Acne-prone skin can benefit from certain toners, according to Dr. Divya Shokeen, a board-certified dermatologist at Ocean Skin and Vein Institute in Southern California. While toners were once necessary to remove residue from cleansing bars, improvements in skin care formulations have made them optional for most. However, for acne-prone skin, the right toner can help unclog pores, exfoliate, and reduce breakouts.
Key Ingredients to Look For
Shokeen recommends toners containing salicylic acid, glycolic acid, alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), or tea tree oil. Salicylic acid effectively unclogs pores, while glycolic acid and AHAs gently exfoliate. Tea tree oil offers antibacterial and anti-inflammatory benefits. Lactic and mandelic acids can also prepare the skin for serums and moisturizers.
Shokeen advises avoiding toners with alcohol, fragrances, menthol, or sulfates, as these can cause irritation and further breakouts. Consulting a dermatologist to understand your skin type is recommended.
Top Toner Picks
Below are dermatologist-recommended and editor-approved toners for acne-prone skin.
COSRX AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner
Shokeen recommends this Korean beauty toner for blackheads and acne. It combines AHAs and BHAs to exfoliate, brighten, and control oily skin. White willow bark acts as an anti-inflammatory to treat active breakouts. Price: $15 at Amazon, $20 at Dermstore.
Dr. Jart+ Teatreement Toner
Formulated with tea tree oil, this purifying toner removes excess oil and grime, soothing redness and blemishes while hydrating. Price: $30 at Amazon and Sephora.
Thayers Rose Petal and Witch Hazel Facial Toner with Aloe Vera
A Shokeen must-have, this toner uses witch hazel and aloe vera to balance oily skin, hydrate, and neutralize bacteria. It is budget-friendly at $11 from Amazon and Ulta.
Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
Recommended by Shokeen, this leave-on exfoliant contains salicylic acid to unclog pores and smooth wrinkles. Green tea soothes irritation, and methylpropanediol hydrates. Prices start at $15 on Amazon and Sephora.
PCA SKIN Nutrient Toner
This toner features AHAs to refine pores, plus vitamins, enzymes, and amino acids to nourish skin. Price: $46 at Amazon and Dermstore.
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Clarifying Solution
Shokeen recommends this medicated toner with salicylic acid to unclog pores and remove excess oil. It is gentle enough for twice-daily use and won't strip natural moisture. Price: $19 at Amazon, $21 at Target.
How to Use Toner
Toners should be used after cleansing, typically twice daily. Those with high active ingredient percentages should be introduced slowly. This step can be added to any routine and can significantly improve acne-prone skin by reducing blemishes and healing breakouts without harsh ingredients.
