Anyone who has oily skin can tell you that it’s really a double-edged sword. On one hand, oily skin can be difficult to control, leaving you with a perpetual oil slick on your face. On the other hand, as the years tick by, your annoyance will undoubtedly turn to gratitude as fine lines and wrinkles begin to make their appearance on everyone’s face but yours. Until the day comes when you can see your oily skin as a blessing, the name of the game is keeping it under control. Blotting papers and setting powders may be your usual go-to’s, but the real key to working with your oily skin may lie in how you start your morning skincare routine. A good toner can make all the difference. Here are five of the best toners for oily skin.
Blue Astringent Herbal Lotion®
I have been using Kiehl’s Blue Astringent Herbal Lotion for about 20 years. Why? Because it works. My skin is oily, and this toner really keeps it under control. Formulated with menthol and camphor, this toner balances your skin and keeps the oil to a minimum. What’s more, it can be used as a spot treatment and even an after-shave lotion.
Pixi Glow Tonic
Pixi’s Glow Tonic is a unique blend of good for your skin ingredients. Glycolic acid exfoliates and purifies the skin, while aloe vera soothes and hydrates. As an added benefit, Glow Tonic accelerates cell renewal, and over time it reveals brighter, more even-toned skin.
Thayers Alcohol-Free Witch Hazel
Witch hazel is a natural astringent. It cleanses and tones your skin, and it’s far more gentle than alcohol-based astringents. This particular iteration of Thayer’s cleanses, tones and moisturizes your skin with a gentle nourishing blend of witch hazel, rose water, and aloe vera. With 195% more tannins than other brands of witch hazel, this powerful toner tightens your pores, controls acne and oil production, and reduces redness and inflammation. And coming in under $11, it’s certainly not a budget buster.
Milk Makeup Matcha Toner
Milk Makeup offers a truly novel experience as far as facial toners go—it’s solid. The gel-based toner is a refreshing blend of matcha green tea, cactus, and witch hazel, making it perfect for oily skin. As an added bonus, it’s travel-friendly so there’s no need to worry about accidental spills.
Ole Henriksen Balancing Force Oil Control Toner
While Ole Henriksen’s Balancing Force Toner seems to be the one and done toner for all skin types, reviewers also swear by its oil-controlling prowess. This toner is a fabulous blend of AHA’s, BHA’s, and glycolic acid, all of which work together to gently exfoliate your skin, leaving it smooth and matte. If that weren’t enough, this toner also features the brands’ Green Fusion Complex™, a proprietary blend of active botanicals (including green tea and eucalyptus) that work together to soak up excess oil and refine your pores.
Toners don’t always get a lot of love when it comes to skincare routines. If they are not overlooked altogether, they’re likely viewed as just an optional step. The truth is that toners have a place in every skincare routine, whether your skin is dry, sensitive, or oily. It might take a little trial and error, but when you find the one that works for you, you’ll be glad you did.
