9 Best Toners For Acne – How to Take Care for Acne Prone Skin

Acne is a common skin concern that affects millions of people worldwide. It can be frustrating and challenging to manage, but the right skincare routine can make all the difference. Among the various skincare steps, toners play an essential role in maintaining clear, healthy skin. Specifically, a toner for acne-prone skin can help balance your skin’s oil production, unclog pores, and reduce inflammation, preventing acne from forming.

Toners are liquid skincare products that are typically applied after cleansing but before moisturizing. They are designed to restore the skin’s pH balance, remove any remaining impurities, and add a layer of hydration. For those with acne-prone skin, toners also contain key ingredients like salicylic acid, witch hazel, or glycolic acid, which help gently exfoliate and eliminate dead skin cells, thus preventing clogged pores.

When you’re in the market for the best toner for acne-prone skin, it’s crucial to look for products that suit your specific skin type while addressing your acne concerns. You’ll want to consider factors such as the active ingredients, their concentration, and gentleness on your skin. Additionally, try to avoid products containing alcohol, fragrances, or other irritants that might exacerbate your acne or cause further irritation.

To help you find the perfect toner that meets your needs, we’ve spent countless hours researching and testing various toners for acne, ensuring they contain effective ingredients and are gentle on your skin. Join us as we dive into the top contenders that can efficiently prevent and treat your acne while keeping your skin healthy and balanced.

Best Toners for Acne

We have gathered our top picks of the best toners for acne that can help you achieve clearer and healthier skin. Check out the list below for our recommendations.

La Roche-Posay Effaclar Clarifying Solution Acne Toner

The La Roche-Posay Effaclar Clarifying Solution Acne Toner is an effective and gentle option for those struggling with acne-prone, oily skin.

Pros

• Gentle formula
• Contains salicylic acid and glycolic acid
• Pore refining

Cons

• May not be suitable for very sensitive skin
• Can be somewhat drying
• Results may take some time

We recently started using this La Roche-Posay toner and have noticed a significant change in our skin. The product contains salicylic acid and glycolic acid, which work together to unclog pores and remove dead skin cells. This gentle formula has been great for our oily, acne-prone skin and has helped in refining the appearance of our pores.

Despite its gentleness, we do caution those with very sensitive skin, as it may cause some irritation or redness. It’s essential to follow up the toner with a hydrating moisturizer, as the product can be somewhat drying. Like most skincare products, patience is key, and it may take a bit of time before you start seeing noticeable improvements in your skin.

Overall, the La Roche-Posay Effaclar Clarifying Solution Acne Toner has become an integral part of our skincare routine. It does a great job eliminating excess oil and keeping breakouts under control. We recommend giving it a shot if you struggle with oily, acne-prone skin and need a gentle but effective solution.

Peach Slices Acne Exfoliating Toner

This toner is definitely worth considering for those looking to tackle acne with a gentle yet efficient product.

Pros

• Effectively clears and prevents breakouts
• Clarifies and refines pores
• Suitable for all skin types

Cons

• No instant magic, takes time to see results
• May be less effective on severe acne
• Some might prefer a different scent

We recently tried the Peach Slices Acne Exfoliating Toner, and it’s an impressive treatment for acne-prone skin. With its 2% salicylic acid formula, it helps to clear and prevent breakouts gently. It’s suitable for all skin types, and it doesn’t strip the skin of its natural oils. Instead, it leaves the skin feeling hydrated and nourished.

The formula contains glycolic acid and lactic acid to clarify stubborn pores, while cica and allantoin help soothe and reduce signs of redness. Moreover, the antioxidant-rich acerola and refreshing cucumber help to create a balanced and calming experience for the skin.

However, it’s essential to note that while this toner does work well for many people, don’t expect immediate magical results. It can take some time to see the full impact, and individuals with severe acne might need a stronger formula. Additionally, some users may prefer a different scent, although that’s a matter of personal preference.

Overall, the Peach Slices Acne Exfoliating Toner has been effective in our skincare routine, yielding positive results over time. If you’re looking for a gentle yet efficient acne toner, this could be a great choice for you. Give it a try and find out for yourself if this is the right product to help you achieve clear, smooth, and calm skin.

Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Stress Control Triple-Action Toner

The Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Stress Control Triple-Action Toner is a must-have for anyone with acne-prone skin, as it effectively treats and prevents breakouts while soothing the skin.

Pros

• Effectively treats and prevents acne
• Eliminates oil and shine
• Contains soothing green tea and cucumber extracts

Cons

• May cause stinging upon application to open pimples
• Possible drying or peeling for sensitive skin
• Discontinued by the manufacturer, only available while stocks last

We recently tried the Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Stress Control Triple-Action Toner and found it to be extremely effective in dealing with our acne-prone skin. The formula, which contains salicylic acid, not only treats existing breakouts but also helps prevent new ones from forming. Its MicroClear technology ensures that the acne-fighting ingredients penetrate deep into the pores to clear away dirt, oil, and impurities.

What sets this toner apart from others on the market is its inclusion of soothing green tea and cucumber extracts. These natural ingredients help to calm redness and irritation on our skin, ensuring that it remains soft and comfortable during the treatment process. This toner also does an excellent job at eliminating oil and shine, leaving our skin with a matte, refreshed appearance.

However, we did notice some minor drawbacks to using this toner. When applied to an open or popped pimple, it can cause a stinging sensation. Additionally, for those with sensitive skin, it may cause excessive dryness or peeling. It’s important to start with one application per day and gradually increase to two or three times if needed, as per the instructions, to minimize these adverse effects. Finally, considering the toner has been discontinued by the manufacturer, it may become increasingly difficult to find in the future.

In conclusion, the Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Stress Control Triple-Action Toner is an excellent product for those dealing with acne-prone skin. The combination of effective acne-fighting ingredients and soothing natural extracts makes it a great addition to any skincare routine. Just be aware of the potential for stinging and dryness, and be prepared to search for alternatives once stocks run out.

DIME Beauty Super Skin Toner

We strongly recommend DIME Beauty Super Skin Toner for those looking to manage acne and improve overall skin health, due to its nourishing ingredients and skin-enhancing benefits.

Pros

• Effective at improving skin tone and reducing large pores
• Packed with skin-friendly nutrients, vegan and cruelty-free
• Contains clean ingredients and has a safe Environmental-Working-Group rating

Cons

• May cause skin irritation for some individuals
• Results and effectiveness may vary depending on the skin type
• Free shipping may only apply if multiple DIME products are purchased

DIME Beauty’s Super Skin Toner is designed to address uneven skin and large pores. It is packed with CoQ10, which helps protect the skin from free radicals and outside factors while simultaneously tightening and brightening. We have found that our skin looked healthier and more radiant after incorporating this toner into our routine.

This facial toner is suitable for all skin types and features a variety of beneficial ingredients, including witch hazel, hyaluronic acid, blood orange, chamomile, sage, aloe vera, and cucumber extracts. These ingredients provide nutrients to support skin’s energy production and maintain a healthy pH balance. The vegan and cruelty-free formula adds to the appeal of this product, making it an ethical choice for anyone looking to improve their skin health.

However, it is important to note that the Super Skin Toner may cause some irritation or acne for certain individuals, and results may vary depending on your specific skin type. While this product has many positive aspects, we recommend patch testing before fully incorporating it into your skincare routine. Overall, DIME Beauty Super Skin Toner is an excellent option for those struggling with acne and looking for a clean, nourishing product that can improve their skin’s appearance.

DearKlairs Supple Preparation Unscented Toner

We highly recommend this toner for those with acne-prone skin due to its gentle, non-irritating formula.

Pros

• Essential oil-free and alcohol-free
• Rejuvenates and restores the skin
• Balances skin’s pH level

Cons

• New packaging may be confusing
• Unscented formula may not appeal to all
• May not suit very oily skin

After using the DearKlairs Supple Preparation Unscented Toner, we noticed it indeed lived up to its claims. The gentle, irritation-free formula helped soothe our sensitive, acne-prone skin without any harsh ingredients. This toner feels lightweight, and our skin absorbed it rapidly.

As it’s an essential oil-free and alcohol-free product, it reduces the risk of triggering acne or irritation for those with sensitive skin. We appreciate how it balances our skin’s pH level, preparing it for the further skincare routine steps. It definitely improved the effectiveness of our entire skincare regime.

However, we should mention that the DearKlairs recently changed the product’s packaging, which might be confusing for some customers. The unscented formula may also not be everyone’s favorite, especially if you’re a fan of fragrances in your skincare products. Additionally, the toner might not be ideal for those with very oily skin, as it may not provide adequate oil control.

Overall, we believe the DearKlairs Supple Preparation Unscented Toner is an excellent choice for individuals with acne-prone or sensitive skin seeking a gentle, non-irritating, and effective toner.

THAYERS Alcohol-Free, Hydrating Cucumber Witch Hazel Facial Toner

The THAYERS Cucumber Witch Hazel Toner is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to soothe and hydrate their acne-prone skin.

Pros

• Alcohol-free and gentle on the skin
• Infused with cucumber and aloe vera for added hydration
• Non-distilled witch hazel extract with therapeutic tannins

Cons

• Some users may experience initial redness
• May not be suitable for extremely sensitive skin
• The cucumber scent might be overpowering for some

We recently tried THAYERS Alcohol-Free, Hydrating Cucumber Witch Hazel Facial Toner, and we must say it left our skin feeling cool, refreshed, and hydrated. The witch hazel extract, combined with the soothing essence of cucumber and aloe vera, works wonders for balancing the pH level of the skin. It helps reduce the appearance of pores while providing much-needed moisture.

What sets this toner apart from other witch hazel products is the unique formulation. THAYERS uses a non-distilled extract from the Witch Hazel shrub, which retains the highest levels of therapeutic tannins. These mild antioxidants help the skin look and feel its best. Plus, it’s dermatologist-tested and completely cruelty-free.

One thing to note is that some users with sensitive skin may experience an initial redness. However, this typically subsides quickly and reduces with prolonged use. If you have highly sensitive skin, it’s essential to patch test before incorporating it into your routine. We also noticed the cucumber scent might be a bit too strong for some users. That being said, we enjoyed the refreshing aroma during our testing process.

In conclusion, THAYERS Cucumber Witch Hazel Facial Toner is a beneficial addition to any skincare routine, especially for those battling acne and oily skin. Its gentle, alcohol-free formula and the infusion of cucumber and aloe vera make it effective in soothing the skin and maintaining a healthy balance.

Paula’s Choice Skin Balancing Pore-Reducing Toner

Get a refined and youthful skin appearance using this toner that effectively minimizes pores and combats acne.

Pros

• Minimizes large pores and reduces blackheads
• Enhances youthful appearance with antioxidants
• Ideal for oily, combination, and blemish-prone skin

Cons

• May take some time to show results
• Could feel drying for certain skin types
• Slightly expensive compared to other toners

Our recent experience with the Paula’s Choice Skin Balancing Pore-Reducing Toner has been quite impressive. Its unique formulation not only minimizes the appearance of pores but also enhances the overall youthful look of the skin. Oily and acne-prone skin types would especially benefit from using this toner in their daily routine.

The toner’s antioxidant properties effectively fight the signs of aging while helping to reduce blackheads and shrink pores. We appreciate that the formula is free from fragrance and parabens, making it suitable for sensitive skin. The hydrating ceramides in the product help to even out the skin tone, while making oily areas less noticeable.

On the downside, it might take a little while before noticing significant results with this toner. Also, it could feel slightly drying for some users, so it’s essential to follow up with a nourishing moisturizer. Lastly, the price point might be a bit high compared to other toners but considering its effective formulation, we believe it’s worth the investment.

Overall, the Paula’s Choice Skin Balancing Pore-Reducing Toner is an excellent choice for those seeking an effective solution for acne and visible pores. Its unique formula, comprising antioxidants and ceramides, makes it an ideal addition to your day or night skincare routine.

Murad Hydrating Toner

Achieve healthy, hydrated skin with this alcohol-free Murad Hydrating Toner mist that replenishes moisture effectively.

Pros

• Alcohol-free
• Replenishes moisture
• Pleasant fragrance

Cons

• May cause breakouts if overused
• Pricey for some budgets
• Not ideal for extremely sensitive skin

We recently tried the Murad Hydrating Toner and were impressed by its alcohol-free formula, which is a great plus for those with sensitive and dry skin. It comes in a convenient spray bottle, making it easy for us to apply the mist evenly.

The toner has a delightful scent that we really enjoyed, and it doesn’t feel overwhelming. When used properly, it didn’t cause any irritation or adverse reactions on our skin. However, we did notice that overusing the product might lead to breakouts, so be sure to follow the directions on the bottle and not overdo it.

As we incorporated the Murad Hydrating Toner into our skincare routine, we observed a noticeable improvement in our skin’s hydration levels. Our skin felt smoother and more moisturized without the greasy feeling some other products tend to leave behind. We also appreciate that it didn’t feel heavy once absorbed, and it worked well with our favorite moisturizers.

Although some might find the price a bit steep, we believe that the benefits of the Murad Hydrating Toner outweigh its cost. However, if you have extremely sensitive skin, you may want to perform a patch test before committing to regular use.

In conclusion, the Murad Hydrating Toner is a fantastic choice for those looking to replenish moisture in their skin while avoiding harsh ingredients. Just make sure to use it as directed for optimal results and pay attention to your skin’s reaction if you have any sensitivity concerns.

SOME BY MI AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Toner

The SOME BY MI Miracle Toner is an excellent option for acne-prone, sensitive skin, offering quick and effective results.

Pros

• High tea tree water content for quick skin improvement
• AHA/BHA/PHA & Papaya extract for effective exfoliation
• Suitable for acne-prone sensitive skin

Cons

• May require an adjustment period for visible results
• Neutral smell might not be appealing to everyone
• Can cause skin purging initially

The SOME BY MI Miracle Toner boasts a high concentration of tea tree water, which works effectively to improve troubled skin quickly and mildly. The best part of this toner is that it’s suitable for sensitive, acne-prone skin. With key ingredients like AHA, BHA, PHA, papaya extract, and witch hazel extract, it exfoliates and removes dead skin, leaving the skin feeling refreshed and clean. The Miracle Line has been specifically formulated to maintain a healthy-looking skin and prevent acne breakout through pH balance care.

After using the SOME BY MI Miracle Toner, we found our skin feeling smoother and more refined. As it takes some time for the skin to adjust to the product, we did experience some purging initially, but the overall results were worth it. It’s important to note that the smell of the toner is quite neutral, which might not be appealing to everyone, but the lack of added fragrance is a plus for sensitivity.

In conclusion, we highly recommend the SOME BY MI Miracle Toner for those struggling with sensitive, acne-prone skin. It may take some patience to see results, but the skincare benefits you will see are worth the wait. Just keep in mind that the adjustment period might cause some initial skin purging, and the neutral smell might not be for everyone.

Buying Guide

When looking for the best toner for acne, there are several factors to consider to ensure we choose the right product for our skin type and needs. In this buying guide, we’ll discuss key factors and features to look for to help us make an informed decision.

Ingredients

First and foremost, it’s essential to pay attention to the ingredients in the toner. We should avoid alcohol-based toners as they can be drying and potentially worsen acne. Instead, look for toners containing natural, gentle, and soothing ingredients like witch hazel, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, and tea tree oil. These help control excess oil, exfoliate dead skin cells, unclog pores, and reduce inflammation.

Skin Type

Understanding our skin type is vital in selecting the best toner for acne. Though toners can be beneficial for all skin types, some formulations may be more suitable for specific skin types:

• Oily skin: Opt for a toner with a mild astringent to control excess oil and prevent breakouts.
• Dry and sensitive skin: Seek a gentle and hydrating toner with soothing ingredients like chamomile and aloe vera.
• Combination skin: Select a toner that can balance both oily and dry areas without causing irritation or excess dryness.

Non-comedogenic

Non-comedogenic products are proven not to clog pores, which is essential in treating and preventing acne. Ensure the toner we choose is labeled non-comedogenic to minimize potential acne breakouts and keep our pores clear.

Alcohol-Free

As previously mentioned, alcohol-based toners can dry out the skin and worsen acne. It’s essential to select an alcohol-free toner to avoid any unnecessary irritation.

Additives and Fragrances

Be cautious of toners containing synthetic fragrances, parabens, or other potentially harmful additives, as these may cause irritation or allergic reactions. Instead, we should opt for a toner with minimal or all-natural additives.

By considering these factors, we can confidently choose the best toner for acne that will suit our skin type, address our specific concerns, and achieve healthier, clearer skin.