11 Best Toners for Hyperpigmentation — Tested And Approved by Experts

Written by Anoushka Sinha, Skincare Coach & Writer
Updated on May 14, 2024
Best Toners for Hyperpigmentation
Best Toners for Hyperpigmentation
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Amongst all the skin concerns, hyperpigmentation is one condition that can really feel difficult to deal with. It occurs due to prolonged sun exposure, aging, inflammation, skin injuries, and hormonal imbalances and manifests as uneven skin tone, dark patches, and darkening of the skin. While dealing with these pesky issues might seem daunting at first, having the best toners for hyperpigmentation can help you solve these, effortlessly. 

Toner, one of the most loved skincare products has a liquid consistency and is often infused with skin-nourishing goodies to remove oil and traces of dirt, seal up the pores after cleansing, refresh the skin, and help your skin absorb other products more effectively. When it comes to dealing with hyperpigmentation, choosing the right toner can help you a great deal. 

After gathering a lot of data about hyperpigmentation as well as testing toners, our skincare experts concluded that the best toner for uneven skin tone is the one that packs the goodness of vitamins, glycolic acid, kojic acid, niacinamide, etc., while also being lightweight. With a plethora of products out there claiming to make your skin ‘even-toned’ in a jiffy, our experts took the responsibility to test out different ones, bringing you only the very best. You can even pair these toners with the best serums for hyperpigmentation to get quick results. Along with that, we have for you a detailed guide on how to get the best toner for discoloration  — you’ll be able to achieve flawless skin. Let’s get started!

Best Toners for Hyperpigmentation

Our skincare experts crowned this the best toner for all skin types because of its gentle formulation that smoothes the skin with ease. Inspired by the Korean Aqua Peel Facial, this award-winning toner not only hydrates the skin but also exfoliates it gently without stripping the skin of its natural oils. The unique blend of hydrating and pore-tightening ingredients minimizes pores, giving your skin a natural glow. Free of harsh chemicals like mineral oil, sulfates, parabens, phthalates, and synthetic dyes, this is truly a clean formulation that supports the healthy barrier of the skin. 

Customers love the scent and feel of this toner, saying it moisturizes parched skin and smells heavenly. A happy customer writes, “ This stuff feels very refreshing on my face and smells like watermelon.”

Key Ingredients: Watermelon, cactus water, PHA, BHA, hyaluronic acid, tea tree extract, and cucumber 

Skin Type: Oily, Combination, Sensitive, Dry, Normal

Product Benefits: Pore treatment 

Size: 1.35 fl oz.

Pros
  • Doesn’t contain drying alcohol
  • Fights wrinkles
  • Has a cooling effect on the skin
  • Vegan
  • Cruelty-free
Cons
  • Might not be suitable for acne-prone skin
  • Best Lightweight Formula

    Peach Slices Snail Rescue Blemish Busting Toner

    Peach Slices Snail Rescue Blemish Busting Toner
  • Crafted with celebrated K-beauty ingredients, cica, and snail mucin, this toner from Peach Slices is one of the best Korean toners for hyperpigmentation. These two ingredients work synergistically to clear pores, soothe skin redness, hydrate, and promote a healthy skin barrier. What’s more noteworthy about the product is that it’s Leaping-Bunny certified, meaning no animals were harmed during the testing phase! Moreover, the formula is devoid of filler ingredients that keep the skin supple and smooth. 

    Key Ingredients: Snail mucin, hyaluronic acid

    Skin Type: Dry, normal, oily

    Product Benefits: Hydrates and exfoliates the skin

    Size: 4.05 oz

    Pros
    • Clean formula
    • Anti-aging benefits
    • Lightweight texture
    • Doesn’t clog pores
    • Calming effects on the skin
    Cons
    • Might not suit people with sensitive skin

    Quick Tip:

    Apply the toner using a fresh cotton pad after cleansing your skin, then follow up with the rest of your skincare routine. Make sure to avoid contact with eyes.

  • Best for Skin Inflammation

    Good Molecules Niacinamide Brightening Toner

    Good Molecules Niacinamide Brightening Toner
  • Fortified with niacinamide — a holy grail of skincare has proven efficacy in improving the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and red blotchiness (study published in the NCBI) — this toner from Good Molecules does wonders in making skin healthier and smoother. Be it enlarged pores, dull skin, or signs of aging — it helps get rid of all skin woes without disturbing its natural barrier. Our experts loved how it smoothly melted into their skin, revealing smoother and softer skin instantly. Plus, it’s vegan and has a pH-balancing formula that adds to the reasons why you should add it to your cart now!

    Key Ingredients:  Niacinamide, arbutin, and licorice root extract

    Skin Type: All skin types

    Product Benefits: Brightening

    Size: 4 fl oz.

    Pros
    • Cruelty-free
    • Doesn’t contain fragrance
    • Soothes inflammation
    • Targets pores
    • Alcohol-free
    Cons
    • Might not suit people with skin sensitivities
  • Best pH-balancing Formula

    ACWELL Licorice pH Balancing Cleansing Toner

    ACWELL Licorice pH Balancing Cleansing Toner
  • Packed with the goodness of licorice water, green tea, and peony flower extract, this is a remarkable Korean toner for hyperpigmentation as it delivers amazing results in exfoliating dead skin cells and balancing all types of skin. It calms the skin by balancing its natural oil and pH levels. Powered by potent skin-friendly ingredients, it goes beyond just cleansing the skin — it also moisturizes the skin and tightens pores to reveal a brighter and younger-looking complexion. Don’t worry if you have oily and acne-prone skin, as it doesn’t lead to breakouts!

    Key Ingredients: Licorice, guava leaf extract, rose extract, green tea extract

    Skin Type: Oily & acne-prone, combination, sensitive, dry

    Product Benefits: pH Balancing 

    Size: 5.07 fl oz.

    Pros
    • Gently cleanses the skin without causing irritation
    • Stimulates collagen production
    • Cruelty-free
    • Fades dark spots
    Cons
    • Slow results
  • Best Suited for All Skin Types

    Bolden Skin Brightening Toner

    Bolden Skin Brightening Toner
  • Infused with the goodness of niacinamide, licorice, vitamin B5, and algae extract, this makes for a powerful hydrating toner for hyperpigmentation. Lauded for its antioxidant properties, niacinamide helps improve the overall appearance of the skin by improving epidermal barrier function, treating the signs of fine lines and wrinkles, and boosting skin elasticity (a study published in the NCBI). 

    Other goodies present in the formulation of this award-winning product promote healthier and brighter skin. Our skincare experts appreciate that it is suitable for all skin types and doesn’t contain ingredients like parabens, phthalates, and sulfates. For people who keep searching for the best cruelty-free products, this is an ideal pick. People with oily or normal skin can pair it with Bolden’s Skin Clarifying Cleanser for best results. 

    Key Ingredients: Glycolic acid, niacinamide, licorice root extract, and algae extract

    Skin Type: All

    Product Benefits: Oil control, pore tightening, and exfoliation

    Size: 8 fl oz.

    Pros
    • Prevents breakouts
    • Fades dark spots
    • Acts as a gentle exfoliant
    • Strengthens skin barrier
    • Antioxidant properties
    Cons
    • Strong scent

    Quick Tip:

    After cleansing your face, apply the toner using a cotton pad. Gently massage the product into the skin using upward strokes. For best results, follow with a SPF moisturizer.

  • Best Dermatologist-tested Pick

    COSRX The 6 Peptide Skin Booster Serum

    COSRX The 6 Peptide Skin Booster Serum
  • COSRX is a renowned skincare brand that has garnered a lot of positive reviews, owing to its unique formulations. Here we present to you a COSRX serum that is uniquely crafted with 6 peptides, all meant to promote healthy skin. This dermatologist-tested product provides a plethora of skincare benefits — it controls sebum production, smooths skin texture, improves skin tone, and keeps aging signs like fine lines at bay. Upon using the product for over a few weeks, our testers revealed that it makes skin soft and supple. 

    Users also feel the same — one user shared on Amazon, “I certainly recommend this product for people with red, sensitive skin. I use a prescription acne product overnight that dries my skin out, so when I wake up the next day and use this product (as well as numerous other COSRX products) my skin feels hydrated and revitalized! I've even just put this on my face in the mornings when I'm feeling lazy and it's done the trick. It gives you a healthy glow without being oily and dries down completely without feeling tacky or sticky on the skin. Your skin really just drinks it up. At least mine does! I feel this product is high quality without being overpriced, which is amazing. Overall this serum is really easy to use and easy to spread across the face and neck. 10/10, really do recommend!”

    Key Ingredients: 6 peptides, namely SH-Polypeptide-121, Copper Tripeptide-1, Dipeptide Diaminobutyroyl Benzylamide Diacetate, Oligopeptide-68, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-8, and Acetyl Hexapeptide-8:

    Skin Type: All

    Product Benefits: Collagen booster, brightening, plumping

    Size: 5.07 fl oz.

    Pros
    • Controls excess sebum production
    • Smoothes fine lines
    • Absorbs quickly
    • Lightweight texture
    • Sensitive-skin irritation tested
    • Non-sticky
    Cons
    • Might cause allergies in some people
  • Best Packaging

    Versed Weekend Glow Daily Brightening Toner

    Versed Weekend Glow Daily Brightening Toner
  • Among the best toners for hyperpigmentation, we have this splendid product from Versed that blends the power of vitamin C, bearberry extract, and different types of acids to revitalize your skin. First, it contains potent AHAs, namely lactic acid, glycolic acid, and kojic acid — which according to a study conducted by Cosmetics help prevent fine lines and wrinkles, mitigate dryness, facilitate skin cell turnover, stimulate collagen production, and treat hyperpigmentation.  

    Further, it is packed with vitamin C and bearberry extract – which team up together to improve skin texture. When used on a regular basis, it can help brighten the skin tone, making you look like a drop-dead gorgeous diva!

    Key Ingredients: Lactic acid, glycolic acid, azelaic acid, kojic acid, bearberry extract, and vitamin C

    Skin Type: Dry

    Product Benefits: Exfoliation 

    Size: 4 fl oz.

    Pros
    • pH-balanced formula
    • Anti-aging benefits
    • Brightens dull skin
    • Can be used on underarms and bikini lines
    • Gently exfoliates the skin
    • Cute packaging
    Cons
    • Doesn’t smell good
    • Might not be suitable for sensitive skin
  • Best to Soothe Skin Sensitivities

    Cetaphil Healthy Radiance Brightness Refresh Toner

    Cetaphil Healthy Radiance Brightness Refresh Toner
  • Just like all other products from this reputed brand, this one too, lives up to its expectations. Deemed as one of the best toners for hyperpigmentation for sensitive skin types, this product is loved by many for its gentle exfoliant properties. With a powerhouse pairing of niacinamide and glycerine, it not only fades dark spots but also moisturizes the skin. According to a study published in the National Library of Medicine, glycerin is a natural humectant that has proven efficacy in retaining moisture in the skin and keeping the signs of aging at bay, leading to soft, supple, and plumper-looking skin. Further, it contains citric acid to gently exfoliate the skin without disturbing its natural pH levels. 

    Upon testing this product, I found out that it has a lightweight texture and gets absorbed smoothly without making the skin feel greasy. Specifically formulated for people with sensitive skin types, this product is truly a boon for those looking to get an even-toned complexion without irritation. It is a dermatologist-tested formula and defends against 5 signs of skin sensitivity, which adds to the reasons you should add it to the cart now!

    Key Ingredients: Niacinamide, sea daffodil extract, and glycerin

    Skin Type: Sensitive

    Product Benefits: Hydrating and brightening 

    Size: 150 ml

    Pros
    • Hypoallergenic
    • Doesn’t contain fragrance and parabens
    • Dermatologist-tested
    • Gentle formula
    • Refreshes skin
    • Evens out skin tone
    Cons
    • Might not suit people prone to skin allergies
  • Best Vegan & Cruelty-free Product

    Aloderma Aloe Brightening Toner

    Aloderma Aloe Brightening Toner
  • This brightening toner from Aloderma is a one-stop solution for people dealing with redness, dryness, dullness, uneven skin tone, signs of aging, and hyperpigmentation. Wonder how? First things first, it contains 88% fresh organic aloe vera which according to research published in the Indian Journal of Dermatology, protects the skin against UV damage and calms dry skin. 

    Further, the product entails the goodness of hyaluronic acid and niacinamide that work wonderfully in boosting skin moisture, preventing the signs of aging, boosting collagen production, stopping wrinkling of the skin, and providing antioxidant effects to the skin. Crafted to nourish your skin without harming it, this is a meticulously created product without any nasties like parabens, SD alcohol, mineral oil, sulfates, and GMO hormones. Plus, its aromatic scent makes skin feel smell divine and fresh. One of the best toners for combination skin, this truly deserves a spot in your daily skincare routine!

    Key Ingredients: Aloe vera, olive leaf extract, amino acids, and niacinamide 

    Skin Type: All, combination, sensitive, dry, normal

    Product Benefits: Firming and brightening 

    Size: 4.2 oz

    Pros
    • Vegan & cruelty-free
    • Doesn't contain artificial scent
    • Tightens skin
    • Hydrating and brightening properties
    • Absorbs easily
    Cons
    • A few users didn't like the scent
  • Best for Skin Hydration

    Elizabeth Mott Hyaluronic Acid Toner

     Elizabeth Mott Hyaluronic Acid Toner
  • Be it cleansing away dirt and grime or protecting the skin from environmental aggressors — this Korean beauty toner from Elizabeth Mott does both, effortlessly. Featuring a blend of hyaluronic acid and Antoxyl-S (a Korean traditional plant fermentation), this product gives the skin the dose of hydration it needs while also removing dirt and impurities. 

    Our testers loved how smoothly it glides onto the skin without feeling sticky or greasy. After trialing this product, they found that it not only deep cleanses the skin but also unclogs pores, thereby boosting skin luminosity. 

    This toner leaves my face clean and very hydrated. I love the fact that it is not tested on animals. I have reordered several times and would highly recommend it.” says a user. 

    With all the goodness of skin-nourishing ingredients, this definitely is one of the best toners for hyperpigmentation that you can use in both summers and winters.

    Key Ingredients: Sodium hyaluronate, Antoxyl-S

    Skin Type: All

    Product Benefits: Deep cleansing, hydration 

    Size: 5.28 fl oz

    Pros
    • Doesn’t give an oily shine
    • Keeps skin hydrated
    • Smells good
    • Reduces the appearance of pores
    • Nourishing formula
    Cons
    • Slightly overpriced
  • Best for Fading Dark Spots

    Farmacy Brighten Up 3% TXA Toner

    Farmacy Brighten Up 3% TXA Toner
  • This toner from Farmacy is a clinically proven product that claims to reduce dark spots in a week. It contains goodies like tranexamic acid, PHA, and azelaic acid — all of which are known to boost skin health.  As per a study conducted by Cosemtics, the usage of topical tranexamic acid is effective in treating melasma and sun-induced hyperpigmentation. Azelaic acid, on the other hand, has proven to be efficient in treating acne in adult females (study published in the NCBI).

    Last but definitely not least, PHAs, too exhibit promising anti-aging skin benefits, and according to a study published in the ResearchGate, they help improve the signs of aging while also providing moisturization and nourishment to the skin. With such potent ingredients, this formula helps fade dark spots and cleanse the skin gently while also strengthening the skin barrier. Crafted for all skin types, this would be a perfect addition to your skincare regimen and elevate your skin routine. 

    Key Ingredients: Azelaic acid, PHAs, and 3% TXA (tranexamic acid)

    Skin Type: All

    Product Benefits: Dark spot correction and hydration

    Size: 4 fl oz

    Pros
    • Antioxidant properties
    • Recyclable bottle
    • Clinically proven results
    • Improves skin complexion
    • Gently gets rid of buildup
    Cons
    • Takes time to see noticeable results

    Now that you’ve seen our product recommendations for the best toners for hyperpigmentation, it's time to go through the buying guide so that you can pick the right product. After all, amidst all the best-selling products with so many beneficial properties, it can be hard to make an informed decision. Below are some pointers that would help you get the best toner for hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone.

    How to Choose the Best Toner for Hyperpigmentation?

    1. Assess Your Skin Type

    Before buying any skincare product, it's important to understand your skin type before making the purchase. If you have dry skin, look for a hydrating toner that can infuse moisture into your skin. On the other hand, people with sensitive skin should look for hypoallergenic products. If you break out easily and have oily skin, go for non-comedogenic and lightweight products. 

    2. Address Your Skin Concern

    Apart from hyperpigmentation, there are several skin woes that people tackle every day. Buying a toner that caters to all or a majority of your skincare problems can help you minimalize your routine as well as cast less burden on your pocket. For instance, if dehydrated skin is bothering you, then look for a toner with moisturizing properties. Elizabeth Mott Hyaluronic Acid Toner is an ideal pick for those with extremely dry skin. Similarly, if inflammation is something that’s wreaking havoc on your skin, then you can go for Good Molecules Niacinamide Brightening Toner

    3. Check the Ingredients

    Practicing minimalist skincare can be the key to solving the problem of hyperpigmentation. When buying toner for hyperpigmentation, it's important to steer clear of formulas containing parabens, alcohol, artificial scents, etc. as these can harm your skin. Choose lean and gentle formulations with natural ingredients that don’t strip your skin of its natural oils and disturb your skin’s natural microbiome.

    Conclusion

    The best toners for hyperpigmentation can help you fade dark spots, correct the visible signs of aging, and even boost skin moisturization. Make sure to use the toner as advised to reap all of its benefits. Don’t skip the other necessary steps – cleansing, moisturizing, and using sunscreen to keep your skin healthy and radiant. When buying a toner to treat the signs of hyperpigmentation, always consider factors like your skin type, concern, and ingredients — that will help you pick the right product and improve the overall; quality of your skin. Happy shopping! You can even take the help of a dermatologist to understand your skin type and concern and choose a product accordingly.

    FAQ's

    How to use a toner for hyperpigmentation?
    Use it after cleansing your face and follow with a moisturizer and sunscreen.
    How long does a toner for hyperpigmentation take to show results?
    That varies from product to product — ideally, it takes around four to six weeks to see noticeable results.
    Do toners for hyperpigmentation lead to irritation?
    Ideally, they don’t. However make sure to use toners packed with gentle ingredients and avoid using products packed with parabens, sulfates, alcohol, and artificial scents. Also, do a patch test to confirm if it suits your skin or not.

    Why Trust Pinkvilla

    Anoushka, our skincare expert, knows that dealing with the signs of hyperpigmentation can be challenging. She suggests using toners specifically formulated to ease the signs of this condition to boost skin radiance. After trying and testing various products, she created this list of the best toners for hyperpigmentation. All these products have potent formulations that work effectively in fading dark spots, evening out skin tone, and improving skin tone and texture. These products have nourishing properties and are loved by users all around the world. 

    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