When you shop through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. This educational content is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice.

Best Facial Toners For Acne (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for a way to improve the health and appearance of your skin, facial toners for acne may be just what you need. These products are designed to help reduce the appearance of blemishes and prevent future breakouts, leaving your skin looking and feeling smoother and more radiant. But before you invest in a facial toner for acne, there are a few things to consider.

Firstly, it’s important to determine your skin type and identify any potential allergens or irritants. You’ll also want to choose a toner with ingredients that work for your skin concerns, such as salicylic acid for oily skin or niacinamide for redness. Additionally, consider the application method – some toners are applied with a cotton pad, while others are sprays or mists.

Are you struggling with persistent acne and looking for a solution that actually works? Have you tried other acne treatments in the past with no success? Facial toners for acne could be the answer you’ve been seeking. But with so many products available, how do you know which one is right for you? Is it better to choose a toner with natural ingredients, or one that contains clinical-strength acne-fighting ingredients? Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about finding the best facial toner for acne.

10 Best Facial Toners For Acne

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
This product is ideal for preventing breakouts and offering gentle exfoliation, suitable for both men and women.
2
The product is ideal for balancing skin, removing impurities, pore tightening and acne treatment for sensitive skin.
3
The product is ideal for those with oily skin, acne-prone skin, and in need of gentle exfoliation to unclog pores.
4
Ideal for toning and soothing facial skin, reducing redness, minimizing pores, and improving overall complexion.
5
Ideal for toning and clearing blemishes and acne-prone skin while providing anti-aging benefits through its vitamin C and hyaluronic acid content.
6
The product is ideal for sensitive skin, acne-prone skin, and those who want to control oiliness on their face.
7
This product is ideal for people with acne-prone and oily skin, as it contains antioxidants and tea tree oil to soothe blemishes and prevent breakouts.
8
This product is ideal for oily and acne-prone skin as it contains 2% salicylic acid to treat and prevent breakouts.
9
The product is an ideal hyperpigmentation treatment for acne-prone, dry or oily skin, that helps to remove dark spots.
10
Ideal for calming and toning sensitive or redness-prone facial skin, providing hydration and a refreshed complexion.
This product is ideal for preventing breakouts and offering gentle exfoliation, suitable for both men and women.
The product is ideal for balancing skin, removing impurities, pore tightening and acne treatment for sensitive skin.
The product is ideal for those with oily skin, acne-prone skin, and in need of gentle exfoliation to unclog pores.
Ideal for toning and soothing facial skin, reducing redness, minimizing pores, and improving overall complexion.
Ideal for toning and clearing blemishes and acne-prone skin while providing anti-aging benefits through its vitamin C and hyaluronic acid content.
The product is ideal for sensitive skin, acne-prone skin, and those who want to control oiliness on their face.
This product is ideal for people with acne-prone and oily skin, as it contains antioxidants and tea tree oil to soothe blemishes and prevent breakouts.
This product is ideal for oily and acne-prone skin as it contains 2% salicylic acid to treat and prevent breakouts.
The product is an ideal hyperpigmentation treatment for acne-prone, dry or oily skin, that helps to remove dark spots.
Ideal for calming and toning sensitive or redness-prone facial skin, providing hydration and a refreshed complexion.

1. Clear & Calm Exfoliating Toner: Peach Slices

Achieve clear, smooth, and calm skin with the gentle yet effective acne toner that helps tone, exfoliate, and balance the skin's natural oils. This toner is formulated with 2% salicylic acid that works rapidly to clear and prevent breakouts while being gentle enough to exfoliate the skin, decongest pores, smooth textural irregularities, and reduce redness and uneven skin tone. It is ideal for all skin types.

Clarify and refine pores with the help of glycolic acid and lactic acid, while cica and allantoin work together to soothe and reduce signs of redness. Additionally, the toner contains antioxidant-rich acerola and refreshing cucumber that help to reduce signs of external stress.

This acne exfoliating toner is the second step in a 3-step acne regimen that includes the Acne Clarifying Cleaner and the Acne Oil-Free Moisturizer. Follow this daily routine for beautiful, clear, and confident skin.

Using the toner will not only leave your skin visibly clear and smooth but also hydrated. Hydrated skin is healthy skin! Our plant-based toner is sulfate-free, alcohol-free, fragrance-free, paraben-free, gluten-free, vegan, cruelty-free, and Leaping Bunny certified. It is a clean formula that does not contain any harmful ingredients and ensures that your skin is well taken care of.

Pros

  • Gentle yet effective acne toner that helps tone, exfoliate, and balance the skin's natural oils.
  • Rapid-action 2% salicylic acid formula helps to clear and prevent breakouts.
  • Clarify stubborn pores with glycolic acid and lactic acid while cica and allantoin help soothe and reduce signs of redness.
  • Contains antioxidant-rich acerola and refreshing cucumber that help to reduce signs of external stress.
  • Hydrates the skin and leaves it visibly clear and smooth.
  • A clean formula that is sulfate-free, alcohol-free, fragrance-free, paraben-free, gluten-free, vegan, cruelty-free, and Leaping Bunny certified.

2. Sensitive Skin Proactiv Toner – Pore Tightening Formula

Introducing the Proactiv Revitalizing Toner – a game-changer in the world of skin toners. This alcohol-free formula gently removes impurities, maintains moisture, balances skin's pH, and tightens the appearance of pores. With regular use, this toner smooths the skin's texture, prevents future breakouts, and reduces excess surface oil.

Enriched with a blend of botanical extracts like Aloe, Chamomile, Witch Hazel, Allantoin, and Panthenol (Vitamin B Complex), this toner helps in refining pores, reducing irritation, and stimulating healthy tissue growth. These extracts work together to soothe and calm the skin while also providing essential nutrients to promote its overall health.

Proactiv Revitalizing Toner is designed for all ages and is safe for both teens and adults. It is an excellent choice for anyone looking for an effective solution to acne-prone sensitive skin. This toner is a crucial step to achieving radiant and acne-free skin.

Experience the difference with Proactiv – the company that started a skincare revolution. Get your hands on the Proactiv Revitalizing Toner today and enjoy a refreshed, rejuvenated, and healthy-looking complexion.

Pros

  • Alcohol-free formula that gently removes impurities and maintains moisture
  • Botanical extracts like Aloe, Chamomile, and Witch Hazel refine pores, reduce irritation, and stimulate healthy tissue growth
  • Suitable for all ages and safe for acne-prone sensitive skin
  • Helps in preventing future breakouts and reduces excess surface oil

3. Effaclar Clarifying Solution: Pore-Perfecting Toner

Achieve a clearer, smoother complexion with this exfoliating acne toner. Infused with salicylic acid and glycolic acid, this toner effectively removes pore-clogging debris and dead skin cells, leaving your skin feeling refreshed and revitalized. It is specially formulated to treat common skin concerns such as red, raised pimples, blackheads, whiteheads, clogged pores, enlarged pores, uneven skin texture, and sensitive skin.

Glycolic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that is widely recognized for its skin-exfoliating properties. It helps increase skin surface cell turnover, promoting the growth of new, healthy skin cells. This results in a visibly improved skin tone and texture.

With 0.5% salicylic acid, this toner is an ideal choice for those with oily skin and clogged pores. Salicylic acid is a highly effective exfoliant that refines the appearance of pores and helps prevent breakouts. It also helps reduce inflammation and redness, making it an excellent choice for those with sensitive skin.

Pros

  • Effectively removes pore-clogging debris and dead skin cells
  • Leaves skin feeling refreshed and revitalized
  • Specially formulated to treat common skin concerns such as acne, blackheads, whiteheads, and enlarged pores
  • Contains glycolic acid for improved skin tone and texture
  • Contains 0.5% salicylic acid, a highly effective exfoliant that refines the appearance of pores and helps prevent breakouts

Cons

  • – May cause dryness or irritation for those with very sensitive skin

4. Thayers Alcohol-Free Lavender Witch Hazel Facial Toner With Aloe Vera Formula, 12 Oz

Thayers Gentle Face Toner is an alcohol-free toner that helps to soothe, tone, hydrate and balance the pH level of the skin. This toner is formulated to reduce the appearance of pores, balance oily skin, and maintain the skin's moisture barrier. It contains 98% natural origin ingredients, including certified organic Witch Hazel and Aloe Vera. The Witch Hazel is grown and harvested exclusively for Thayers on a family farm in Connecticut and is picked by hand and made the old-fashioned way using water only and NEVER touching alcohol. The toner is dermatologist tested for safety and is 100% cruelty-free.

Thayers Gentle Face Toner is a unique formulation that is farm-to-bottle. It is made using classic ingredients that have been used for nearly two centuries. In just one use of this face toner, the skin feels nourished, healthier, and the skin tone appears even. The toner hydrates the skin all day long. After one week of use, the pores look reduced, the skin looks clarified, and the skin texture looks smoother. Thayers Gentle Face Toner is non-comedogenic and helps to balance the skin's pH levels.

Thayers Gentle Face Toner is a time-tested remedy that has been a fixture in medicine cabinets for generations. Once you use this toner, you will know why it is an essential part of any skincare routine.

Pros

  • Alcohol-free and formulated to soothe, tone, hydrate, and balance the pH level of the skin
  • Contains 98% natural origin ingredients, including certified organic Witch Hazel and Aloe Vera
  • Unique formulation that is farm-to-bottle
  • Dermatologist tested for safety and 100% cruelty-free
  • Helps to reduce the appearance of pores, balance oily skin, and maintain the skin's moisture barrier
  • Non-comedogenic and helps to balance the skin's pH levels

5. Clear And Ageless Facial Toner Spray.

The Age Defying and Skin Clearing Facial Toner is a powerful formula that helps balance the skin and reduce the appearance of acne scars and discoloration. This toner is designed to address multiple skin concerns and works as a primer for serums and moisturizers.

Made with Tea Tree Oil, Niacinamide, and MSM, this toner targets dark spots and breakouts while Vitamin C and Hyaluronic Acid brighten and smooth common signs of aging. With regular use, the Age Defying and Skin Clearing Toner helps even skin tone, refine skin texture, and reduce the look of wrinkles and blemishes while hydrating the skin.

For best results, it is recommended to apply this toner twice daily. To maximize the anti-aging and skin clearing benefits, it is best paired with InstaNatural's Vitamin C Cleanser, Age Defying and Skin Clearing Serum, and Vitamin C Night Cream.

InstaNatural Core Clean Promise ensures that this skin care product is formulated without 1500+ ingredients such as parabens, sulfates, synthetic fragrance, PEGs, petroleum, and formaldehyde releasors. Additionally, this product is certified cruelty-free.

Pros

  • Targets dark spots and breakouts while brightening and smoothing common signs of aging
  • Helps even skin tone, refine skin texture, and reduce the look of wrinkles and blemishes while hydrating the skin
  • Works as a primer for serums and moisturizers
  • Formulated without 1500+ harmful ingredients
  • Certified cruelty-free

6. Miraculous Tea Tree Toner For Sensitive Skin

SOME BY MI is a brand committed to making products that prioritize the essentials of cosmetics by using safe and clean ingredients with proven efficacy. Their mission is to bring about positive changes and make miracles happen on the skin. Their Miracle Toner is a facial toner that contains high levels of tea tree water extract, which helps to quickly and gently improve troubled skin. The toner is an exfoliating solution that includes AHA/BHA/PHA and Papaya extract and Witch Hazel extract to help remove dead skin cells and impurities from the skin's surface. The toner has undergone dermatological testing for sensitive skin and contains patented ingredients such as P-PEFINYL, which helps to control sebum, and FRUCTAN, which moisturizes the skin.

The toner's key ingredients include AHA, which helps to exfoliate the skin's surface, reduce fine lines, wrinkles, and improve skin texture and tone. BHA exfoliates the inside of pores, helps to clear out impurities and excess sebum. PHA is a gentle exfoliator that helps hydrate and brighten the skin, reduce the appearance of fine lines, and improve the overall texture of the skin. The Miracle Line from SOME BY MI is ideal for acne-prone skin and features high amounts of Tea Tree Leaf to improve the skin. The line contains an optimal mix of AHA, BHA, PHA to refine dead skin cells and impurities, and Truecica, an exclusive calming agent that maintains healthy-looking skin and prevents acne breakouts through pH balance care.

The Miracle Line is free of 20 harmful ingredients and has passed irritation tests for sensitive skin. SOME BY US is a brand that undergoes rigorous testing from the planning and development stages to product launch, in collaboration with various dermatology experts. Their products are designed to provide proven efficacy. If you have any questions about their products, do not hesitate to contact them. Your satisfaction is their first priority goal.

Pros

  • Contains high levels of tea tree water extract to improve troubled skin quickly and gently
  • Exfoliates dead skin cells and impurities from the skin's surface
  • Includes AHA/BHA/PHA and Papaya extract and Witch Hazel extract for a thorough cleanse
  • Passed dermatological testing for sensitive skin
  • Contains patented ingredients such as P-PEFINYL and FRUCTAN for sebum control and moisturizing, respectively
  • Ideal for acne-prone skin and helps prevent breakouts through pH balance care
  • Free of 20 harmful ingredients

7. Clear & Smooth Toner For Acne Skin

Say goodbye to acne-prone skin with Obagi Medical CLENZIderm M.D. Pore Therapy Acne Treatment. Made in the USA, this facial toner effectively unclogs pores and clears away dead skin cells with 2% salicylic acid, which helps remove acne-causing bacteria at the source. This powerful formula not only leaves the skin feeling refreshed but also prepares it for the next step in your acne treatment regimen.

To use, start by cleaning your skin thoroughly before applying the medication. Then, moisten a cotton ball with the Obagi CLENZIderm M.D. Pore Therapy and gently smooth it over your face. Use it in the morning and at night, and allow it to dry. If you experience bothersome drying, reduce the application to once a day or every other day. With its effective formulation and refreshing feel, Obagi Medical CLENZIderm M.D. Pore Therapy Acne Treatment is a must-have for anyone struggling with acne-prone skin.

Pros

  • Contains 2% salicylic acid to effectively remove acne-causing bacteria
  • Unclogs pores and clears away dead skin cells
  • Leaves the skin feeling refreshed
  • Prepares the skin for the next step in the acne treatment regimen
  • Made in the USA

8. Turmeric Toner – Dark Spot Corrector & Hydrator

Achieving healthy and beautiful skin has never been easier with this Acne Toner. This facial toner is specially formulated to clean, clear, and prep the skin. It comes in a soothing mist form that delivers advanced natural ingredients that are anti-acne, pore minimizer, and oil control. It also helps fade dark spots and improves overall skin complexion.

With the addition of turmeric, this Face Astringent becomes a powerful skin toner that gently exfoliates, reduces acne, and dark spots. Ginger is also added to brighten and repair the skin. This toner is perfect for all skin types, especially those with sensitive skin.

The Face Moisturizer with natural formula is rich in turmeric, ginger, Licorice, Sugar Cane, Centella Asiatica, and Green Tea. These potent antioxidants and skin smoothing agents help brighten and even the skin tone. Vitamin C is also added to make the skin look young and radiant. It is effective for dark spots, sun spots, age spots, and even skin tone.

To use the Face Toner for Aging Skin, simply pour out the toner into the palms and gently press it on the face for optimal absorption. For double cleansing, you can spray the toner on cotton pads and wipe the whole face. Follow it up with a face serum and lock in moisture and hydration with moisturizer.

This Brightening Toner is perfect for all skin types as its gentle formula nourishes and improves blemishes, enlarged pores, uneven skin tone, and signs of aging. Achieve a beautiful complexion safely and naturally with this facial spray.

Pros

  • Cleans, clears, and preps the skin
  • Natural ingredients are anti-acne, pore minimizer, and oil control
  • Helps fade dark spots and improves overall skin complexion
  • Powerful Face Astringent with turmeric and ginger
  • Face Moisturizer with natural formula that contains potent antioxidants and skin smoothing agents
  • Brightens and evens the skin tone
  • Gentle formula is perfect for all skin types
  • Helps improve blemishes, enlarged pores, uneven skin tone, and signs of aging

9. Skin-Soothing Toner For Sensitive Faces.

This hydrating toner from Paula's Choice is perfect for those with dry, flaky skin. It not only soothes and nourishes the skin but also helps to revitalize and moisturize. The toner fights the signs of aging and calms redness while infusing the skin with antioxidants to minimize the effects of free-radical damage and environmental stress. The SKIN RECOVERY Calming Toner delivers key ingredients like skin-defending antioxidants, essential lipids, and skin-restoring ingredients to help eliminate dry, flaky skin as it hydrates and leaves skin feeling smoother.

Use this hydrating and soothing toner as part of your morning and evening facial skin care routine, after your favorite Paula's Choice cleanser. For best results, follow with an exfoliator, serums, spot treatments, and moisturizer. During the day, use an SPF 30+ moisturizer to protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays.

Paula's Choice is dedicated to sustainability and has made a pledge to the planet. As part of this pledge, the company is removing extra plastic from their shipping boxes, such as shrink wrap.

Paula's Choice products are made with your skin in mind. No matter your skincare concern, whether it be dryness, acne, fine lines, or sensitive skin, Paula's Choice has a treatment line for you. The company offers effective, science-backed formulas that target any concern from wrinkles to breakouts. Say goodbye to fragrances, parabens, and fluff and hello to amazing, healthy skin.

Pros

  • Hydrates and nourishes dry, flaky skin
  • Fights signs of aging and calms redness
  • Infuses skin with antioxidants to minimize free-radical damage
  • Delivers key ingredients like skin-defending antioxidants, essential lipids, and skin-restoring ingredients
  • Effective and science-backed formulas

Cons

  • – May not be suitable for those with oily skin

Best Facial Toners For Acne FAQs

Are there any natural or DIY facial toners for acne that are effective?

Yes, there are several natural and DIY facial toners for acne that can be very effective. One of the best options is apple cider vinegar, which has natural antibacterial properties and can help balance the skin's pH levels. To use apple cider vinegar as a toner, dilute it with water (about 1 part vinegar to 3 parts water) and apply it to the face with a cotton ball. Another great option is witch hazel, which is a natural astringent that can help reduce inflammation and redness caused by acne. Simply apply witch hazel to the face with a cotton ball or pad. Other natural ingredients that can be used as facial toners for acne include tea tree oil, green tea, and rosewater. It's important to keep in mind that everyone's skin is different, so what works for one person may not work for another. It's always a good idea to do a patch test before trying any new skincare products or ingredients, and to consult with a dermatologist if you have severe or persistent acne.

Can facial toners for acne cause dryness or irritation?

Yes, facial toners for acne can cause dryness or irritation. This is because many acne-fighting toners contain ingredients such as salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, which can be harsh on the skin. These ingredients work to unclog pores and kill bacteria, but they can also strip the skin of its natural oils and cause dryness, flakiness, or redness. Additionally, some toners may contain alcohol, which can further dry out the skin and cause irritation. To avoid these side effects, it's important to choose a toner that is specifically formulated for your skin type and to use it in moderation. It's also a good idea to follow up with a moisturizer to help restore moisture to the skin. If you experience persistent dryness or irritation, it's best to consult a dermatologist for personalized advice.

Can facial toners for acne help reduce the appearance of pores?

Yes, facial toners for acne can help reduce the appearance of pores. Toners are designed to remove any residual dirt or oil that may be left on the skin after cleansing. They work by penetrating deep into the pores and removing any impurities that may be clogging them. By doing so, they help to minimize the appearance of pores and give the skin a smoother, more even texture.

In addition to removing impurities, facial toners for acne may also contain ingredients that help to tighten and shrink the pores. Ingredients such as witch hazel, salicylic acid, and tea tree oil are all known for their astringent properties, which can help to reduce the size of pores and make them less visible.

However, it's important to note that while facial toners can be effective in reducing the appearance of pores, they should be used in conjunction with other skincare products and a consistent skincare routine. Additionally, it's important to choose a toner that is specifically formulated for acne-prone skin and to avoid products that contain alcohol or other harsh ingredients that can dry out and irritate the skin.

How often should I use facial toner for acne-prone skin?

Facial toner is a crucial part of skincare routine, especially for acne-prone skin. It helps to restore the skin's pH balance, remove excess oil, and tighten pores. However, using it too frequently can cause dryness and irritation, while not using it enough can lead to ineffective results.

For acne-prone skin, it is recommended to use facial toner twice a day – in the morning and before bedtime. This will help to remove any dirt, oil or makeup residue from the skin's surface and prepare it for further skincare steps. However, if your skin is sensitive or dry, it is best to limit the usage to once a day, preferably at night.

It is also important to choose the right type of toner for your skin type. Look for toners that contain salicylic acid or glycolic acid as they help to exfoliate the skin and unclog pores. Avoid toners that contain alcohol or fragrance as they can cause irritation and dryness.

Remember, consistency is key when it comes to skincare routine. So, make sure to use the toner regularly as part of your daily skincare routine to achieve the best results.

What are the best ingredients in facial toners for acne-prone skin?

Facial toners are an essential part of any skincare routine, especially if you have acne-prone skin. The right ingredients in facial toners can help to unclog pores, balance the skin's pH level, and reduce inflammation. When it comes to choosing the best ingredients for acne-prone skin, it is important to look for those that are gentle and non-irritating.

One of the best ingredients to look for in facial toners for acne-prone skin is salicylic acid. This ingredient is a type of beta-hydroxy acid that can penetrate deep into the pores to help unclog them and reduce inflammation. Another great ingredient is witch hazel, which is a natural astringent that can help to tighten pores and reduce oil production.

Niacinamide is another ingredient that is great for acne-prone skin. It can help to regulate sebum production, reduce inflammation, and improve the skin's barrier function. Other beneficial ingredients include tea tree oil, which has natural antibacterial properties, and aloe vera, which can soothe irritated skin.

Overall, when choosing a facial toner for acne-prone skin, it is important to look for ingredients that are gentle and non-irritating, and that can help to unclog pores, reduce inflammation, and balance the skin's pH level.

Leave a Comment