carbomer (texture-enhancing), Tetrasodium EDTA (stabilizer), Phenoxyethanol (preservative)

  1. National Center for Biotechnology Information. "The effect of 2% niacinamide on facial sebum production"

    Accessed Aug. 6, 2021.
  2. National Center for Biotechnology Information. "How Much Do We Really Know About Our Favorite Cosmeceutical Ingredients?"

    Accessed Aug. 6, 2021.

FAQs

What is the best drugstore toner for combination skin?

If you have combination skin, many of the options on this list are great for your skin type, depending on what skin concerns you’re looking to address. If you’re looking to add hydration without contributing to shine, the Paula’s Choice Hydralight Healthy Skin Refreshing Toner is a great choice. For those looking to minimize the appearance of large pores in oilier parts of the face, the Paula’s Choice Skin Balancing Pore-Reducing Toner will work well. The Paula’s Choice Resist Weightless Advanced Repairing Toner is great if you’re looking for anti-aging benefits, and the La Roche-Posay Effaclar Clarifying Solution Acne Toner is excellent if you’re dealing with acne.

How do I choose a toner?

When picking out a toner, you’ll want to consider your skin type, as well as any skin concerns you may have, and look for an option that suits your needs. For example, if you have dry skin and want to boost hydration, you’ll want to look for a hydrating toner that is formulated for your skin type (like the Paula’s Choice Skin Recovery Enriched Calming Toner).

Is toner really necessary?

You don’t absolutely have to use a toner in order to have a well rounded skincare routine. A cleanser, a moisturizer, and a sunscreen are the absolute essentials to build a solid skincare foundation. However, some people like to build on that foundation and use toners to address certain skin issues they have. It’s up to personal preference and whether you think a toner may add benefits to your routine.

The Bottom Line

If you want to add a toner to your skincare routine, you’ll find some excellent options at the drugstore. Consider using one of the toners mentioned above to support a clear, healthy, and glowing complexion.