Face Toner

A facial toner is a rewarding, feel-good step in a healthy skin care routine. And full disclosure: many people say it's addictive! Toners are applied after cleansing (typically with a cotton ball or pad) and they're available in a variety of formulations for all skin types and concerns. At Nordstrom, you'll find a great selection of toners for oily skin and acne-prone skin, plus hydrating toners for dry and aging skin. We also offer facial toner sprays—and some even serve double duty as a makeup setting spray. Nordstrom has top-rated toners from trusted skin care specialists like Clinique and Kiehl's, and our lineup of Mario Badescu toners includes the brand's Glycolic Acid Toner with grapefruit extract, formulated to gently exfoliate dead skin cells. Toners also have the power to calm you and your skin, thanks to soothing ingredients like rosewater and chamomile—which makes them especially perfect for your nightly cleansing routine. 

What is a facial toner?

Face toners remove dirt, grime and impurities and help the rest of the skincare products in your regimen absorb better.

How can toners fit into a skin care routine?

Toners can best be described as a liquid product used after your face cleanser and before your serums or the rest of your routine. Simply dab toner onto a cotton pad or use your hands to apply it on your face.

What does toner do for your skin?

Toners can help you get a fresher, cleaner complexion, but the best toners can also be used to target specific skin care concerns, from dry skin to acne or oily skin.

What are the different kinds of skin toners?

There are so many different kinds of toners. Choosing the right facial toner for you depends on your skin type.

There are four main categories of toners. Hydrating toners which nourish the skin, exfoliating toners which remove build-up and dead skin cells, treatment toners which can be targeted to whatever skin issue you have (aging skin, acne, etc), and acid toners which can be beneficial for cell turnover for aging skin, or acne, in moderation. They are also some of the best toners for glowing skin.

Toners also come in the form of spray toners. Facial toner spray can be used on the go.

What are the best facial toners for sensitive skin?

If you have sensitive skin, you'll want to look for a toner with soothing, moisturizing ingredients like aloe vera or hyaluronic acid. Avoid harsh toners with acidic ingredients (like salicylic acid) that may irritate skin further. Alcohol free toner is one of the best hydrating toner options.

What are the best toners for dry skin?

Soothing, moisturizing ingredients are best here too. Hyaluronic acid toner can be one of the best facial toners for dry skin. Toners with gentle ingredients like rose water can also be some of the best hydrating toners.

What are the best toners for combination skin?

If you have combination skin, you'll want to look for a toner that balances skin. The best balancing toners are gentle on skin. Look for soothing ingredients like hyaluronic acid. Toners that are geared at balancing skin's delicate pH levels are ideal.

What are the best toners for oily or acne-prone skin?

If you have oily or acne-prone skin, you should look for ingredients such as witch hazel to reduce oil, aloe vera to soothe skin and salicylic acid to fight breakouts. Facial toners for oily skin and facial toners for acne are very helpful because they act as a second cleansing step to remove dirt, and oil build-up.