15 Best Drugstore Toner Choices to Transform Your Skincare Routine

Written by Anoushka Sinha, Skincare Coach & Writer
Updated on Feb 15, 2024
 Best Drugstore Toner Choices to Transform Your Skincare Routine
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Your hectic schedule may be ruining your skincare routine but with the best drugstore toner choices, you can easily revolutionize your daily routine. Unleash the power of purity and balance and walk into the realm of radiant, clear skin with the humble yet potent skin essential we call toner. This underrated superstar of skincare, toner has unparalleled power to bring about a revolution in your daily routine.

Experience a symphony of skin-nourishing ingredients as they swoop in to sweep away impurities, balance pH levels, and prep your skin for other skincare essentials.

Forgo the fancy packaging and hefty price tags; it's time to champion the everyday skincare heroes that deliver results without breaking the bank. Based on our firsthand experience, these picks are the trusted comrades in your battle against skin woes, from dryness and oiliness to redness and inflammation. Equipped with the power of nature's finest extracts and advanced science, they are ready to guard and guide you in your quest for that radiant glow. This article delves into the heart of affordable skincare, bringing fifteen top-notch toners you can easily find.

15 Best Drugstore Toner

With an organic combination of witch hazel and aloe vera, Thayers Facial Toner caters to your skin's nourishment, striking a balance between hydration and toning. The unique formulation helps minimize the look of pores, balance oil production, and fortify the skin's moisture barrier, resulting in a 22% improvement in skin texture. This drugstore toner is crafted with 98% natural origin ingredients, hand-picked from a family farm in Connecticut, and processed via maceration, ensuring the utmost purity. Regular use of this makes skin feel healthier, appears even-toned, and retains hydration throughout the day. 

Pros
  • Cruelty-free
  • Affordable
  • Alcohol-free
  • Fades blemishes
  • Dermatologist-tested
  • Hydrates effectively
Cons
  • May not suit acne-prone skin
  • Best Anti-aging

    Paula's Choice Skin Balancing Pore-Reducing Toner

    Paula's Choice Skin Balancing Pore-Reducing Toner
  • Skin Balancing Pore-Reducing Toner by Paula's Choice is the perfect solution to achieve a youthful appearance. This is one of the best drugstore toners for aging skin. Apart from fighting wrinkles, this toner alcohol-free toner shrinks pores for flawless skin. Its antioxidant-rich formula contains hydrating ceramides that make oily areas less noticeable and promote even skin tone. Since this is specially formulated for oily, combination, and blemish-prone skin, it can refine and protect your skin from dirt and damage. You can use it day and night after cleansing to remove makeup residue, clear pores, and renew your skin before moisturizing. 

    Pros
    • Reduces blemishes
    • No blackheads
    • Cruelty-free
    • Paraben-free
    • Soothes sensitive skin
    • No artificial fragrance
    Cons
    • Slightly expensive
  • InstaNatural Vitamin C Toner

     InstaNatural Vitamin C Toner
  • Getting immersed in a refreshing splash of the InstaNatural Vitamin C Toner feels great. Our findings show that this is one of the best drugstore hydrating toners, maintaining a proper pH balancer for your skin and acting as an efficient primer for effectively absorbing serums and moisturizers. Enriched with Vitamin C, it shields your skin from dirt and reduces signs of aging. From skin exfoliation to adding a fresh vibrancy, this toner ensures a smooth and youthful complexion. With an updated pump-style application, enjoy precision, oil control, minimized waste, and an enhanced clean skincare routine.

    Pros
    • Affordable
    • Paraben free
    • Pore minimization
    • Easy application
    • Brightening complexion
    • Fragrant Citrus Scent
    Cons
    • May not be suitable for extremely sensitive skin
  • Heritage Store Rosewater Facial Toner

    Heritage Store Rosewater Facial Toner
  • Let your skin enjoy the rejuvenating power of the Heritage Store Rosewater Facial Toner. This is a good drugstore toner reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles over time. It goes deeper, offering hydration with hyaluronic acid and sodium PCA (sodium pyrrolidone carboxylic acid). So, you have an imparting natural glow to your complexion. Crafted with Damask roses, vegetable glycerin, and soothing aloe vera, this toner is a gentle blend perfect even for sensitive skin. Committed to quality, the brand offers eco-friendly packaging for this long-lasting toner. And having all-natural ingredients makes it a must-have in your collection for self-care.

    Pros
    • Vegan
    • Cruelty-free
    • Ultra-Hydrating Formula
    • Smoothens skin
    • Soothes Sensitive Skin
    • Minimizes pores
    Cons
    • Might not suit extremely oily skin
  • PYUNKANG YUL Facial Essence Toner

    PYUNKANG YUL Facial Essence Toner
  • Now you can discover a new level of skin care with Pyunkang Yul Facial Essence Toner. A creation backed by 50 years of expertise in treating skin and respiratory diseases, this is one of the best drugstore toner options combining the power of nature and science. Containing only seven essential ingredients, it focuses on helping your skin regain its youthful vitality. The cornerstone ingredient of milk vetch root extract gets deeply absorbed for profound hydration and enhancing skin elasticity via its isoflavonoids. This toner gets absorbed seamlessly without stickiness, potent enough to replace or complement your cream for an elevated skincare routine.

    Pros
    • Lightweight
    • Extra plump
    • Zero irritation
    • Good for daily use
    • Non-sticky Application
    • Suitable for Dry and Combination Skin
    Cons
    • Pricey
  • Best for Acne-prone Skin

    Proactiv Hydrating Facial Toner

    Proactiv Hydrating Facial Toner
  • It's recommended to boost your skincare regime with the power of Proactiv Hydrating Facial Toner. Known as the best drugstore toner for acne, it effectively sweeps away impurities, maintains moisture, and refines pore appearance. With all the botanical extracts, including chamomile, allantoin, aloe, witch hazel, and panthenol (vitamin B complex), this toner can remove extra surface oil, soothe irritation, and help grow healthy tissues. Indulge in this toner's prowess to smooth your skin's appearance and ward off potential breakouts. This toner marks a significant stride in achieving radiant, acne-free skin, a testament to the brand's revolutionary approach to skincare.

    Pros
    • Radiant skin
    • Alcohol-free formula
    • Great for everyday use
    • Suitable for All Ages
    • Skin hydration
    • Balances skin pH
    Cons
    • May be expensive
  • Bliss Clear Genius Clarifying Toner + Serum

     Bliss Clear Genius Clarifying Toner + Serum
  • Our tests indicate that Bliss Clear Genius Clarifying Toner + Serum can refresh your skincare routine. This innovative 2-in-1 product combines the potency of a toner and a purifying serum. Blessed with the invigorating scent of tea tree, it clears congested pores while offering soothing benefits. This dual-action solution is enriched with a powerful blend of BHA (salicylic acid), witch hazel, niacinamide, zinc PCA, and more. Being one of the best drugstore toners, it is formulated to purify your skin. So, simplify your skincare regimen by using this every day twice on clean, dry skin. It is ideal for addressing stubborn spots while being gentle on all skin types, especially oily and problem-prone skin.

    Pros
    • Vegan
    • Affordable
    • Easy application
    • Paraben free
    • Removes blemishes
    • Suitable for All Skin Types
    Cons
    • Not a sturdy packaging
  • Best for All Skin Types

    SKIN&CO Truffle Therapy Essential Face Toner

    SKIN&CO Truffle Therapy Essential Face Toner
  • SKIN&CO Roma's Truffle Therapy Essential Face Toner serves as an elixir for your skin as it's imbued with the power of plant-based extracts. This toner, with its blend of sage, rosemary, witch hazel, cucumber, black winter truffle, and calendula, adds extra plumpness to your skin. Also, this toner can tighten your pores, prevent acne-causing impurities and reduce irritation. The bonus of antioxidant extracts shields your skin from further damage and helps to brighten blemishes and discoloration. Being a great choice for those looking for the best drugstore acne toner, it prepares your skin for moisturizer and enhances your overall skincare routine.

    Pros
    • Alcohol-free
    • Skin illuminating
    • Protects Skin
    • Brightens Skin
    • Combats aging signs
    • Suitable for All Skin Types
    Cons
    • Might not be an affordable option
  • Best for Dry Skin

    I'm From Rice Toner

    I'm From Rice Toner
  • Your quest for the best drugstore toner for dry skin will end with I'm From Rice Toner. Along with skin revitalization properties, it is a double-layered marvel offering intense nourishment and moisturization. Enhanced with 77.78% goami rice extract, this toner utilizes hemicellulose-rich rice cultivated in the pristine Yeoju region of Korea. Its superior formula is enriched with a vegetable-originated extract complex that soothes flaky skin while forming a protective moisture layer. Ideal for all skin types, particularly sensitive ones, this toner helps maintain an optimal oil-water balance. With regular use, it removes impurities, improves complexion, and restores dry, tired skin, leaving it visibly luminous and deeply hydrated. 

    Pros
    • Vegan
    • Affordable
    • Cruelty-free
    • Alcohol-free
    • Enhances Elasticity
    • Prevents skin aging
    Cons
    • Requires shaking before use
  • Best for Oily Skin

    EltaMD Skin Recovery Essence Hydrating Toner

     EltaMD Skin Recovery Essence Hydrating Toner
  • EltaMD Skin Recovery Essence Hydrating Toner, developed by EltaMD, is a lotion-based skincare solution specially formulated for oily and sensitive skin. Powered by proprietary AAC (Amino Acid Complex) Technology, this drugstore toner aims to repair damaged skin while providing a calming effect and reducing the risk of irritation. Enriched with antioxidants, it also helps defend against free radical damage. Apply this toner after cleansing, either with a cotton pad or by gently pressing it into your skin with your hands. Not only does this stand out from other products in terms of skin improvement, but this toner will make you feel fresh throughout the day.

    Pros
    • Detoxifying skin
    • Alcohol-free
    • Lightweight
    • Easy-to-use
    • Proper pH balance
    • Suitable for sensitive skin
    Cons
    • Slightly expensive
  • Best Soothing

    PCA SKIN Hydrating Face Toner

    PCA SKIN Hydrating Face Toner
  • With a 4.6 rating, this soothing toner from PCA SKIN delivers intense hydration and moisture preservation. As one of the best drugstore toner choices, it is infused with watermelon, lentil, and apple extracts. Thus, it works diligently to remove excess dirt, oil, and pore debris. With an effective antioxidant action, it shields your skin against free radical damage. Also, this facial toner is not just a cleanser but a protective layer you can rely on throughout the day and night. Additionally, it has been more than 30 years, and the brand experts have been improvising the formula to ensure skin rejuvenation and a radiant glow.

    Pros
    • Improves skin tone
    • Paraben Free
    • Unscented
    • Alcohol-free
    • Perfect for everyday use
    • Suitable for All Skin Types
    Cons
    • Non-Comedogenic
  • Best Alcohol-free

    ACWELL Licorice pH Balancing Cleansing Toner

     ACWELL Licorice pH Balancing Cleansing Toner
  • Masterfully formulated with licorice root extracts and an amino acid complex, this pH balancing cleansing toner acts as a great facial cleansing water. Maintaining an optimal pH level of 5.5-6, it effectively purifies your skin while regulating oil and pH levels. With licorice water, guava leaves, rose, and green tea extract, it goes beyond mere cleaning. Regular application can moisturize and tighten pores without irritating them. Using this toner is quite simple as well. You can apply this with a cotton pad anytime in the morning, noon, and night all over your face.

    Pros
    • Affordable
    • Radiant skin
    • Anti-aging
    • Skin clarification
    • Versatile Usage
    • Reduces Pigmentation
    Cons
    • Volume
  • Best Moisturizing

    Himalaya Refreshing & Clarifying Toner

     Himalaya Refreshing & Clarifying Toner
  • You can now unveil radiant skin with the perfect blend of lentil and citrus limon in this Himalaya Refreshing & Clarifying Toner. Considered one of the best drugstore toner options, it is perfect for every skin type. From cleaning clogged pores to removing dead skin cells, this toner is a savior. Ingredients like lentils, citrus Limon, and boerhavia root extract work wonderfully against open pores, excess oil secretion, and dirt. It helps manage oil secretion without over-drying, ensuring your skin remains soft and fresh. This dermatologically tested toner effectively tightens pores. Best of all, it's natural and devoid of alcohol, parabens, and phthalates, reassuring your skincare routine is clean and conscious.

    Pros
    • Vegan
    • Affordable
    • Skin-Refreshing
    • Cruelty-free
    • Best for daily use
    • Free from Parabens, Alcohol, and Phthalates
    Cons
    • Results may differ
  • Best Overall

    Korean Toner for Face Meebak

     Korean Toner for Face Meebak
  • For those in search of hydrated skin and added glow, Korean Cica Toner by Meebak is the most effective solution. Enriched with Centella Asiatica, it expertly heals irritated skin by strengthening its barrier. The formulation further incorporates purslane extract for calming, fig fruit extract, and vitamin E to combat free radicals. Doubling as a fine mist and soothing toner, this product fits seamlessly into your routine. With compatibility across all skin types, it embodies the essence of Korean skincare. Notably, it's paraben, sulfate, and phthalate free and upholds cruelty-free standards. So, you can consider this toner the best drugstore toner for aging signs.

    Pros
    • Affordable
    • No irritation
    • Travel-Friendly
    • Reduces blemishes
    • High-quality ingredients
    • Suitable for daily use
    Cons
    • May require long-term application
  • Natural Outcome Oily Skin Face Toner

    Natural Outcome Oily Skin Face Toner
  • You are about to experience the revitalizing power of Natural Outcome Oily Skin Face Toner that expertly extracts oils, reduces redness, and shrinks pores for a balanced matte complexion. This formula brings clarity and control to your skin for a shine-free result. From pore cleansing and skin hydration to improving your skin and adding perfection to it; this face toner will never disappoint you. This facial toner is suitable for men, women, and teens with oily and sensitive skin types. Crafted in the USA, this toner has no chemicals, including sulfates, parabens, or dyes, for an organic glow and youthful skin.

    Pros
    • Affordable
    • Easy to apply
    • Reduces blackheads
    • Alcohol-free
    • Cruelty-free
    • Non-sticky
    Cons
    • May dry sensitive skin

    Toners are the secret weapon for a stellar skincare routine, and we've just given you the 15 best drugstore toner options! Now it's your turn – dive in, find the one that clicks with your skin, and get ready to unveil a whole new glow. Your journey to great skincare is just a toner away.

    How to Choose the Best Drugstore Toner?

    With many options from various brands, each with different ingredients and promises, making the right decision might seem like a challenge. Fear not, as we've got you covered. Let's have a detailed guide to picking the best drugstore toner for your skincare routine.

    Identify Your Skin Type

    First things first, understanding your skin type is fundamental when selecting the best drugstore toner. Whether your skin is on the oily, dry, combination, or sensitive side, there is a toner for every skin type. Oily skin will benefit from toners with ingredients like salicylic acid, which helps combat excess sebum. On the other hand, dry skin will appreciate hydrating components such as glycerin and hyaluronic acid. For instance, when looking for the best drugstore toners for oily skin, always opt for a toner crafted specifically with skin-friendly ingredients.

    Unmask the Ingredient Magic

    It's crucial to decode the ingredient list on the toner's packaging. Look for active ingredients that can address your specific skin concerns. For instance, when battling acne, consider toners with salicylic acid or witch hazel. A mix of Aloe vera and chamomile will soothe blemished skin and antioxidants improve your complexion.

    Choose Alcohol-Free Toners

    Many toners in the past had a high alcohol content, which could leave the skin feeling dry and tight. Today, however, many drugstore toners are alcohol-free. The best part of using these toners is that they are good for cleansing and toning while keeping your skin hydrated.

    Fragrance or Fragrance-Free
    Most toners have artificial fragrances. It can make the product smell pleasant. But people with sensitive skin may not like it. Hence, choosing a fragrance-free toner might be a safer choice when you have any fragrance sensitivities.

    Check the pH Balance

    The pH level of a toner determines how it interacts with your skin. A toner with a balanced pH, close to the skin's natural level (around 5.5), can help maintain skin health and prevent irritation.

    Now, you are not just ready but empowered to embark on this journey of discovery through the shelves of your local drugstore. As you sift through rows of toners, remember that you are looking for the elixir that will soothe with your skin, transforming it from ordinary to extraordinary. It's more than just a hunt; it's the adventure of creating a happier, healthier you. So, take a step forward, your perfect toner awaits!

    Navigating the world of skincare can feel overwhelming, but we hope that our roundup of the best drugstore toner choices has made your journey smoother. These budget-friendly choices can truly improve your skincare regimen, providing the pivotal step between cleansing and moisturizing, and ensuring your skin gets the full benefits of each product. Whether you need hydration, oil control, or complexion balancing, there's a toner in this list tailored to your needs. So go ahead and take part in this skincare adventure. Indulging in a great routine to achieve radiant skin need not be expensive, you have to make a smart choice!

    FAQ's

    Can I use rose water as a toner?
    Yes, rose water can be used as a toner. It has soothing and hydrating properties that help balance the skin's pH and provide a refreshing boost.
    Is it OK to use only toner every day?
    Using only toner every day may not provide sufficient skincare benefits. While toner helps remove impurities and prep the skin, it is recommended to follow it with moisturizer and other skincare products for a well-rounded routine.
    Can we use serum without toner?
    Yes, you can use a serum without toner. Serums are concentrated formulations that target specific skin concerns and can be applied directly after cleansing. However, incorporating a toner into your routine can help enhance the absorption and effectiveness of the serum.
    Is toner less damaging?
    Toner, when used appropriately for your skin type, is generally not damaging. It can be beneficial for balancing pH levels, minimizing pores, and prepping the skin for better product absorption. However, some toners may contain harsh ingredients, so it's important to choose gentle formulations suitable for your skin.

    Why Trust Pinkvilla

    While our skincare expert, Anoushka, has her favorites in high-end toners, there are several affordable,  over-the-counter products that she also loves and recommends. In this article, she has listed toner choices for all skin types, such as Paula’s Choice for aging skin, Pyunkang Yul for dry skin, Proactiv for acne-prone skin, etc. While not all products could suit her combination skin, she picked some and asked her colleagues and peers to try out the other products, spanning a few months. By collecting all the feedback she received, she put together detailed reviews for each. 

    Our product experts study the specifications of every product we suggest and try them out to bring what’s proven to be worthy of your money, time, and energy. We also have subject matter experts from various fields like Fashion, Skincare, Haircare, Home Decor, and Health & Fitness onboard to make sure our suggestions are credible and trustworthy. You can trust select to be your faithful shopping guide for all the right reasons!

    Author BIO
    reviewer
    Anoushka Sinha
    Skincare Coach & Writer

    Anoushka is certified in Professional Skincare and is a Mass Media (Journalism) graduate from Mumbai University. As a More