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6 Best Toners for Dry Skin: Expert Recommended
Explore expert-recommended toners for dry skin, packed with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, and green tea, for a refreshed, nourished complexion.
By WOWMD Staff
Fact CheckedAdvertiser Disclosure: WOWMD independently vets all recommended products. If you purchase a featured product, we may be compensated. Learn why you can trust us.
Introduction
Searching for the best toner for dry skin in 2025? Discover the 6 best toners for dry skin in this guide and learn about their ingredients, pros and cons, benefits, and customer testimonials, and get a chance to experience their hydrating and soothing formulations.
TL;DR
- Top Picks: Expert-recommended toners like WOWMD Witch Hazel, CeraVe Hydrating, and Laneige Cream Skin.
- Key Ingredients: Look for hyaluronic acid, glycerin, aloe vera, and green tea for hydration.
- How It Works: Toners balance pH, hydrate, and prep skin for better product absorption.
- Best for Dry Skin: Choose alcohol-free, soothing formulas.
- Expert Tips: Avoid toners with alcohol or harsh fragrances for dry skin.
Best pick: WOWMD Witch Hazel Pore Perfecting Toner for hydration & pore care (Shop Now).
What Is Toner and How Does It Help Dry Skin?
Toner For Dry Skin Your Hydration Hero
A toner is a cleansing solution that helps remove impurities on the skin to balance its pH in preparation for subsequent products.
Toners exist in various forms, including liquid, tonic, or mist. Dry skin toners are usually formulated using hydrating ingredients, essences, and soothing agents. They are also free from alcohol and harsh fragrances.
Typically, dry skin presents symptoms such as dullness, tightness, flaking, itchiness, and in severe situations, cracking and bleeding can occur.
Toners on their part help to soothe most of these symptoms by providing moisture to the skin. Hydrating agents in toners also help to retain moisture, allowing the skin to stay hydrated and rejuvenated for longer.
DYK? Hyaluronic acid in toners holds up to 1,000x its weight in water, keeping dry skin plump and hydrated.
Ready to minimize pores and boost hydration? Try WOWMD Witch Hazel Pore Perfecting Toner today and experience the difference - Buy Now!
Our Top Picks:
Best Overall: WOWMD Gentle Balancing Toner
Best for Pore Minimizing: WOWMD Witch Hazel Pore Perfecting Toner
Best for Hydration: CeraVe Hydrating Toner
Best for Dry Skin: Laneige Cream Skin Toner & Moisturizer
Best for Soothing: Thayers Witch Hazel Toner
Best for Skin Barrier Repair: Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Toner
Pros
- Contains sodium hyaluronate – a superb moisturizing agent
- Can minimize pores
- Can strengthen the skin barrier
Cons
- Witch hazel can cause allergic reactions, including rash and itching
- Witch hazel is alcohol-distilled which can exacerbate dryness and skin barrier damage
Size: 6 fl. oz. (177 ml) | Skin type: All skin types, especially dry/dehydrated skin | Best for: minimizing pores | Price: $75.66 | Fragrance: No
Description:
WOWMD’s Witch Hazel Pore Perfecting Toner is one of the best toners for the face that harnesses its power from the astringent capabilities of witch hazel and the hydrating properties of sodium hyaluronate. In a single application, this toner claims to restore your skin’s moisture and strengthen the skin barrier, leaving your skin rejuvenated, soft, and resilient.
This product is cruelty-free, paraben-free, mineral oil-free, phthalate-free, silicone-free, and sulfate-free.
Key Ingredients:
- Witch hazel – the natural tannins in this plant produce tannic acid according to studies in the Journal of Experimental Dermatology[1], which acts as a barrier against external stimulants and sweat, thus enhancing skin barrier function.
- Sodium hyaluronate – this ingredient is a renowned humectant that draws and retains moisture to the skin. A 2021 research article in the Journal of Dermatology and Therapy found that hyaluronic acid has remarkable skin hydrating properties.[2]
Benefits:
- Gently tones and minimizes the appearance of pores
- Moisturizes the skin with sodium hyaluronate
- Strengthens the skin’s barrier using natural ferment filtrates
How to use:
Cleanse the face and neck well before applying the toner, then apply/mist it directly to the skin.
Customer Testimonial:
“I’ve been using it for about two weeks now, once a day in the evening. My skin feels calmer, more hydrated, and smoother. I love that it has sodium hyaluronate—it gives me that extra hydration boost without making my skin sticky. Definitely feels like a clean formula with good ingredients.” - Lily W. 
Join countless others who have experienced softer, more rejuvenated skin. Shop WOWMD Witch Hazel Pore Perfecting Toner now and see the results for yourself!
Pros
- Soothes irritated skin
- Balance skin pH
- Hydrates dry and sensitive skin
Cons
- Green tea can cause skin irritation or itching in some individuals
- Contains fragrance
Size: 6 fl. oz. (177 ml) | Skin type: Sensitive/blemish-prone skin | Best for: Restoring pH balance | Price: $ 63.75 | Fragrance: Yes
Description:
Gentle Balancing Toner by WOWMD is a lightweight and alcohol-free toner designed to revive and soothe sensitive and blemish-prone skin. Crafted using chamomile extracts and green tea, this top-rated facial toner can enhance hydration, soothe irritation, and balance the skin’s pH.
Key Ingredients:
- Chamomile extracts – these extracts are derived from chamomile flowers and contain volatile oils such as alpha-bisabolol, which possess anti-inflammatory and antiphlogistic properties, as per studies in the Journal of Molecular Medicine Reports.[3]
- Green Tea - this ingredient is packed with plant polyphenols with significant antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and chemopreventive properties that protect the skin, according to the Journal of Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity.[4]
Benefits:
- Provides antioxidant support against environmental stressors
- Soothes redness and irritation
- Hydrates and balances skin pH
How to use:
Apply toner to cleansed face and neck using a cotton pad or mist it directly to the skin.
Customer Testimonial:
“Finally, a toner that doesn’t irritate my skin. It goes on smoothly, smells lovely, and keeps my skin soft and hydrated all day.” - Paula S. 
Pros
- A dermatologist formulated and recommended
- Formulated with 3 essential ceramides that help restore the skin’s barrier
- It is non-comedogenic, thus will not clog pores
Cons
- Not suitable for acne-prone or oily skin types
- May cause allergic reactions or irritation in some users
Size: 6.8 fl. oz. (200 ml) | Skin type: Normal to dry skin (including sensitive skin) | Best for: Hydration | Price: $8.99 | Fragrance: No
Description:
Cerave Hydrating Toner is a dermatologist’s formulation featuring hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and niacinamide. Crafted for both men and women, this face skin toner is designed to restore the skin’s barrier for a more hydrated, smoother, and calmer skin.
Key Ingredients:
- Hyaluronic acid: This is a well-known humectant that draws and locks water to the skin. A review study in the Journal of Dermatologic Therapy established that hyaluronic acid-based cosmeceuticals are a noninvasive[5], effective solution for enhancing skin hydration and rejuvenation.
- Niacinamide: This is a form of vitamin B3 that is water-soluble and a potent antioxidant. Studies in the Antioxidants journal agree that niacinamide is a multipurpose antiaging ingredient that can help manage acne vulgaris, psoriasis, and melasma.[6]
Benefits:
- Attracts and locks in moisture, leaving skin looking refreshed and healthy.
- Suitable for sensitive skin as it is fragrance-free, allergy-tested, oil-free, and sensitive-skin tested.
- Restores and maintains the skin’s natural barrier.
How to use:
Saturate a cotton pad with Cerave Hydrating Toner and gently use it to wipe your face and neck thoroughly.
Customer Testimonial:
“Hands down, best toner I’ve ever used. I use it on my body as well, and my skin feels sooo smooth and soft! Most importantly, hydrated. It gets rid of excess dirt or dead skin really well, which leaves the skin without bumps or rough texture. I can’t stop touching my skin.” – Hagansan. 
ALSO READ: Best Toners for Sensitive Skin
Pros
- Suitable for all skin types
- Comes in a refillable bottle, thus the brand is environmentally conscious
- Helps you achieve the hydrated glass skin look
Cons
- Has a heavy, greasy texture that may clog pores
- It can be too rich for oily or acne-prone skin
- It may not treat acne, dullness, or pigmentation.
Size: 5.7 fl. oz. (170 ml) | Skin type: All (dry, normal, oily, combination, sensitive) | Best for: Dryness | Price: $36.00 | Fragrance: No
Description:
Laneige Cream Skin Toner & Moisturizer is one of the best-rated facial toners on the market. It is the original Korean milky toner, but in a refillable bottle. Having garnered the 2024 Vogue Best Hydrating Toner and Allure 2023 Best of Beauty Award Winner, this toner offers remarkable hydrating and firming benefits that leave your skin feeling supple, softer, and youthful.
Key Ingredients:
- Ceramide and Peptide complex: ceramides are important lipids that maintain a healthy skin barrier, while peptides are short-chain amino acids that work as the building blocks for collagen, keratin, and elastin. A review study in the Journal of Experimental Dermatology provides that ceramides create a moisture barrier[7], regulate pH, preserve hydration, and control inflammation.
- White leaf tea: this skincare ingredient is known for its high antioxidant content. According to a review in the Journal of Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity, these antioxidants provide defense against UV radiation as well as pathogen aggression.[8]
Benefits:
- Provides nourishing and hydrating properties
- Visibly firms the skin and strengthens the moisture barrier
- Offers soothing to irritated or itchy skin
How to use:
Gently pat toner onto the skin after cleansing in the morning and evening.Customer Testimonial:
“Love this stuff, especially for travel! Perfect travel size to keep in your carry-on, this is also great for everyday use if you’re a dry-skin girl. Use whenever you’re feeling dehydrated throughout the day. Super creamy & hydrating, you’ll definitely be glowing after you use this!” – Jan W Nagel.
Pros
- Designed for all skin types
- It is alcohol-free
- Thayer’s toner is dermatologist-tested
Cons
- Could cause dryness and irritation in some users
- Overuse of this toner could cause skin barrier damage, causing increased water loss.
Size: 12 fl. oz. (355 ml) | Skin type: All (including) | Best for: Soothing | Price: $7.66 | Fragrance: Yes
Description:
Thayer's facial toner with witch hazel is a liquid toner nourished with aloe vera and rose petal water to give your skin the moisturizing and soothing effect it requires. It contains un-distilled witch hazel that not only cleanses the skin, but also hydrates it. This product is free of alcohol, propylene glycol, and parabens.
Key Ingredients:
- Witch hazel – studies in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology found that witch hazel formula exhibits potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties while enhancing skin barrier function.[9]
- Aloe vera – this herbaceous plant is considered a great hydrating ingredient as its gel contains 98% water. Clinical trials in the Iranian Journal of Medical Sciences[10], found that aloe vera and its compounds can be used to retain skin moisture and integrity.
Benefits:
- Alcohol-free witch hazel gently cleanses the skin without causing dryness
- Helps to balance skin pH, thus maintaining a healthy complexion
- Hydrating ingredients such as aloe vera soothe and keep skin moisturized
How to use:
Apply a pea amount of this toner to a cotton pad and wipe it all over your cleansed face morning and night.
Customer Testimonial:
“Stumbled upon this toner when I was looking for an alcohol-free toner, was pleasantly surprised by how gently it feels and its lovely scent.” – Ferdinand Fong. 
ALSO READ: Best Aloe Vera Gel For Balanced Radiant Complexion
Pros
- Suitable for all skin types
- Paraben and fragrance-free
- Provides gentle exfoliation
Cons
- Quite pricey
- Its scent can be off-putting as it is strongly medicinal
Size: 8.4 fl. oz. (250 ml) | Skin type: All | Best for: Replenishing the skin barrier | Price: $26.00 | Fragrance: No
Description:
Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Toner is an alcohol-free face toner designed to hydrate and comfort the skin using emollients such as Apricot Kernel Oil, Avocado Oil, Squalene, and Vitamin E. This gentle formula not only moisturizes the skin but also balances the skin’s pH without stripping it of its natural oils.
Key Ingredients:
- Avocado Oil – this oil is packed with antioxidants, fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. Animal studies in the Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine journal found that avocado oil increased collagen synthesis and decreased inflammatory cells during wound healing.[11]
- Squalene – this is a lipid that occurs naturally in the human sebum, animal sources such as shark liver, and various plants such as olives. According to studies in the Molecules journal, squalene is an excellent emollient, source of antioxidants, and moisturizer.[12]
Benefits:
- Gently exfoliates the skin without stripping off its natural oils
- Hydrates, tones, and balances the skin pH
- Improves skin texture and complexion
How to use:
Moisten a cotton pad with this best-rated facial toner and apply to the face while avoiding the eye area.
Customer Testimonial:
“Love the product and the shipping even more. Delivered quickly!” – April Tillman
ALSO READ: How Antioxidants Protect Your Skin
Comparison Table
| Our Top Picks | WOWMD Witch Hazel Pore Perfecting Toner | WOWMD Gentle Balancing Toner | Cerave Hydrating Toner | Laneige Cream Skin Toner & Moisturizer | Thayer's Witch Hazel Toner | Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Toner |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Third-party tested | No | No | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| Highlights | Best for minimizing pores | Best for restoring pH balance | Best for boosting hydration | Best for reducing dryness | Best for soothing and comforting | Best for restoring the skin barrier |
| Customer Rating |  4.9/5 |
4.9/5 |
 4.5/5 |
4.5/5 |
4.5/5 |
4.5/5 |
| Shipping | Free shipping on orders over $100 in the USA | Free shipping on orders over $100 in the USA | Shipping charges depend on location | Shipping charges depend on location | Shipping charges depend on location | Shipping charges depend on location |
When will I see Results?
When using toners, the immediate results to observe are the instant hydration boost in which your skin feels refreshed.
As for more long-term results, such as improved texture, you will need to use the toner consistently for a few weeks up to two months or so.
However, results may vary for every user depending on factors such as skin type and dryness severity.
What to Look For While Choosing a Pore Minimizer?
Choosing A Pore Minimizing Toner
When choosing a pore-minimizing toner, consider:
- Hydrating ingredients – toners with hydrating ingredients such as hyaluronic acid or glycerin help keep the skin moisturized.
- Astringent ingredients – these are ingredients that constrict pores. A good example is witch hazel. Niacinamide is also efficient in reducing the appearance of large pores.
- Non-comedogenic toners – these toners do not clog pores. Clogged pores appear larger while cleared pores are smaller.
Dr. Joshua Zeichner, Director of Cosmetic and Clinical Research in Dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital, says that "When selecting a toner for dry skin, look for products that provide hydration and help restore the skin’s natural barrier. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin are key."
Looking for a gentle toner that hydrates while minimizing pores? Discover the power of witch hazel and sodium hyaluronate with WOWMD Witch Hazel Pore Perfecting Toner - Shop Now
How Do We Test a Toner?
- Patch Test: Apply a small amount on a discreet area (e.g., behind the ear) for 24-72 hours to check for irritation.
- Ingredient Check: Look for hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or aloe vera; avoid alcohol and harsh fragrances.
- Hydration Test: Ensure the toner leaves skin feeling hydrated and comfortable without tightness.
- Long-Term Effects: Assess improvements in skin texture and hydration with consistent use.
- Customer Feedback: Review user testimonials for real-world effectiveness and compatibility.
Expert Tips for Choosing Toners for Dry Skin
- Avoid Alcohol: Choose alcohol-free formulas to prevent further dryness.
- Look for Humectants: Opt for ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin that attract moisture.
- Choose Soothing Ingredients: Ingredients like chamomile or aloe vera calm and hydrate irritated skin.
- pH Balance: Select toners with a pH close to the skin’s natural level (around 5.5).
- Non-Comedogenic: Ensure the toner won’t clog pores if you have dry, acne-prone skin.
- Gentle Exfoliation: Consider toners with mild AHAs or fruit enzymes for removing dead skin cells.
Did You Know?
- DYK? Toners for dry skin should never contain alcohol, as it can worsen dehydration and irritate the skin.
- DYK? Hyaluronic acid in toners can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, making it an excellent hydrator for dry skin.
- DYK? Using a toner immediately after cleansing helps lock in moisture, especially when your skin is still damp.
Hydration Checklist for Buyers
Hydration Checklist
Conclusion
Recommended face toners are a great addition to your skincare routine because they cleanse, refresh, hydrate, balance skin pH, and prime the skin for application of other products like serum.
Since they play such a big role in improving your skin health, knowing the right toner for your specific needs is essential.
If you have dry skin, for instance, you should go for toners with hydrating and soothing agents. These ingredients will draw moisture to your skin and hold onto it for longer. They will also reduce water loss and preserve the integrity of the skin barrier, further locking in moisture.
In our top picks, you will surely find a top face toner just for you. If not, there are similar products on the market. Be on the lookout for quality ingredients, brand reputation, price, and customer reviews.
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References
WOWMD follows strict sourcing guidelines to ensure the accuracy of its content, outlined in our editorial policy. We use only trustworthy sources, including peer-reviewed studies, qualified experts, and information from top institutions.
- Effect of Tannic acid on Skin Barrier Function: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29211928/
- Efficacy Evaluation of a Topical Hyaluronic Acid Serum in Facial Photoaging: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8322246/
- Chamomile: A Herbal Medicine of the Past with a Bright Future: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2995283/
- Protective Mechanisms of Green Tea Polyphenols in Skin: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3390139/
- Benefits of Topical Hyaluronic Acid for Skin Quality and Signs of Skin Aging: From Literature Review to Clinical Evidence: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10078143/
- Mechanistic Insights into the Multiple Functions of Niacinamide: Therapeutic Implications and Cosmeceutical Applications in Functional Skincare Products: https://www.amazon.com/LANEIGE-Cream-Skin-Toner-Moisturizer/dp/B09P54X2NS?th=1
- Ceramides and Skin Health: New Insights: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39912256/
- Plant Polyphenols as Dietary Antioxidants in Human Health and Disease: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20716914/
- Revealing the Therapeutic Potential: Investigating the Impact of Novel Witch Hazel Formula on Anti-Inflammation and Antioxidation: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11845955/
- The Effect of Aloe Vera Clinical Trials on Prevention and Healing of Skin Wound: A Systematic Review: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6330525/
- Effect of Semisolid Formulation of Persea Americana Mill (Avocado) Oil on Wound Healing in Rats: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3614059/
- Biological and Pharmacological Activities of Squalene and Related Compounds: Potential Uses in Cosmetic Dermatology: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6253993/