Skip to Content

Best Toners for Oily Skin: Top Picks to Banish Shine and Unclog Pores (2024)

This site is supported by our readers. We may earn a commission, at no cost to you, if you purchase through links.

best toners for oily skin

Imagine blotting your face mid-day, only to find a grease-free complexion!

We’ve curated the best toners for oily skin that banish shine and unclog pores.

These powerhouse formulas contain ingredients like salicylic acid and niacinamide to control oil production, minimize the appearance of pores, and leave you with a matte, fresh-faced glow.

Say goodbye to midday shine and hello to balanced, clarified skin.

Key Takeaways

  • Look for toners that contain ingredients like niacinamide, zinc, hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, or alpha hydroxy acids to control oil production, soothe irritation, and hydrate without weighing down skin.
  • Paula’s Choice Skin Balancing Pore-Reducing Toner is a game-changer for oily skin, with key ingredients like niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and chamomile to balance skin and reduce the appearance of pores.
  • Dickinson’s Original Witch Hazel Pore Perfecting Toner is a pore-refining toner that contains natural distilled witch hazel and natural grain alcohol to remove excess oil, dirt, and makeup residue without over-drying the skin.
  • Neutrogena Pore Refining Toner is a budget-friendly option that packs a punch with witch hazel, alpha hydroxy acids, and beta hydroxy acids, making it a triple threat against oily skin.

Best Toners for Oily Skin

Best Toners for Oily Skin
If you have oily skin, toners can help reduce shine, unclog pores, and balance your skin’s pH levels. Look for toners that contain ingredients like niacinamide, zinc, hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, or alpha hydroxy acids.

Paula’s Choice Skin Balancing Pore-Reducing Toner

Paula’s Choice Skin Balancing Pore-Reducing Toner is a game-changer for those with oily skin. This toner is packed with key ingredients that work together to balance your skin and reduce the appearance of pores.

  1. Niacinamide: This ingredient is a powerhouse for minimizing pores and promoting a more even skin tone.
  2. Hyaluronic Acid and Ceramides: These ingredients help restore your skin’s moisture barrier, providing light hydration and maintaining skin health.
  3. Chamomile and Burdock Root Extract: These soothing plant extracts help calm sensitive skin and provide antioxidant benefits.

    But it’s not just about the ingredients. This toner is also designed to be alcohol-free, making it gentle on your skin. It’s lightweight and suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.

    The benefits of using Paula’s Choice Skin Balancing Pore-Reducing Toner include:

    • Balances oily skin: The toner helps to reduce excess oil and unclog pores, making your skin look more balanced and matte.
    • Minimizes enlarged pores: Niacinamide and other ingredients work together to make pores less noticeable.
    • Provides light hydration: The toner hydrates your skin without leaving it feeling greasy, which is crucial for those with oily skin.

      To use this toner, apply it to a cotton pad and gently stroke it over your face and neck after cleansing. Don’t rinse it off, and follow with the rest of your skincare routine.

      In conclusion, Paula’s Choice Skin Balancing Pore-Reducing Toner is a must-have for anyone with oily skin. It’s a drugstore option that delivers results, and its key ingredients work together to balance your skin and reduce the appearance of pores.

Dickinson’s Original Witch Hazel Pore Perfecting Toner

Dickinson’s Original Witch Hazel Pore Perfecting Toner is a pore-refining toner that’s perfect for oily skin.

It contains natural distilled witch hazel and natural grain alcohol, which help to remove excess oil, dirt, and makeup residue without over-drying the skin.

The toner is gentle and non-irritating, making it suitable for sensitive skin as well.

It also contains no added fragrance or dyes, making it a great choice for those who prefer natural ingredients.

The toner is dermatologist-recommended and can be used daily after cleansing or before applying skin treatments.

It’s available in a 16 oz. bottle and is priced at $16.00.

Neutrogena Pore Refining Toner

After diving into the gentle world of Dickinson’s Witch Hazel, let’s switch gears to Neutrogena’s Pore Refining Toner.

This budget-friendly hero packs a punch with Witch Hazel, Alpha Hydroxy Acids, and Beta Hydroxy Acids, making it a triple threat against oily skin.

It’s hypoallergenic, ensuring your skin feels liberated without the sting.

Say goodbye to shine and hello to refined pores!

Renée Rouleau Elderberry Soothing Toner

Renée Rouleau Elderberry Soothing Toner is a must-try for those with oily skin seeking antioxidant protection and hydration balance.

This toner boasts a soothing formula that reduces redness and inflammation, making it an excellent choice for sensitive skin.

Key ingredients like elderberry fruit extract, sodium PCA, and sorbitol-biosaccharide gum-1 work together to combat excess sebum and acne.

Aloe vera and lactic acid provide gentle exfoliation.

With zinc to minimize oil production and aloe vera to soothe irritation, this toner is a well-rounded solution for oily skin.

Mario Badescu Glycolic Acid Toner

Mario Badescu Glycolic Acid TonerView On Amazon
The Mario Badescu Glycolic Acid Toner is a popular choice for those seeking a toner that provides a clean, radiant feel and helps prepare the skin for other skincare products. This toner is formulated with glycolic acid, a powerful alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that helps rejuvenate the skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Additionally, the toner contains grapefruit extract and aloe vera, which work together to soothe the skin and provide a dewy, hydrated appearance.

Key Features and Benefits

  • Exfoliating and resurfacing: The glycolic acid in the toner helps to exfoliate the skin, removing dead cells and promoting cell turnover for a smoother, more even complexion.
  • Reduces the appearance of fine lines and uneven skin tone: Glycolic acid is known for its ability to diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, while also evening out skin tone.
  • Soothes and hydrates: The inclusion of aloe vera in the formula helps to soothe the skin and provide hydration, leaving it feeling refreshed and nourished.
  • Suitable for aging skin: The toner is designed to help restore skin to its former brightness by fading the look of dark spots, making it an excellent choice for those with aging skin.
  • Helps reduce discoloration from old acne scars: The toner’s exfoliating properties can help reduce the appearance of old acne scars, revealing a more even skin tone.

How to Use

To use the Mario Badescu Glycolic Acid Toner, follow these steps:

  1. Cleanse your face with a gentle cleanser.
  2. Apply the toner to a cotton ball or pad.
  3. Wipe it over your face in sweeping, outward motions.
  4. Avoid the eye area.
  5. Allow the toner to dry before applying other skincare products.

Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Exfoliating and resurfacing properties
  • Reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
  • Soothes and hydrates the skin
  • Suitable for aging skin
  • Helps reduce discoloration from old acne scars
Cons
  • May cause tingling upon first use
  • Not suitable for all skin types
  • May dry out the skin if used too often
  • May cause irritation if used on open wounds Overall, the Mario Badescu Glycolic Acid Toner is a great choice for those with oily skin who are looking for a toner that can help unclog pores, balance moisture levels, and provide a matte finish. However, it’s essential to consider your skin type and any specific concerns or sensitivities before using this or any other toner.

Key Ingredients in Toners for Oily Skin

Key Ingredients in Toners for Oily Skin
When choosing a toner for oily skin, it’s important to look for ingredients that help control oil production, soothe irritation, and hydrate without weighing skin down. Some key ingredients to consider include niacinamide, zinc, hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, and alpha hydroxy acids.

Niacinamide

Niacinamide is a versatile ingredient that offers numerous benefits for oily skin.

  1. Reduces sebum production: Niacinamide helps regulate oil production, preventing excess sebum from clogging pores and causing blemishes.
  2. Minimizes pores: By reducing sebum production and inflammation, niacinamide can help minimize the appearance of pores, giving your skin a smoother texture.
  3. Soothing: Niacinamide has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe irritated skin and reduce redness associated with acne or other skin conditions.
  4. Antioxidant: As an antioxidant, niacinamide protects your skin from environmental stressors, such as pollution and UV radiation, which can contribute to skin aging.

    To incorporate niacinamide into your skincare routine, consider using a toner or serum specifically formulated with this ingredient. Look for concentrations between 1% and 10% to ensure effectiveness without causing irritation. Remember, as with any new skincare ingredient, it’s essential to patch test first and start with a low concentration to assess your skin’s tolerance.

Zinc

Zinc is a key ingredient in toners for oily skin, known for its detoxification properties. It helps balance sebum production, reducing excess oil and minimizing pores. Zinc also works synergistically with other ingredients like azelaic acid and kojic acid to further enhance the toner’s effectiveness. The best toners for oily skin often incorporate zinc, ensuring a clearer, more balanced complexion.

Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid is a key ingredient in toners for oily skin, offering numerous benefits.

It hydrates skin, balances moisture levels, and provides a matte finish.

Hyaluronic acid toners are suitable for all skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin.

They can be used to improve hydration and remove impurities, unclogging pores and reducing excess oil.

When combined with other ingredients like omega fatty acids and niacinamide, hyaluronic acid toners can create a comprehensive skincare routine, designed to enhance the overall appearance of the skin.

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera extracts are a popular ingredient in toners for oily skin due to their skin soothing and acne prevention properties.

They help reduce redness and provide moisture retention, making them an ideal addition to toners designed for oily skin.

To further enhance the benefits of aloe vera, some toners also incorporate other ingredients such as vitamin C, green tea, cucumber water, holy basil, and citric acid.

These ingredients work together to provide a comprehensive skincare routine for those with oily skin, addressing concerns such as excess oil production, acne prevention, and inflammation reduction.

Alpha Hydroxy Acids

Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA) are a key ingredient in toners for oily skin, offering numerous benefits.

AHA exfoliates skin, improving barrier function and revealing a smoother, more even complexion.

However, it’s essential to navigate the sensitivity and pH level considerations when using AHA.

AHA can cause dryness if not balanced with hydrating ingredients like glycerin or hyaluronic acid.

Benefits of Toners for Oily Skin

Benefits of Toners for Oily Skin
Toners for oily skin offer a range of benefits, including refreshing your skin and prepping it for other skincare products. They also help cleanse your skin, unclog pores, reduce their appearance, and tighten your skin.

Refreshes Skin

Toners for oily skin are designed to leave your skin feeling refreshed and revitalized.

They remove impurities and restore the skin’s balance, reducing redness and preparing it for a moisturizer.

AHAs like glycolic acid and sun sensitivity-protecting ingredients like vitamin E and hyaluronic acid are common in these toners.

Niacinamide toners also help minimize enlarged pores.

By using a toner, you’re not only cleansing your skin, but also enhancing its overall health and appearance.

Prepares Skin for Moisturizers and Treatments

Toners are the unsung heroes of skincare, preparing your skin for the next steps. They help control oil, refine pores, and balance hydration – setting the stage for your moisturizer and treatments to work their magic. Look for a lightweight, fragrance-free formula with niacinamide to keep your complexion shine-free and radiant.

Cleanses Skin and Unclogs Pores

Toners for oily skin are designed to cleanse and unclog pores, ensuring a clear complexion.

The best toners for oily skin contain ingredients such as niacinamide, chamomile, and burdock root extract to reduce oiliness and tighten pores. For example, Paula’s Choice Skin Balancing Pore-Reducing Toner incorporates these components.

Dickinson’s Original Witch Hazel Pore Perfecting Toner, with its key ingredient witch hazel, removes excess oil and balances skin.

Neutrogena Pore Refining Toner, with alpha hydroxy acid and beta hydroxy acid, minimizes pores and reduces breakouts.

Renée Rouleau Elderberry Soothing Toner, with elderberry fruit extract, combats excess oil and soothes sensitive skin.

Mario Badescu Glycolic Acid Toner, with glycolic acid, grapefruit extract, and aloe, brightens and balances skin, reducing pores and fine lines.

Reduces Appearance of Pores

Reducing the appearance of pores is a key benefit of toners for oily skin. Here are three ways toners help:

  1. Oil control: Toners can help reduce excess oil, which can make pores appear larger.
  2. Hydration balance: Toners can provide light hydration, which can help skin look more even and smooth.
  3. Exfoliation methods: Some toners contain alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), which can help unclog pores and reduce their appearance.

    For example, Paula’s Choice Skin Balancing Pore-Reducing Toner contains niacinamide, which is known to minimize enlarged pores.

Tightens Skin

Tightening your skin is another key benefit of using a toner for oily skin.

Look for toners with soothing ingredients like chamomile or burdock root extract.

Look for barrier-replenishing ingredients like ceramides.

Look for exfoliating agents like alpha hydroxy acids or glycolic acid.

Some toners even incorporate antioxidant properties and anti-inflammatory properties to further enhance their effects.

Paula’s Choice Skin Balancing Pore-Reducing Toner, for example, contains niacinamide and hyaluronic acid to hydrate and tighten the skin.

How to Apply Toner for Oily Skin

How to Apply Toner for Oily Skin
To apply toner for oily skin, avoid harsh ingredients and consider any other skin issues you may have. Before applying toner, wash your face with a gentle cleanser and apply the toner with a cotton pad, avoiding over-rubbing.

Avoid Harsh Ingredients

To avoid harsh ingredients in toners for oily skin, consider these alternatives:

  1. Natural Toner Options: Look for toners made with natural ingredients like witch hazel, aloe vera, and green tea. These ingredients can help balance oil production, soothe skin, and provide antioxidant benefits.
  2. DIY Toner Recipes: Create your own toner using ingredients like apple cider vinegar, cucumber water, or aloe vera. These simple recipes can help cleanse and hydrate your skin without harsh chemicals.
  3. Toner Application Methods: Apply toners using a cotton pad or directly from the bottle/tube. Be gentle and avoid broken skin. Allow the toner to dry before applying other products.
  4. Toner Storage Tips: Store toners in a cool, dark place to maintain their effectiveness. Check the expiration date and discard any expired products.
  5. Redness Toner: If you have sensitive skin, opt for toners with calming ingredients like chamomile or aloe vera to reduce redness and irritation.

    Remember to choose toners that cater to your specific skin issues, such as oily skin, acne, or sensitivity. Always read the ingredient list and avoid harsh ingredients like alcohol, which can be drying and irritating.

Consider Other Skin Issues

When battling oily skin, don’t let acne throw a wrench in your plans.

Opt for toners that exfoliate gently, like Paula’s Choice with niacinamide, to keep breakouts at bay.

Choose cruelty-free options packed with antioxidants for a guilt-free glow.

It’s like giving your skin a tailored suit, fitting all its needs.

Wash Face With Gentle Cleanser

Before reaching for your toner, start with the right cleanser type for your oily skin.

A gentle wash sets the stage, ensuring your skin’s ready for the pore-reducing magic of toners like Paula’s Choice.

Pat dry, then apply your niacinamide-infused toner with a light touch.

Apply With Cotton Pad, Avoid Over-Rubbing

When it comes to applying toner for oily skin, there are a few key things to keep in mind.

First, use a cotton pad to apply the toner. This will help ensure an even distribution.

Second, avoid over-rubbing your skin. This can cause irritation and inflammation.

Instead, gently pat the toner onto your skin.

For example, with Paula’s Choice Skin Balancing Pore-Reducing Toner, which contains niacinamide and antioxidants, simply apply a small amount to a cotton pad.

Apply Leave-on Treatments, Serums, and Moisturizers After Toner

After applying toner, it’s crucial to follow up with leave-on treatments, serums, and moisturizers.

This ensures optimal skin hydration, product application, and treatment absorption.

Applying these products after toner allows serums to penetrate deeper, enhancing their effectiveness.

Moisturizers help balance your skin.

Additionally, using a fragrance-free toner like Dickinson’s Original Witch Hazel Pore Perfecting Toner can further improve skin health.

It provides antioxidants and reduces excess oil.

Toner Application Tips for Oily Skin

Toner Application Tips for Oily Skin
When applying toner to oily skin, start with once-a-day use for sensitive skin. Avoid the eye area and use twice a day, morning and night, following with moisturizer.

Alcohol-Free Toners

Ditch harsh alcohol-based toners and opt for gentle, alcohol-free alternatives. Look for formulations with botanical extracts, pH balancing ingredients, and pore tightening agents like niacinamide. Try fragrance-free, cruelty-free options like Paula’s Choice Skin Balancing Pore-Reducing Toner or Dickinson’s Original Witch Hazel Pore Perfecting Toner. These toners are designed to enhance your skin’s health without causing irritation or dryness.

Start With Once-A-Day Use for Sensitive Skin

When it comes to sensitive skin, introducing toners can be a delicate process. Start with once-a-day use, gradually increasing to twice daily as your skin adjusts.

  • Choose toners specifically designed for sensitive skin, like Paula’s Choice Skin Balancing Pore-Reducing Toner.
  • Opt for lightweight, hydrating toners that provide a refreshing boost without irritation.
  • Avoid harsh exfoliating toners, focusing on milder options that gently cleanse and unclog pores.
  • Be patient and consistent, allowing your skin to acclimate to the new addition to your skincare routine.
  • Remember, everyone’s skin is unique, so it’s essential to find a toner that suits your individual needs and preferences.

Avoid Eye Area

To avoid eye irritation and prevent over-drying, it’s crucial to choose appropriate ingredients and consider skin tolerance when selecting a toner for oily skin.

When applying toner, avoid the eye area as toners are generally not meant to be applied around the delicate skin of the eyes.

If you’re looking for a fragrance-free and cruelty-free option, consider Dickinson’s Original Witch Hazel Pore Perfecting Toner, which is suitable for all skin types and helps remove excess oil without causing irritation.

Use Twice a Day, Morning and Night

Using toners for oily skin twice a day, both in the morning and at night, can be beneficial for maintaining a balanced and healthy complexion.

In the morning, toners can help prepare your skin for the day ahead by removing any excess oil and impurities, while also providing hydration and a refreshed appearance.

At night, toners can assist in removing makeup and other residues, allowing your skin to better absorb the benefits of your nighttime skincare products.

It’s essential to follow the instructions provided by your toner’s manufacturer and consult with a dermatologist if you have any concerns about using toners twice a day.

Follow With Moisturizer

When it comes to using toners for oily skin, following the recommended usage is crucial for their effectiveness. After applying a toner, it’s essential to moisturize your skin. This step helps to lock in the benefits of the toner and maintain a healthy, balanced complexion.

  1. Apply a moisturizer after using a toner to lock in the benefits.
  2. Use a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer that won’t clog pores.
  3. Adjust the amount of moisturizer based on your skin’s needs.
  4. Incorporate a moisturizer into your skincare routine for optimal results.

Store in Cool, Dark Place

Store your toner in a cool, dark place to extend its shelf life and preserve its efficacy. Proper packaging design and product size are crucial for travel convenience and ingredient sourcing. For example, Paula’s Choice Skin Balancing Pore-Reducing Toner is lightweight and packed with antioxidants like niacinamide, making it a great choice for oily skin.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can toners cause dryness?

Yep, some toners can dry out your skin if they contain harsh ingredients like alcohol or astringents. Look for hydrating, alcohol-free formulas with soothing botanicals instead. Your skin will thank you!

How long should I wait between toner and moisturizer?

You’ll want to let your toner fully absorb before applying moisturizer – around 30 seconds to 1 minute is ideal. This allows the active ingredients to work their magic on your oily skin before sealing everything in.

Can toners be used with other skincare products?

You bet! Toners pair perfectly with other skincare heroes like serums and moisturizers. Apply toner after cleansing, then layer on the rest for maximum glow potential. Together they’ll keep your complexion balanced and radiant.

Can toners be used on sensitive skin?

Yes, toners can safely be used on sensitive skin by choosing gentle, fragrance-free formulas with soothing ingredients like aloe vera or green tea. Always do a patch test first to check for reactions.

Are alcohol-based toners effective?

Oh, you fancy alcohol-based toners, do you? Let me burst that pore-clogging bubble – those harsh potions will dry out your skin faster than a camel lost in the Sahara. Steer clear, my oily friend, and stick to gentle, alcohol-free formulas that actually work.

Conclusion

Ultimately, finding the best toners for oily skin requires understanding your complexion’s needs. Incorporate these oil-controlling, pore-minimizing formulas into your routine, and you’ll achieve a balanced, shine-free appearance. Niacinamide, salicylic acid, and other powerhouse ingredients effectively manage excess sebum while prepping skin for subsequent treatments. Embrace a clarified, matte glow by investing in toners tailored for your oily skin concerns.

References
  • heavy.com
  • stylecraze.com
  • ladyandbeard.com
  • theskincareculture.com
Avatar for Mutasim Sweileh

Mutasim Sweileh

Mutasim is a published author and software engineer and beard care expert from the US. To date, he has helped thousands of men make their beards look better and get fatter. His work has been mentioned in countless notable publications on men's care and style and has been cited in Seeker, Wikihow, GQ, TED, and Buzzfeed.