Best Toners for Men: Top 5 Picks for Balanced, Healthy-Looking Skin (2024)

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You want the best toners for men to balance and nourish your skin.

Top picks include Brickell’s Balancing Face Toner, Baxter of California’s Herbal Mint Toner, and Thayers’ Rose Petal Witch Hazel Toner.

Toners prevent pimples, control oil, hydrate dryness, and suit sensitive complexions.

Using one daily after cleansing enhances your skincare routine.

Consider your skin type and problem areas when choosing – oily skin benefits from oil-absorbing formulas, while dry types need hydrating ingredients.

The right toner for your unique needs promotes a healthy, revitalized appearance.

Top 5 Toners for Men

You’re on the lookout for the best toners to incorporate into your grooming routine, and we’ve got your back.

Our top 5 picks for men include the Brickell Men’s Balancing Face Toner, Baxter of California Herbal Mint Toner, Thayers Rose Petal Witch Hazel Toner, Lavo Glycolic Acid Toner 10 Percent, and Vitamin C Face Toner Brightening Balancing.

Each one offers unique benefits to cater to different skin types and concerns.

1. Brickell Mens Balancing Face Toner

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Brickell’s Balancing Toner is a top-performing product for men who want to balance their skin’s pH, reduce excess oil, and minimize pores**.

This alcohol-free toner is formulated with natural ingredients like cucumber extract, witch hazel, and peppermint, which work together to soothe, cleanse, and hydrate the skin.

The toner is suitable for normal to oily and combination skin types, making it a versatile choice for men with varying skin concerns.

It can be used daily as part of a morning skincare routine or as a mid-day refresher to reduce shine and perk up dull skin.

Additionally, the toner contains antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and eliminate redness, making it a great option for those with acne-prone skin.

Best For: Men with normal to oily and blemish-prone skin seeking to balance their skin’s pH and minimize pores.

2. Baxter of California Herbal Mint Toner

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Baxter of California Herbal Mint Toner is a must-try for men who want a revitalizing and effective toner.

This toner is packed with herbal extracts and a cooling mint scent, making it ideal for those who want a toner that leaves their skin feeling clean and energized.

It’s designed to balance the skin and remove impurities, leaving your skin feeling softer and more radiant.

With its gentle formula, it’s suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.

Plus, it’s reasonably priced, making it a great addition to any skincare routine.

Best For: Men who want a revitalizing and effective toner.

3. Thayers Rose Petal Witch Hazel Toner

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Imagine your skin as a garden that needs just the right harmony of care to blossom.

Thayers Rose Petal Witch Hazel Toner is like a gentle shower, offering your skin the nourishment it yearns for without overwhelming it with abrasive ingredients. This alcohol-free concoction, infused with certified organic Witch Hazel and Aloe Vera, is a valiant protector for your face, diminishing pores and balancing oil production with a chivalrous grace.

Its 98% naturally derived components are a symbol of its purity, making it a steadfast ally in your daily skincare quest. Furthermore, the rose petals aren’t merely decorative; they diligently work to refine pores and preserve moisture, while their inherent Vitamin C content aids in fortifying your skin’s defenses against the imperfections that dare to challenge your complexion.

Therefore, bestow upon your skin the regal treatment it deserves and observe it reward you with a reign of clarity and equilibrium.

Best For: Those seeking a gentle, natural toner to soothe, hydrate, and balance their skin.

4. Lavo Glycolic Acid Toner 10 Percent

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Lavo Glycolic Acid Toner 10% is a highly effective facial astringent designed for oily, problem, and acne-prone skin. This toner contains 10% glycolic acid, an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that exfoliates dead skin cells, reduces sun damage, and minimizes the appearance of fine lines. Additionally, it includes lactic acid and vitamin C, which work together to brighten the skin and even out skin tone.

The toner is suitable for both men and women and is backed by a lifetime satisfaction guarantee, ensuring that users are completely satisfied with their purchase. It’s also free from animal testing and parabens, making it a cruelty-free and eco-friendly choice.

To use the Lavo Glycolic Acid Toner 10%, apply it to a cotton pad or your fingertips after washing your face or shaving. Gently massage it onto your face, focusing on problem areas, and allow it to absorb for 15-30 seconds before applying your serums and moisturizer. This toner is an excellent addition to your skincare routine, as it prepares your skin for better absorption of other products and helps maintain a clear, healthy complexion.

Best For: Oily, problem, and acne-prone skin types.

5. Vitamin C Face Toner Brightening Balancing

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Up next, let’s delve into the realm of Vitamin C Face Toner Brightening Balancing.

This toner is a transformative agent for men seeking to enhance and equalize their skin complexion.

Infused with Vitamin C, this toner performs wonders in counteracting free radicals and diminishing the visibility of fine lines and wrinkles.

It’s gentle enough for delicate skin and can be applied daily or as instructed.

Moreover, it has received the endorsement of dermatologists, assuring its efficacy.

If you’re seeking a toner that prioritizes balance and a radiant appearance, this one is tailored specifically for you.

Best For: Men seeking to enhance and equalize their skin complexion.

Benefits of Using a Toner

Toners play a vital role in maintaining balanced, healthy-looking skin by addressing specific concerns. They prevent pimples, control oily shine, hydrate dry patches, and are gentle enough for sensitive skin types, ultimately boosting the efficacy of your entire skincare routine.

Prevents Pimples

Toners for men can prevent pimples and breakouts by targeting ingrown hairs, cleansing pores, and reducing inflammation. Look for toners with salicylic acid, antioxidants, and ingredients like witch hazel and willowbark extract. These toners can be used before or after shaving and are suitable for all skin types, including those with beards.

Controls Oily Skin

If you’re seeking a toner that can aid in regulating oily skin, there are numerous alternatives available. A widely chosen option is the Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant, which is appropriate for bearded individuals and recommended by dermatologists. Another possibility is the La Roche-Posay Effaclar Clarifying Solution Acne Toner, which contains both salicylic acid and glycolic acid to unclog pores and control oil.

For individuals with delicate skin, the Kiehl’s Toner with the mildest composition is a soothing choice that provides a mild astringent effect, fueled by cucumber extract and allantoin. The Horace Toner is likewise appropriate for all skin types, including sensitive skin, and is composed of 99% naturally occurring ingredients.

When selecting a toner for oily skin, seek out ingredients such as salicylic acid, glycolic acid, witch hazel, and willowbark extract. These ingredients can assist in controlling excess oil, preventing breakouts, and balancing the skin’s pH levels. Additionally, consider natural ingredients like aloe vera and chamomile for soothing effects.

Remember to use your toner gently after cleansing your face or shaving, either by using pre-soaked pads or cotton balls or by misting it on if the product is in a spray bottle. Apply daily or as instructed and follow up with additional skincare products such as serums and moisturizers for the best possible results.

Hydrates Dry Skin

Ditch the desert face; toners packed with aloe, hyaluronic acid, and cucumber distillate turn your skin oasis. They’re not just for show—tackling beards, ingrown hairs, discoloration, acne scars, and wrinkles with a swish and flick.

Suitable for Sensitive Skin

If you have sensitive skin, finding the right toner can be a challenge. You want something that will calm and balance your skin without causing irritation or inflammation. That’s where toners like Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant come in. This toner is dermatologist-recommended and suitable for men with beards. It contains willowbark extract, which reduces sebum production and neutralizes bacteria, making it an excellent choice for those prone to breakouts.

For those looking for a more natural option, herbal extracts can be a great choice. For example, the Ceylon Facial Toner contains bamboo extract, vitamin C, and caffeine, which brightens and evens skin tone. This toner is dermatologist-approved and suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.

When selecting a toner for sensitive skin, it’s imperative to take into account the ingredients. Look for options that are free of alcohol, as it can be drying and disrupt the skin’s barrier function. Also, consider toners that contain hyaluronic acid, which aids in locking in moisture, and chamomile flower extract, which is renowned for its soothing qualities.

Enhances Skincare Routine

Enhance your skincare routine with a toner that suits your skin type.

Toners can help prevent pimples, control oily skin, hydrate dry skin, and even enhance the effectiveness of other skincare products.

Look for toners with ingredients like vitamin C, glycolic acid, or witch hazel.

Apply them gently after washing your face or shaving.

Remember to think about factors like skin type and specific needs when choosing a toner.

How to Use a Toner

You’ll want to apply your toner after cleansing your face or shaving. Use either a pre-soaked cotton pad or mist the toner directly onto your skin, then gently pat or sweep it across your face—no harsh rubbing necessary.

After Washing Face or Shaving

After washing your face or shaving, it’s time to apply toner.

This step is essential for men with beards, as it helps maintain healthy skin beneath the facial hair.

For those with sensitive skin, a mild toner is suggested.

Exfoliating toners, like the Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant, are suitable for men with beards.

While brightening toners, such as the Ceylon Facial Toner, can even out skin tone.

Pre-soaked Pads or Cotton Balls

Pre-soaked pads or cotton balls are commonly used for applying toner due to their convenience and ease of use. Here are some key points to keep in mind when using pre-soaked pads for toner application:

• Environmental Impact: Pre-soaked pads can negatively impact the environment, particularly if they aren’t disposed of properly. They may decompose slowly in landfills, releasing methane, a potent greenhouse gas. Improper disposal can lead to litter, which can affect wildlife and natural landscapes.
• Cotton Balls Alternatives: Reusable pads are a more sustainable option than cotton balls, as they can be washed and reused multiple times. This reduces the environmental impact of disposable cotton pads.
• Travel Convenience: Pre-soaked pads are a great option for travel, as they’re easy to pack and can be used on the go. They can be left on the face like a sheet mask, making them a convenient addition to any skincare routine.

When choosing pre-soaked pads for toner application, take into account the following factors:

• Ingredients: Look for pads that are free from harsh chemicals and toxins, such as pesticide residues, which can be harmful to your skin and the environment.
• Sustainability: Opt for pads that are made from eco-friendly materials, such as bamboo or cotton grown with less water and pesticides, to reduce the environmental impact of your skincare routine.
• Cotton Quality: Choose high-quality cotton pads that are soft and gentle on your skin, ensuring that you get the most out of your toner without causing irritation or damage.

Mist on if Product is in a Spray Bottle

After dabbing with pre-soaked pads, consider the spray bottle’s convenience for toner application. A quick mist can evenly coat your skin, enhancing product absorption. Plus, storing your toner in the fridge adds an invigorating boost to your routine.

Use Toner Gently

Use toner gently as part of your toning routine to refresh your skin post-shave or as part of your daily skincare. Be gentle to avoid irritation and make sure your skin looks balanced and healthy.

Daily or as Directed

Toners are an essential part of a well-rounded skincare routine, and they can be used daily or as directed depending on your skin type and the specific toner you choose. Here’s a breakdown of how to use a toner effectively:

1. Clean skin: Always apply toner to clean skin to guarantee the best results. Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and pat it dry with a clean towel before toner application.
2. Consistency: Use toner twice a day, specifically in the morning and evening, to maintain a balanced skin pH and prepare your skin for other products.
3. Frequency: For acid toners, which contain AHAs like glycolic acid and BHAs like salicylic acid, use them three times a week at night to avoid irritation and redness.
4. Choosing the right toner: Select a toner based on your skin type and concerns. For oily skin, choose a toner with witch hazel, aloe, eucalyptus extract, and vitamins to maintain matte-ness and purify skin. For dry skin, opt for a toner infused with green tea extract, seed oil, and panthenol to restore dry skin and boost its moisture-retention functions. For acne-prone skin, look for a toner with salicylic acid and glycolic acid to clear pores and control oil. For sensitive skin, choose a toner that’s gentle and free from harsh ingredients, such as witch hazel and willowbark extract.
5. Application: Apply toner using a cotton pad or your fingertips, gently pressing it onto your skin. Allow the toner to absorb for 15-30 seconds before following with other skincare products.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Toner

To identify the ideal toner, you’ll want to take into account your skin type and specific issues. Oily and acne-susceptible skin will reap the benefits of toners containing components such as salicylic acid and witch hazel, whereas drier skin types should seek hydrating formulas with glycerin or hyaluronic acid.

Skin Type

When selecting a toner for your skin type, it’s pertinent to delve into the particular requirements of your skin. For men with beards, a toner appropriate for sensitive skin is suggested. Following shaving, toners can facilitate the reduction of redness and irritation, and those infused with aloe vera can assuage the skin. If you’re afflicted by ingrown hairs, toners containing salicylic acid can assist in unclogging pores and regulating oil production. For dry skin, hydrating toners with components such as glycerin and meadowseed oil can impart additional moisture. For oily skin or skin prone to acne, toners with glycolic acid or other alpha hydroxy acids can aid in the removal of dead skin cells and diminish the visibility of dark spots.

Ingredients tailored to specific needs, such as vitamin C, can contribute to brightening the skin and harmonizing skin tone. Bamboo extract, caffeine, and witch hazel are also advantageous ingredients for enhancing radiance and evening out skin tone. When opting for a toner, take into account your skin type and the specific concerns you aim to alleviate. Dermatologist-endorsed toners, such as those aforementioned, can serve as an effective starting point for identifying a toner that aligns with your needs.

Ingredients for Specific Needs

When choosing a toner for specific skin concerns, consider the following ingredients:

• Salicylic acid: Ideal for oily skin or breakouts, as it exfoliates the skin and reduces inflammation.
• Witch hazel: Offers astringent and anti-inflammatory properties, making it suitable for acne-prone skin.
• Glycolic acid: Effective for exfoliating the skin and improving the appearance of enlarged pores, wrinkles, and fine lines.
• Aloe vera: Soothing for sensitive skin.
• Vitamin C: Brightens and evens skin tone.
• Benzoyl peroxide: Treats acne by killing bacteria and reducing inflammation.
• Centella asiatica: Supports skin barrier function and reduces inflammation.
• Tea tree extract: Antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory, helpful for acne-prone skin.
• Willow bark: Reduces sebum production and neutralizes bacteria.
• Vitamin B3: Improves skin barrier function and reduces inflammation.

When selecting a toner, consider your skin type and the specific concerns you want to address. For example, if you have oily skin, you may want to look for a toner with salicylic acid or witch hazel. If you have sensitive skin, you might prefer a toner with aloe vera or vitamin C. By choosing a toner with the right ingredients for your skin, you can enhance your skincare routine and achieve a more balanced, healthy-looking complexion.

How to Choose the Best Toner for Your Skin

Selecting the appropriate toner is essential for preserving a balanced, radiant complexion. Assess your skin type and concerns – oily, dry, prone to breakouts, or sensitive – and choose a toner that contains ingredients tailored to those specific requirements.

Oily Skin

Battling oily skin? Delve into the realm of toners crafted for shine control and oil regulation. Envision bidding farewell to enlarged pores and blackheads through the prowess of contenders such as Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant. Recruit alpha hydroxy acids and enlist La Roche-Posay Effaclar for a matte masterpiece. Your skin’s command center stands poised.

Dry Skin

If you have dry skin, selecting an appropriate toner can greatly enhance your skincare regimen. Dry skin often feels constricted, dehydrated, and lacks radiance. Toners designed for dry skin can alleviate these issues by providing hydration, soothing irritation, and safeguarding against environmental damage. Here are crucial factors to contemplate when choosing a toner for dry skin:

1. Hydration: Seek toners containing moisturizing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, aloe, and select hydroxy acids, particularly gentle polyhydroxy acids (PHAs) such as gluconolactone. These elements facilitate moisture absorption into the skin’s outermost layer, enhancing hydration levels deep within the intercellular matrix.

2. pH Balance: A toner should preserve the skin’s natural pH balance without depleting its inherent moisture barrier. This is critical for dry skin, which is more vulnerable to dehydration.

3. Antioxidant Protection: Ingredients abundant in antioxidants, like fruit extracts and vitamin C, can shield the skin from environmental damage and promote anti-aging.

4. Skin Replenishment: Toners containing elements like black raspberry seed oil and blackberry seed oil provide ample omega 3, 6, and 9 fatty acids, which enhance skin moisture and reduce trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL).

5. Sensitive Skin: For those with sensitive skin, opt for toners devoid of fragrances, parabens, and sulfates to minimize potential irritation.

Some highly regarded toners for dry skin include:

• PCA Skin Hydrating Toner: This toner is fragrance-free, paraben-free, and sulfate-free, containing watermelon, apple, and lentil fruit extracts, which bolster moisture retention and support the skin’s natural moisture complex.

• Renée Rouleau Moisture Infusion Toner: This toner is alcohol-free and contains essential vitamins and omega 3, 6, and 9, which promptly calm and alleviate signs of redness, rosacea, and irritation while leaving a smooth layer of hydration to elevate moisture levels deep within the intercellular matrix.

• Kiehl’s Cucumber Herbal Alcohol-Free Toner: This toner is suitable for dry and sensitive skin types and contains cucumber extract and allantoin, which help balance parched areas to promote softer-feeling skin.

Acne-Prone Skin

If you have acne-prone skin, you know the struggle of dealing with pesky breakouts. But don’t worry, there’s a solution that can help you achieve clearer, healthier-looking skin: toners. These skincare essentials are packed with ingredients like salicylic acid, witch hazel, and malic acid, which can help exfoliate, unclog pores, and control oil production.

When it comes to choosing the best toner for your acne-prone skin, there are a few key factors to think about. First, look for toners that contain salicylic acid, a beta hydroxy acid that penetrates deep into pores to dissolve excess oil and dead skin cells, reducing the risk of clogged pores and breakouts. Witch hazel is another great ingredient to look for, as it helps refine pores and reduce inflammation, which can also contribute to acne.

Additionally, consider toners that contain malic acid, a fruit-derived alpha hydroxy acid that gently exfoliates and brightens the skin, or sulfur-derived MSM, which helps to reduce inflammation and improve skin texture. Bacillus ferment (keratoline) is another ingredient that can be beneficial for acne-prone skin, as it helps to regulate sebum production and maintain a healthy skin barrier.

Remember to avoid toners that contain animal-derived ingredients or harsh astringents, which can irritate your skin and potentially worsen acne. And always patch test a new toner before adding it into your skincare routine to make sure it’s suitable for your skin.

Some top-rated toners for acne-prone skin include Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant, which contains salicylic acid and BHA to unclog pores and smooth wrinkles; La Roche-Posay Effaclar Clarifying Solution Acne Toner, which combines salicylic acid and glycolic acid to clear pores and control oil; and The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution, which is a potent formula that improves skin clarity while boosting radiance.

With the right toner and a consistent skincare routine, you’ll be on your way to achieving a clearer, more balanced complexion.

Sensitive Skin

When it comes to sensitive skin, choosing the right toner is crucial to avoid irritation and inflammation. Here are four key points to consider when selecting a toner for sensitive skin:

1. Avoid alcohol: Alcohol can be drying and may irritate sensitive skin, leading to redness or irritation. Look for alcohol-free toners to minimize the risk of irritation.
2. Choose soothing ingredients: Ingredients like rose water, aloe vera, and hyaluronic acid can help soothe and hydrate sensitive skin, balancing its pH level and maintaining its natural moisture.
3. Opt for hypoallergenic formulations: Avoid toners with fragrances, synthetic or natural extracts, and essential oils, as these can lead to allergic reactions or sensitivities in some people.
4. Consider toner frequency and storage: Apply toner gently and avoid overuse, as excessive application can disrupt your skin’s natural balance. Store your toner in a cool, dry place to maintain its effectiveness and prevent spoilage.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)