Discover the best toners specifically formulated to target acne-prone skin! Incorporating a toner in your skincare routine can effectively eliminate residual dirt and impurities left behind after cleansing. It can promote a healthier complexion that's free of breakouts.
With numerous toners available from various brands, choosing the best one for acne-prone skin can be overwhelming. Don't worry, as we have you covered! Explore our recommended product list and read our buying guide featuring insights from dermatologist Dr. Meg Sison to ensure you make an informed toner purchase.
Quick List - Top Toners for Acne-Prone Skin
Dermorepubliq
Gentle 2% Salicylic Acid Toner to Detox Pores and Calm Skin
SOME BY MI
Multi-Acid Exfoliating Toner for Clearer, Calmer Skin in 30 Days
Dr. Sison is a board-certified dermatologist who practices in the Philippines and sees both medical and cosmetic dermatological cases on skin, hair, and nails.
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.
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Every mybest article is crafted with hours of in-depth research and interviews with experts. Each month, we are continually expanding our database of products based on our research. By emphasizing user insight and reliable information, we deliver trustworthy content to readers.
According to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Meg Sison, toners alone are not designed to eliminate acne. They are optional but make a great add-on to a skincare routine. Individuals with acne-prone skin can incorporate exfoliating toners 2 to 3 times a week because these can help minimize and unclog pores. They can also help remove excess sebum from the face.
Acne is a medical condition; thus, prescription medications are required to control them. Your board-certified dermatologist will be more than willing to guide you on what you should do to address your acne.
Having the right skincare routine is crucial for managing breakouts and minimizing blemishes. While toners alone can't eliminate acne, they can be quite helpful, given that they contain the right ingredients. Learn more about what ingredients to look for and avoid below.
Your toner’s active ingredients are the main components responsible for fighting acne and ensuring that you get soft and smooth skin.
If you want to incorporate a toner into your skincare routine, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Meg Sison suggests using an exfoliating toner with AHA, BHA, or PHA ingredients like salicylic acid, glycolic acid, or mandelic acid.
These ingredients can manage breakouts by unclogging the pores, and getting rid of excess sebum, dead skin cells, and bacteria. Make sure that these ingredients are at low concentrations (2% or less), and only use them once or twice a week to prevent skin dryness or irritations.
Toners with AHAs and BHAs can complement a skincare routine of a patient with acne-prone skin but these are not the only solutions to address acne. Avoid using exfoliating toners with topical acne treatments like retinoids in the same skincare routine because these can increase the chances of skin dryness and irritation.
Acne can leave behind marks and blemishes, and while toners alone can't eliminate them immediately, they can help improve the appearance. According to Dr. Meg Sison, the best ingredients that can address redness and hyperpigmentation include retinoids, azelaic acid, vitamin C, niacinamide, and AHAs.
For those with acne scars, especially depressed scars, a toner can only do so much. I recommend getting procedures like dermaroller, fractional laser, and chemical peels so that the skin's collagen production can be stimulated.
Simple alcohols like SD alcohol, denatured alcohol, isopropyl alcohol, and ethyl alcohol must be avoided since these may cause dryness or irritation to the skin. Additionally, Dr. Meg Sison also suggests avoiding witch hazel because its astringent properties can dry the skin.
Instead, look for fatty alcohols such as cetyl and stearyl alcohol, which are good for the skin since they have a moisturizing effect. If you're experiencing skin dryness from acne topical treatments, you may also opt to use hydrating toners in alternate use with your exfoliating toners. Examples of ingredients to look for include propylene glycol, hyaluronic acid, and glycerin. Additionally, you can look for ingredients with anti-inflammatory properties, like panthenol and allantoin.
Individuals with acne-prone skin can use hydrating toners, but these are completely optional. Hydrating toners are very lightweight, so they are unlikely to cause clogging of pores. Note that even if you use hydrating toners, you still need moisturizers to restore the skin barrier of those with acne-prone skin.
Witch hazel can cause irritation for those with dry and sensitive skin, so it is best to patch test first before using toners with this ingredient.
Disclaimer: These products are recommendations made by our team at mybest Philippines. Our expert, Dr. Meg Sison, is not affiliated with, nor is she endorsing any of the brands we mention below.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Key Ingredients | Alcohol-Free | Fragrance-Free | Net Weight | |||||
1 | Dermorepubliq 2% Salicylic Acid (BHA) Deep Pore Care Toner | ![]() | Gentle 2% Salicylic Acid Toner to Detox Pores and Calm Skin | 2% Salicylic Acid, Propanediol, Allantoin | 100 mL | |||
2 | Snailwhite Glow Potion AHA·BHA Toner | ![]() | Exfoliating Toner with AHA·BHA for Brighter, Clearer Skin | AHA, BHA, Niacinamide, Snail Mucin, Centella Asiatica | 150 mL | |||
3 | COSRX AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner | ![]() | Gentle Daily Exfoliating Toner for Smoother, Clearer Skin | Glycolic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Mineral Water, Allantoin | 150 mL | |||
4 | SOME BY MI AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Toner | ![]() | Multi-Acid Exfoliating Toner for Clearer, Calmer Skin in 30 Days | AHA, BHA, PHA, Tea Tree Extract, Niacinamide, Witch Hazel | 150 mL | |||
5 | Oxecure Blackhead Clearing BHA PHA Toner | ![]() | Pore-Clearing BHA PHA Toner for Smooth, Matte Skin | BHA (Salicylic Acid), PHA, Tea Tree Extract, Witch Hazel, Niacinamide | 150 mL | |||
6 | LUXE ORGANIX Miracle Solutions Acne Derm + Toner | ![]() | Acne-Fighting Toner with Salicylic Acid & Niacinamide | Salicylic Acid, Niacinamide, Witch Hazel, Tea Tree Extract, Allantoin | 150 mL | |||
7 | Face Republic AHA/BHA Toner | ![]() | Gentle AHA/BHA Toner for Smooth, Balanced Skin | AHA (Citric Acid), BHA (Salicylic Acid), Panthenol, Allantoin, Witch Hazel | 160 mL | |||
8 | BELO Essentials Acne Pro Treatment Toner | ![]() | Acne-Fighting Toner for Clearer, Smoother Skin | Salicylic Acid, Witch Hazel, Niacinamide, Panthenol, Allantoin | 60 mL | |||
9 | Céleteque Acne Solutions Oil Control Toner | ![]() | Oil-Control Toner for Acne-Prone and Sensitive Skin | Salicylic Acid, Aloe Vera Extract, Chamomile Extract, Witch Hazel | 125 mL | |||
10 | Human Nature Acne Defense Toner | ![]() | Natural Anti-Acne Toner with Tea Tree and Plant Extracts | Tea Tree Oil, Witch Hazel, Guava Extract, Aloe Vera | 100 mL |
Users who used it for three months mentioned it helped improve both acne and texture, saying it’s especially useful during period week and makes pores look smaller. Other users praise its ability to remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and prevent acne, describing their skin as smooth and refreshed.
Key Ingredients | 2% Salicylic Acid, Propanediol, Allantoin |
---|---|
Alcohol-Free | |
Fragrance-Free | |
Net Weight | 100 mL |
Many users appreciate how this toner refines their pores and improves skin clarity after consistent use. It’s often described as refreshing and non-stinging, even for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin. A few people highlight how it helped reduce small bumps and breakouts, calling it a game-changer in their skincare routine.
Key Ingredients | AHA, BHA, Niacinamide, Snail Mucin, Centella Asiatica |
---|---|
Alcohol-Free | |
Fragrance-Free | |
Net Weight | 150 mL |
Features and benefits:
Users love that this toner gently exfoliates without irritation, making it perfect for everyday use. Many say it helps keep their skin smooth, minimize breakouts, and gives a fresh, healthy glow. It’s often mentioned as a must-have for those with combination or acne-prone skin.
Key Ingredients | Glycolic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Mineral Water, Allantoin |
---|---|
Alcohol-Free | |
Fragrance-Free | |
Net Weight | 150 mL |
Many users report visible improvements in skin clarity and texture within a few weeks. It's widely praised for calming acne-prone skin while gently exfoliating without causing irritation. People also love the refreshing feel and how it helps control oil and minimize pores.
Key Ingredients | AHA, BHA, PHA, Tea Tree Extract, Niacinamide, Witch Hazel |
---|---|
Alcohol-Free | |
Fragrance-Free | |
Net Weight | 150 mL |
Users love how this toner helps reduce blackheads and oiliness, especially around the nose and T-zone. Many note a smoother, clearer look after a few uses, and that it feels light and refreshing on the skin. It’s often recommended by those with acne-prone and oily skin types.
Key Ingredients | BHA (Salicylic Acid), PHA, Tea Tree Extract, Witch Hazel, Niacinamide |
---|---|
Alcohol-Free | |
Fragrance-Free | |
Net Weight | 150 mL |
Key Ingredients | Salicylic Acid, Niacinamide, Witch Hazel, Tea Tree Extract, Allantoin |
---|---|
Alcohol-Free | |
Fragrance-Free | |
Net Weight | 150 mL |
Users love how gentle yet effective this toner is—many noticed smoother skin and fewer breakouts after a week. It’s often praised for being non-drying and great for daily use, especially by those with sensitive or acne-prone skin. Several reviewers also say it preps the skin well for the next steps in their routine.
Key Ingredients | AHA (Citric Acid), BHA (Salicylic Acid), Panthenol, Allantoin, Witch Hazel |
---|---|
Alcohol-Free | |
Fragrance-Free | |
Net Weight | 160 mL |
Features and benefits:
Many users say this toner effectively helps calm breakouts and reduces redness. It’s frequently praised for being lightweight and not stinging, even on active pimples. Some users also noted improvements in oil control and clearer skin over consistent use.
Key Ingredients | Salicylic Acid, Witch Hazel, Niacinamide, Panthenol, Allantoin |
---|---|
Alcohol-Free | |
Fragrance-Free | |
Net Weight | 60 mL |
Features and benefits:
Users say this toner effectively manages oil and prevents new breakouts. It’s appreciated for its non-stinging formula and lightweight feel. Many note that their skin feels refreshed and smoother with regular use.
Key Ingredients | Salicylic Acid, Aloe Vera Extract, Chamomile Extract, Witch Hazel |
---|---|
Alcohol-Free | |
Fragrance-Free | |
Net Weight | 125 mL |
Features and benefits:
Many users say this toner is a reliable go-to for calming acne without drying the skin. It's praised for its lightweight, refreshing feel and natural scent. People also appreciate that it's locally made and free from synthetic chemicals.
Key Ingredients | Tea Tree Oil, Witch Hazel, Guava Extract, Aloe Vera |
---|---|
Alcohol-Free | |
Fragrance-Free | |
Net Weight | 100 mL |
Having acne-prone skin surely is worrisome. Let us help you address your acne problems more as Dr. Meg Sison answers some of the most asked questions about toners for acne-prone skin!
A very simple skincare should include a cleanser, prescription medication, moisturizer, and sunscreen. You don't need an extensive skincare routineーsimple is best!
Toners can be used either during the day or at night. But if they contain retinoids, it's best to use these at night.
If your toner has AHAs or BHAs, it's recommended to start with the lowest concentration first and use it 2x a week before increasing the frequency of usage.
Here are some skincare hacks that dermatologists do not recommend for those with acne-prone skin:
Consult a board-certified dermatologist for individualized treatment for your acne because toners alone are not enough to treat them.
In order to address acne, it's important for you to build a good skincare routine. A toner isn't enough to control it, so check out our other articles below for some more products that can help you get clearer and healthier skin.
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.
No. 1: Dermorepubliq |2% Salicylic Acid (BHA) Deep Pore Care Toner
No. 2: Snailwhite |Glow Potion AHA·BHA Toner
No. 3: COSRX|AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner
No. 4: SOME BY MI|AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Toner
No. 5: Oxecure|Blackhead Clearing BHA PHA Toner
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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