“This toner is packed with ceramides and peptides providing long lasting hydration to dry skin,” says Dr. Jeffy, who shares that it’s one of her favorite milky toners on the market. It has a lightweight, non-sticky texture that dries down quickly and makes skin look and feel soft and glossy. It’s perfect if you often deal with skin tightness, dryness or flaking, too.
What our tester says: “A toner and moisturizer together is something I never thought was possible, as toners are typically very drying and usually sting your skin when you apply it. The opposite happened when I used the Laneige Cream Skin—my skin felt so soothed right after my first application and looked radiant because it was instantly hydrated. The formula is very light and doesn’t have any smell to it. This is a great solution to solve dryness after you wash your face and it’s a product I am absolutely incorporating into my morning and nightly routines. I did apply a very light moisturizer on top for my daily facial SPF, but at night you really don’t need anything else before bed,” says Condé Nast executive director, Norell Zable.
Best for Redness: Anua Rice 70 Glow Milky Toner
Anua Rice 70 Glow Milky Toner
Original video from Sarah Y. Wu testing Anua Rice 70 Glow Milky Toner
- Pros: Has a luxurious milky texture that skin simply drinks up; affordable
- Cons: Bottle is a little leaky
A nourishing milky toner is a great option for those dealing with skin redness and rosacea because its hydrating ingredients often help decrease inflammation and discoloration. This Korean toner has a blend of niacinamide and ceramides, and is completely non-comedogenic, which ensures that it won’t clog porse and cause pimples. It’s also suitable for those who deal with a lot of oiliness, and helps balance out sebum production.
What our testers say: “Whenever I want my skin to look extra glassy and radiant, I use this rice toner,” says Sarah Y. Wu who has dry skin. She likes that it gradually brightens her dark spots and absorbs quickly.
Glamour senior analyst Loneeja Talukdar is also a fan. “It feels so light, soothing, and refreshing every time I apply it. It absorbs quickly without any heaviness or stickiness, but still manages to give my skin that soft, plump, and well-hydrated feeling that lasts all day. It makes serums and moisturizers glide on better, while also being gentle enough on my sensitive skin. With regular use, I’ve noticed my skin feels smoother, and has a healthy glow that makes me want to keep reaching for it every day,” says
Best for Acne-Prone Skin: Thayers Hydrating Milky Face Toner
Thayers Hydrating Milky Face Toner
Original video from Alanna Martine Kilkeary testing Thayers Hydrating Milky Face Toner
- Pros: Keeps skin hydrated; doesn’t feel greasy; calms inflammation
- Cons: Can be a bit drying
Acne-prone skin types can benefit from a milky face toner that strengthens the skin barrier and smooths texture. It has a blend of hyaluronic acid, snow mushroom and elderflower water to help increase moisture levels and calm skin.
What our tester says: “I always deal with redness and breakouts around my nose and on my chin, so a toner is a non-negotiable for me,” says Glamour commerce writer, Alanna Martine Kilkeary. “While I usually douse myself in AHA/BHA formulas to help exfoliate away dead skin in these areas, sometimes when my skin is a little extra sensitive (often during temperature and season changes), I opt for this gentler toner to smooth out the area. After using it recently for a few weeks, the uneven texture on my chin is a lot softer and less noticeable, and I’ve broken out very little. Definitely keeping this one with me as we transition to the colder months.”
Best for Sensitive and Aging Skin: Charlotte Tilbury Daily Glow Toner With Niacinamide
Charlotte Tilbury Daily Glow Toner with Niacinamide
Original video from Alanna Martine Kilkeary testing Charlotte Tilbury Daily Glow Toner With Niacinamide
- Pros: Silky, lightweight texture; hydrating; cruelty-free formula
- Cons: Pricey
