In search of the best toner for your skin type? This article is for you! We collaborated with board-certified dermatologist Dr. Jarisch Lao-Ang to determine how to choose a toner that can address your skin's needs.
We also listed down the best toners in the Philippines for every skin type that you can purchase from Lazada and Shopee, and even in drugstores. Continue reading to start your journey to better skin!
Dr. Jarische Lao-Ang, MD, DPDS is a board-certified dermatologist in Metro Manila, and achieving healthy skin is her goal in every skin journey she has with her patients. She also aims to raise awareness on healthy skin facts and skincare habits. She is a Diplomate of the Philippine Dermatological Society and is currently offering online consults for any skin, hair, and nail concerns. You can follow her on her Instagram and Facebook page to know more details about her practice!
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Table of Contents
With the plethora of toners available and the advent of various recommendations from influencers and celebrities, we understand the urge to try a bunch of different toners to see which works for your skin best!
Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Jarische Lao-Ang states that toners are nice add-ons to skincare, but it's not necessarily a must. If you feel unsatisfied with the toner you are using, Dr. Jarische recommends "resting" your skin or stopping the use of toner for 2-4 weeks. Afterward, you may reintroduce a toner slowly back into your routine.
Though toners are not necessarily needed in one's basic skincare routine, you may opt to add a toner based on the needs of your skin. For instance, if you feel that your usual routine doesn't provide the actives that your skin needs, you may include a toner. It can also add to your skin pampering.
Results from toner may vary depending on its ingredients. But, on average, it may take 4-6 weeks to see effects.
When choosing a toner, factoring in your skin type and concern can help you determine what to look for and avoid. Check out our tips on how to choose the best toner for you.
The first step in choosing the best toner for you is checking whether it contains ingredients that match your skin type. Find out which ingredients board-certified dermatologist Dr. Jarische Lao-Ang recommends for each skin type.
Oily skin tends to come with other skin concerns like enlarged pores and acne, which are mainly caused by excess sebum production. If you have this skin type, it is highly recommended that you look for ingredients that offer oil control and acne management.
Toners with BHA, such as salicylic acid, and PHA, such as gluconolactone, regulate oil products and exfoliate the skin, preventing clogged pores. Additionally, you can also look for tea tree oil and niacinamide.
For oily and acne-prone skin, opt for an exfoliating toner containing beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), and polyhydroxy acids (PHAs). BHAs, such as salicylic acid, are lipid-soluble and can penetrate deep into the pores.
Meanwhile, PHAs, such as gluconolactone, resurface the skin and can help other skincare ingredients penetrate deeper. An important note to remember when using exfoliating toners is to avoid over-exfoliating.
Although the use of exfoliants is okay, it is best to use them with caution since they could exacerbate dryness.
For individuals with dry skin, a hydrating toner with is recommended to increase skin moisture. If you want to incorporate exfoliants, please limit use to 2-3 times a week.
For people with combination skin, you need to find a formulation that can address different skin concerns, such as sensitivities, dry areas, and oiliness in the t-zone. It may take some trial and error, but you may try gentle ingredients like hyaluronic acid and niacinamide. Going for a lightweight toner is also highly recommended.
Those with sensitive skin require gentle care to soothe and calm irritation. Dr. Jarische recommends looking for centella asiatica (cica) and ceramides in toners as these calm the skin and have anti-inflammatory effects as well.
Apart from that, you may also look for aloe vera, chamomile, calendula extract, hyaluronic acid, green tea, and niacinamide.
For those with mature skin, you'll want to get a toner that contains exfoliating and hydrating ingredients, and AHAs like glycolic acid is an example of such. Glycolic acid can penetrate the skin deeply and help rebuild collagen, which slows down skin aging.
To slow down aging skin, opt for a toner with AHAs and antioxidants. AHAs such as glycolic acid and lactic acid are water-soluble. These help remove dead skin on the surface and can stimulate collagen production that can help prevent fine lines.
Another essential ingredient is antioxidants that include resveratrol, vitamin C, vitamin E, green tea extract, and ferulic acid. Antioxidants renew and regenerate the skin.
Astringent and alcohol in toners can disrupt the skin's moisture levels, which can worsen dryness and sensitivities. Dr. Jarische maintains that these ingredients may have untoward effects because they can be too drying and have high irritation potential.
We must note, though, that not all alcohols are damaging to the skin. There are beneficial alcohols like cetyl, stearyl, and cetearyl alcohol.
Alcohols, specifically denatured alcohol, can hamper with skin's moisture and can dry out the skin. Once the skin is too dry, it is prone to be more sensitive.
Disclaimer: These products are recommendations made by our team at mybest Philippines. Our expert, Dr. Jarische Lao-Ang is not affiliated with, nor is she endorsing any of the brands we mention below.
Scroll down or click the link to learn more about the best toners for oily skin!
Many users appreciate the convenience of the pads, especially for quick morning routines or on-the-go skincare. With consistent use, they’ve noticed a visible decrease in blackheads and shine. Those with sensitive skin say the formula feels gentle enough for daily use, although a few experienced slight dryness. Overall, the product’s affordability and ease of use make it a frequent repurchase.
Key Ingredients | Salicylic Acid、Ceramides |
---|---|
Benefits | Acne Care |
Oil-free | |
Alcohol-free | |
Fragrance-free | |
Net Weight | 30 pads |
Users rave about its dual functionality, effectively removing makeup while keeping breakouts at a minimum. Many appreciate that it doesn’t leave a sticky residue or strip the skin, even with daily use. Some with oily skin noticed a reduction in excess sebum over time. A few mention it’s not as strong as dedicated acne toners but works well for mild congestion.
Key Ingredients | BHA、Salicylic Acid |
---|---|
Benefits | Exfoliating、Acne Care |
Oil-free | |
Alcohol-free | |
Fragrance-free | |
Net Weight | 125mL |
Reviewers consistently praise its ability to smooth rough skin and fade post-acne marks with regular use. Many report a visible glow and reduced dullness within weeks. However, some caution that it may be too strong for sensitive skin, suggesting a gradual introduction or dilution. Despite its potency, its affordability and noticeable results have made it a cult favorite.
Key Ingredients | Glycolic Acid、Glycerin、AHA |
---|---|
Benefits | Exfoliating、Brightening、Anti-Aging |
Oil-free | |
Alcohol-free | |
Fragrance-free | |
Net Weight | 240mL |
Scroll down or click the link to learn more about the best toners for acne-prone skin!
For those who have oily and acne-prone skin, this COSRX toner is the one for you! It won't exacerbate oiliness or cause breakouts. The formula is a mix of two acids—BHA to gently exfoliate dead skin cells and treat acne. It also has AHA to gently hydrate your skin, ensuring your skin stays perfectly balanced.
What's great about this toner is that it can be used by all skin types, including those with sensitive skin. Moreover, it is a good pick if it's your first time using an exfoliating toner and you are looking for a good starter product to slowly introduce AHA and BHA to your skin since this one only has minimal AHA and BHA content.
Key Ingredients | Willow Bark Extract, Glycolic Acid, Apple Fruit Water |
---|---|
Alcohol-Free | |
Fragrance-Free | |
Net Weight | 150ml |
Many users report fewer breakouts and reduced redness within the first month, saying it lives up to its “miracle” name. Some note that it’s gentle enough for daily use, though a few with sensitive skin prefer using it every other day. The tea tree scent is divisive—some find it refreshing, while others find it too strong. However, reviewers love that it exfoliates without stripping the skin, making it especially popular among those with combination or oily, acne-prone skin.
Key Ingredients | AHA,BHA,PHA, Tea Tree Leaf Extract, Witch Hazel Extract |
---|---|
Alcohol-Free | |
Fragrance-Free | |
Net Weight | 150ml |
Best for those with oily and acne-prone skin types, this toner from Oxecure will surely be a mainstay in your skincare routine as it boasts its gentleness and effectiveness! It contains BHA, PHA, and other nourishing ingredients that will clear up your skin and improve skin texture in no time. It's alcohol-free, too!
Its BHA content deep cleans and unclogs the pores, targeting those pesky whiteheads and blackheads, while PHA is one of the best gentle ingredients that exfoliate the skinーits gentle enough to be used even by those with sensitive skin! Additionally, it contains tea tree and witch hazel extracts that keep oiliness and acne at bay.
Key Ingredients | Betaine Salicylate, PHA, Tea Tree Extract |
---|---|
Alcohol-Free | |
Fragrance-Free | |
Net Weight | 150ml |
COSRX's Hydrium Watery Toner is a lightweight, moisturizing toner designed to deeply hydrate your skin for a dewy and plump complexion. With a formula featuring vitamin B5 and six varieties of hyaluronic acid, it offers a soothing and nourishing experience to keep your skin hydrated and healthy. Its water-like consistency also ensures rapid absorption without any unpleasant stickiness.
Users have raved about its refreshing and hydrating properties, appreciating how it leaves their skin feeling supple and prepped for the subsequent steps in their skincare routine. It is the perfect addition to any skincare regimen, catering to a wide range of skin types and delivering a burst of nourishing hydration.
Net Weight | 150 mL |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | 6-Type Hyaluronic Acids, D-Panthenol, Allantoin, Glycerin, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer |
Harsh Ingredients | None |
Skin Type | All Skin Types |
Benefits | Form a Moisture Barrier, Optimize the Balance of Damaged Skin |
Net Weight | 200 mL |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | Hyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide, and Three Essential Ceramides (1, 3, 6-6-II) |
Harsh Ingredients | None |
Skin Type | Normal to Dry, and Sensitive Skin |
Benefits | Restore the Skin’s Natural Protective Barrier, Non-Comedogenic |
This product is popular for those seeking effective hydration and a gentle touch, especially for sensitive skin. Users consistently praise its ability to absorb quickly, providing a visible boost in moisture without any sticky residue. Many have also observed a brightening effect, including a reduction in dark spots and acne scars, and find it works well as a base for layering other skincare products.
Net Weight | 170 mL |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | Tranexamic Acid, Niacinamide, Alpha-Arbutin, 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, Resveratrol, Glycerin, Diglycerin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin C, and Vitamin E |
Harsh Ingredients | None |
Skin Type | Oily, Dry, Acne-prone, Sensitive Skin |
Benefits | Brightening, Hyperpigmentation treatment, Moisturizing, Repairing |
Scroll down or click the link below to learn more about the best toners for sensitive skin.
Best for | Acne-Prone, Sensitive Skin |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | Witch Hazel, Aloe vera, Rosewater |
Alcohol-Free | |
Fragrance-Free | |
Volume | 355 ml |
Many users report smoother, clearer skin after incorporating this into their routine, with fewer breakouts and reduced texture. The inclusion of panthenol is praised for preventing irritation. Some note that it's less drying than other exfoliating toners, making it suitable for combination skin. However, a few mention that it takes time to see significant fading of dark spots.
Best for | Oily, Acne-Prone, Sensitive Skin |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | AHA, BHA, Sodium Hyaluronate, Vitamin E |
Alcohol-Free | |
Fragrance-Free | |
Volume | 160 ml |
Many users with oily skin swear by its mattifying effect, especially in the humid Philippine climate. Some note that it helps keep breakouts at bay without over-drying, particularly when paired with a moisturizer. However, a few with dry or sensitive skin find the alcohol content too harsh. Reviewers also appreciate its accessible price and availability in local stores.
Best for | Acne-Prone, Dry, Sensitive Skin |
---|---|
Key Ingredients | Glycerin, Witch Hazel |
Alcohol-Free | |
Fragrance-Free | |
Volume | 125 ml |
Scroll down or click the link below to learn more about the best exfoliating toners for mature skin.
Achieve visibly radiant and clear skin with this holy grail chemical exfoliant by The Ordinary that contains 7% glycolic acid. It effectively exfoliates the skin due to its tiny molecules that penetrate the skin cells deeply. It also has ginseng root and aloe vera that further aid in soothing your skin to make it more glowing.
Aside from that, it is infused with a Tasmanian Pepperberry derivative that aims to reduce possible irritation that's usually linked with using products with acid ingredients. Since it just provides mild exfoliation, it's suitable for all skin types. Just be sure not to use it on sensitive, peeling, or broken skin!
Exfoliant | AHA (Glycolic Acid) |
---|---|
Skin Type | All Skin Types |
Key Ingredients | Amino Acids, Aloe vera, Ginseng, Tasmanian Pepperberry |
Looking for a healthy and radiant glow? Check out this toner from Pixi! It contains glycolic acid and ginseng that provide gentle exfoliation to help reduce dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and dullness. As a result, reviewers have noticed a brighter and more even skin tone with consistent use.
Moreover, this watery toner refreshes and soothes the face. Thanks to its aloe vera ingredient's soothing and hydrating qualities, it's an excellent choice for those with dry or sensitive skin. It also has an alcohol-free formula, which helps reduce skin dryness.
Exfoliant | AHA (Glycolic Acid) |
---|---|
Skin Type | Combination, Dry, Normal, Oily |
Key Ingredients | Aloe Vera, Ginseng |
If you're looking for something that can help you combat dull and congested skin, Paula's Choice has something for you. This exfoliant contains salicylic acid that does an excellent job of removing dead skin cells and unclogging pores, leaving you with a more even complexion and smoother skin.
It also comes with green tea extract that helps soothe irritations. Plus, its sodium hydroxide inclusion balances your skin's pH levels. To use it, apply it using your hands or a cotton pad. It is a leave-on exfoliant, so it does not need rinsing. It is also gentle enough for daily use, regardless of skin type.
Exfoliant | BHA (Salicylic Acid) |
---|---|
Skin Type | All Skin Types |
Key Ingredients | Green Tea |
Here are some words of advice from our expert as she answers some of the most asked questions on the internet.
Toner can be applied directly from the hands or with the use of cotton pads. This is a personal preference.
For those applying with hands, remember to wash your hands properly before applying toner. On the other hand, if you prefer using cotton pads, avoid harsh rubbing.
For beginners, a hydrating or brightening toner can be the first type of toner they may try.
You know what they say—skin is in! Here are some of our other recommendations for skin that is bright and youthful!
Re-editor: Rie N.
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
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