If you are in need of a product that will help boost your skin’s hydration levels, a toner can help. Below, you’ll find our guide to the best hydrating toners.
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. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. 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.
7. 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.
8. 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.
9. 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.
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.
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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. -
National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Hyaluronic acid: A key molecule in skin aging"
Accessed Aug. 6, 2021.
10. 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.
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)
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "The effect of 2% niacinamide on facial sebum production"
Accessed Aug. 6, 2021. -
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 hydrating toner for oily skin?
If you have oily skin, two excellent hydrating toners to check out are the Paula’s Choice Resist Weightless Advanced Repairing Toner and the Paula’s Choice Skin Balancing Pore-Reducing Toner. Both of these toners are formulated with niacinamide, which helps control excess oil and minimize the appearance of large pores. They also contain additional ingredients to help lightly hydrate the skin, leaving it feeling soft and balanced.
What is the best drugstore hydrating toner?
For those looking for a hydrating toner that’s available at the drugstore, check out the CeraVe Hydrating Toner. This affordable toner is super gentle on the skin, and contains a blend of ingredients that lightly hydrate while supporting the skin’s barrier.
Should I use a toner everyday?
Typically, toners are suitable for daily use, and you can often use them in both the morning and the evening. That said, some toners may be made with more active skincare ingredients that can cause irritation or dryness when used too frequently, so make sure to refer to the instruction label for the most accurate usage. You should also always pay attention to how your skin reacts to the toner you are using, and use it less (or more) frequently if it seems fit. Since hydrating toners are typically very gentle on the skin and don’t contain more aggressive ingredients, most people will find that they can use the options recommended above on a daily basis.
The Bottom Line
While a toner isn’t an absolutely essential product to include in your skincare routine, many find that using a targeted toner is helpful for addressing certain skin concerns and needs. If your skin is in need of some extra hydration, consider trying out one of our recommended hydrating toners.