We’re living in the golden age of skin care. As celebrities flaunt their nighttime routines and companies promote the latest holy grail products, it can all feel a bit overwhelming. However, you’re in better shape than you think if you have a few products in your skincare arsenal.
But if you’re looking to up your grooming game a little more, you might want to add a toner.
Made popular by Korean skincare, facial toners are a thin, water-based skincare product designed to balance the skin after cleansing. You can remove leftover grime and oil on the face with a simple swipe with a cotton round. The result is smooth and balanced skin that’s ready for your serums, treatments, and moisturizer.
Just keep in mind that every toner is different, so it’s important to find a product that matches your skin type. Anyone with dry skin should look for hydrating ingredients like rosewater and vitamin E, while those with sensitive skin people should choose toners with witch hazel and exfoliating acids.
No matter your skin woes, here are some tried and true men’s facial toners to try.
1. Thayers Witch Hazel Facial Toner
Available in cucumber, lavender, and rose petal varieties, Thayers facial toner can be a staple in a natural skincare routine. The product reduces skin redness, controls oil production, and keeps acne in check for overall smoother skin. Simply apply it after cleansing at night or use it to gently refresh the skin during the day.
Pros: The alcohol-free formula won’t over dry the skin, and the vintage packaging will look great on your shelf.
Cons: The scent may be too strong for some users.
2. LAVO Glycolic Acid toner
This facial toner features 10% glycolic acid, or AHA, which exfoliates dead skin cells to prevent clogged pores. The formula is also designed to keep skin bacteria in check while reducing inflammation. Use this product to prepare your skin for treatments and moisturizers.
Pros: The product includes skin-brightening ingredients like vitamin C and lemon juice. It’s also paraben and cruelty-free.
Cons: This toner can be over-drying for sensitive skin.
3. Oleavine Clarifying Toner
With ingredients like tea tree, neem oil, witch hazel, lemongrass, basil, and ginger, this product gently cleanses while moisturizing the skin. It also contains aspen bark, which the company lists as a natural alternative to exfoliating salicylic acid.
Pros: Packaging includes a spray bottle for hygienic use. It has a light cucumber scent.
Cons: The toner can be irritating around the eye area.
4. Brickell Men’s Balancing Toner
This facial toner includes ingredients like alcohol, cucumber, witch hazel, peppermint, and aloe vera to cleanse and soothe the skin. When used in the morning or night, the product leaves a refreshing sensation to keep you feeling clean throughout the day.
Pros: The product is available in a two- and eight-ounce bottle. It’s free of ingredients like petrochemicals, sulfates, and synthetic fragrance.
Cons: This toner controls oil production, so it may be too astringent for dry skin.