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Pamper your skin with our list of the best Korean toners. While moisturizers, serums, and sunscreens are important, toners also need to be part of your skincare regime. Korean toners have garnered much attention as they help give you smooth and glowing skin. Compared to Western ones, Korean toners suit almost all skin types and have several variants.
Marin McCarthy, a licensed makeup artist and owner of Marin Eve Makeup, says, “Korean toners are great for use before makeup because they can control oil production throughout the day and make your foundation last longer. They also help cleanse your face and reduce the appearance of pores.”
With carefully chosen ingredients, Korean toners with proven efficacy cleanse, hydrate, and balance the pH levels to complement other products. So, explore our list of products and features to choose the one that suits you best.
Top Picks
15 Best Korean Toners for Your Skin
1. Best For All Skin Types:Dear Klairs Supple Preparation Facial Toner
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has garnered more than 4,619 positive reviews on Amazon.
Dear Klairs facial toner is formulated from the goodness of botanical extracts. Suitable for every skin type, the toner firms the skin through hydration while leaving a calming effect through deep cleansing. This toner is vegan-friendly and has not been tested on animals.
The soothing toner’s gentle formula allows faster absorption into the skin and balances pH levels. It has a serum-like texture that is easy to apply to the skin. Check out this simple video review to understand the product and how it works.
"I adore this toner; it leaves my skin feeling moisturized, clear, and glowing. It's pretty quick absorbing and does not have any fragrance. Highly recommended for dry skin."
2. Best Moisturizing:The Face Shop Rice and Ceramide Moisturizing Toner
The moisturizing toner from The Face Shop is rich in natural compounds, including rice bran oil, rice extracts, and ceramide. It gets easily absorbed, resulting in smooth-textured, soft skin.
The antioxidant toner with natural ingredients is known for its anti-aging effects, resulting in a younger and rejuvenated looking skin. It helps retain moisture and acts as a protective barrier for the skin. You can watch this testing video to understand how the product works.
Quick tip3. Best Refreshing: Cosrx AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Do not miss out on this product that has earned 2,218 positive reviews on Amazon.
The dermatologist-tested clarifying treatment toner from Cosrx adds refreshing softness to the skin. Formulated with botanical ingredients meant for skin purification, it has a low pH for acne-free, clear skin.
Everyday usage causes dead skin removal and results in clear exfoliation. Extended use of the toner also results in healthy skin with a bright complexion and added suppleness. Furthermore, the product is allergy-tested and free of parabens, sulfates and phthalates. This review video will help you understand whether this is the right toner for your needs.
"Starting my skincare journey with this clarifying toner was great. However, I experienced mild redness due to its acid ingredients, so I limited the usage to twice a week, which has calmed my skin. I love the fragrance- and dye-free formulation. I would advise caution for beginners to avoid over-exfoliation."
Dear Klairs Supple Preparation Facial Toner Best For All Skin Types | The Face Shop Rice and Ceramide Moisturizing Toner Best Moisturizing | Cosrx AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner Best Refreshing | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skin Type | Sensitive | All | - |
| Dimensions | 3.94 x 3.94 x 3.94 inches | 1.57 x 1.57 x 5.59 inches | 1.97 x 2.76 x 7.09 inches |
| Weight | 0.01 Ounces | 4.05 Ounces | 7.34 Ounces |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 4,619 | - | 2,218 |
| Price | $14.92 | - | $19.17 |
| Buy Now | Buy Now | Buy Now |
4. Best Acne-Blocking:Skin Food Peach Sake Toner
The peach sake toner, known for its proven efficacy, helps tighten pores and controls sebum to block acne development. Specially formulated to cleanse and tone oily skin, it is also loaded with vitamins A and C for natural glow and freshness.
Suitable for men and women, it has anti-aging and skin softening properties. The Korean skin toner for oily skin works best to always keep the skin hydrated and clean, making it a suitable product for everyday skincare.
"Adding this toner to my skincare routine was a refreshing change. It smells great with peach undertones. It addressed my texture and blemish issues effectively without irritation. Would recommend it!"
Quick fact5. Best Long-Lasting:Innisfree Green Tea Balancing Skin Toner
Loaded with minerals and green tea, this balancing skin toner is available in a 200ml bottle for long-term use. The toner has a cream consistency, providing smooth application over the skin with quick absorption and minimal stickiness.
The Innisfree skin toner contains amino acid-rich betaine that makes skin moisture-rich.
"My skin has never looked softer or more radiant. This product has transformed my skin to healthy and glowing. It absorbs quickly with minimal stickiness and moisturizes the skin without being too heavy. The hint of green tea scent feels soothing."
6. Best Lightweight Formula:AHC Aqualuronic Toner
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
Over 884 Amazon shoppers have left good reviews about this product, citing its quality features and benefits.
The AHC toner ensures improved hydration, which keeps your face soft, supple, and free of wrinkles. Formulated by K-Beauty skincare experts, it carries a lightweight and uniquely refreshing formula. It is a blend of French seawater, hyaluronic acid, and ceramides.
The Korean hydrating toner carries a gentle scent and is suitable for your daily skincare regime. Its dermatologist-tested formula offers clearer, rejuvenated, and healthy skin.
"I swapped my toner for this one and to my delight, it has worked splendidly. The scent is pleasant, and it doesn't feel oily while ensuring my skin stays soft and hydrated. It pairs nicely with my moisturizer, and sometimes, I apply several layers when my skin feels parched."
Did you know?7. Best For Sensitive Skin:Mizon Snail Repair Intensive Toner
It is one of the best Korean skincare toners for sensitive skin that helps maintain skin balance and improve its vitality. The results-driven toner provides intense hydration with its 30% snail mucin. It also helps in skin regeneration while improving wrinkles.
The toner retains skin moisture, keeping it soft and flake-free. This toner for sensitive skin is a paraben-free formula.
"I tried this product recently, and it helped clear breakouts, reduced excess oil, and moisturized my skin. However, the gel-like formula suited my neck and chest better than my face. I'm satisfied with the purchase."
8. Best Anti-Aging:N.M.F Intensive Hydrating Toner from Mediheal
The scientifically formulated N.M.F skin toner works as a hydrating agent, keeping the skin youthful and moisturized. It is formulated from mushroom extracts, Centela asiatica, and copper tripeptide. They combine to soothe the skin and keep it hydrated. It stimulates the skin defense mechanism and reduces reactivity when exposed to external factors.
The toner for mature skin is loaded with anti-aging properties and helps keep the skin firm, retaining skin elasticity. This dermatologically approved skincare carries multiple skin-enriching properties to keep the skin supple.
"I had doubts about this serum, but it works well without irritation. Although not as hydrating as expected, the toner didn't dry my skin and has improved my skin texture."
9. Best Rejuvenating:Thankyou Farmer Rice Pure Essential Toner
Rich with Korean rice extracts, the dermatology-tested skin toner offers naturally smooth and glowing skin. It reduces skin dullness, balances water-oil content, and evens the skin tone.
This celebrity-favorite toner for combination skin keeps the skin protected from pollutants by deep-cleansing the pores. Mostly suitable for sensitive and combination skin, it also works for oily skin types. The toner for dull skin is a long-lasting and rejuvenating product that you can add to your daily skincare regime.
"This gentle toner is my favorite. It feels natural and smoothes and hydrates the skin with extended use. It also layers well with my other products."
10. Best Cruelty-Free: Cosrx Hydrium Watery Toner
Formulated with parabens and cruelty-free ingredients, it is one of the prominent Korean toners known for its effective cleaning and rejuvenating properties. It locks in hydration in the skin to keep it moisturized all day.
Its double hydration formula nourished with vitamin B5 also keeps the skin fresh and dewy. This multipurpose korean beauty toner has not been tested on animals and works as a cooling sheet mask, cleansing mask, and a facial spray.
"This refreshing toner is perfect for morning use, providing hydration without irritating the skin. It's best used after a wash. However, the bottle design could do with some improvement to let the user utilize the entire product. Overall, it's an asset to my skincare regime."
11. Best Hydrating:Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Hyaluronic Toner
The Haruharu Wonder black rice hyaluronic toner is an intensely hydrating toner that nourishes and brightens the skin. Its ingredients improve the skin’s natural moisture barrier and boost its elasticity. Black rice has anti-aging and antioxidant properties, while hyaluronic acid boosts hydration and makes the skin plump. This clinically tested lightweight formula absorbs quickly into the skin and is lightly scented with natural lavender oil for a soothing effect. Moreover, the soothing toner with hyaluronic acid is cruelty-free and vegan-friendly.
"Although this toner's thicker consistency felt slightly sticky on my face, it's effective and mild and leaves my skin hydrated without causing irritation. Didn't see any dramatic transformations, but it's refreshing and provides a healthy glow. I am pleased with it!"
12. Best Anti-Blemish:Peach Slices Snail Rescue Blemish Busting Toner
Formulated with 95% snail mucin and cica, this toner is rich in antibacterial and antifungal properties. It effectively tackles skin issues such as hyperpigmentation, redness, and uneven skin tone, making it suitable for acne-prone skin. This K-beauty toner for uneven skin tone gently exfoliates the skin, minimizes scarring, hydrates, and combats signs of aging with its potent hyaluronic acid content. Moreover, the production process does not harm snails, making it a cruelty-free product. Additionally, the toner for acne-prone skin is non-comedogenic and devoid of alcohol, sulfates, parabens, fragrances, and gluten, making it a gentle product. Lastly, this results-driven fragrance-free toner with snail mucin is suitable for daily use, and you can use it as an AM and PM toner.
"I've been using this product regularly, and the consistent use has improved my complexion. It absorbs quickly and leaves the skin hydrated without excessive residue."
13. Best Lotion-Based:SoltreeBundle SET (Emulsion+Toner)
Available as a lotion for facial application, the toner-emulsion combo is prepared with rice and ceramide extracts.This toner lends a moisturizing effect to the skin, keeping it hydrated, soft, and supple. The accompanying oil papers available in a pack of 50 also allow users to dab out any excessive oil produced by the skin for a clear skin texture.
14. Best Irritation-Free: Some By Mi AHA-BHA-PHA 30 Days Miracle Toner
Say goodbye to dead skin cells and dirt on your skin by laying your hand on this Some By Mi Miracle toner. The irritation-free toner, known for its proven efficacy, is suitable for acne-prone skin as its key ingredients include 10K ppm of tea tree leaf extract. Further, AHA, BHA, and PHA in this toner work as an effective exfoliator, making your skin clean and radiant. Polyhydroxy acid minimizes moisture loss, while beta hydroxy acid exfoliates the skin, and alpha hydroxy acid eliminates dead skin cells.
"This toner improved hydration and skin strength, although it initially caused minor irritation. While it didn't treat acne, it reduced pore size. It offers gentle exfoliation. The tea tree scent may not suit all, but when used with serums and moisturizer, it helped repair my damaged skin barrier. Worth trying!"
15. Best For Damage Repair:IOPE Facial Toner
Formulated to revitalize the skin with its damage repair and anti-aging properties, the professional-grade facial toner also works as a skin softener. It is a moisturizing liquid that helps reduce the appearance of open pores on your skin by reducing excess sebum production.
The Korean hydrating toner works as a calming skin cleanser, typically suitable for sensitive, combination, and dehydrated skin. Packed with the goodness of castor oil and other essential ingredients, the skin softener helps restore rejuvenation and keeps the skin glowing and youthful. With moisture-locking properties, the softener-toner also soothes your skin, lending it a fair and healthy complexion.
"The toner has a serum-like consistency that leaves my skin hydrated. Often, I find myself skipping the moisturizer and using this with a cotton pad. I'm not a fan of its floral scent, but it's fantastic for a simplified routine."
How To Choose The Right Korean Toners For Your Skin?
Consider the following aspects before buying a Korean toner for your skin.
- Skin type: Consider your skin type and texture to find a suitable toner. If you have dry skin, choose a hydrating toner or a toner for dry skin that offers a moisturizing effect. For oily skin, you could buy a refreshing toner that can control excess oil and reduce pores. Choose calming and gentle toners for sensitive, acne-prone skin.
- Ingredients: Ensure the toners are hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, and free of harsh chemicals. Some ingredients may not suit certain skin types, so research thoroughly before buying. For sensitive and oily skin, avoid alcohol and other synthetic ingredients such as SLS. Avoid artificial/ synthetic fragrances and dyes if you have sensitive or irritated skin.
- Use: Check the usage method and other requirements to find a suitable product. Some toners may work well for particular skin concerns, so ensure it meets your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is a toner really necessary?
Regular toners may not be necessary for people with a clear, oil-free skin type. K-toners, on the other hand, are formulated to facilitate better absorption of active ingredients from your other skin products and make good additions to your skincare routine.
2. Should I use a toner every day?
Korean toners primarily meant to boost hydration could be used every day, especially if you have dry skin.
3. Can I use a toner without a moisturizer?
A toner can be used without following it up with a moisturizer, provided the toner is heavy on hydrating ingredients such as hyaluronic acid. And if you have oily skin, moisturizers could be skipped when using a toner.
4. Can a toner lighten my skin?
Toners formulated with pearl extracts may prevent melanin buildup in the pores and bestow a radiant glow to your skin. However, it cannot lighten skin as such.
5. Can a toner damage my skin?
A toner containing harsh chemicals and alcohol-based ingredients can disrupt the skin’s pH balance, which in turn could lead to skin problems. Most Korean toners, however, contain pH-balancing ingredients, making them suitable for most skin types.
Why Trust MomJunction?
Poulami Nag, an experienced writer of beauty and personal care products, has considered the necessary quality parameters to bring you the best Korean toners. Korean skincare products are renowned for all the right reasons—they are gentle on your skin and feature ingredients that ensure you get the desired results. In addition, these toners act as an excellent base for other products, balance your pH level, and moisturize your skin.
The Bottom Line
Korean beauty products have become immensely popular among millennials and Gen Z. If you plan to include Korean toners in your skincare routine, this post is for you. When shopping for toners, our list of the best Korean toners can come in handy. Our top picks include the hydrating Dear Klairs Supple Preparation Facial Toner ideal for all skin types, the Innisfree Green Tea Balancing Skin Toner, a long-lasting moisturizing remedy, and the Thankyou Farmer Rice Pure Essential Toner made with Korean rice extracts to fight dull skin. The right toner can keep your skin looking young, hydrated, and rejuvenated while providing the perfect glow and nourishment.
Infographic: Tips To Apply Korean Toners
Korean toners are rich in healthy ingredients and help hydrate the skin. You may have chosen the Korean toner that meets your preferences and budget, but knowing the correct application technique is essential to reap maximum benefits. Read this infographic to learn the correct way of using a Korean toner. Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
References
- Teik Kee Leo et al.; (2022); Effect of Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Ceramides Supplementation on Improving Skin Barrier Functions and Depigmentation: An Open-Label Prospective Study
https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/14/13/2737/pdf - Health Benefits of Peaches: A Delicious Summer Fruit
https://njaes.rutgers.edu/sshw/message/message.php?p=Health&m=301 - Associate Prof. Dr. Syed Nasir Abbas Bukhari et al.; (2018); Hyaluronic Acid a Promising Skin Rejuvenating Biomedicine: A Review of Recent Updates and Pre-clinical and Clinical Investigations on Cosmetic and Nutricosmetic Effects
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/327952833_Hyaluronic_Acid_a_Promising_Skin_Rejuvenating_Biomedicine_A_Review_of_Recent_Updates_and_Pre-clinical_and_Clinical_Investigations_on_Cosmetic_and_Nutricosmetic_Effects - Madhuri Agarwal; (2019); Treatment of Dark Circles with the New 15 mg/ml Hyaluronic Acid Filler with Lidocaine
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6615388/
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