If you have dry skin, you can find an effective toner at the drugstore that will work for you. Below, you’ll find our recommendations for the best drugstore toners for dry skin.
Our Recommendations
1. 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.
2. 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.
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)
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Pharmacological attribute of Aloe vera: Revalidation through experimental and clinical studies"
Accessed Jan. 10, 2022. -
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 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.
4. 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.
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).
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Hyaluronic acid: A key molecule in skin aging"
Accessed Aug. 6, 2021.
5. 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 drugstore toner for dry, sensitive skin?
If you have dry skin that is more sensitive, two great drugstore toners to check out are the COSRX Full Fit Propolis Synergy Toner and the CeraVe Hydrating Toner. These gentle drugstore toners both contain effective ingredients that help hydrate and soothe the skin. They are both also free of fragrances and alcohol, which can be irritating, especially for sensitive skin.
Are toners good for dry skin?
Yes, anyone can benefit from adding a toner to their skincare routine, and this includes people with dry skin. Toners can help hydrate, soothe, exfoliate, fight signs of aging, and tackle other skin concerns and needs. However, those with dry skin need to ensure they’re avoiding more traditional toners that contain drying alcohols, as these can do more harm than good.
Should I use a toner everyday?
Typically, toners are made to be suitable for daily use, and there are many toners that can be used up to two times per day. That said, there are some toners that are formulated with more active ingredients that may cause irritation or dryness when used too frequently. For example, the Pixi Glow Tonic contains a 5% concentration of glycolic acid, a chemical exfoliant. While some may find that they can use this toner on a daily basis, others may need to space out their usage to avoid any negative side effects. With that in mind, it’s important to pay attention to the instructions on the product you’re using, as well as take note of how your skin reacts to determine the best course of action for your skin’s needs.
The Bottom Line
Those with dry skin can greatly benefit from using a toner, and you can find plenty of excellent options for a variety of skin concerns at the drugstore. If you have dry skin, consider adding one of these highly recommended toners to your skincare routine.
