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Alcohol-free tonersHelping You Find the Best
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Alcohol-free tonersHelping You Find the Best
  • 10 Best Alcohol-Free Toners in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist 1
  • 10 Best Alcohol-Free Toners in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist 2
  • 10 Best Alcohol-Free Toners in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist 3
  • 10 Best Alcohol-Free Toners in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist 4
  • 10 Best Alcohol-Free Toners in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist 5

10 Best Alcohol-Free Toners in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist

Not all toners are the same, and depending on your preference and skin needs, you could benefit more from alcohol-free toners. Most people usually forget—others are simply neglectful—to tone their skin after cleansing. Toning is an essential part of a skincare routine. It helps remove deep-seated dirt that washing alone cannot eliminate. 


If you are still unsure whether to include toning as a part of your skincare regimen, we listed down some ways on how you can benefit from them. We even included some comments and tips from dermatologist Dr. Katrina Erika Habaluyas Luz. We also have a buying guide on how to choose an alcohol-free toner and a top 10 list so you can have an informed choice for your next purchase.

Last updated 08/18/2023

Quick List - Top Alcohol-Free Toners

1

COSRX

Centella Water Alcohol-Free Toner
Centella Water Alcohol-Free Toner

Soothing Relief for Sensitive, Dehydrated Skin

2

Céleteque DermoScience

Hydration Alcohol-free Toner
Hydration Alcohol-free Toner

Hydrating Toner With Acne-Fighting Ingredients for Oily Skin

3

Pyunkang Yul

Essence Toner
Essence Toner

A Lightweight Toner That Provides Deep Hydration and Calms Inflammation

4

Human Nature

Balancing Face Toner
Balancing Face Toner

All-Natural Toner to Control Sebum and Fight Bacteria

5

Kiehl's

Herbal Extract Alcohol-Free Toner
Herbal Extract Alcohol-Free Toner

Cleans and Soothes Skin Without Stripping Away Moisture

Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz
Expert
Dermatologist, Educator, and Digital Creator
Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz

Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz is the face behind Ask Your Derma. She is a board-certified dermatologist in Metro Manila. She is also an educator and digital creator on all things skin, hair, and nails. She is a Diplomate of the Philippine Dermatological Society and offers online video consultations. You can also catch her on her Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube channel.

Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz's Profile
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Editorial Team
Guide
mybest
Editorial Team

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.

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The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.

Table of Contents

The Benefits of Using Toners

For people with oily and acne-prone skin, toning must be a necessity. It removes excess oil on the face that usually causes acne breakouts. But regardless of your skin type, toning is beneficial if you can find the perfect one for you.

It Reduces the Appearance of the Pores and Balances Your Skin's pH Level

It Reduces the Appearance of the Pores and Balances Your Skin's pH Level

Apply a reasonable amount of toner on a cotton pad, gently blot and wipe the skin with it. This process will remove excess oil on the skin and tighten the pores, blocking impurities to penetrate the skin.


Right after cleansing your face, applying toner will help rebalance the pH level of the skin which prevents dehydration. But there is a consideration; you must use a toner with a low pH level, the ideal is 4.7 to 5.75. More often than not, this means that you have to go after an alcohol-free toner because alcohol can dry up your skin.

Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz
Dermatologist, Educator, and Digital Creator
Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz
A common question is: "Are toners a must in a skincare routine?" The truth is, it isn't! It actually is an optional step. Potential benefits of adding a toner to your skincare regimen include:
  1. Balances the pH level of the skin
  2. Hydrates the skin
  3. Removes impurities missed during cleansing
  4. It makes a nice, satisfying self-care step in the routine

It Helps Hydrate the Skin

It Helps Hydrate the Skin

Toners often contain humectants like glycerin, honey, aloe vera, and lactic acid. These humectants are usually used to keep moisturized, soft, and supple skin. Humectants are like “moisture magnets”; they work by attracting moisture to themselves. They can even pull natural moisture from the environment.


When used as a skincare ingredient, these humectants can pull moisture coming from the lower layers of the skin, bringing it to the surface that moisturizes the outer layer.

Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz
Dermatologist, Educator, and Digital Creator
Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz

The negative rep of toners in the past was due to the fact that toners used to be equated to alcohol-based astringents with the aim of reducing the oiliness of the skin. Newer toners, however, are now usually water-based. They even come in different types, from hydrating toners to "active"-infused toners.

Hydrating toners contain moisturizing ingredients such as glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and ceramides, among others. Now, these are generally gentle on the skin!

How to Choose an Alcohol-Free Toner - Buying Guide

Toners are a great way to prepare the skin for the next skincare steps. They can also have added benefits, like moisturizing or soothing the skin. There are a lot of toners that cater to different skin issues, so it is important to know what factors to consider in buying one. To know more about these factors, read through our buying guide below.

1

Understand What Your Skin Needs Based on Your Skin Type

Using alcohol-free products is somehow being one-step ahead due to the fact that you can guarantee that your skin will not dry out. When choosing any skincare product, you must always put in mind they are not all the same. Meaning, you must choose carefully based on the ingredients and your skin type.

Glycerin, Hyaluronic Acid, and Essential Oils for Dry Skin

Glycerin, Hyaluronic Acid, and Essential Oils for Dry Skin

If you have dry skin, it is always better to stay away from toner with alcohol content. Although alcohol has antibacterial properties, it does not work well with dry skin since it eliminates the natural sebum of the body. Glycerin and hyaluronic acid are responsible for moisturizing the skin while simultaneously making it soft.


Essential oils, on the other hand, also moisturize and smoothen the skin. To name some, rose oil works best to soothe and calm the skin, plus it has a very brilliant smell, chamomile relieves inflammation and also works with sensitive skin, jojoba oil is rich in vitamin E, which moisturizes the skin and fights off free radicals.


Take in mind that some people may have an allergic reaction that may cause contact dermatitis so make sure to do some skin tests before you apply anything to your face.

Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz
Dermatologist, Educator, and Digital Creator
Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz

If you have a dry skin type, definitely an alcohol-free toner is the way to go, particularly a hydrating toner. Look for ingredients such as hyaluronic acid or glycerin. These can give you the extra hydration you need. But of course, just because you have a hydrating toner doesn't mean you can skip the moisturizer!

Use a Toner That Contains Witch Hazel, Bentonite Clay, and Tea Tree Oil for Oily Skin

Use a Toner That Contains Witch Hazel, Bentonite Clay, and Tea Tree Oil for Oily Skin

If you have an oily type of skin, find a toner that contains witch hazel. This ingredient acts as a natural astringent that can tighten pores, cleanse the skin, and dry out oils. An oily complexion can cause your skin to look shiny or worse, greasy! Bentonite clay can help you control the shine on your face and simultaneously purify the skin.


Another beneficial natural ingredient for those with have oily and acne-prone skin is tea tree oil. Tea tree oil has cleansing and purifying properties that can help combat shine and pesky acne.

Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz
Dermatologist, Educator, and Digital Creator
Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz

Oily skin may benefit from an astringent toner. Astringent toners may contain witch hazel which has been shown to remove sebum and even alleviate inflammation caused by acne. Astringent toners may have a higher risk for irritation, though. So make sure to patch test before adding it to your regimen.

Consider Algae if You Have a Sensitive Skin

Consider Algae if You Have a Sensitive Skin

Algae is not your typical non-flowering aquatic plant because it is excellently useful and beneficial for human skin. Algae extract contains essential nutrients such as vitamins and minerals that help protect the skin by repairing damage caused by external factors and other signs of aging. It also contains amino acids that help detoxify the skin and remove impurities that often cause irritated skin.

Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz
Dermatologist, Educator, and Digital Creator
Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz

There has been increasing interest over the past years with natural ingredients being incorporated into skincare products. However, it's important to remember that natural doesn't necessarily equate to it being exempted from causing a reaction.

One particular new player has been algae. Marine algae contain compounds such as phlorotannin, fucoidan, fucoxanthin (to name a few) which possess anti-melanogenic, antioxidant, anti-inflammation, and/or anti-aging properties. More studies need to be done on these promising natural ingredients. As always, even though they are naturally derived, remember to patch test!

Find an Alcohol-Free Toner with Salicylic Acid for an Acne-Prone Skin

Find an Alcohol-Free Toner with Salicylic Acid for an Acne-Prone Skin

Acne-prone skin is often oily and shiny, one of the reasons why people usually think that having oily skin is relative to having acne-prone skin. However, your skin can be acne-prone even when it’s dry. While oiliness is a contributing factor, your skin can be oily but not acne-prone.


If you have acne-prone skin, it is essential to remove excess oil that you can achieve through toning and find the right toner for that purpose. So consider alcohol-free toner with salicylic acidThe ingredient helps remove excess oil and dead skin cells while exfoliating the skin. It also promotes collagen production, which makes the skin elastic.

Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz
Dermatologist, Educator, and Digital Creator
Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz

For oily and acne-prone skin, an exfoliating toner can be beneficial. Look for ingredients such as salicylic acid, a beta-hydroxy acid that is lipid-soluble, making it an attractive ingredient for oily skin. It has the ability to penetrate inside pores and remove oil and debris.

Like astringent toners, exfoliating toners may also have a higher risk for irritation. The key is always to patch test beforehand!

Lactic Acid Hydrates Only the Dry Part of the Skin

Lactic Acid Hydrates Only the Dry Part of the Skin

This skin type is very distinct compared to other types, but many people have this kind of skin. If your skin is dry or normal in some areas and oily in other areas like the nose, chin, and forehead, then you have a combination type of skin.


What works best for this type is lactic acid. It works great with age spots, hyperpigmentation, and can effectively balance the uneven complexion. This ingredient gently hydrates the dry part of the skin so that other parts can receive a bare minimum amount of hydration that they do not need that much. 


Remember that too much of anything is always bad. Overly-hydrated skin—technically known as skin maceration—is a process where the skin becomes so soft that it breaks down due to excess skin moisture.

Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz
Dermatologist, Educator, and Digital Creator
Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz

A combination skin type is definitely tricky! And even trickier is finding a product that can shuffle effectively between both the dry and oily areas of your skin. Lactic acid is a water-soluble alpha-hydroxy acid. It's hydrophilic, aka water-loving, and thus can bind water to the skin's surface, improving hydration and skin texture


Lactic acid also strengthens the skin barrier and helps reduce fine lines and wrinkles. Overall, for combination skin, choose a thin or lightweight hydrating toner! Ultimately, it's important not to generalize and realize that what works for one person may not work for another. So always, listen to your skin!

Fight Skin Aging With Aloe Vera

Fight Skin Aging With Aloe Vera

Aloe vera works well with almost everything. From treating sunburn, hydrating and moisturizing skin, to healing wounds, and others. But this essential ingredient works well with a mature type of skin. But how will you know if you have this type of skin? From the word itself, ‘mature’ comes with aging, where flexibility and elasticity of the skin disappear as you get older.


You can fight the signs of skin aging using aloe vera because it promotes collagen production for more elastic and flexible skin. It also contains vitamins C and E, which are essential antioxidants that protect the skin from sun damage. 

Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz
Dermatologist, Educator, and Digital Creator
Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz

For mature skin, best to go with the tried and tested retinoids and hydroxy acids - which have been shown to be effective in reversing the effects of photoaging, improving wrinkles, skin elasticity, and providing that needed hydration. In addition to AHAs, certain vitamins have also been shown to provide anti-aging benefits.


Niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3 has been shown to improve fine lines and wrinkles, dark spots, blotchiness as well as elasticity. Vitamin C, an antioxidant, has been shown to protect the skin from UV-induced damage. Vitamin E, another antioxidant, has been shown to prevent UV-induced skin damage and can also improve moisture content and barrier function of the skin.

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10 Best Alcohol-Free Toners to Buy Online

The products we introduce below were carefully curated by the mybest team, from the best-sellers of E-commerce sites like Lazada, and using the points mentioned in our detailed and thoroughly researched buying guide.
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Key features
Details
Active Ingredients
Works Best For
Net Weight
Other Usage
pH Level
1

COSRX

Centella Water Alcohol-Free Toner

COSRX Centella Water Alcohol-Free Toner 1

Soothing Relief for Sensitive, Dehydrated Skin

Jeju Mineral Water, Centella asiatica (Cica) Leaf Water

Acne-Prone, Sensitive Skin

150 mL

Facial Mist

6.0-7.0

2

Céleteque DermoScience

Hydration Alcohol-free Toner

Céleteque DermoScience Hydration Alcohol-free Toner 1

Hydrating Toner With Acne-Fighting Ingredients for Oily Skin

Hamamelis virginiana (Witch Hazel) Extract

Dry, Sensitive Skin

125 mL

unknown

unknown

3

Pyunkang Yul

Essence Toner

Pyunkang Yul Essence Toner 1

A Lightweight Toner That Provides Deep Hydration and Calms Inflammation

Astragalus membranaceus (Milkvetch) Extract

Acne-Prone, Aging Skin

200 mL

Essence

4.3

4

Human Nature

Balancing Face Toner

Human Nature Balancing Face Toner 1

All-Natural Toner to Control Sebum and Fight Bacteria

Aloe barbadensis (Aloe vera) Leaf Juice, Betaine (Sugar Beet-Derived), Canarium luzonicum (Elemi) Gum Essential Oil

Oily, Combination Skin

100 mL

unknown

unknown

5

Kiehl's

Herbal Extract Alcohol-Free Toner

Kiehl's Herbal Extract Alcohol-Free Toner  1

Cleans and Soothes Skin Without Stripping Away Moisture

Calendula officinalis Flower Extract, Allantoin, Arctium lappa (Burdock) Root Extract

Normal, Oily, Sensitive, Acne-Prone Skin

250 mL

unknown

unknown

6

Some By Mi

AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Toner

Some By Mi AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Toner  1

Triple Exfoliation for Acne-Prone Skin in a Gentle Formula

Niacinamide, Melaleuca alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Extract, Carica papaya (Papaya) Fruit Extract, Hamamelis virginiana (Witch Hazel) Extract

All Skin Types

150 mL

unknown

5.5

7

Luxe Organix

Whitening Repair Ultra Light Glow Toner

Luxe Organix Whitening Repair Ultra Light Glow Toner 1

Brighten Dark Spots and Minimize Pores for Even-Toned Skin

Niacinamide, Arginine, Glycyrrhiza glabra (Licorice) Root Extract

Normal, Combination Skin

150 mL

unknown

unknown

8

Good Molecules

Niacinamide Brightening Toner

Good Molecules Niacinamide Brightening Toner 1

Glow-Boosting Toner That Minimizes Pores and Evens Skin Tone

Niacinamide, Arbutin, Ascorbic Acid, Glycyrrhiza glabra (Licorice) Root Extract

Normal, Dry, Oily, Combination, Sensitive Skin

120 mL

unknown

6.2

9

Neutrogena

Alcohol-Free Toner

Neutrogena Alcohol-Free Toner 1

A Mild Toner That Cleanses Without Causing Irritation

Panthenol

Dry Skin

150 mL

unknown

unknown

10

Dermorepubliq

Clarifying Formula Toner

Dermorepubliq Clarifying Formula Toner 1

Contains Niacinamide and Plant Extracts to Minimize Breakouts

Aloe barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice, Niacinamide, Camellia sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Cucumis sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Hamamelis virginiana (Witch Hazel) Leaf Extract

Sensitive Skin

100 mL

unknown

unknown

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

COSRX
Centella Water Alcohol-Free Toner

Centella Water Alcohol-Free Toner 1
Source:gobloomandglow.com
Reference price
₱608
High Mid
Reference price
₱608
High Mid

Soothing Relief for Sensitive, Dehydrated Skin

Soothe irritation and hydrate your skin with COSRX Centella Water Alcohol-Free Toner! It has a lightweight, alcohol-free formula infused with Centella Asiatica Leaf Water to reduce redness, calm sensitivity, and support skin healing. Enriched with Jeju mineral water, it also provides deep hydration while restoring the skin’s natural barrier for a smooth, healthy complexion.

Designed for gentle application, this toner absorbs quickly, leaving skin feeling refreshed and balanced. Many users also love how it visibly reduces redness and keeps the skin hydrated, making it a must-have for those with sensitive, irritated, or redness-prone skin.
Active IngredientsJeju Mineral Water, Centella asiatica (Cica) Leaf Water
Works Best ForAcne-Prone, Sensitive Skin
Net Weight150 mL
Other UsageFacial Mist
pH Level6.0-7.0
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No.2

Céleteque DermoScience
Hydration Alcohol-free Toner

Reference price
₱139
Low Mid

Hydrating Toner With Acne-Fighting Ingredients for Oily Skin

Key features and benefits:
  • Aloe vera + chamomile for oil control and redness calming.
  • Light, non-sticky finish.
  • Locally made and budget-friendly.

Reviews mention:

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.

Active IngredientsHamamelis virginiana (Witch Hazel) Extract
Works Best ForDry, Sensitive Skin
Net Weight125 mL
Other Usageunknown
pH Levelunknown
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No.3

Pyunkang Yul
Essence Toner

A Lightweight Toner That Provides Deep Hydration and Calms Inflammation

Ideal for those seeking to revitalize tired and overstressed skin, this toner is enriched with 91% milkvetch root extract. The extract works wonders in fortifying the skin's protective barrier, acting as a formidable shield against external stressors. Additionally, it has antibiotic and antioxidant properties, promoting a radiant and healthy complexion.

Since this toner does not contain alcohol, it’s less likely to dry out or irritate the skin, preventing breakouts. Despite its concentrated and thick texture, it is still easily absorbed by the skin, leaving it moist and soft. As such, buyers love this product for its mildness and soothing effects on the skin!

Active IngredientsAstragalus membranaceus (Milkvetch) Extract
Works Best ForAcne-Prone, Aging Skin
Net Weight200 mL
Other UsageEssence
pH Level4.3
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No.4

Human Nature
Balancing Face Toner

Reference price
₱129.75
Low Mid

All-Natural Toner to Control Sebum and Fight Bacteria

Human Nature is a local beauty brand known for high-quality products that are good for both the skin and the environment. This facial toner removes impurities with its gentle, pH-balanced formula. Infused with elemi extract, it helps minimize redness and prevent bacterial growth, leaving your skin fresh and flawless.

This toner is especially popular among those with oily skin, thanks to its natural ingredients that help reduce sebum production. It’s lightweight and gentle, making it ideal for daily use. Many buyers have noticed less facial oiliness and smoother skin texture. For an effective, all-natural toner loved locally, this is a great choice!
Active IngredientsAloe barbadensis (Aloe vera) Leaf Juice, Betaine (Sugar Beet-Derived), Canarium luzonicum (Elemi) Gum Essential Oil
Works Best ForOily, Combination Skin
Net Weight100 mL
Other Usageunknown
pH Levelunknown
View all
No.5

Kiehl's
Herbal Extract Alcohol-Free Toner

Cleans and Soothes Skin Without Stripping Away Moisture

Experience the luxurious feel of this toner that is gentle but effective in cleansing the skin. Kiehl's Calendula Toner is an alcohol, paraben, and fragrance-free product that calms and balances your skin, making it ideal for even the most sensitive skin. Formulated with calendula flower extract, it cleans and removes impurities without drying out the skin.

Furthermore, it contains allantoin, which has soothing properties that help reduce inflammation and redness. Customers rave about how this toner improves skin texture and makes the skin look more hydrated after just a few weeks of use.
Active IngredientsCalendula officinalis Flower Extract, Allantoin, Arctium lappa (Burdock) Root Extract
Works Best ForNormal, Oily, Sensitive, Acne-Prone Skin
Net Weight250 mL
Other Usageunknown
pH Levelunknown
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No.6

Some By Mi
AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Toner

AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Toner  1
Source:shopehttps:
Reference price
₱1,016
High Mid
Reference price
₱1,016
High Mid

Triple Exfoliation for Acne-Prone Skin in a Gentle Formula

Key features and benefits:
  • Combines AHA/BHA/PHA for multi-level exfoliation.
  • Tea tree extract soothes inflammation.
  • "30-day miracle" for clearer skin.

Reviews mention:

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.

Active IngredientsNiacinamide, Melaleuca alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Extract, Carica papaya (Papaya) Fruit Extract, Hamamelis virginiana (Witch Hazel) Extract
Works Best ForAll Skin Types
Net Weight150 mL
Other Usageunknown
pH Level5.5
View all
No.7

Luxe Organix
Whitening Repair Ultra Light Glow Toner

Reference price
₱314
Mid

Brighten Dark Spots and Minimize Pores for Even-Toned Skin

Want a clearer, more even complexion? This ultra-light toner is packed with vitamin B3, also known as niacinamide, to fight blemishes, control oil, and minimize pores for a shine-free look. It also strengthens your skin’s barrier, locking in moisture while protecting against daily stress.

Formulated with licorice extract, it helps fade dark spots and melasma, while arginine provides an extra hydration boost. Plus, it's dermatologically tested, alcohol-free, and paraben-free! Users love how it brightens their skin, fades dark spots, and feels gentle with no irritation.
Active IngredientsNiacinamide, Arginine, Glycyrrhiza glabra (Licorice) Root Extract
Works Best ForNormal, Combination Skin
Net Weight150 mL
Other Usageunknown
pH Levelunknown
View all
No.8

Good Molecules
Niacinamide Brightening Toner

Niacinamide Brightening Toner 1
Source:shopee.ph
Reference price
₱895
High Mid

Glow-Boosting Toner That Minimizes Pores and Evens Skin Tone

Struggling with dark spots, enlarged pores, or uneven skin tone? This toner from Good Molecules is your go-to for a brighter, more balanced complexion. It contains niacinamide to reduce redness, minimize pores, and fade dark spots, while arbutin evens out skin tone for a radiant glow.

For added brightening power, vitamin C and licorice root extract help enhance clarity and nourish the skin without irritation. Plus, its lightweight, fast-absorbing formula feels refreshing on the skin. Customers love how it delivers visible results while keeping skin calm, hydrated, and naturally glowing.

Active IngredientsNiacinamide, Arbutin, Ascorbic Acid, Glycyrrhiza glabra (Licorice) Root Extract
Works Best ForNormal, Dry, Oily, Combination, Sensitive Skin
Net Weight120 mL
Other Usageunknown
pH Level6.2
View all
No.9

Neutrogena
Alcohol-Free Toner

Reference price
₱429
Mid

A Mild Toner That Cleanses Without Causing Irritation

Neutrogena Alcohol-Free Toner gently cleanses and refreshes your skin without stripping away its natural moisture. Specially formulated to remove impurities while maintaining hydration, it leaves your skin soft, fresh and reconditioned. Unlike harsh toners, it won’t cause dryness or irritation, making it perfect for daily use on all skin types.


Infused with mild purifiers, it helps minimize pores and restore skin balance, giving your complexion a smooth, healthy glow. Many users love how it refreshes without the tight, dry feeling, making it an excellent choice for normal to dry skin in need of a gentle, non-drying toner.

Active IngredientsPanthenol
Works Best ForDry Skin
Net Weight150 mL
Other Usageunknown
pH Levelunknown
View all
No.10

Dermorepubliq
Clarifying Formula Toner

Clarifying Formula Toner 1
Source:shopee.ph
Reference price
₱152
Low Mid

Contains Niacinamide and Plant Extracts to Minimize Breakouts

The Dermorepubliq Clarifying Formula Toner is your go-to solution for minimizing pores, reducing breakouts, and achieving a nourished, radiant complexion. Formulated with 4% niacinamide, it effectively addresses inflammation and hyperpigmentation, while plant extracts protect, soothe, and hydrate the skin. Free from parabens, alcohol, and sulfates, this lightweight toner is gentle and suitable for all skin types.

Users rave about how this toner helps reduce breakouts without causing irritation. Its lightweight formula leaves skin feeling refreshed and prepped for the next steps in your skincare routine, making it a must-have for glowing, healthy skin. Proudly made in the Philippines, it's ideal for those who love supporting local brands.
Active IngredientsAloe barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice, Niacinamide, Camellia sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Cucumis sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Hamamelis virginiana (Witch Hazel) Leaf Extract
Works Best ForSensitive Skin
Net Weight100 mL
Other Usageunknown
pH Levelunknown
View all

Few Ways to Know if the Product Is Actually Alcohol-Free

When it comes to buying a product, we all want something authenticーsomething that will actually work for our skin. In the first place, we invest our time and money in skincare regimen to look and feel better about ourselves. It is then a must to use a product that will not do any more harm, particularly if you are trying to recover a once damaged skin.

Buy From Shops or Brands With Established Credentials

Buy From Shops or Brands With Established Credentials

When you buy your product from a store with good credentials, you have a higher chance of purchasing authentic products. More often than not, these businesses are protecting their reputation more than anything else by providing quality goods and services to their customers. 


If you buy an alcohol-free toner from a trusted brand or an accredited shop the higher the chance that it is truly alcohol-free. This does not, however, mean that unaccredited shops are selling counterfeit items. But remember, you can never always be sure so here are other ways to verify.

Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz
Dermatologist, Educator, and Digital Creator
Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz

Remember, these skincare products are considered cosmeceuticals meaning they are not regulated by the FDA. Therefore, it always pays to get trusted brands to ensure not only the effectiveness but also the safety of the products.

Double Check the Label of the Product You Wish to Purchase

Double Check the Label of the Product You Wish to Purchase

Always read and double check the label and ingredients of the product you wish to purchase. Checking the label will give you a chance to compare one product from another. Moreover, you will know how healthy or unhealthy the ingredients are for your skin depending on its content.


There are instances that you will not understand what the ingredients are but you can always check the internet for additional information or personally ask your dermatologist if possible. In addition, looking into the label of the product will help you know if there are ingredients that you are allergic to.

Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz
Dermatologist, Educator, and Digital Creator
Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz
Be a label reader! Reading the label of your skincare products enables you to make more conscious decisions about the products you buy, let alone apply to your skin.

Considerations when reading the label are:
  1. Ingredient list - Have you tried these ingredients before? Did you develop a reaction? Do these ingredients address your specific skin concern?
  2. Order of ingredients - Is the ingredient you're buying the product for listed among the first or among the last? Remember: ingredients are listed from highest to lowest concentrations

Conduct a pH Level Test Using Litmus Paper

Conduct a pH Level Test Using Litmus Paper

Litmus paper, a tool often used to know how acidic or alkaline a substance is, conduct a pH level test; most often available in school and office supply stores. To know if the toner is truly alcohol-free, simply put a reasonable amount of toner in the litmus paper and wait for a few seconds until the paper changes its color.


The pH range is 1 to 14, and pH of 7 is considered to be neutral; pH lower than that is acidic, while anything more is alkaline. The ideal pH level of the skin is mildly acidic that falls around 4.7 and 5.5. If the litmus test result matches the ideal pH level of the skin, then it is alcohol-free.


The pH level of the skin varies depending on body parts. It may also change in different life stages. But why is it important? The skin's acid mantle creates mild acidic pH that protects the external layers of the skin. It prevents bacterial growth, neutralizes harsh chemicals, and revamps the natural environment of the skin where beneficial flora can grow and thrive to improve skin condition.

Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz
Dermatologist, Educator, and Digital Creator
Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz

The pH level of the skin is important in the function of your skin barrier. The skin has a thin protective layer on its surface referred to as the acid mantle - composed of sebum from sebaceous glands and lactic and amino acids from sweat. This combo makes our skin pH acidic, optimally at pH 4.7 - 5.5


Now, when we apply products onto our skin, it can affect our skin barrier. The majority of skincare products are what we call 'pH-balanced,' meaning it's within the range that our skin can tolerate. If you are interested, you can try out pH kits at home. Not a requirement but something interesting to do!

Frequently Asked Questions Answered By Dr. Katrina Luz

If you still have some unanswered questions on your mind, let Dr. Katrina help you in this matter. We asked her some of the most asked questions on the web, and here are her answers!

Is It True That Alcohols in Toners Help Clean the Face More Thoroughly?

Gone are the days where we relied on alcohol-based products to clean our faces! Now, alcohols definitely can be more drying as they reduce oil or sebum on the skin. However, it's a faulty generalization to say all alcohols are bad as alcohols do serve a purpose when incorporated into skincare. 


Alcohols help lighten the texture of a product and help the penetration of other ingredients into the skin. It's definitely not a one-size-fits-all, and it boils down to the concentration of the alcohol, skin type, and overall formulation of the product.

Does Alcohol-Free Toner Cause Acne or Help Acne?

The answer is it depends. On one spectrum, alcohol in itself may reduce oil or sebum in the skin, and for those who may tolerate it, it may have beneficial effects. However, for patients with acne, it may be too irritating and/or drying.

At the end of the day, what would aid more in acne and/or acne-prone skin would be ingredients targeted to the causes of acne, such as benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, retinoids.

Is it Better to Apply Toner With a Cotton Pad or Just With the Fingers?

This would actually depend on a number of factors - what's your skin type? What type of toner are you using? Cotton pads act as a physical exfoliant - meaning rubbing with a cotton pad can physically remove rough bumps or debris on the skin. This may work if that's your goal. 


However, it can also inadvertently cause irritation for someone with a more sensitive skin type. Not to mention, if you're using an exfoliating toner, then using a cotton pad will add to the overall exfoliation. Best to ask your dermatologist for advice on this to suit your skin type and skin concerns!

How We Chose and Ranked Our Product Recommendations

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.

Top 5 Alcohol-Free Toners

No. 1: COSRXCentella Water Alcohol-Free Toner

No. 2: Céleteque DermoScienceHydration Alcohol-free Toner

No. 3: Pyunkang YulEssence Toner

No. 4: Human NatureBalancing Face Toner

No. 5: Kiehl'sHerbal Extract Alcohol-Free Toner

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The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.

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