Recommended Formula Types for Toners
For optimal skin health and efficacy, toners should contain hydrating ingredients like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and aloe vera, while avoiding alcohol-based formulations that can cause dryness and irritation. 1
Key Ingredients for Effective Toners
Recommended Ingredients
Hydrating components:
- Glycerin
- Hyaluronic acid
- Aloe vera
- Panthenol (Vitamin B5)
Beneficial active ingredients:
- Niacinamide (5-10%)
- Tea tree oil (in small concentrations)
- Salicylic acid (1-2%) for acne-prone skin
Ingredients to Avoid
- Alcohol-based formulations (drying and irritating)
- High concentrations of fragrance components (potential allergens)
- Harsh surfactants
Formulation Types Based on Skin Concerns
For Normal to Dry Skin
- Hydrating toner formulations with glycerin and hyaluronic acid
- pH-balanced (4.5-5.5) to maintain skin's natural acid mantle
For Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
- Oil-free, non-comedogenic formulations 1
- Formulas containing salicylic acid or glycolic acid
- Example: Products with 10% glycolic acid can provide anti-acne and anti-aging benefits 2
For Sensitive Skin
- Fragrance-free formulations (caution: some "fragrance-free" products may still contain botanical extracts that can cause sensitivity) 3
- Hypoallergenic formulations with minimal ingredients
- Anti-inflammatory ingredients like niacinamide and aloe vera 1
Application Guidelines
- Apply toner after cleansing and before moisturizer
- Follow with moisturizer to lock in hydration
- When using toners with exfoliating acids (AHAs like glycolic acid), apply sunscreen daily as these ingredients increase sun sensitivity 1
- For glycolic acid toners, reduce application frequency if bothersome dryness or peeling occurs 2
Special Considerations
Chemical Exfoliant Toners
- AHA toners (glycolic acid) provide gentle chemical exfoliation
- BHA toners (salicylic acid) are beneficial for acne-prone skin
- Caution: For external use only, avoid eye area 2, 4
Hypoallergenic Claims
- The term "hypoallergenic" implies the product may be less likely to cause allergic reactions, but there is no federal regulatory definition of this term 5
- Products labeled as "fragrance-free" may still contain plant extracts that are potential sensitizers 3
Formulation Quality
- Non-comedogenic formulations are preferable to prevent pore clogging 6
- pH-balanced formulations (slightly acidic, pH 4.5-5.5) help maintain the skin's natural protective barrier 1
When selecting a toner, consider your specific skin concerns and avoid products with potentially irritating ingredients. For those with sensitive skin, perform a patch test before applying to the entire face, as even products labeled "hypoallergenic" or "fragrance-free" may contain ingredients that could cause reactions in some individuals.