two toners standing on a table for oily skin

Best Face Toners for Oily Skin: What to Look for + What to Avoid

by with 2 Comments Product Recommendation

If your pores often look enlarged, or your makeup seems to slide off after a few hours—you’re not alone. Oily skin is incredibly common, but without the right care, it can lead to clogged pores, breakouts, and uneven texture. One simple step that can help? A good face toner.

Toners are often misunderstood, with many thinking they’re just an extra, unnecessary step. But the right toner can actually balance oil production, remove leftover impurities after cleansing, and prep your skin for better absorption of the next products in your routine.

In this guide, we’ll cover:

  • What a toner really does (and doesn’t do)

  • Which ingredients are ideal for oily skin

  • What to avoid

  • And of course, the 10 best toners for oily skin in 2025

If you’re still unsure about what your skin needs, start with The Ultimate Skincare Guide: How to Identify Your Skin Type — knowing your skin is step one to finding products that truly work.

Best Ingredients in Toners for Oily Skin

When it comes to oily skin, ingredients matter more than fancy packaging or claims. Here’s what to look for in a toner:

1. Salicylic Acid (BHA)

  • Deeply unclogs pores

  • Controls excess sebum

  • Helps prevent breakouts

  • Ideal for oily and acne-prone skin

Want to know more about acids and how they work? Head to AHAs, BHAs, PHAs: Which One Is for You? for the full breakdown.

2. Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)

  • Regulates oil production

  • Minimizes the appearance of pores

  • Strengthens the skin barrier

3. Witch Hazel (Alcohol-Free)

  • Natural astringent

  • Calms inflammation and tightens pores

  • Must be alcohol-free to avoid irritation

4. Zinc PCA

  • Controls shine

  • Has antibacterial properties

  • Great for acne-prone oily skin

5. Green Tea or Aloe Vera

  • Soothing and antioxidant-rich

  • Help calm redness and irritation

Ingredients to Avoid in Toners (Especially for Oily Skin)

  • High alcohol content: Can strip the skin and trigger more oil production

  • Heavy oils or butters: Clog pores and worsen breakouts

  • Synthetic fragrance: Can cause irritation, especially if your skin is reactive

How to Choose the Right Toner for Your Oily Skin Type

Not all oily skin is the same — and that’s where many people go wrong when choosing a toner. To see real results, you need to match your toner to your specific oily skin subtype and concerns. Here’s how to do it:

1. Oily + Acne-Prone Skin

If you’re constantly dealing with blackheads, whiteheads, or cystic breakouts, go for a toner with salicylic acid (BHA). It helps exfoliate inside the pores, reduces oil buildup, and prevents new breakouts. Niacinamide and zinc PCA are also great for calming inflammation and keeping skin clear.

2. Oily + Sensitive Skin

If your skin gets red or stings easily, avoid harsh exfoliants or high alcohol content. Instead, look for gentle, alcohol-free toners with ingredients like green tea extract, panthenol, or aloe vera. These soothe the skin while still helping to balance oil.

3. Oily + Dehydrated Skin

Yes — oily skin can also be dehydrated! If your skin feels tight or flaky but still produces oil, you need a toner that hydrates without clogging pores. Look for glycerin, hyaluronic acid, or beta-glucan to restore moisture while keeping shine in check.

Formulation Tips

Always check the pH level of your toner — ideally around 4.5 to 5.5 to maintain skin barrier health. Toners with this pH level support a healthy microbiome and reduce irritation risk.

Still unsure what your skin needs? Start with The Ultimate Skincare Guide: How to Identify Your Skin Type to get clarity before investing in products.

Top 10 Best Face Toners for Oily Skin (2025 Edition)

Choosing the right toner can make a huge difference in how your oily skin behaves throughout the day. Here are 10 expert-approved toners that help reduce shine, unclog pores, and support a healthy skin barrier — without stripping or irritating.

1. Paula’s Choice Skin Balancing Pore-Reducing Toner

  • Lightweight, alcohol-free formula with niacinamide, chamomile, and antioxidants

  • Reduces excess oil, refines pores, and calms redness

  • Best for oily and combination skin types

  • Gentle enough for daily use without irritation

  • Price: $$

  • Where to buy: Paula’s Choice

2. COSRX AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner

  • Contains willow bark water (BHA) and apple fruit water (AHA)

  • Exfoliates dead skin, helps prevent clogged pores

  • Best for oily and acne-prone skin

  • Spray format for easy application; great for breakouts on chest/back too

  • Price: $

  • Where to buy: Amazon, YesStyle, iHerb

3. La Roche-Posay Effaclar Astringent Toner

  • Formulated with salicylic acid and LHA (Lipo-Hydroxy Acid)

  • Targets clogged pores and post-acne marks

  • Ideal for oily, acne-prone skin with texture issues

  • Dermatologist-recommended and non-comedogenic

  • Price: $$

  • Where to buy: Ulta, Target, CVS

4. The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution

  • Powered by glycolic acid (AHA) and aloe vera

  • Gently exfoliates surface buildup, improves tone and texture

  • Best for oily, dull, or rough skin (not for sensitive types)

  • Use in PM routine only; follow with SPF

  • Price: $

  • Where to buy: Sephora, Ulta, Deciem

5. Thayers Alcohol-Free Witch Hazel Toner (Unscented) (My Personal Favorite)

  • Made with witch hazel, aloe vera, and glycerin

  • Refreshes skin and controls oil naturally, without drying

  • Perfect for oily + sensitive skin types

  • Alcohol-free and fragrance-free option

  • Price: $

  • Where to buy: Amazon, Target, Walgreens

6. Krave Beauty Kale-Lalu-yAHA

  • Contains 5.25% glycolic acid, aloe, and green tea

  • Gently resurfaces while calming irritation

  • Great for oily, dehydrated, or breakout-prone skin

  • Formulated with barrier-supporting ingredients

  • Price: $$

  • Where to buy: KraveBeauty.com

7. Benton Aloe BHA Skin Toner

  • Features salicylic acid, snail mucin, and aloe

  • Combats breakouts while deeply hydrating the skin

  • Best for oily, acne-prone, and sensitive skin

  • K-beauty cult favorite with minimal irritation

  • Price: $$

  • Where to buy: YesStyle, Stylevana, Amazon

8. Pixi Glow Tonic

  • Contains 5% glycolic acid, ginseng, and aloe vera

  • Brightens, smooths texture, and regulates oil

  • Ideal for oily skin with dullness or uneven tone

  • Should be used 2–4 times/week depending on skin tolerance

  • Price: $$

  • Where to buy: Target, Ulta, Cult Beauty

9. Naturium Niacinamide Acid Toner 7%

  • Combines niacinamide, PHA, and zinc PCA

  • Controls shine while gently exfoliating and strengthening the skin

  • Best for oily, blemish-prone skin types

  • Fragrance-free and pH-balanced formula

  • Price: $$

  • Where to buy: Naturium.com, Target

10. Isntree Green Tea Fresh Toner

  • Key ingredients: green tea extract, Centella Asiatica, and EGCG

  • Balances sebum, soothes inflammation, and hydrates lightly

  • Excellent for oily + sensitive or irritated skin

  • Lightweight and non-sticky — perfect for layering

  • Price: $

  • Where to buy: YesStyle, StyleKorean, Amazon

How to Use Toner Correctly in Your Routine

Using toner the right way is just as important as choosing the right one. Here’s how to get the most out of it in your skincare routine for oily skin.

When to Apply

Toner should be applied right after cleansing and before any serums or moisturizers. This step helps remove leftover impurities and preps your skin to absorb active ingredients better.

Application Tips

You can use:

  • A cotton pad to gently swipe the toner across your face — great for removing residue and mild exfoliation.

  • Clean hands to press the toner into your skin — ideal for hydrating or soothing formulas.

Both methods work; it depends on your skin’s needs and the toner’s texture.

How Often Should You Use Toner?

For most oily skin types, twice daily (morning and night) works well. If your toner contains exfoliating acids, limit it to once a day or every other day to avoid irritation.

Best Products to Combine with Toner

Pair your toner with a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer, and if you’re acne-prone, a serum with niacinamide or salicylic acid helps keep oil and breakouts in check.

Read here my guide on How To Create The Perfect Routine For You.

Mistakes To Avoid When Using Toners for Oily Skin

Even the best toner won’t help if it’s used incorrectly. Here are the most common mistakes people make — and how to avoid them.

1. Overusing Harsh Toners

Many still reach for strong, alcohol-based toners thinking they’ll “dry out” the oil. But in reality, this strips your skin barrier, triggering even more oil production. Instead, choose gentle, pH-balanced formulas that support your skin without irritation. Learn more in The Ultimate Guide to Skin Barrier Repair.

2. Layering Too Many Actives

If you’re already using a serum with acids or retinol, go easy on exfoliating toners. Overdoing it can cause redness, sensitivity, or breakouts. Always check for overlap in ingredients. Not sure how to build a balanced routine? Start with The Ultimate Guide to Building Your Personalized Skincare Routine.

3. Skipping Moisturizer

Even oily skin needs hydration. A toner is not a replacement for moisturizer. Without proper hydration, your skin may overcompensate with more oil. If you’re unsure which products to choose, check out The 10 Best Moisturizers for Sensitive Skin — many are lightweight enough for oily types too.

4. Using Toner as a Quick Fix

Toner supports your routine, but it won’t solve everything on its own. Long-term balance comes from consistency and understanding your skin. If breakouts are your main concern, read Acne 101: Causes, Treatments, and How to Get Clear Skin for a deeper look.

FAQ: Toners for Oily Skin

1. Should I use toner every day if I have oily skin?

Yes — most toners for oily skin are gentle enough for daily use, ideally morning and evening after cleansing. However, if your toner contains exfoliants like glycolic or salicylic acid, start with 3–4 times a week to avoid over-exfoliating. For more on how often to exfoliate, check out AHAs, BHAs, PHAs: Which One Is for You?.

2. Can toner replace my moisturizer?

No — a toner can balance and prep, but it doesn’t lock in moisture the way a moisturizer does. Even oily skin needs hydration to stay healthy. Choose a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer to finish your routine. 

3. Are natural or DIY toners better for oily skin?

Not always. While natural ingredients like green tea and aloe can be soothing, DIY toners often have unstable pH levels or irritating ingredients (like lemon juice or apple cider vinegar). Stick with formulated products that are tested and skin-safe.

4. Can toner help with acne?

Definitely — especially if it contains salicylic acid, niacinamide, or zinc PCA. These ingredients help unclog pores, reduce inflammation, and control sebum. If acne is your main concern, read My Guide About Acne.

Works With Your Oily Skin — Not Against It

The right toner can truly change the way your skin looks and feels. Whether you’re dealing with constant shine, clogged pores, or breakouts, there’s a toner out there that fits your oily skin type and your routine.

Here’s what to keep in mind:

  • Go for ingredients like salicylic acid, niacinamide, witch hazel (alcohol-free), and zinc PCA

  • Match your toner to your oily skin subtype — acne-prone, sensitive, or dehydrated

  • Use it consistently, but not excessively

  • Always follow with a proper moisturizer and SPF

Try one product, give it a few weeks, and track how your skin reacts. 

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Woman applying facial serum from a dropper bottle, step in a personalized skincare routine for glowing skin.

The Ultimate Guide to Building Your Personalized Skincare Routine

by with No Comment Skincare Basics

Skincare can be overwhelming, with an endless number of products, routines, and conflicting advice. However, achieving healthy skin does not require a complicated 10-step regimen or expensive products. The key to effective skincare lies in understanding your skin’s needs and choosing the right products to support it.

A well-structured routine focuses on cleansing, treating specific concerns, moisturizing, and protecting the skin. This guide will break down the essential steps to building a personalized skincare regimen that works for you.

Why a Skincare Routine Matters

The skin is the body’s largest organ and acts as a barrier against external aggressors such as pollution, bacteria, and UV rays. Without proper care, environmental stressors can lead to premature aging, dehydration, breakouts, and irritation.

A consistent skincare routine helps to:

• Maintain the skin’s natural balance and hydration levels

• Protect against environmental damage and premature aging

• Address concerns such as acne, hyperpigmentation, dryness, or sensitivity

• Strengthen the skin barrier for long-term health

While skincare is not a one-size-fits-all approach, following a structured regimen tailored to your skin type and concerns will help maintain a clear and healthy complexion.

What is a skin care routine?

A skincare routine usually has several steps that build up on each other. As well it has usually two parts: morning routine and night routine. Today we are talking about what we just put on our face before the day starts. This principle makes skincare that seems so overwhelming with all of the products actually easy and effective. Of course would be the first question, what steps are there.

The answer to this question is a simple one. Every skin care routine has the same framework, that consists of:

    • Cleanse
    • Treat
    • Moisture
    • Protect

Does not really sound complex, right?

You probably know what the first step is. Cleansing your face whether with water or cleaning foam is self-explanatory. Next step is treating. This might be the most confusing and company part. Because here we find the real reason of why we should apply skincare. See, everyone has different skin types and concern ( I already made a blog about this, so check it out).

To exactly target those concern you use specific products to treat the problem properly. Treating products are usually different serums and toners with ingredients like niacinamide, vitamin c and retinoids. To lock all of those ingredients you use a good moisturiser to prevent that moisture and water penetrate from our skin. This even more important during winter months. And last, but not least: Protecting your skin, especially from UV – rays.  But we will talk about this later.

Step 1: Understanding Your Skin Type and Concerns

Before building a skincare routine, it is important to determine your skin type. The most common categories include oily, dry, combination, normal, and sensitive skin. Each type has different needs and will respond differently to products.

Additionally, identifying specific concerns—such as acne, dehydration, hyperpigmentation, or signs of aging—will help in selecting the right active ingredients and treatments.

For a detailed guide on how to determine your skin type and the best ingredients for specific concerns, read this Blog Post (How to identify your Skin Type) and determine your skin type.

Step 2: The Core Steps of a Skincare Routine

Regardless of skin type, a skincare routine follows a general structure. The goal is to cleanse the skin, provide targeted treatments, restore hydration, and protect against damage. The following steps form the foundation of an effective skincare routine.

1. Cleansing

Cleansing is the first and most essential step in skincare. It removes dirt, excess oil, bacteria, and pollutants that accumulate on the skin throughout the day. A well-formulated cleanser should clean the skin without disrupting its natural moisture barrier.

Key considerations when choosing a cleanser:

• Gentle, sulfate-free formulas prevent irritation and maintain hydration.

• Cleansers should match your skin’s needs—foaming cleansers for oily skin, cream or balm cleansers for dry skin, and mild, fragrance-free options for sensitive skin.

• Over-cleansing or using harsh cleansers can weaken the skin barrier and lead to increased sensitivity or breakouts.

Double cleansing, which involves using an oil-based cleanser followed by a water-based cleanser, can be beneficial for those who wear sunscreen and makeup daily. But please only before you go to bed, never in the morning.

2. Treating

1. Toners

Toners help balance the skin’s pH, remove residual impurities, and prepare the skin for serums and moisturizers. While they are not always necessary, they can enhance hydration and optimize the absorption of active ingredients in later steps.

Types of Toners and Their Functions:

• Hydrating Toners: Contain humectants like hyaluronic acid and glycerin to restore moisture. Ideal for dry or dehydrated skin.

• Exfoliating Toners: Formulated with AHAs (glycolic or lactic acid) or BHAs (salicylic acid) to promote skin renewal and unclog pores. Best for acne-prone or textured skin.

• Soothing Toners: Contain anti-inflammatory ingredients such as chamomile, centella asiatica, or aloe vera to calm irritation. Suitable for sensitive skin.

While toners were once seen as astringents that stripped the skin, modern formulas focus on hydration and barrier support, making them a beneficial addition to many routines.

2. Serums

Serums are highly concentrated formulas that deliver active ingredients deeper into the skin. Unlike toners, which prepare the skin, serums contain potent ingredients that directly address concerns such as acne, fine lines, hyperpigmentation, or dehydration.

Common Serum Ingredients and Their Benefits:

• Vitamin C: Antioxidant that brightens skin and reduces hyperpigmentation.

• Hyaluronic Acid: Hydrating ingredient that plumps and smooths the skin.

• Niacinamide: Regulates oil production, strengthens the skin barrier, and reduces redness.

• Retinol: Boosts collagen production and accelerates skin renewal to reduce fine lines. I already made a whole Blog Post about everything you need to know about retinol, so check it here out.

• Salicylic Acid: Penetrates pores to clear acne and prevent breakouts.

If you want to know what ingredients you need in your serum, check out this Blog Post about skin types and what you personal need depending on your skin concerns.
Choosing the right serum depends on individual skin concerns. Introduce treatments gradually to avoid irritation, particularly when using active ingredients like retinol or exfoliating acids.

4. Moisturizing: Maintaining Hydration and Strengthening the Barrier

Moisturizers play a crucial role in keeping the skin hydrated and protected. They seal in moisture, prevent water loss, and support the skin’s natural barrier.

A well-formulated moisturizer should contain humectants (which attract moisture), emollients (which soften and smooth the skin), and occlusives (which seal in hydration).

Even oily skin benefits from a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer to maintain a healthy balance.

5. Sun Protection: The Key to Preventing Premature Aging

Sunscreen is the most important step in any skincare routine. Daily sun exposure accelerates signs of aging, leads to hyperpigmentation, and increases the risk of skin cancer.

Dermatologists recommend using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, applying it daily—even on cloudy days—and reapplying every two hours when exposed to the sun.

Sunscreens come in two types:

• Chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays and convert them into heat.

• Mineral sunscreens (containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) reflect UV rays away from the skin.

For acne-prone or sensitive skin, choosing a non-comedogenic, fragrance-free sunscreen can help prevent irritation or clogged pores. I would always recommend using chemical sunscreen, because they are safer and more effective.

Step 3: Adjusting Your Routine Over Time

Skincare is not static; it should evolve based on factors like age, climate, and lifestyle changes. As seasons shift, skin may require different levels of hydration or protection. For example:

• In winter, heavier moisturizers and hydrating serums help combat dryness.

• In summer, lightweight formulas and increased sun protection are necessary.

• With aging, incorporating anti-aging ingredients like peptides and retinol can help maintain skin elasticity.

Consistency is key—most products take at least four to six weeks to show visible results. Skincare is a long-term investment, and patience is essential.

Final Thoughts

Building a skincare routine does not have to be complicated. By following the fundamental steps of cleansing, treating concerns, moisturizing, and protecting the skin, anyone can achieve healthier skin over time.

Personalization is key—what works for one person may not work for another, so it is important to listen to your skin and adjust as needed.

For more in-depth guides on specific skincare steps, active ingredients, and product recommendations, explore related posts or subscribe for updates.

What does your skincare routine look like? Let me know in the comments! If you found this guide helpful, share it with someone who might need it. If you have any specific questions relating Skincare ask them in the comments and I will try to answer them in the next Post.

 

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