Soothing and Clarifying: The Best Toners for Acne-Prone Skin in 2023
Acne-prone skin can be a real hassle to deal with. Change your game with the perfect toner for acne prone skin.
Acne is a common skin condition that can be frustrating, painful, and embarrassing, especially when it comes to choosing the right skincare products. If you have acne-prone skin, finding the right toner can be a will make the world of difference to your skin.
A toner is an essential step in your skincare routine as it helps to remove dirt, oil, and impurities that can clog pores and lead to breakouts. They are designed to soothe, clarify, and balance the skin's pH level, which ultimately helps to prevent breakouts.
However, with so many toners claiming to be the best for acne-prone skin, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your specific needs. We have some great information to help you wade your way through the best toners for acne-prone skin that are easily available.
We have carefully researched and selected top-quality toners that are effective, gentle, and safe for all skin types. We're excited to share some awesome tips for acne with you that'll make choosing the best toner for acne-prone skin a breeze. These toners are super easy to find, too!
The top ingredients to look for in a toner for acne prone skin in 2023
Skincare has advanced to a level beyond what people had ever imagined. The top ingredients to look for in a toner for acne-prone skin had become even more sophisticated.
Salicylic acid
Among the top ingredients was Salicylic acid, which had been proven to be extremely effective in treating acne and preventing breakouts. It was also known for its ability to exfoliate the skin gently, removing dead skin cells and unclogging pores.
Lactic Acid
Try using a toner that contains alpha-hydroxy acid, a gentle chemical exfoliant that can work wonders on the tone and texture of your skin. This helps clear up hyper pigmentation or sun damaged blemishes.
Niacinamide
Another ingredient that had gained popularity was Niacinamide, which was known for its anti-inflammatory properties. It helped to reduce redness and inflammation caused by acne, hydrating the skin and leaving it calm and soothed.
Cica extract
Cica extract had become another favorite ingredient in toners for acne-prone skin. It was an excellent antioxidant and helped to repair damaged skin, promoting a healthy-looking complexion.
Hyaluronic acid
Lastly, Hyaluronic acid was also an essential ingredient in toners as it provided hydration to the skin without clogging pores. It helped to maintain the skin’s moisture barrier, preventing acne breakouts.
In conclusion, with these top ingredients in mind, choosing the right toner for acne-prone skin had become more more to find the perfect product for your skin to give you that flawless look.
The best way to apply toner
Are you wondering how to apply toner? Don't worry, it's really easy!
First, make sure you've cleansed your face.
Then, pat your face dry and grab a cotton ball or pad.
Soak it with your toner and gently apply it to your face and neck.
Use your fingertips to press the toner into your skin for better absorption.
Remember to apply your moisturizer and serums after using toner.
Happy toning!
How to find the right balance for skin pH
While toners are great for balancing your skin's pH levels and removing excess oil and debris, some toners can be too harsh for sensitive or acne-prone skin. If your toner is too harsh, it can strip your skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness, irritation and even more breakouts.
To find the right balance, it's important to look for toners that are specifically designed for acne-prone skin. Look for toners that contain salicylic acid, witch hazel, or tea tree oil, as these ingredients are known to be gentle yet effective in fighting acne.
It's also important to pay attention to the ingredients list and avoid toners that contain alcohol or fragrances, which can be too harsh for acne-prone skin.
Be sure to patch test any new toners before applying them to your entire face, and start by using them every other day to avoid over-drying your skin.
Remember, finding the right toner may take some trial and error, so be patient and don't be afraid to try different products until you find the one that works best for you.
How and when to use a toner for acne prone skin
The first rule is very important, which is that you use toners in moderation if you struggle with acne prone skin. Also, follow a consistent routine to avoid overusing them, which can actually worsen breakouts.
Overusing toners can strip your skin of its natural oils and disrupt its balance, which can lead to irritation and inflammation, and ultimately, worsen acne.
Most beauticians suggest using it twice a day - once in the morning and once at night - right after cleansing your skin. A severe breakout of acne can be very painful. Start with using it once a day and gradually increasing if your skin tolerates it well. Remember to always listen to your skin and adjust your routine accordingly.
"But, it also depends on the individual's skin type and the toner ingredients", explained a leading cosmetologist. "If you have particularly oily skin, you may be able to use a toner more frequently, but it's important to pay attention to how your skin reacts and adjust accordingly."
Experts also advise finding a toner that contains salicylic acid or glycolic acid, which can help unclog pores and reduce inflammation. A well-known dermatologist suggested my friend Carla to change her toner to these two magic ingredients. Sure enough, her acne began to clear up within a few days!
So, be sure to use toners as directed and consult with a dermatologist if you have any concerns about your skincare routine.
The best approach to use toner for hormonal acne
Lila had been struggling with acne for a while, but she finally realized that her breakouts were caused by hormonal imbalances. She tried a bunch of different treatments and products, but nothing seemed to do the trick.
Lila did some research and found that the best toner for hormonal acne had ingredients like glycolic acid, salicylic acid, witch hazel, and niacinamide. She decided to give it a shot and was so happy to see a difference in her skin within just a few weeks!
She also decided to consult with her dermatologist who recommended trying a toner with Glycolic acid which is a super effective toner especially when it is specifically designed for hormonal acne.
Lila was so happy with how the toner worked for her! Not only did it help clear up her breakouts, but it also left her skin feeling super soft and smooth. She loved it so much that she made using it part of her daily routine.
Plus, she made some other positive changes in her life, like managing her stress and eating healthier, which helped balance her hormones and gave her even better-looking skin.
Natural or DIY toner options that are effective for acne prone skin in 2023
Acne-prone skin a toner can help balance your skin's pH levels and control excess oil production.
If you are looking for natural remedies, these alternative ingredients can be used in homemade solutions. Naturally, there are also cosmetic products available that are formulated with these ingredients and that can help you achieve toned, clear and healthy-looking skin:
Witch hazel: Witch hazel is a natural astringent that can help reduce inflammation and redness in acne-prone skin. Look for a witch hazel toner that doesn't contain alcohol, which can be drying and irritating to the skin. We found that THAYERS Alcohol-Free, Hydrating Rose Petal Witch Hazel Facial Toner with Aloe Vera Formula, is a great toner. It's alcohol free and gentle solution that is formulated to soothe, tone, hydrate, and balance the pH level of skin. This natural face toner helps reduce the look of pores, balance oily skin, and maintain the skin's moisture barrier
Tea tree oil: Tea tree oil has natural antiseptic and antibacterial properties, making it an effective treatment for acne. Look for a toner that contains a low concentration of tea tree oil, as it can be too harsh for some skin types. BRING GREEN Tea Tree CICA Soothing Toner into your skincare routine. If you have acne-prone, irritated or sensitive skin, we've got just the thing for you. This Korean product is specially designed to soothe skin troubles, relieve stressed skin and control excess sebum production.
Aloe vera: Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, making it a great ingredient for calming acne-prone skin. Look for a toner that contains pure aloe vera gel or aloe vera extract. Advanced Clinicals Oil Control Purifying Facial Mist Toner helps reduce the appearance of pores, acne, and blemishes, leaving you with stunning skin. The essential elixirs contain tea tree oil and witch hazel, two naturally potent oils that soothe dryness and irritation, fight excess oil, and reduce redness.
Apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar has natural antibacterial properties and can help balance the skin's pH levels. Look for a toner that contains diluted apple cider vinegar. This Apple Cider Vinegar Acne Face Toner Pad from Hello Cider is great! It's a jar filled with 60 cotton pads that work as a toner, cleanser, and moisturizer all in one. And the best part? It's made from 100% organic botanical ingredients, with no harsh chemicals included! A gentle formula is perfect for all skin types, from oily, dry, to combination skin. It's also non-comedogenic and it helps to balance your skin's pH levels.
Rose water: Rose water has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, making it a great ingredient for calming and soothing acne-prone skin. Look for a toner that contains pure rose water or rose extract. Try Heritage Store Rosewater Facial Toner with Hyaluronic Acid if you have dry to combination skin. This alcohol-free hydrating toner is perfect for refining pores and minimizing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. What's more, it contains Hyaluronic Acid and Sodium PCA for deep hydration, leaving your skin looking plump and glowing naturally.
Cucumber: Cucumber has natural cooling and soothing properties, making it a great ingredient for reducing inflammation and redness in acne-prone skin. Look for a toner that contains pure cucumber extract. Yes To Cucumbers, Soothing and Calming Toner is s formulated with cucumber extract, witch hazel, and aloe vera which work together for the perfect way to cleanse your skin after a long day. It's gentle yet effective and removes any residual oils, dirt, or makeup while also helping to balance and reduce the appearance of redness.
Vitamin C: Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that can help brighten the skin and reduce the appearance of acne scars. Look for a toner that contains a stable form of vitamin C, such as ascorbic acid or sodium ascorbyl phosphate. InstaNatural Vitamin C Toner, Facial Toner and Pore Minimizer is an amazing facial mist! It's packed with Vitamin C which is a super powerful antioxidant that helps to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, brighten your complexion, and protect your skin from the damaging effects of the environment. The natural botanicals help to hydrate your skin and balance its pH. What's not to love?
Peppermint oil: Peppermint has natural antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a great ingredient for treating acne. Look for a toner that contains pure peppermint oil or extract. Brittanie's Thyme Organic Balancing Witch Hazel,Peppermint & Sweet Orange Oils Facial Toner with peppermint oil can help your moisturizer work even better. It removes any leftover cleanser or oil, giving your skin a clean slate. Plus, it smells amazing! The sweet orange oil aslo soothes and refresh your complexion.
Chamomile: Chamomile has natural anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, making it a great ingredient for calming acne-prone skin. Look for a toner that contains pure chamomile extract. Mario Badescu Facial Spray with Chamomile, Aloe and Lavender works wonders to hydrate and restore balance and brightness. It is also enriched with antioxidant Vitamin C to deeply hydrate and help de-stress skin.
Lavender: Lavender has natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a great ingredient for treating acne. Look for a toner that contains pure lavender oil or extract. THAYERS Alcohol-Free Witch Hazel Facial Mist Toner with Lavender is a gentle face mist that's alcohol-free. It's perfect for soothing, toning, hydrating, and balancing the pH level of your skin. This cult-favorite formula is infused with hand-picked lavender and witch hazel botanicals that will leave your skin feeling refreshed and revitalized.
Green tea: Green tea has natural anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, making it a great ingredient for treating acne. Look for a toner that contains pure green tea extract. Hebepe Green Tea Matcha Facial Toner is an alcohol-free face toner packed with premium ingredients like hyaluronic acid, vitamin C&E, white willow, honeysuckle, grapefruit extract, and rosemary. This toner is perfect for hydrating your skin and giving it the nourishment it needs to look and feel its best.
Manuka honey: Manuka honey has natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a great ingredient for treating acne. Look for a toner that contains pure Manuka honey extract. Earth To Skin Honey Manuka Calming Face Toner is a gentle and effective way to care for your skin. It's designed to cleanse, condition, and soothe your skin all at once. Also loaded with the rich Manuka Honey extract and glycerin, which work together to hydrate and protect your skin.
11 Best toner for acne prone skin in 2023
Our Top Picks Toners for Acne Prone Skin in 2023
Acne-prone skin can be a constant struggle to deal with, and it can be challenging to find the right skincare products to help manage it.
One essential product that can make a significant difference in controlling acne is a toner. In this review, we will be discussing the best toners for acne-prone skin in 2023.
#1. beyou Witch Hazel Oil Control Toner
Experience the refreshing and soothing effects of our alcohol-free toner, specially designed for normal and oily skin. Infused with natural Witch Hazel, it's an anti-inflammatory wonder that tightens pores and reduces swelling.
Perfect for normal, oily, and combination skin types, Beyou skincare is your shield against digital aging, dehydration, and urban pollution.
What you should know (downside): Individuals with dry skin may find it less hydrating than other products tailored specifically for their skin type.
#2. The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution
This toner is specifically formulated for acne-prone skin, containing 7% glycolic acid that helps unclog pores and reduce excess oil production. This toning solution is just what you need for achieving beautiful and radiant skin.
It gently exfoliates your skin and enhances its clarity, giving you a smooth and even texture. You can see the difference with regular use - your skin will look healthy and glowing!
What you should know (downside): It may irritate your skin if used too often and sun exposure without SPF is a definite no-no.
#3. Paula's Choice Skin Balancing Pore-Reducing Toner
This cult-favorite toner for combination and oily skin contains niacinimide, hyaluronic acid and chamomile, which is known for its ability to penetrate deep into the pores and unclog them. It also has great antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe and calm irritated skin.
What you should know (downside): May sting after use and cause redness.
#4. Thayers Witch Hazel Toner
Witch hazel is a natural astringent that helps tighten the skin's pores, making it difficult for dirt and impurities to enter.
This toner contains witch hazel extract, aloe vera, and rosewater, making it a gentle and soothing option for acne-prone skin.
What you should know (downside): Patch test before use if you have hormonal or cystic acne.
#5. Farmacy Deep Sweep 2% BHA Toner for Face
This toner contains2% BHA (salicylic acid) and papaya enzymes, which do a fantastic job of gently exfoliating and deep cleaning your skin.
Not only will it minimize the look of pores, but it will also reveal a healthy-looking complexion.
What you should know (downside): Not travel friendly. It spills out.
#6. REN Clean Skincare Glow Tonic
If you're looking for a gentle daily toner, the REN Clean Skincare Ready Steady Glow Daily AHA Toner is a great option! It's specially formulated with alpha hydroxy acids (AHA) and beta hydroxy acids (BHA) to encourage natural exfoliation without causing irritation.
The Azelaic acid it contains brightens and reduces the look of discoloration. Plus, it contains willow bark extract and lactic acid to help smooth and tone your skin while minimizing the appearance of pores and hyperpigmentation.
What you should know (downside): Very sensitive skin at risk for irratation, dilute product before use.
#7. LANEIGE Cream Skin Toner & Moisturizer
This toner from Laneige is designed with an awesome milky formula. This product works well to reduce any redness and irritation. It's super hydrating and has a creamy, moisturizer-like consistency that just melts onto your skin.
You can feel the moisturizing effects of the product penetrates deep into the skin layers, thanks to ingredients like amino acid enriched white leaf tea water that soothe and hydrate your skin.
What you should know (downside): Too rich for oily or acne-prone skin.
#8. Murad Clarifying Toner
This toner contains salicylic acid and witch hazel extract, making it an effective option for those with acne-prone skin. It also has vitamin E and algae extract, which help protect the skin from environmental stressors.
The witch hazel and algae extract work together to regulate oil production and tighten pores. It's like a refreshing boost for your skin! It also helps to purify pores and fight against excess oil. And that's not all! Vitamin E has also been added to the mix to protect your skin from free radical damage.
What you should know (downside): For dry skin, this product might be too astringent.
#9. COSRX AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner
This toner is gentle and perfect for improving your skin texture and vitality, as well as controlling pores. It's formula includes a combination of AHA, BHA, and purifying botanical ingredients to give you the best results possible.
You'll love how it soothes, refreshes, and softens your skin. All natural ingredients, like Pyrus Malus (Apple) Fruit Water and Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Water, and the mist type toner is gentle enough for all skin types - Oily, Combination, Dry, Normal - and can be used daily.
What you should know (downside): Sensitive skin excluded.
#10. Mario Badescu Glycolic Acid Toner
This toner is a paraben free facial setting spray in a luxurious mist that comforts and hydrates skin.
This product is packed with the goodness of Lavender Oil and enriched with antioxidant Vitamin C to give your skin a boost of hydration and help you unwind.
What you should know (downside): Scent (lavendar is strong).
#11. Benton Aloe BHA Skin Toner
A gentle yet effective facial toner that nourishes and hydrates oily and sensitive skin. Benton toner is made with deeply brewed Green Tea from Boseong, which is known for its nourishing and hydrating properties.
The formula includes boanicals, Salix Nigra Bark Extract and Punica Granatum Fruit Extract to help clear impurities and leave your skin feeling refreshed and revitalized.
What you should know (downside): Not great for sensitive skin.
The Final Verdict: Top Toner Pick
Laneige’s Cream Skin Toner & Moisturizer is our top pick for toner lineup, and let us tell you, it did not disappoint! We were thoroughly impressed by its performance, and our testers were blown away by its effectiveness.
This toner is truly a game-changer, as it not only tones your skin but also doubles as a moisturizer. It’s perfect for those who are always on the go and want to streamline their skincare routine.
The cream-like texture feels luxurious and hydrating, and it absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving any sticky residue. Our testers reported that their skin felt soft, plump, and hydrated after just one use.
How we selected the Toners for the review
Before making a final decision, we did some serious research on the best toners out there. We read up on what the experts were recommending and took a look at what had to say in their online reviews. Based on our findings, we picked out the best toners for acne prone skin.
Takeaways
Toners are a great addition to any skincare routine. They help to remove any remaining impurities and refresh the skin after cleansing.
It's important to choose the right toner for your specific skin type and concerns. Whether you have dry, oily, or combination skin, there's a toner out there that's perfect for you.
When selecting a toner, it's crucial to pay attention to its active ingredients. Active ingredients are the key players in a toner, providing the benefits and results you're looking for.
If your skin needs a boost of hydration, look for toners that contain hyaluronic acid. For those with oily skin, seek out toners with lactic or salicylic acid to help control oil production. And if you're looking to even out your skin tone and texture, toners with glycolic acid can help exfoliate and brighten the skin.
With so many options available, finding the right toner can be a game-changer for your skincare routine.
FAQs
We answer your questions about toners
How do you apply toner?
Want to know how to apply toner? It's easy!
After cleansing your face, grab a cotton ball or pad, soak it with toner, and gently apply it to your face and neck.
If you don't want to use a cotton pad, try using your fingertips to press the toner into your skin.
Remember to apply it before moisturizers and serums for best results.
What is the best toner for removing blackheads?
If you're dealing with pesky blackheads, I've got some great news for you. The best way to tackle them is by using a toner that's chock-full of alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), and polyhydroxy acids (PHAs).
They gently exfoliate any dead skin cells and dry up the oil in your pores where blackheads occur. They're perfect for improving uneven skin tone, minimizing large pores, and bringing your skin's pH balance back to normal. Plus, you'll be left with a gorgeous glow that'll make you feel amazing. Give it a try!
What is the best toner for hormonal acne?
Glycolic acid is a super effective toner that can help prevent clogged pores, blackheads, whiteheads, and excess sebum production. You can even use chemical peels once a week to keep your skin looking fresh and fade any post-acne red marks. This is especially recommended for people who are prone to hormonal breakouts.