The multi-step skincare routine is trending on all platforms. With so much to consider, from skin type to budget to the amount of time and energy you want to devote to self-care, developing a routine of your own is more intimidating than ever.
Thankfully, you have us. Here at New London Pharmacy, we do the research so you don’t have to.
Perfect for the high or low maintenance individual, facial toners can be used at any time of day and serve multiple purposes.
Whether you use it as a primer for your makeup, store it in your bag to refresh yourself in the middle of the work day, or incorporate it into your multi-step routine, facial toners cleanse and hydrate your skin by unclogging your pores and restoring your skin’s pH balance to prevent harmful bacteria from taking root. Introducing a facial toner into your daily life is one of the easiest ways to actively fight dirt and grime and prevent breakouts.
All that’s left is finding the right match!
With the new Tik Tok ‘Shop’ feature, paid promotions for brand deals, and more online beauty “experts” than ever, it's hard to know who and what products to trust. Just because something works for Gisele Bündchen or Alix Earle, doesn’t necessarily mean it will work for you.
If you have sensitive skin like me, you’ve come to the right place. Here’s a countdown of New London Pharmacy's favorite toners for sensitive skin with explanations as to why and instructions for use.
9. Nuxe Very Rose Refreshing Toning Mist - $21
Why we love it:
- Proven effective for all skin types.
- Moisturizing.
- Helps remove makeup.
- Prevents skin from feeling dry.
- Refreshing rose scent - great for sensitive skin.
How to use: Spray over your face from a distance of 15 cm (6 in), keeping your eyes closed. Remove any excess product with a tissue or leave to dry. In the morning, to envelop skin in a refreshing veil, in the evening, after make-up removal, or after cleansing.
“There are a lot of great toners out there, but I think people underestimate Nuxe Toning Mist’s unique ability to brighten your complexion. Not only does this product leave my skin feeling squeaky clean and vital, it also brings color to my usually dull-complexion.” -New London Pharmacy Staff Member
Why we love it:
- Pollution, stress, cold, weather, etc.
- Production of aquaporins
- Alcohol-free.
- Affordable.
How to use: Soak a cotton pad and apply on your face and eyes, after cleansing.
7. Lesse Regeneration Mist - $58
Why we love it:
- Best for sensitive, hyperpigmented or dry skin.
- Doesn’t just fortify, but repairs skin.
- Instantly soothes inflammation.
- Deeply hydrates and replenishes.
- Repairs and strengthens the skin barrier.
- Naturally brightens skin, fading dark spots.
- Powerful blend of medicinal mushrooms and replenishing antioxidants like jojoba oil.
- All ingredients are hand selected and many grown on site, to ensure the highest standard of quality and efficacy.
How to use: Spray 5 pumps into the palms of your hands and press into the face and neck. Mist throughout the day to enhance, hydrate, or calm reactive skin. For an extra anti-inflammatory effect, store in the fridge and spray cold.
“A few years ago my skin went from flawless to eczema ridden over a couple of weeks. I didn’t think I would be able to use commercial/ordinary skincare products ever again, until I found Lesse. This Regeneration Mist soothes eczema flare ups on my eyelids and neck. I lock it in by applying a moisturizer overtop and am left feeling hydrated all day long with just one morning application.”
6. REN Ready Steady Glow Dialy AHA Tonic - $39
Why we love it:
- Suitable for all skin types, but recommended for people with dry, dull, or uneven skin.
- Free from harmful additives.
- Exfoliating AHAs.
- Visibly improves skin’s overall texture.
- Formulated with a pH between 3.5 and 4.5 for for real results without irritation.
- Minimizes appearance of pores
- Reduces sebum and breakouts
How to use: Saturate cotton pad and wipe over face and neck. Use twice daily, morning and evening, after cleansing and before moisturizing.
“This product looks, smells, and feels expensive. I’ve never used a toner that so visibly reduces the appearance of my pores. I love how the product comes out as a super fine mist. Whether you're wearing a full face of makeup or rocking a fresh face; waking up at 5 am or noon, this is a must-have for your morning routine. Definitely worth the splurge and will leave you feeling hydrated all day long.” -New London Pharmacy Staff Member
5. Bioderma Sensibio H2O - $5.99
Why we love it:
- Well known as a beauty junkie's favorite no rinse cleanser and make-up remover.
- Specially formulated for sensitive, normal, and dry skin.
- Even removes stubborn water resistant eye and face makeup.
- Formula naturally helps rebuild the skin's hydrolipidic film (self-protective layer of your skin)
- Super affordable.
- Available in multiple sizes (100, 250, and 300 mL).
How to use: Soak a cotton pad with Sensibio H2O. Gently cleanse and/or remove make-up from your face and eyes. Re-apply until the cotton pad becomes clean. Lightly dab your face with a clean cotton towel. Do this once or twice daily, in the morning and/or evening, 7 days a week.
“Bioderma is the perfect product for the non-stop individual. At the end of a long day, I don’t have the time or the energy for a multi-step skincare routine. Bioderma allows me to remove my makeup, cleanse, and tone my skin all in one step. It’s gentle too. I love using Bioderma after working out. It leaves me feeling just as, if not more, clean than a deep face wash, and I can about my busy day feeling refreshed and hydrated.” -New London Pharmacy Staff Member
4. Beekman 1802 Milk Shake - Hyaluronic Acid & Squalane Facial Toner Mist - $34
Why we love it:
- Ideal for sensitive, uneven, and oily skin types.
- Relieves redness and irritation.
- Fragrance-free.
- Perfect for setting makeup and refreshing skin throughout the day.
How to use: Shake well to activate before spraying. Reapply throughout the day for an instant refresh. Recommended to use 3 times daily or more!
“I have very reactive and red skin, so a sensitive toner is a must. Beekman 1802 Milk Shake has my favorite natural ingredient, Mugwort, which helps soothe irritated skin and reduce inflammation. Mugwort is most commonly found in Asian skincare products. Beekman is one of the few American brands that have incorporated it into their formula. Hyaluronic acid and squalane help maintain my moisture barrier and lock in all the hydration the toner provides. My skin cries with blissful anticipation when I spray it with Beekman's toner mist.” -New London Pharmacy Staff Member
Why we love it:
- Alcohol and oil-free.
- Light fragrance.
- Proven effective for all skin types.
- Helps remove makeup.
- Will not over-dry skin.
- Leaves skin feeling soft.
- Reasonably priced and a decently sized (6.5 fl oz).
How to use: Shake well before use. Apply in the morning and evening with a soft cotton pad after thoroughly cleansing the face.
“Having both dry and sensitive skin, it’s hard to find products that leave my skin better than they found it. I use Avene Toning Lotion as the final step in my nighttime skincare routine. I find it helps lock in moisture so I don’t have to catch up on hydration in the morning. With the change in the weather, this step and specific product has become particularly crucial to my routine.” -New London Pharmacy Staff Member
2. Frownies Rose Water Hydrator - $17
Why we love it:
- Handmade in small batches.
- Only pure and natural ingredients go into every Frownies product.
- Made with fresh Bulgarian rose water shipped directly to the distributor's location in Bulgaria.
- Rose has a variety of vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals and its oil is fantastic for tackling dry skin.
- Tested under the control of a dermatologist.
- Non-irritant.
- Hypo-allergenic.
- Packaged in a convenient and sustainable spray bottle.
- Perfect size for travel (2 fl oz).
Other uses include: a hydrator to protect your skin from dry air (especially when flying) or from hot climates, a setting spray over your finished makeup, or as an aromatherapy tool to promote relaxation.
How to use: After cleansing your skin, close your eyes and spray the desired amount of Rose Water directly onto your face, holding the bottle about 6-8 inches away and moving it around to spray all areas of the face and neck. Typically, 4-6 pumps will be enough. The spray will begin to soak into your skin on its own and you can continue with the next steps in your routine. Can be used throughout the day. Carry it in your hand bag and freshen the face as needed.
“My favorite way to use toner is in the morning during my makeup routine. I wet my beauty blenders by spritzing them with Frownies Rose Water Hydrator. I find it helps create dewy, plump, healthy looking skin, and makes my makeup feel more lightweight.” -New London Pharmacy Staff Member
1. Agent Nateur Holi (water) Pearl and Rose Hylauronic Toner - $98
Why we love it:
Exfoliates, plumps, brightens, firms, and imparts a radiant glow.
Reduces the appearance of redness due to dehydration, clogged pores, fine lines and wrinkles, loss of elasticity, dryness, dull, uneven skin tone, and inconsistent skin texture.
Ultra moisturizing.
Ecocert organic certified and compatible with even the most sensitive skin.
How to use: After cleansing, add 3 to 5 pumps to the palm of your hand and gently pat into your face, neck, and chest.
“My favorite toner is Agent Nateur because it’s more than just a toner. I use it as a part of my skincare routine because it has hyaluronic acid, which reduces the appearance of wrinkles, making the skin look more elastic and youthful. I always apply toner when my skin is damp. I find it helps absorb the product better. I put a little in my hands and pat it on my face. I love the way it makes me feel.” -New London Pharmacy Staff Member
You’d be hard-pressed to find a skincare product with more versatility than a toner. The only question left is, which one will you choose?
In an increasingly consumer-driven economy and skincare-curious population, we want to make sure we provide products you can trust, products you’ll actually use, and products you’ll love.
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