ProductsBest Toners for Oily Skin
By Kyra Heenan
Feb. 14, 2022 / 2 min read
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Looking for that perfect oily skin-friendly toner? Below, you’ll find our comprehensive guide to the absolute best toners for oily skin.
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.
Skin types: All Skin Types
Best for: Hydrating and Soothing
Tested on animals: No
How to use: After cleansing, gently pat the toner into the skin. Follow up with a serum (if using) and moisturizer. This toner can be used twice daily.
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.
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Hyaluronic Acid"
Accessed Jan. 24, 2022.
2. 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.
Skin types: All Skin Types
Best for: Exfoliating and Smoothing Texture
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. This toner can be used twice daily.
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
-
National Center for Biotechnology Information. "The use of polyhydroxy acids (PHAs) in photoaged skin"
Accessed Jan. 25, 2022.
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "How Much Do We Really Know About Our Favorite Cosmeceutical Ingredients?"
Accessed Jan. 25, 2022.
3. 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.
Skin types: All Skin Types
Best for: Soothing and hydrating
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.
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.
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Skin moisturizing effects of panthenol-based formulations"
Accessed Jan. 10, 2022.
4. 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.
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.
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Dual Effects of Alpha-Hydroxy Acids on the Skin"
Accessed Jan. 10, 2022.
5. 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.
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.
-
National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Protective Mechanisms of Green Tea Polyphenols in Skin"
Accessed Aug. 6, 2021.
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "The Topical Effect of Grape Seed Extract 2% Cream on Surgery Wound Healing"
Accessed Aug. 6, 2021.
6. 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.
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.
-
National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Over-the-counter Acne Treatments"
Accessed Aug. 16, 2021.
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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 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.
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.
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National Center for Biotechnology Information. "Hyaluronic acid: A key molecule in skin aging"
Accessed Aug. 6, 2021.
8. 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.
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)
-
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
Are toners good for oily skin?
Yes, toners are great for people with oily skin. They can help sweep away any leftover excess oil or residue on the skin, and can also work to target a variety of skin concerns or needs. There are toners that hydrate, soothe, brighten, tackle breakouts, fight signs of aging, gently exfoliate, and more.
How do I choose a toner?
When picking out a toner that will work for you, you’ll first and foremost want to know your skin type (if you’re reading this, you likely have oily skin), as you will want to find a formula that is suitable for your skin. You should also consider any skin concerns you may have so that you can choose a toner that targets that need. For example, if you want a toner that helps balance oil production to cut down on shine, you can look for a formula specifically created for that need (like the Paula’s Choice Skin Balancing Pore-Reducing Toner).
What is the best toner for oily acne-prone skin?
If you have oily skin that is prone to breakouts and want a product that will help tackle acne, a great toner to check out is the La Roche-Posay Effaclar Clarifying Solution Acne Toner. This La Roche-Posay toner is made with a low concentration of salicylic acid and glycolic acid, two chemical exfoliants that work together to unclog pores, improve uneven skin tone (including post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation left behind by previous breakouts), and smooth skin texture for a softer complexion.
The Bottom Line
If you have oily skin, you can greatly benefit from adding a toner to your skincare routine – you just need to make sure you choose the right product. Consider trying out one of our recommended toners to achieve a healthy and radiant complexion.
About the author
Kyra Heenan
Kyra is a content writer based in Los Angeles, CA. She works in the health and wellness sphere, and covers everything from beauty to skincare to fitness. She has been passionate about skincare since she was a teenager, and loves uncovering the absolute best routines and products available to help people reach their skin goals.
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