Tone It Up: Best Toners for Acne-Prone Skin

Skincare routines for acne-prone skin can be complicated, and adding yet another product to the mix might seem unnecessary. Toners, in particular, can be confusing—do they actually help, or are they just an extra step? 

If you are already happy with your routine and don’t use a toner, there is no need to add one. But if you are looking to make a change to unclog pores, balance oil production, refine skin texture, or add an extra layer of hydration, the right toner could make all the difference. 

What Does Toner Do?

While toners used to be associated with alcohol-based formulas that dried out the skin, today’s options have come a long way. The good news for those of us with acne-prone skin is that modern formulations have evolved to offer so much more, focusing on hydration, balancing pH, and delivering targeted treatments that address specific skin concerns. 

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I let my team ask me their skincare questions questions, starting with one I get often: Do I need to use a toner? (It depends!) #skincare #toner #dermatologist #askaderm #dermtok #skincare101

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Toners are a versatile skincare step that can complement your routine and enhance the effectiveness of other products. By balancing your skin’s pH after cleansing, toners can prepare your face to better absorb your serums and moisturizers so you can get the most out of them. A targeted toner also contains ingredients that help address specific concerns like clogged pores, dehydration, oiliness, and inflammation.

Best Toners for Acne

The best toner for you will depend on what your skin needs. Is your skin dry or irritated from acne treatments? You might like a moisturizing toner. Do you have excess oil and clogged pores and need to add an active treatment to your routine? Check out salicylic acid toners. Are you looking to increase cell turnover and brighten your skin? Take a look at toners with alpha hydroxy acids. Or does your skin just need a little refresh that reduces some oil and tightens pores? Witch hazel toners might be a good balance.

Moisturizing Toners for Acne

If you have dehydrated or irritated acne-prone skin, a hydrating toner can add a layer of lightweight hydration that calms and soothes. Acne treatments like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid can dry out the skin, and adding a moisturizing toner can help restore moisture and maintain your skin’s natural barrier.

Look for toners that include humectants like hyaluronic acid and glycerin, which attract moisture to your skin, ensuring a well-hydrated skin barrier. Other toner ingredients, such as ceramides, amino acids, centella, panthenol, and aloe can also be calming, especially if your skin is red or irritated. Applying your moisturizing toner to damp skin will help draw in more hydration.

Salicylic Acid Toners for Acne

Salicylic acid toners are especially helpful if you have oily skin and clogged pores. Salicylic acid works deep within our pores, helping to dissolve excess sebum and clear out dead skin cells that might otherwise lead to sebum plugs, blackheads, closed comedones, and pimples. Salicylic acid can also reduce the appearance of sebaceous filaments over time. For mild acne, a salicylic acid toner may be the only acne treatment you need, 

A toner is a very effective way to incorporate salicylic acid into your routine. However, because salicylic acid can be a bit drying, you’ll want to use it with care, particularly if your skin tends to be sensitive. Start slow, maybe a few times a week, and be sure to pair with a good moisturizer.

Alpha Hydroxy Acid Toners for Acne

If you’re looking to exfoliate and brighten your skin while working on mild post-acne marks, alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) toners are an excellent choice. AHAs like glycolic acid, lactic acid, and mandelic acid work on the skin’s surface to remove dead skin cells, which can help unclog pores, reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation, and improve overall skin texture.

Glycolic acid has a smaller molecular size that allows it to penetrate deeper into the skin, making it a stronger option that should be used carefully. On the other hand, lactic acid and mandelic acid are gentler and a better choice for those with sensitive acne-prone skin. AHAs can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, so no matter what type you use, always apply sunscreen during the day to avoid irritation and prevent further discoloration. 

Witch Hazel Toners for Acne

Witch hazel has long been a popular choice in toners for acne-prone skin, thanks to its astringent and anti-inflammatory properties. Witch hazel can help to tighten pores, reduce excess oil, and calm inflammation. These benefits can help minimize the appearance of current acne and help prevent future breakouts.

When choosing a witch hazel toner, opt for alcohol-free versions that are blended with soothing ingredients such as glycerin or aloe so you can get the benefits without risking irritation.

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Toners can be a great addition to your routine, but knowing if you need a toner and which type works best for various skin types can make all the difference. A well-chosen toner can help manage oil production, gently exfoliate, or provide soothing hydration, depending on your skin’s unique needs.

And while toners can be very effective for acne-prone skin, they work best when paired with a complete routine that includes gentle cleansing, targeted acne treatments, and plenty of hydration.